Q1. Please describe your current role at Caterpillar Inc as a Director (roles and responsibilities, day to day activities)

I have been with Caterpillar for 18+ years and possess experience in the fields of Embedded Firmware, Development, Machine/Engine Control, Systems Displays, Telematics, Autonomy / Automation, Cloud Technologies, Edge Computing & Advanced Analytics. I have served in a variety of Global engineering, strategy development and leadership positions within Caterpillar and have also played a key role in establishing electronics competency in India for Caterpillar. I am presently serving as Director for Electrical and Electronics Organization and global R&D Tech centre for CAT.

Q2. How has the PGXPM peer group at Great Lakes helped you during and after your course?

I have been able to connect, gain guidance and relevant knowledge on other domain areas (Finance, Procurement, HR etc). The highlight of my journey besides the excellent learning was the experience of hearing and understanding different industries from other students who were leaders from diverse backgrounds; the challenges they faced and how they overcame them.

Q3. What attracted you to start your program at Great Lakes?

Great Lakes has an outstanding reputation and wide recognition across geographies. Along with it, the course content offered is extremely relevant to today’s world. To top it all, the management and faculty are experts in their fields and are always there to support and guide you where needed. The highlight of the program is interacting with and learning from Uncle Bala, the founder and chairman. All these aspects make your time at Great Lakes a ‘journey of a lifetime’.

Q4. What are some of the most valuable learnings that Great Lakes provided you with during your course?

We learnt tools for business understanding and management, extremely relevant examples of successes and failures from the industry, A good foundation and a change in mindset to think holistic about business success rather than individual team success, How to continue to learn from our own experiences and be a better leader are some of the most valuable takeaways I had.

Q5. What advice would you offer to current and future students?

Great Lakes provides an excellent opportunity for peer to peer learning because of the diversity. Be it academic or industry experience, Great Lakes faculty have it all. Make the most of your time by interacting with them and take positive advantage of their rich experience and knowledge. You have an empty cup to fill with knowledge for future success and transition to a global leader. Stay consistent in your pursuit of excellence and Great Lakes will do the rest.