There, she authored over 20 engineering repair authorizations, including a critical A330 flap repair, and supported both outside repair and aircraft structural support teams. Beyond her technical work, she led more than 300 co-ops and interns through Delta’s development committee and helped raise record-breaking funds for charity — showcasing the skill, leadership, and compassion that define Purdue engineers. 

“To my mentors and my family: Thank you for showing me what an engineer looks like,” Kamal shared in her acceptance speech.

Two AAE alumni were also inducted into the Professional Practice Hall of Fame during the ceremony on October 17 - Ronak Dave (BSAAE ’14) and William “Bill” Troha (PhD AAE ’88). Dave serves as a Flight Director at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, where he leads the planning, training, and execution of human spaceflight operations. A former NASA co-op and Purdue Trustee Scholar, he has built an exemplary record of leadership and technical excellence in aerospace mission management. 

Troha built an extraordinary career spanning NASA, the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory, Honeywell Aerospace, and SpaceX, leading multimillion-dollar propulsion programs and advancing turbine technologies. His work has shaped next-generation jet engines, high-speed transport systems, and rocket turbopump durability — reflecting the lifelong impact of professional practice and innovation in aerospace engineering. 

Established in 2010, the Professional Practice (Co-op & GEARE) Hall of Fame honors individuals who have significantly influenced Purdue’s experiential learning programs and alumni who exemplify excellence in their professions — serving as ambassadors for the transformative power of hands-on engineering education.