Recently, Wang Qitao, an outstanding alumnus of NPU and Deputy Chief Designer at the AVIC Shenyang Aircraft Design & Research Institute, delivered a lecture entitled “Forging Strength for the Skies, Designing Your Own Life” as part of the Ao’xiang Distinguished Experts Lecture Series.

At the beginning, Fan Xiaoli introduced Wang Qitao’s professional background and career achievements.

Centred on the theme “Forging Strength for the Skies, Designing Your Own Life”, Wang Qitao reflected on the inspiring stories of China’s aviation pioneers, including how Huang Zhiqian, having witnessed the devastation of war, resolved to devote his life to advancing the nation’s aviation industry, and how Gu Songfen courageously boarded the prototype aircraft during the critical development of the J-8 fighter to conduct a test flight. He emphasised that genuine personal growth stems from passion and self-discipline. Only by developing systematic and holistic thinking, combined with careful planning, can individuals maintain a clear sense of direction while translating long-term goals into sustained action and overcoming challenges throughout their personal development.

During the discussion session, Wang Qitao encouraged students to devote themselves to sustained, practical endeavour and strive to make meaningful contributions to the nation and society. He noted that the future of young people is closely tied to the future of China, and that university is a golden period for students to develop themselves, build their capabilities and lay the foundations for pursuing their aspirations. In an era marked by rapid advances in AI, he stressed that only through self-discipline, sustained commitment and a down-to-earth approach can young people continue to surpass themselves, strengthen their capabilities, and achieve steady progress while reaching greater heights in the new era.

The lecture served not only as an opportunity for young students to strengthen their ideals and convictions, but also as a source of motivation for them to pursue excellence with determination. QMES will continue to steadfastly fulfil its fundamental mission of fostering virtue through education and further strengthen its efforts in values-based education, guiding young students to pursue their aspirations through dedicated efforts, a strong sense of responsibility and perseverance.

Text: Tong Miaomiao and Xu Jinghan

Photo: Chen Lin

Editors: Luo Zihan and Ma Huili

Translator: Fang Jie

Reviewer: Cheng Yin