This year's IWIED theme is #EngineeringIntelligence. How do you think you show #EngineeringExcellence in your work?
I show engineering excellence by combining technical skills with continuous learning. Whether solving problems, improving processes, or working with teams, I always try to create solutions that are simple, reliable, and meaningful. I believe true excellence comes from curiosity, responsibility, and the willingness to keep learning while helping others grow along the way. I also focus on building solutions that are effective today and sustainable for the future.
Currently, I am especially interested in implementing zero-carbon design in projects across India. Since air pollution is a major challenge in India, I want to contribute by creating environmentally friendly and sustainable engineering solutions that can help reduce pollution and support a cleaner future.
So much has changed in the 50 years since Cundall was founded. What changes would you like to see in the next 50 years, and how do you think we'll get there?
Firstly, I would like to thank the organisation for successfully working for the past 50 years. Reaching 50 years is a big achievement worldwide. For the next 50 years, we should aim to grow our company across the world. At present, we have offices in around 28 locations. I believe this number will increase in the future. We should also increase the number of female employees in our organisation. I would like engineering to become more flexible, sustainable, and more connected with digital technology. In the future, sustainability will become the main part of all engineering work.
Cundall gives good opportunities to graduates, which is very good. We should continue to support them and give proper training so they can improve their technical skills. I also like the technical videos and learning materials. I was surprised when I joined to see so many technical videos and documents, and I still use them to understand technical topics. However, these materials should be updated based on new learnings and current client needs.
I hope Cundall becomes one of the top 10 engineering companies in the world in the next 50 years.
What’s a myth about your role that you’d love to bust?
One common myth I would like to bust is that engineering is only for men, and that women are not suited for technical or field roles. While this belief is outdated, it still exists in some places. Some people still assume that women cannot handle site work or make bold decisions, but that is simply not true. Engineering is not defined by gender. It is a field built on problem-solving, critical thinking, and decision-making. Women are equally capable of working in technical roles, managing site activities, and making strong, confident decisions in any situation. Engineering is not only about calculations or software. It is also about leadership, creativity, and solving real problems. Women are equally capable in all these areas. I also want to add that this is not about criticizing men or promoting one gender over another. It is about recognising that engineering is an inclusive field where everyone, regardless of gender, can contribute based on their skills, knowledge, and passion.
What’s one experience or milestone in your career that shaped who you are today?
At the beginning of my career, I was not very strong in technical skills or communication. I struggled a lot to build my career in this field, but I took it as a challenge. I kept encouraging myself every day, telling myself that I can do it and improve. I made mistakes in the beginning, and I still make some mistakes now, but I always learn from them. Every mistake helps me avoid repeating it next time. Earlier, I was in my comfort zone and was not interested in trying new things or taking new opportunities. Later, I realised this was not the right way to grow. My experience has built my confidence and improved my mindset. I would also like to thank my current and previous colleagues. They have been very supportive and good mentors to me.