On June 8th, 2024, the Symbiosis Centre for Management & Human Resource Development (SCMHRD) held an insightful session titled "Evolving Careers in the Field of Infrastructure Development & Management" for the IDM batch of 2024-26 as part of their induction program. We had the privilege of hosting Aakash Dhage, a Senior Associate at Ernst & Young Global Consulting Services and a proud alumnus of SCMHRD, Batch of 2016-18, as our distinguished speaker. Reflecting on his college days, Mr. Dhage emphasized the blend of enjoyment and engagement that characterized his SCMHRD experience, setting the stage for a discussion on the evolving opportunities in the infrastructure sector.

Highlighting India's status as a developing nation, Mr. Dhage underscored the critical need for robust infrastructure. He stressed that within this sector lie abundant prospects for those willing to exert effort and think strategically. According to him, the nexus of smart thinking and diligent effort serves as the cornerstone for achieving success in this domain. Emphasizing the importance of being actively involved in the process, Mr. Dhage accentuated the significance of persistence and continuous improvement.

Mr. Dhage further extolled the value of the alumni network, citing SCMHRD's 30-year legacy and the 11-year history of the IDM course. He advocated for collaborative endeavors such as group projects and assignments, citing their efficacy in honing skills like team management, time management, and project management.

Delving into the diverse array of roles available through IDM, Mr. Dhage enumerated options ranging from operations manager to financial advisor. He shared his invaluable insights into the unique distinctions of the IDM program compared to general MBA courses, shedding light on the myriad of career opportunities available in this dynamic field. He advised students to maintain goal orientation while remaining open to various roles to capitalize on all potential opportunities.

Transitioning to advice for MBA students, Mr. Dhage outlined three key mantras: regular homework completion, pursuit of passion, and avoidance of complacency. Encouraging proactive engagement with coursework, he stressed the importance of following one's interests and never taking opportunities for granted. His emphasis on strategic thinking, proactive engagement, and continuous learning resonates deeply with aspiring MBA students, providing them with valuable guidance as they navigate their academic and professional journeys. In the Q&A session that followed, Mr. Dhage addressed queries from the audience, further enriching the discourse with his insights and experiences.