Dr. P.V. Venkitakrishnan graduated with a Master’s and Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from IIT Madras in 1989 and 2006, respectively. He obtained his B.Tech. from Cochin University in 1983. He also holds an MBA & Post-Graduate Diploma in Production Management to his credit from Annamalai University. He started his career as Grade Scientist in 1983 in VSSC. Over the course of his career, he has contributed significantly in aerospace-related manufacturing and materials, as well as in infrastructure development. Previously, he was Deputy Director, LPSC during 2010 to 2015, and Deputy Project Director, GSLV Mk-III from 2002 to 2010. He held the post of Associate Director, VSSC before taking over as Director, ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC), Mahendragiri. 

Dr. Venkitakrishnan is former National President of the Society of Aerospace Manufacturing Engineers (SAME). He was instrumental in setting up the HAL Aerospace Division in the development phase of PSLV Programme, and has contributed significantly in the developmental phase of hardware for ASLV, PSLV, GSLV Mk-II and Mk-III. He was also instrumental in initiating the establishment of the Integrated Cryo-Engine Manufacturing Facility (ICMF) at HAL, Bangalore, and in the introduction of latest technologies and practices. Under his able leadership, the Cryogenic Engines for GSLV Mk-2 and GSLV Mk-3 were developed and realized. The LAM engine for the prestigious Mangalyaan was also realised and tested under his leadership. The efforts taken by him for the indigenisation of aerospace metallic materials is noteworthy. He has various affiliations with professional bodies, including as Fellow of Institute of Engineers (India) , Fellow of Indian Institute of Metals and Aeronautical Society of India. 

Dr. Venkitakrishnan is a recipient of ISRO’s individual Merit Award in 2013, Team Leader – ISRO ,Performance  Excellence Award for the years 2011 and 2015, and the ANWESHAK Award from SAME in 2009. He is a distinguished alumnus of IIT Madras and recipient of National Metallurgist award from Ministry of Steel, Govt of India. He has more than 100 publications in national and international journals. He is an excellent leader and team builder with effective communication, motivational and administrative skills. 

Currently he is also  Professor of Practice in IIT Madras and Chief Advisor for Agnikul Cosmos, Chennai.