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Interactive Sessions with Eminent Industry Experts

Interactive Sessions with Eminent Industry Experts

On August 27-28, 2024, three faculty/colleges, namely Faculty of Engineering, Department of Management (Faculty of Social Sciences), and Technical College, DEI, organised interactive sessions with eminent industry experts on the issues pertaining to jobs, placements, industry readiness and entrepreneurship. The industry experts represented Alumni Association of DEI’s (AADEI’s), which rekindled their “connect” with DEI by their association.

The reports of the three faculty/colleges are presented below.

Faculty of Engineering

On August 27, 2024, an interactive session with eminent industry experts was organized for engineering students. The event provided a unique opportunity for them to engage with leading professionals across various sectors, gaining valuable insights into current industry trends and career pathways.

The session began with an address by Prof. C. Patvardhan, Director of DEI, who expressed his gratitude to the experts for their participation. He highlighted the importance of such interactions in bridging the gap between academic learning and industry practices. Prof. Patvardhan emphasized DEI’s unique co-op training program, which allows students to gain hands-on experience and practical skills, setting DEI apart from other institutions. He encouraged students to actively engage in these opportunities and assured them that similar events would continue to be organized based on positive student participation.

Mr. T. Preetam Charan Anand, Chief Technologist and System Architect at Texas Instruments, delivered a captivating talk on the semiconductor industry's evolution, drawing on his 25 years of experience in the field. He provided an overview of the global and national trends shaping the semiconductor industry, including initiatives like "Make in India" and "Atmanirbhar Bharat", which aim to boost local manufacturing and self-reliance. He highlighted the burgeoning opportunities in sectors such as AI/ML, data science, electronics, and automation, urging students to familiarize themselves with these technologies to remain competitive.

Mr. Preetam also stressed the importance of practical problem-solving skills, advising students to identify areas within AI where they can excel and to explore their interests early in their careers. He emphasized that a clear understanding of one's strengths and passions is critical for success in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. During the Q&A session, Mr. Preetam recommended gaining industry experience before pursuing further studies, noting that work experience is highly valued and often supported by companies through education sponsorships. He also highlighted the importance of complementing theoretical knowledge with practical skills, particularly in AI and ML.

   

 

Mr. Giridhar Kotti, Principal Consultant at ATOS, provided an in-depth analysis of the evolving relationship between IT and manufacturing industries in his session titled "Charm Rating: IT vs. Manufacturing." He traced the industrial evolution from mechanization in the First Industrial Revolution to the present-day Industry 4.0, characterized by smart, autonomous systems driven by AI, ML, and big data. He highlighted how IT has become integral to manufacturing and other sectors, playing a critical role in functions such as production, procurement, and sales through technologies like ERP systems, IoT, and blockchain.

Mr. Giridhar emphasized the importance of continuous learning and adaptability, especially for those considering a transition between industries. He shared an inspiring example of an individual who successfully moved from electronics to IT by dedicating time to learn new skills outside of work. His session underscored the "charm" of the IT industry, with its limitless opportunities for growth and innovation, encouraging students to embrace new technologies and lifelong learning.

   

Mr. Suresh Tatikonda, Senior Architect - Finance at PayPal, delivered an engaging session on cloud computing, breaking down complex concepts into accessible explanations. He discussed different types of computing environments, such as on-premises, co-hosting data centers, and cloud technologies, comparing the benefits of private and public cloud infrastructures. Mr. Suresh highlighted how cloud computing enables businesses to scale efficiently, reduce costs, and deploy services globally. He elaborated on key services offered by cloud providers, including Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS), and their transformative impact on the IT landscape.

His ability to link technical content with practical applications made the session particularly valuable for students, as he outlined the career pathways to becoming a cloud engineer, including the necessary certifications and the role of DevOps tools. The session's interactive nature encouraged students to ask questions, which Mr. Suresh addressed with clarity and patience, further enriching the learning experience.

   

Mrs. K. Soami Priya, Solution Architect at Ford Motor Private Limited and a DEI alumnus, shared her insights on the convergence of core industries and IT. Drawing from her 17 years of experience, she highlighted the diminishing gap between traditional and tech-driven industries, urging students to stay updated with technological advancements regardless of their primary field of study. Mrs. Priya’s talk centered on the "Shift to Software," where technology defines and enhances product development and service delivery.

She advised students to focus on quality learning and deep specialization in their chosen fields rather than spreading their efforts too thinly across multiple areas. Emphasizing the importance of adaptability and broad perspectives, she encouraged students to seize opportunities beyond conventional boundaries and to continuously evolve with industry trends. Mrs. Priya concluded her session with a motivational message on sustaining a passion for learning, inspiring students to embrace the evolving tech landscape.

           

   

Mr. Jwalant Mishra, Senior Director at NXP Semiconductors, provided an insightful overview of the semiconductor and VLSI industries. With over 23 years of experience and numerous impactful patents, Mr. Jwalant discussed the dynamic and competitive nature of the semiconductor sector, driven by the growing demand in industries like automotive, consumer electronics, and AI. He highlighted the intense competition among global foundries and the impact of supply chain disruptions on the market.

Focusing on AI/ML, Mr. Jwalant explained how these technologies are reshaping the semiconductor industry, citing examples like NVIDIA’s rapid ascent due to heavy investment in AI, contrasting with Intel's challenges due to slower adoption. He encouraged students to view AI/ML as opportunities to innovate and grow, stressing the importance of staying ahead of industry trends through continuous skill enhancement. His talk provided valuable insights into the future job landscape, emphasizing the need for adaptability in the face of rapid technological change.

 

   
  
  

 

The interactive session with these distinguished industry experts significantly broadened the students' understanding of emerging fields, such as AI/ML, automation, and cloud computing. The experts' insights underscored the importance of continuous learning, practical skills, and proactive career planning. The event not only inspired students to explore new technological frontiers but also equipped them with the knowledge and motivation needed to thrive in their future careers, emphasizing the interconnectedness of industries and the transformative power of technology.

Department of Management, Faculty of Social Sciences

 

The Alumni Connect Lecture Series 2024 organized by the Department of Management on August 27, 2024, was a notable series featuring distinguished alumni of DEI. The event was attended by 360 MBA students and aimed to bridge the gap between current students and accomplished alumni, providing valuable insights into professional field.The primary objectives of the Alumni Connect Series 2024 were:

  • To offer MBA students exposure to successful alumni and their professional experiences.
  • To provide practical knowledge on various industry trends and career paths.
  • To foster networking opportunities between students and alumni.
   

The department was honored to welcome Prof. C. Patvardhan, Director of DEI, during the session. Prof. Patvardhan addressed the gathering of students and faculty members, emphasizing the importance of alumni-student interactions. He highlighted that the invited distinguished speakers had once occupied the very seats now occupied by the current students. Prof. Patvardhan encouraged the students to excel in their careers with the aspiration so that one day they shall also be invited to speak from the same podium. Finally, he congratulated Prof. Sanjeev Swami (Head, Department of Management), Prof. Sumita Srivastava (Event Coordinator), faculty members and students for their active participation.

Speaker 1: Dr. Madhuri Malhotra

Dr. Madhuri Malhotra is working as Adjunct Professor at Shiv Nadar University Chennai. She also teaches Post Graduate Courses in Indian Maritime University, Madras School of Economics, and DEI. She did her MBM from DEI in 1998, and UGC NET in the year 2000, after which she completed PhD in Finance from IIT Madras. She has also done Post Graduate Diploma and MA in Theology from DEI. She has over 20 years of teaching and research experience.

 

   

 

Lecture Focus: Investment Avenues

  • Discussed fundamental investment principles such as the importance of diversification and risk management.
  • Emphasized the need for a well-balanced portfolio based on individual risk tolerance and financial goals.
  • Age-Based Strategies:
    • Young Investors: Recommended higher allocation to equities for growth potential, given their longer investment horizon.
    • Mid-Career Investors: Suggested a balanced approach with a mix of equities and fixed-income securities to manage risk while pursuing growth.
    • Pre-Retirement: Advised shifting towards safer investments like bonds or fixed deposits to preserve capital and ensure stability.
  • Economic Perspectives:
    • Explored how macroeconomic factors such as inflation and interest rates influence investment decisions.
    • Highlighted the importance of understanding market trends and economic indicators to make informed investment choices.
  • Practical Tips:
    • Shared practical tips for setting financial goals, creating an investment plan, and regularly reviewing and adjusting the portfolio.

 

Speaker 2: Mr. Vasanth Swaroop

Mr. Swaroop is multi-functional sales & marketing  professional with  two and  half plus  decades of experience in IT-Hardware, office automation, Talent Acquisition  and  sleep products industry. Worked for Xerox India, Hewlett-Packard, HCL, Ingram Micro,Makro and currently associated with SpringFeel Polyurethane Foams Pvt. Ltd.

 

Lecture Focus: Job Opportunities in South India and Essential Skills for Job Seekers

  • Job Market Insights:
    • Analyzed the job market saturation in NCR and the growing opportunities in South India, particularly in sectors like IT and manufacturing.
    • Discussed regional economic trends and their impact on job availability and growth.
   
  • Interview Expectations:
    • Detailed what interviewers look for in candidates, including professional qualifications, relevant experience, and soft skills.
    • Emphasized the importance of clear communication, confidence, and demonstrating a proactive attitude.
  • Essential Skills:
    • Highlighted key communication skills required in interviews and the significance of demonstrating general awareness and knowledge of current affairs.
    • Suggested ways to improve these skills, such as reading newspapers, following industry news, and engaging in relevant discussions.
  • Career Preparation Tips:
    • Provided advice on preparing for job interviews, including researching the company, understanding the role, and practicing common interview questions.

 

Speaker 3: Mr. Param Mandloi

Mr. Param Mandloi is the CEO and Co-Founder of Chartered Bike Pvt Ltd. He did Mechanical Engineering from DEI and later MBA from S.P. Jain Institute, Mumbai. His company has over 30 locations in India which manages thousands of Electric 2, 3 & 4 Wheelers. For over 17 years, Param has worked in sectors like Energy, Telecommunications, and Oil & Gas, and notably, he spent 2 years working at the Mumbai headquarters in Mukesh Ambani's office. He leads a Start-up of 85 people. Param scaled Mahindra & Mahindra's Sustainable wing to a revenue level of $65 million (even during the challenging COVID times). Param has collaborated with businesses from the USA, Europe, and Asia, and his experiences have taken him to more than 15 countries.

 

Lecture Focus: Corporate vs. Entrepreneurship: A Comparative Perspective

  • Corporate vs. Entrepreneurial Pathways:
    • Compared the stability and structured environment of corporate roles with the dynamic and riskier nature of entrepreneurship.
    • Discussed the advantages and challenges of each path, including decision-making autonomy and financial risks in entrepreneurship.
  • Start-Up Journey:
    • Shared his personal journey of starting and scaling CharteredBikePvt Ltd, including the challenges faced and strategies employed.
    • Discussed key lessons learned from his entrepreneurial ventures and experiences with international collaborations.

 

   

 

  • Success Mantras:
    • Offered practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, such as identifying market needs, building a strong team, and adapting to changing business environments.
    • Shared insights on managing start-ups during economic downturns and leveraging opportunities for growth.
  • Motivational Insights:
    • Motivated students to consider entrepreneurship as a viable career option, emphasizing the potential for innovation and impact.
    • Provided actionable steps for starting a venture, including idea validation, business planning, and securing funding.

Each speaker provided valuable insights tailored to their expertise, contributing to a well-rounded and informative session for the MBA students. The session concluded with a Q&A segment where students actively engaged with the speakers, asking insightful questions and discussing various topics. The hall was filled with enthusiasm and curiosity, reflecting the students' keen interest in the topics covered.The Alumni Connect Series 2024 was a resounding success, providing MBA students with valuable perspectives from accomplished alumni. The event facilitated meaningful interactions between students and professionals, contributing to the students' academic and career growth.

     

Technical College

The D.E.I. Technical College, hosted Industry Experts and Job Enablers of the Alumni Placement Assistance Cell (South Zone) on August 27th and 28th, 2024. The event took place in the Technical College Hall and was specifically aimed at final year students. 

The program's theme was to enhance students' understanding of industry expectations.

The program commenced with Institute Prayer, followed by a welcome address delivered by the Director, DEI Prof C Patvardhan. He articulated the fundamental concept behind initiating this series and encouraged students to glean insights from the experts. Principal, Technical College Er V P Malhotra warmly welcomedthe experts and exhortedthe students to take advantage of the initiative.

Mr. Mayank Agrawal, Lecturer in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, introduced the first speaker, Mr. Ravinder Singh, Senior Vice President, M/s Yamaha Motors, and invited him to speak on the topic of "Changing Trends in Industry - Expectations of Competencies."

Mr. Singh elucidated the significance of loyalty by providing his own example. He started his career at Yamaha Motors in 1991 as a trainee and has since ascended to the position of Senior Vice President within the same company. He provided an explanation of the progression from Industry Revolution 1.0 to 4.0, and mentioned that Industry Revolution 5.0, which would be centred around ethical principles, is forthcoming. He provided a comprehensive explanation of the most recent developments in the motor vehicle sector.He concluded his presentation with a slide that depicted the criteria they consider while recruiting students from institutions.

Mr. Majer Singh, the acting Head of the Automobile Department, presented a souvenir to Mr. Singh in recognition of his contributions.

The second speaker was then introduced by Mr. Mayank Agrawal and he invited Mr. R. Dayal Saran to deliver his presentation on Industry Expectations.

Mr. R Dayal has 20 years of experience in the automotive and heavy construction equipment industries, having worked for five different organizations. His diploma from DEI Technical College in 2004 was in the Mechanical stream. He began his career at Maruti Suzuki India Limited. In addition to encouraging students to pursue higher education, he also emphasized the importance of being prepared to serve in any region of India.Dr PurshottamKumar presented a memento to Mr R. Dayal.

Mr. Mayank Agrawal then introduced Mr. R Thulasiram as the third speaker. In 2005, he passed from DEI Technical College in the Mechanical Engineering discipline. He has over nineteen years of extensive industrial experience. His position was in the Quality & Procurement department of a construction equipment manufacturer. His employment included Tata Hitachi and Kobelco Constructions. He delivered his presentation on the procurement function in the industry. He identified the primary factors that contribute to industry success. Dr K Pritam Satsangi presented a memento to Mr. Thulasiram.

Mr K Satyanarayana Tejaswi was the fourth speaker. He possesses a total of 14 years of expertise in the automotive sector, having worked in 4 different organizations. His primary focus has been in research and development, where he has held positions in design and development before transitioning into program management.  Mr. Tejaswi discussed the many responsibilities that a newcomer in the motorcar sector can explore. Mr. Rajeev Satsangi presented a memento to Mr. Tejaswi.

Dr Purshottam expressed gratitude to all the distinguished speakers by delivering a Vote of Thanks. The program concluded on August 27th, 2024 with the University Song.

On August 28, 2024, all Final year Diploma students gathered in the Hall of the Technical College to gain insights on employment prospects in Southern India. Mr Mayank Agrawal introduced the speaker, Mr. Sameer Malhotra. Mr Malhotra obtained his degree in Electrical Engineering from the Faculty of Engineering DEI in 1993 and is a first-generation entrepreneur. In 1999, he established his own business venture, Springfield Polyurethane Foams Pvt. Ltd, which has since expanded to become one of the leading producers of flexible polyurethane foams in South India. The company currently employs over 350 individuals and manufactures 5000 metric tons of foam annually.

Mr. Sameer described the many job opportunities available for students of D.E.I. in South India.

Mr.  Mayank Agrawal, Lecturer in Department of Mechanical Engineering, presented a souvenir to Mr. Malhotra.

Mr. Vasant Swaroop as the second speaker of the day, a versatile Sales and Marketing expert, encouraged the students to seize the career opportunities available in Southern India without hesitation.

Dr Naveen Dev presented Mr. Vasant Swaroop with a memento as a token of appreciation for his talk.

Overall, the two-day program was a great success, with Final year Diploma Engineering students duly apprised of the requirements of the industry and how to prepare for the job market, and counselled to step out of their comfort zone to explore new horizons.

 
 
 
 
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