Architects of Great Talent | The Road Less Chosen: Building a Career in Core Engineering | Pravin Kumar (ABB)

Software was the default. Code, ship, scale. That was the template. But what about the engineers keeping power plants running, automating factories, and building the infrastructure that everything else depends on? 

In this episode of our podcast series ‘Architects of Great Talent’, S Pasupathi (our Chief Operating Officer) speaks with Pravin Kumar (Head of India Operation Center, Automation business area, ABB) about what it truly means to build a career in core engineering and why that choice is more relevant today than ever. 

Students and early-career engineers, you will learn how to: 

• Understand why core engineering fundamentals are the skills of the future 

• Navigate peer pressure and make career choices rooted in genuine curiosity 

• Find your footing in global GCC engineering environments from day one 

Recruiters, HR leaders, and talent builders, in here, you will find: 

• ABB’s model on what great early career development programs look like 

• Why retention and long-term career building still win in a world of job-hopping 

• How industry-academia partnerships are closing the core engineering talent gap 

Pravin went against the grain at BITS Pilani, chose instrumentation when everyone else was chasing Computer Science, and went on to head one of India’s largest engineering GCCs. Sometimes the road less chosen turns out to be exactly the right one. 

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Frequently asked questions (FAQs) 

Is core engineering still a relevant career choice in India? 
More than ever. As Foundational Industries like power, metals, and manufacturing modernize, the demand for strong core engineering talent is only growing. 

How is core engineering different from software engineering as a career path? 
Core engineering means working with physical systems and real-world infrastructure. It requires deep domain knowledge, on-ground experience, and a systems-thinking mindset. 

What skills do core engineering roles actually require today? 
Strong technical fundamentals, systems thinking, and the ability to collaborate and communicate across global teams. 

How does ABB develop early-career engineers? 
Through structured onboarding, competency development programs, on-the-job training, and a strong focus on soft skills for global work environments. 

Is there a talent gap in core engineering in India? 
Yes, though interest is returning as students and institutions recognize where the job market is genuinely headed. 

What real-world problems do core engineers solve? 
Everything from predicting failures in metal plants before they happen to automating desalination plants that supply water to entire countries. 

How is AI changing core engineering careers? 
AI is augmenting engineers, not replacing them. It improves predictive maintenance, supports smarter plant operations, and helps operators focus where it matters most. 

Can a core engineering career lead to diverse roles? 
Yes. Engineers at ABB have moved into solutioning, customer engagement, supply chain, project management, and commissioning roles over time. 

What advice does Pravin have for students choosing their engineering branch?  

Follow your curiosity, not peer pressure. Self-awareness and genuine interest will always outlast what seems popular at the time. 

Why do engineers at ABB stay for so long?  

Strong learning culture, flexibility, and real career depth. More than 20% of employees have been with ABB for over ten years.