Tekvocation - Blog #AchievementsTekvocation - Blog #Achievementshttps://www.tekvocation.com/blogs/tag/achievementsWed, 08 Apr 2026 03:41:51 +0530http://zoho.com/sites/<![CDATA[Lakshya 2025 – 6th Anniversary Celebration ]]>https://www.tekvocation.com/blogs/post/lakshya-2025-–-6th-anniversary-celebration Tekvocation celebrated its 6th Anniversary, Lakshya , on 27th November 2025 at the Tekvocation campus. The event brought togeth ]]>

Tekvocation celebrated its 6th Anniversary, Lakshya, on 27th November 2025 at the Tekvocation campus.

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The event brought together partner companies, alumni, and special guests to reflect on six years of growth and collaboration. The celebration began with a welcome address by Diana G Hombal , who spoke about Tekvocation’s journey, Tony's vision towards providing the local engineers a purposeful employment after an immersive internship experience, the evolution of expectations in the industry for freshers and the value of investing in human potential through long format internships. The lamp-lighting ceremony followed, symbolizing the beginning of another meaningful chapter.

Tony G Thomas, Co-Founder of Zoho and Founder of Tekvocation, delivered the keynote address, focusing on the importance of preparing today’s youth for a rapidly changing tech landscape. He highlighted the growing influence of AI in industries, the need for adaptability, and the responsibility that comes with technological advancement. A video montage showcased Tekvocation’s impact, after which the new marketing division, TekAxis, was officially launched.

Speakers from partner companies added depth to the celebration with their perspectives.

Prasad from Vtiger emphasized curiosity, ownership, and the importance of genuine learning, encouraging learners to stay thoughtful and adaptable.
Vidya from Vtiger spoke about embracing growth, learning from mistakes, and maintaining a positive approach in professional environments.
Francis from Edcite highlighted the importance of health awareness and balanced use of technology, especially in an AI-driven world.
Jagdish from Edcite cautioned about the risks of over-dependence on AI and stressed the need for retaining human judgment.
Soumya from Edcite spoke about clarity in reasoning, taking responsibility for errors, and continuously improving decision-making.
Anisha from Mahajana College shared her perspective on how AI is reshaping education and the importance of preparing students for this shift.
Ashwin from YoBe Kombucha and Dinakar from Cyberlancers also addressed the gathering, appreciating the collaboration and growth between Tekvocation and partner organizations.

The event concluded with alumni messages, a vote of thanks, cake-cutting, and a team lunch. The 6th Anniversary celebration stood as a strong reminder of Tekvocation’s journey, its valued partnerships, and its commitment to nurturing talent equipped for the future.

]]>Tue, 09 Dec 2025 15:58:47 +0530<![CDATA[Career Compass 2025: One Day workshop on Zoho Tools]]>https://www.tekvocation.com/blogs/post/career-compass-2025-one-day-workshop-on-zoho-toolsAs industries evolve with digital transformation at their core, the demand for professionals skilled in smart, integrated tools has never been higher. ]]>

As industries evolve with digital transformation at their core, the demand for professionals skilled in smart, integrated tools has never been higher. Today’s market values individuals who can work with data, build digital campaigns, and optimize online engagement—all of which require more than just theoretical knowledge. To stay ahead, students and professionals alike must gain hands-on experience with platforms that mirror real-world business needs.

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Zoho stands out as one such platform, offering an all-in-one suite of tools tailored for growing businesses. From visual data storytelling with Zoho Analytics, to impactful customer outreach through Zoho Campaigns, and lead generation via Zoho Landing Page, these tools address critical gaps in marketing, operations, and decision-making.

To introduce these capabilities to aspiring professionals, Tekvocation organized a one-day workshop titled Career Compass. The event brought together over 30 participants for a series of focused sessions. Shruthi Prabhakar and Prabhu Shankar led the Zoho Analytics session, teaching participants how to convert raw data into meaningful dashboards. Shashank and Ahamed guided them through the creation of personalized email campaigns using Zoho Campaigns. In the final technical segment, Manoj Kumar N R and Ranjan showcased how to design efficient, conversion-oriented landing pages. A soft skills session by Sandhya complemented the technical learning, covering resume-building, interview techniques, and professional readiness.

With the enthusiastic participation of over 30 students, Career Compass not only introduced attendees to essential industry tools but also emphasized the importance of combining technical proficiency with workplace professionalism. By blending practical learning with the power of Zoho’s digital ecosystem, the event proved to be an insightful step forward for all participants on their journey toward career success.
]]>Thu, 07 Aug 2025 15:04:28 +0530<![CDATA[Crest 2025: A Journey of Steady Growth]]>https://www.tekvocation.com/blogs/post/crest-2025-a-journey-of-steady-growthOn June 30, Tekvocation held Crest 2025, the valedictory event of the Internship Program. The event brought together interns, mentors, the Tekvocation ]]>

On June 30, Tekvocation held Crest 2025, the valedictory event of the Internship Program. The event brought together interns, mentors, the Tekvocation team, and leadership to mark the completion of nine months of focused learning. The name Crest was chosen to represent a peak reached through consistent effort and daily involvement.

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The day began with small gestures that made the interns feel remembered. Photos from their first day, handwritten notes, and sweet treats welcomed them. A sapling planting followed, where interns and guests planted together, a quiet gesture symbolizing shared growth.

Ms. Diana Hombal opened the event by sharing reflections on the internship. She spoke about how the program took shape through trial, feedback, and openness. She highlighted that growth is rarely linear and that progress comes from showing up with focus and staying open to learning and change.

A video created by Manoj N played next. It featured moments from the inaugural event, onboarding, client meetings, team sessions, and shared memories. It brought quiet smiles and a sense of pride, showing how far each intern had come.

Mr. Tony G Thomas, Founder of Tekvocation and Co-founder of Zoho, addressed the interns and spoke about the rise of artificial intelligence and the importance of thoughtful decision-making. He encouraged the interns to stay curious, explore tools used by leading companies, and align learning with real-world practices. He shared that marketing plays a key role in helping technology reach the right audience and emphasized that when used well, technology builds rather than disrupts.

Mr. Francis Joy shared practical thoughts on the importance of well-being and maintaining balance while building a career. He also spoke about adaptability and how it supports clarity and steady growth. Mr. Jagadish from Edcite Mysuru shared three pointers for professional life: stay flexible, develop a growth mindset, and approach tasks and challenges with ownership.

Ms. Diana then shared a few transformational stories that reflected the quieter but meaningful shifts in the interns' journeys. Kavya had strengthened her career by being open to feedback, while Bhoomika gained confidence through consistent speaking practice. Manoj N S returned from a visit to the Zoho campus with a deeper understanding of work culture and expectations. Smruthi Ranjan enhanced his language skills and clear in his presentations over time. Mohammed Ahamed became more observant by learning to read non-verbal cues and expressions, and Niharika developed a more thoughtful and aware approach to responding in conversations. These stories showed how steady practice and reflection led to tangible growth in each individual.

All fifteen interns who completed the program were awarded certificates. Special recognitions were presented:
  • Best Intern Award – Arun Kumar R, for consistent effort and team contribution
  • Professional Excellence Award – Veda Karthik T and Disha Crasta, for exceptional professionalism
  • Impact in Action Award – Manoj Kumar N S, for strong support and coordination
  • Best Trainer Award – Prabhu Shankar M, for his kind and thoughtful guidance
Mr. Prabhu Shankar gave the vote of thanks and acknowledged everyone who contributed to making the internship meaningful.

The Imprint session followed, where each intern shared reflections on what shaped their growth. The session brought warmth and sincerity to the room. Later, the celebration continued with performances:
A musical and dance performance by the Edcite Mysuru team
A graceful dance by Tekvocation staff
A group dance by the intern girls
A fun skit by the intern boys, capturing humorous moments from their journey
The day ended with a group photo that captured effort, connection, and quiet pride. A quote from Tony picked from Tekvocation newsletter that stayed with everyone:
“Success is not about being right all the time, but being ready to change when you’re not.”
Crest 2025 was not just a closing ceremony, it was a reminder that real growth comes from steady effort and the willingness to adapt.
]]>Mon, 14 Jul 2025 17:17:16 +0530<![CDATA[Wisdom from the Frontlines: Changemaker who is shaping the future-one advanced material at a time]]>https://www.tekvocation.com/blogs/post/Changemaker-who-is-shaping-the-futureWith each passing month, “Wisdom from the Frontlines” opens a small but meaningful window into the minds of individuals who are quietly advancing the ]]>

With each passing month, “Wisdom from the Frontlines” opens a small but meaningful window into the minds of individuals who are quietly advancing the frontiers of their industries. These conversations are not just about milestones—they are about mindset, resilience, and the unseen work that fuels visible impact.

In this edition, we are privileged to feature Ajeesh G Mannadiar, CEO and Co-founder of Vipus Advanced Materials, a green field initiative powered by Zoho Corp. With an extraordinary career rooted in aerospace, defense, and advanced materials, Ajeesh exemplifies what it means to lead with both technical depth and visionary clarity. From leading large-scale engineering teams to pioneering applications for defence and space, his story offers a masterclass in turning deep technical insight into high-impact business outcomes. 
In this Q&A, he opens up about the challenges of green field innovation, the future of composites in India, lessons in operational leadership, and why building teams and ecosystems is as critical as building products. His insights are a goldmine for young engineers, entrepreneurs, and future leaders navigating complex industries.
Read on for a deep dive into the mindset of a builder, thinker, and changemaker who is shaping the future—one advanced material at a time.

Education & Early Inspirations

 1. Can you share a bit about your educational journey? What sparked your interest in  Investigation of CNF reinforced polymers for long term nuclear waste disposal?
My foundation began with a BTech from VTU, which gave you a strong grasp of core engineering principles. This was followed by an MTech in Integrated Design and Manufacturing from Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, where my exposure to materials in design likely deepened my appreciation for how critical they are in solving complex industrial challenges.. My PhD in Material Science marks a turning point where my interest matured into a research-driven focus. The investigation of CNF (Carbon Nanofiber) reinforced polymers for long-term nuclear waste disposal seems to have been sparked by both scientific curiosity and a desire to contribute to real-world, high-stakes problems— particularly those in defense and energy where durability, safety, and performance under extreme conditions are crucial.

2. Looking back, were there any key mentors or moments during your college days that significantly influenced your career path?
At the heart of my journey has always been my father, Mr. M. Govindankutty. He has been much more than a parent—he has been my mentor, my role model, and my greatest source of strength. His guidance, resilience, and unwavering belief in my potential laid the foundation for every milestone I’ve achieved. The values he instilled in me continue to anchor my decisions, both in academia and in my entrepreneurial ventures. Today, On this journey of entrepreneurship, my biggest mentor is none other than Tony G Thomas. His humility and ability to remain grounded in any situation is something which I wish to achieve at some point of my career.

PhD & Research Journey

3. What were some of the key breakthroughs or turning points during your PhD in materials science, and how did you navigate the challenges and stay motivated throughout that demanding journey?
The journey was far from easy. Working on nano-reinforcements meant constantly battling dispersion issues, equipment limitations, and even skepticism about scalability. But what kept me going was the purpose behind the research—solving a real-world, high-stakes problem.

From Research to Entrepreneurship

4. Was there a defining moment or insight when you realized there was a market opportunity for Composite in aerospace and defense industry?
I  had no such moments like that, My dad and his colleagues were pioneers in Composite materials and having grown in that environment I was always fascinated with the areas pertaining to composite materials. However, When I finished my Phd in Composite Materials and when I landed into my corporate job at Honeywell, then I realized this material and technology is here to stay and grow further

5. What message did you share with the young graduates, and what advice would you give to students aspiring to lead in tech-driven industries?
To the young graduates, I share a simple but powerful message: be curious, stay grounded, and build with purpose.

Work Experience & Professional Growth

6. You've had valuable experiences in both academic and industry settings—how have those early roles helped shape the leadership style you bring to your work today?
My experiences in academia taught me patience, clarity in communication, and the importance of continuous learning, while industry roles at L&T Defense, Honeywell, and Collins Aerospace instilled a results-driven, systems-thinking mindset. Together, they shaped a leadership style that balances technical depth with practical execution.

Passion for Aerospace & Composite Materials

7. What drew you specifically towards composite materials, and how do you see their role evolving in aerospace and defense sectors in the next decade?
Composites have been in my blood as I grew up only seeing that all my life. As far as the market is concerned, its going to be more prominent in the years ahead. Also there seems to be a lot of emphasis in Thermoplastic Composites. Certainly we are eager to work on those areas. We are keen to work on greener materials.

Entrepreneurship & Building from Scratch

8. As a budding tech entrepreneur, what early risks or tough decisions have shaped your view of entrepreneurial spirit in India today?
One of the toughest early decisions was leaving a stable corporate path to build something from scratch in a high-risk, capital-intensive domain like advanced materials. Securing funding, assembling the right team, and convincing stakeholders to believe in a long-term vision were big challenges. I personally thank the Zoho team and Verdant Team to have kept their faith on me for this big opportunity.
9. When building your team, what skills or qualities do you personally look for that really stand out to you?
When building my team, the quality I value most—above all else—is attitude. In a startup environment, where challenges are dynamic and resources are limited, it's the right mindset that truly makes the difference. We look for individuals who are curious, adaptable, willing to take ownership, and open to learning. Skills can always be developed over time, but a positive, committed attitude is what drives growth—for both the individual and the company.

Personal

10. As a CEO and a father, how do you manage your time between work and family—and is there a space or routine that helps you stay grounded amidst it all?
Balancing life as a CEO and a father is no easy task, but it’s also the most rewarding part of my journey. What keeps me grounded is the unwavering support of my wife, Greeshma MS, whose strength, patience, and constant encouragement make everything possible—even during my most demanding days. And my son, Sabarinath A, brings an energy and joy into our lives that instantly resets my mindset, no matter how hectic things get. We make it a point to spend quality time together, even in small ways—dinner chats, weekend playtime, or just sharing a laugh after a long day. That space with them is my true anchor. Their love and understanding fuel my drive, and remind me why I do ?what I do.
]]>Tue, 06 May 2025 15:24:05 +0530<![CDATA[Wisdom from the Frontline: Marketing with Purpose, Training with Passion - Meet Catherine Suchita]]>https://www.tekvocation.com/blogs/post/wisdom-from-the-frontline-marketing-with-purpose-training-with-passion-meet-catherine-suchita"Each month, Wisdom from the Frontlines brings you voices that have not only walked the path but helped lay its foundation—transforming challenge ]]>

"Each month, Wisdom from the Frontlines brings you voices that have not only walked the path but helped lay its foundation—transforming challenges into blueprints for others to follow. This edition features a woman of remarkable depth: Catherine Suchita—a social change enthusiast whose 20+ year journey across training, marketing, operations, and business development has quietly impacted hundreds of lives, careers, and companies.
With over two decades of experience across training, public relations, business development, and operations, Catherine’s story is rooted in purpose. From spearheading large-scale employability initiatives for engineering students in tier-2 and tier-3 cities, to managing the financial aspirations of HNIs through her leadership at Moneyline, she exemplifies a rare blend of grassroots engagement and high-stakes strategy.
What stands out in our Q&A is Catherine’s no-nonsense clarity—whether she’s talking about demystifying investment myths, bridging the gap between academia and industry, or using cooking as a metaphor for strategic thinking. Her work reflects a powerful truth: financial literacy, professional excellence, and social change are not separate pursuits—they are interlinked pillars of long-term empowerment. Catherine doesn’t just train people to be employable—she prepares them to navigate uncertainty, think independently, and build lives of meaning. It is this unwavering belief in the potential of individuals, especially youth, that makes her voice both credible and inspiring.
We are honoured to share her insights with our community this month. Read on for a conversation rich with practical wisdom, thoughtful conviction, and deeply human leadership."

1) What qualities set apart top-performing sales and marketing professionals in the financial sector?

The top performing sales and marketing professionals are always updated with what is new in their sector. They are very well exposed to all the macro and micro economic factors that impact their sector, business and clients.

2) What strategies have you found most effective in building long-term client relationships, especially in competitive financial markets?

Long term client relationships in competitive financial markets call for more than average returns compared to the standard indexes of the industry. Simultaneously, we need to have a good knowledge of arbitrage too, so that the inefficiencies of the financial market are balanced. 

3) How does personalization influence the marketing of financial products and services? Can you share an example where it significantly impacted conversions?

A good financial consultant needs to have an expertise in doing the need analysis of the financial life cycle of the client. Due to the mentioned requirement, it becomes essential to connect to the customer, so that he is freely able to share what is there in his mind, his requirements, his priorities and risk appetite.We had a client who was in his twenties, who wanted an early retirement from his corporate job as he wanted to pursue his passion in music. The client was risk averse, needed liquidity and expected good long-term returns. So, we had to design his investments in a manner which had to support long term investments without much compromise on liquidity. We invested his savings into corporate bonds as well as dividend yielding equity schemes. The interest of long-term investment would be partially used for his livelihood expenses as well as reinvestment into equity plus annuity to support his wealth creation and retirement requirement. The customer was very happy with the planning and gave complete control over his investment portfolio to us.   

4) What are the key elements of a strong brand presence in financial services, and how can firms differentiate themselves in a crowded marketplace?

Extraordinary service coupled with professionalism is something that always makes a difference to the client. A service provider also needs to maintain high transparency in operations. We need to treat the client’s money as our own and not focus on brokerage and commission alone. When most of the organizations in this competitive market are looking at running their business only for profits; A company which is service oriented and focuses on long term gain for the customer will always stand out. Profits should become an integrated component of business growth along with the growth in Customers portfolio.This will create a very strong brand presence. 

5) What strategies have proven most effective for generating and converting high-value leads in the financial industry?

The service provider should ensure that he is always able to give time and energy to a requested service from the client even though    it may not be commercially viable but an important service to the client.  Being very commercial all the time - puts off high end clients.High value customers will give a lot of importance to product and subject knowledge, they have an expectation that you need to be professional all the time. They don’t like push sales and prefer more of a hassle-free value-oriented approach.

Financial Industry & Client Education

6) What are the most common financial misconceptions professionals and institutions hold, and how do you address them in your training programs?

Some of the most common financial misconceptions are as follows.

- Misconception 1: We need to accumulate money to start saving.

We encourage Savings at a very early age. Savings can start small- as small as Rs.500. No one should wait for the right time to save.

- Misconception 2: Outstanding returns can come without any risk.

Risk comes from not knowing… We encourage investors to educate themselves on where and why they decide to invest with us and then have their buy in for decisions related to investment of their money. This will not lead to goodwill erosion in case of loss, in erratic, unpredictable economic and market conditions.   

- Misconception 3: We need to wait for the right time to invest in the stock market:

There is no right time to start investing. We just need to give more time to our investment to grow in the stock market. One word of caution is that an investor needs to make sure we are not carried away by excellent returns in the short run… We need to consider the fundamental analysis of any sector and industries we invest.

- Misconception 4: One source of income is sufficient for a good life.

It makes a lot of sense to make an investment to create a second source of income in this era of uncertainties. What seems a standard source of income today may become totally irrelevant tomorrow due to dynamic changes in technology and research. An excellent example of this is the STD phone business which was a very lucrative business in the 90’s.

7) For young professionals aiming for financial independence, what are the first steps they should take?

Curb unnecessary buying, buy only what is necessary for basic needs and save all the remaining money. A penny saved is a penny earned.

Young professionals should start saving form their first pay check.

Ensure you define life goals financially and quantify the money needed for the same. Start working and saving towards it.

The earlier you start, the better it is. The power of compounding works magic on your portfolio. You need to keep your money in a array of investment instruments which should include Equity, mutual funds, bonds, commercial papers, FD’S,etc. Your investment decisions should be according to your need, liquidity and risk appetite.

Minimalist is the new rich. Earn more, spend less and save more. Invest your savings carefully; so that your money makes more money for you

Training, Leadership & Industry Impact  

8) What inspired you to step into the training and education sector?

I stepped into training because I wanted to assist young minds to grow rationally and contribute to a better society and a better world. I enjoy giving direction to the efforts of the youth in getting employed because I noticed that most of their efforts were going in vain due to lack of exposure to the corporate world. I started working very early at the age of 18 and made many mistakes. I had nobody to guide me in the right direction and hence much of my learnings were through trial and error. I wish to share my experiences with the young minds to give them encouragement to become economically independent at the earliest.

9) In your experience, how can professionals bridge the gap between academic learning and corporate expectations?

First we need to accept that everything that we learn academically will definitely be useful somewhere or the other in life. This acceptance is required by the youth who are in the process of getting educated in order to give their best results. After gaining in depth knowledge of whichever field they are in; the following steps need to followed to meet the corporate expectations:

    ∙ Read, Listen, Write: We are in an era of open source for information. Pick all the relevant materials in your line of working and dedicate a specific time for reading. Listen to subject matter experts on how they are practically using their knowledge. Write articles and become a part of the blogging group in your field of working.

    ∙ Community learning: Please interact and gain knowledge from working professionals, friends, seniors you know from your line of working. You can also become a part of online community and accelerate your learning.

    ∙ Internship and live projects: Students need to take as many internships and live projects along with academic learning to cope up with corporate expectations.

    ∙ Learning from mistakes: Never miss an opportunity to initiate and do work related to your field. Apply all that you have learnt practically. It is totally OK to make mistakes and learn from it. If we wait to get skilled fully and then start work there are high possibilities that we are left behind in the competition.

Government & Large-Scale Initiatives  

10) How did you successfully bring in organizations like Rajiv Udyog Sri and Jawahar Knowledge Centre to support employment initiatives?

The rule is simple… keep trying till you find a person in the Government or any other organisation who understands your / your company’s vision to bring about a change in the society for the better.If you are supporting the right cause, you will always get the support from the system. The world still has a lot of people who want it to be better day by day.I met the bureaucrats and top level administrators (especially the key decision makers) in the social welfare departments of Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh and got a buy in of their support.

Personal & Work-Life Balance

11) What’s a hobby or activity you’re passionate about outside of work, and how does it influence your professional mindset?

I love cooking. Cooking has thought me invaluable lessons. Happy to share some.

- Lesson 1: Cooking has thought me that we need to choose the right ingredients, in the right proportions to have the right outcome. 

I apply this to all the activities in my professional life. I carefully choose what I need to focus upon , the people I associate with, the medium and content of my corporate communication .etc.,

- Lesson 2: Even the smallest ingredient can alter the taste and flavour of the dish. 

One should try their level best not to miss the tiniest of details while handling their professional life. Your competitive advantage will lie in the details which others in the same business have not encashed upon. So, paying attention to the minutest of details matter to ensure we run our business smoothly and also to have the first move advantage in any business.

- Lesson 3. The timing when we add the ingredients the cooking also matters.

In business there is a time for everything. The sequence of actions matters a lot and not just the actions… Wrong timing /sequence in corporate decision making will definitely prove to be a disaster. 

- Lesson 4: Simple dishes with few ingredients taste best:  

Nowadays it has become a trend to sound complicated and complex to prove that we are intelligent. On the contrary the ultimate intelligence actually lies in keeping everything as simple as possible. This is true for everything from setting the process and procedures of operations, giving instructions, designing your media campaigns /client presentations and communicating with your peers and superiors.

12) Are you an early bird or a night owl? How does that impact your productivity and daily routine?

I am an early bird. Getting up early after a good night's rest gives me a lot of energy and creativity. Since I start my day with meditation and pranayama… my mind feels clear. I ensure that I plan my day well- with sufficient time for self, family and work. This helps me have a good work life balance. I make it a point to touch upon my affirmations every morning as a routine, so that I don’t get distracted from what I need to prioritise. It assists me not to get influenced and affected by everything around me and also to maintain my individuality. All these activities in the mornings ensure am free from anxiety and clutter throughout the day both at home and also at work.

]]>Sat, 12 Apr 2025 15:06:17 +0530<![CDATA[Wisdom from the Frontlines: Lessons from Experience]]>https://www.tekvocation.com/blogs/post/wisdom-from-the-frontlines-lessons-from-experienceWelcome back to Wisdom from the Frontlines, where we explore the journeys of professionals who have made a lasting impact in their fields. Through the ]]>

Welcome back to Wisdom from the Frontlines, where we explore the journeys of professionals who have made a lasting impact in their fields. Through their experiences, challenges, and reflections, we bring you perspectives that can help navigate your own career path.
This edition features Mahesh Bala, a technology leader with over two decades of experience in AI, robotics, business strategy, and mentorship. From his early days at ISRO to leading AI-driven programs at Zoho Research Labs, Mahesh has played a key role in driving innovation while guiding the next generation of professionals.
In this Q&A, he shares his thoughts on leadership, the future of AI, the balance between technology and business, and what it takes to build a strong career. His experiences offer practical takeaways for entrepreneurs, tech professionals, and anyone looking to grow in an evolving industry.
Read on for a conversation style answers filled with real-world lessons and thought-provoking perspectives.

1. How did your experience at ISRO shape your approach to technology and innovation later in your career?

- I have seen how deep technologies are explored and built with an attitude of selflessness. Senior scientists working hard and taking complete ownership of their work amazed me. I was working in the staging separation division, which was responsible for separating a satellite in orbit from a launch vehicle. Even the senior most scientists were well aware about the torque values of even screws to be tightened. 

2. What was the biggest turning point in your career, and how did it influence your professional growth ?

- Loosing a job in 2009 was the biggest turning point in my career. I started my own company. 

3. With your experience in AI and robotics, what ethical considerations do you believe should be prioritized in technological advancements?

- Depending blindly on AI tools and techniques like Chat GPT etc. will not help anyone to improve their career. We must have fundamental knowledge and we should be able to know how smartly we are able to use AI techniques. 

4. How do you foresee the future of indigenous technologies in India competing on a global scale?

- We need more and more ‘deep technical’ indigenous technologies coming up from India. We should not settle with light weight solutions which have short term business advantageous. 

5. What are the core focus areas of Zoho's R&D Centre at Kottarakara? How does it align? with Zoho’s broader vision? How do you foster innovation in a setting that is away from major tech ecosystems?

- Our Founder's vision of R&D and RD (research and development and rural development) emphasize core deep technologies built from rural India. We are in humble effort of empowering the local Indian talent to do hardcore research 

6. What kind of research and innovation projects are currently being undertaken at the center?

- AI and Robotics in general. LLMs also.

7. What inspired you to transition into academia and mentorship alongside your corporate career?

- Giving back something back to society 

8. If you had to summarize your life philosophy in one sentence, what would it be?

- Never waste time, and do the work for self satisfaction. The rest is taken care of by itself. 

9. Who has been your biggest inspiration in your professional journey?

- Rahul Dravid and Virat Kholi
]]>Thu, 20 Mar 2025 15:47:57 +0530<![CDATA[Wisdom from the Frontlines : Jagadish's reflection on Edcite's transformative role in Education]]>https://www.tekvocation.com/blogs/post/wisdom-from-the-frontlines-jagadish-s-reflection-on-edcite-s-transformative-role-in-educationIn this special column of the Tek-newsletter, we highlight the voices and journeys of individuals who have made significant contributions in their res ]]>
In this special column of the Tek-newsletter, we highlight the voices and journeys of individuals who have made significant contributions in their respective fields. What began as an initiative to feature an article from our Founder, Tony G Thomas, has inspired us to broaden this platform, inviting other professionals to share their unique insights, challenges, and motivations.
In this edition, we are pleased to feature Jagadish, the Managing Director of Edcite Bangalore. His insights into the evolution of Edcite and its commitment to educational assessments offer valuable perspectives on the changing landscape of education technology.

1. How has Edcite evolved over the years to address the changing needs of educational assessments in the US?

Edcite began its journey a decade ago, initially launching a free version and later introduced premium features. Over the years, Edcite has experienced significant growth and successfully met the needs of many teachers and students across the country. We have continually added and improved features to assist students in preparing for state tests. And we have also introduced a range of new reporting tools that make performance analysis easier for teachers across various metrics.

2. How do you ensure the security and privacy of student data, especially with growing concerns around cybersecurity?

At Edcite, we prioritize student data privacy. With recent state regulations, we are actively preparing to meet the requirements. We only collect the minimal student information necessary and do not share any Personal Identifiable Information (PII) with third parties. Additionally, we are planning to implement new measures, such as deleting and anonymizing student data after a certain period.

3. How does your team handle software updates and ensure the platform stays robust during peak usage, such as exam periods?

Updating the product requires careful consideration. During peak usage times, we aim to keep software updates minimal. We avoid significant updates during critical periods, such as student assessment times, focusing only on essential updates that won’t impact students or teachers. Additionally, we ensure the product remains operational by closely monitoring the servers.

4. How do you coordinate between different teams—such as IT, product development, and customer support—to ensure smooth platform operations?

We have various technical and non-technical teams collaborating to ensure smooth operations. Multiple meetings are scheduled at different levels to help team members understand each other’s work and exchange ideas. Additionally, we use various chat groups for communication within and across the teams. We also use different platforms to interact with our US team, who engage with customers to understand their requirements and respond accordingly.

5. What are some of the most recent features added to Edcite’s platform, and how have they enhanced the user experience for both teachers and students?

Edcite continually improves its product to stay aligned with the latest trends. Our recent major update introduced a new teacher-facing interface, enhancing the look and feel while ensuring compliance with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). This update has made the user interface much simpler and more interactive, leading to positive feedback from our users. We also plan to update the student interface in the near future.

6. What’s the process behind developing and testing new features to ensure they meet the needs of educators and align with the platform’s overall goals?

Edcite has weekly release cycles dedicated to bug fixing and enhancing existing features. Each week, developers list their changes for testing, and the testing team evaluates them, reporting any additional issues back to the developers. This process continues until all the issues are resolved and fixes are ready for the end users on release day. Additionally, we prioritize testing the key features of the entire product before the release to ensure that nothing is broken that could impact the user experience.

7. What are some of your hobbies or activities that help you unwind and stay creative outside of work?

Listening to music and practicing yoga regularly help me relax and energize me. Although I’m not a great cook, I enjoy experimenting with new recipes, especially when it comes to desserts. I also love traveling and exploring different parts of the country.

]]>Mon, 04 Nov 2024 09:58:50 +0530<![CDATA[A Conversation with Mr. Francis Joy: Guiding the Next Generation of IT Professionals]]>https://www.tekvocation.com/blogs/post/a-conversation-with-mr.-francis-joy-guiding-the-next-generation-of-it-professionalsAn exclusive interview with Mr. Francis, a distinguished professional with extensive cross-industry experience. Mr. Francis shares insights on navigat ]]>

An exclusive interview with Mr. Francis, a distinguished professional with extensive cross-industry experience. Mr. Francis shares insights on navigating economic and technological shifts, essential career principles, and valuable advice for young professionals.

(i) Across the industries you've worked in, what are some core principles or skills that have remained constant throughout your career?

The basic principles that have remained constant throughout my career are reading, writing, and quantitative skills. These fundamental skills are essential and beneficial across various industries.

(ii)  What are some of the biggest economic and technological disruptions you've witnessed in your career?

My career began in 1978, a time when mainframes were giving way to microcomputers. I started at HCL, where we were among the first to introduce microprocessor-based computers to Indian businesses. In the mid-90s, PCs started becoming popular, with companies like Microsoft gaining prominence. Around the same time, the movement of software work to Bangalore began, with companies like Motorola and Infosys setting up operations. Interestingly, I worked on AI and neural networks in the late 80s and early 90s, which seemed to fizzle out but have now come back strongly. For me, it's a bit of déjà vu seeing the same concepts gain traction again.

(iii) What are some of the most valuable life lessons you've learned throughout your career?

Having worked in many different companies, I've learned that people are fundamentally different, and it's crucial to be flexible in dealing with them. Early in my career, I worked on a project with Japanese colleagues and thought all Japanese people were exceptionally good. Later, I realized that it wasn't so with others, and it's not right to generalize. Flexibility is the most valuable life lesson I've learned.

(iv) Looking back, what skills or experiences from your early career proved most valuable in your later endeavors?

The quality of education I received has been incredibly valuable. I attended IIT, where both the faculty and the students were exceptional. This rigorous academic environment helped me build a strong foundation that has benefited me throughout my career.

(v) If you could give one piece of advice to someone considering a career in the tech industry, what would it be?

It's useful to study materials by industry leaders and not just rely on courses from platforms like Coursera or Udemy. For example, if you're learning Node.js, look into the work of Ryan Dahl, its author. For JavaScript, study the contributions of Brendan Eich and Douglas Crockford. Crockford, who is also the creator of JSON, has a highly recommended 1.5-hour YouTube video. Understanding the history and culture behind these technologies provides valuable context and depth.

(vi) What foundational skills or knowledge do you believe are essential for success in today's job market?

Francis: Foundational skills such as mentioned above - reading, writing, and quantitative skills are essential. Also a deep subject knowledge of a given technology while gaining an understanding of the history behind those specific technologies you are working with can offer a richer perspective.

(vii) Looking back, what advice would you give to your younger self?

I would advise my younger self to learn more human languages. While I have experience with over 30 programming languages, I only speak one spoken language. Knowing multiple spoken languages would have enriched my experiences and interactions with people.

(viii) Can you recommend any books or resources that have influenced your professional life?

For those in the tech industry, I recommend books by Douglas Crockford, Brendan Eich, and Ryan Dahl. For the new generation that is addicted to the social media, "In-distractable" by Nir Eyal is an excellent book on maintaining focus in a world full of distractions. While Nir Eyal's book - "Hooked," provides insights on how to develop products that keep users engaged, and he also gave a notable Google Talk on this topic. In his next book, ironically he speaks on how to not get distracted. 

Francis concluded with:

It's essential to maintain focus whether you're in a meeting or working on a task. Many today are constantly distracted over various notifications and are visibly distracted. While distractions are everywhere, especially with the prevalence of social media, staying focused is crucial for success.
(Excerpts of the Interview conducted by Ms. Diana Hombal, duly recorded by Mr. Prabhu Shankar  from June 7, 2024)
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