From Transistors to Transformation: My Journey Through Technology

My interest in electronics sparked during my early years, as I tinkered with resistors and transistors, setting the groundwork for my venture into engineering. It was during my second year when I encountered the 8051 micro-controllers. As I delved into assembly programming for this controller, a revelation struck and that filled me with the power to create things in this world by writing code. From that moment, technology became my compass, guiding my career path.?

I carried on learning programming while pursuing my master's degree at IIT Kharagpur. At that point, I was certain that I would pursue a career in computer science and become a programmer. In 1999, I was hired by a Bangalore startup for my first job.??

I wanted to be a Java programmer, but at the start of my career (Dharma Systems), I was assigned a test automation project to work on. This is the first surprise that many new engineers encounter when they begin their careers. I went through a really trying period for a few days, wondering if my company had chosen me for the Test Automation project because they didn't think I was a qualified engineer. After much thought, I made the decision to do whatever was asked of me and to let events play out as they happened.??

I surrendered myself completely to the universe without any idea of how things would work out. I was transferred to a development role after a year since, by then, I had developed extremely strong Testing skills that helped me be a very good developer. I was able to predict where my code would break while developing, which helped me write high-quality code. When I reflect on the beginning of my professional life, I consider myself fortunate and grateful to my first company for asking me to work on "Test Automation." I think that this was an important moment in my life that helped me shape my future career and solidify my role as a strong technologist.??

In 2001, HP welcomed me into the corporate fold. Drawing from my startup experience, I swiftly ascended the ranks, gradually transitioning from a senior software engineer to an Architect.?

An important turning point occurred in 2008 when Jeet, who would later become the co-founder of InTimeTec, took over as my manager at HP. Our instant connection sparked my desire to contribute back to the community. It felt natural to accompany Jeet on his path as he revealed his ambitions to become an entrepreneur. This led to my role as a co-Founder of InTimeTec in 2009. ?

My tenure as CTO at InTimeTec has been transformative. As the company burgeoned, my role evolved beyond writing code, managing projects, and engaging with clients. It encompassed steering the company through a swiftly evolving technological landscape, demanding a continuous pursuit of the latest trends and technologies.

I'd want to share with everyone the following principles that I've learned and put into practice throughout my career as a technologist:?

1. Continuous learning stands as a cornerstone for any aspiring technologist aiming for excellence.

2. As a technologist, your main goal should be to solve problems, so try not to get too attached to any one technology - Technology is a tool, not an end in and of itself.

3. Encourage a thorough understanding of the relevant domain - Deep and clear understanding are absolute necessities for developing effective solutions.

4. Embrace a team-player mentality?and put team goals ahead of personal ones - This is the hallmark of a collaborative and impactful technologist.?

5. Develop empathy for users – A skillful technologist should always inquire about what will simplify a user's life, not just what will simplify your own.

6. Grow others around you - As a technologist, it is crucial that you participate in the growth of those around you. This will not only enable you to make a bigger impact but also?important if you wish to advance in your own career.

7. Have a mindset focused on quality - A knowledgeable technologist consistently prioritizes quality and creates software?of the highest quality.?

Reflecting on this journey, I realize that success isn't confined to specific milestones. It's an ongoing evolution defined by growth, learning, and an unwavering commitment to progress. Beyond professional obligations, the pursuit of technological excellence drives me to empower the company amid the relentless march of technology.