Masterclass Overview: Engineers Day Special
Title: Defining Skills for Tomorrow’s EV Engineers
Speaker: Ashutosh Dehury
Date: 15th September 2025 | Time: 8:00 PM IST
1. Introduction & Context
The masterclass opened by commemorating the legacy of Sir M. Visvesvaraya, a visionary whose work as an industrial architect, nation builder, and infrastructure pioneer set the foundation for modern engineering in India. His principle, “Engineering is about transforming lives and building nations,” remains especially relevant as the nation produces 1.5 million engineers annually, yet less than half attain direct industry readiness for fast-evolving fields like electric mobility.
This session served not only as a tribute but as a call to action, underlining the necessity for multidisciplinary learning and continuous skill development to address the demands of climate change, digital transformation, and sustainable urbanization.
2. Setting the Stage: Today’s Challenges
-
Climate & Sustainability: Building systems and cities that protect the planet and support growing populations.
-
Digital Transformation: Applying AI, IoT, and analytics across emerging mobility solutions.
-
Resource Optimization: Delivering higher efficiency despite limited materials and energy.
-
Inclusive Innovation: Ensuring equitable solutions that benefit all, from urban to rural India.
These challenges demand engineers who move beyond siloed expertise, embracing collaborative, systems-driven roles.
3. The Age of Multidisciplinary Engineering
The masterclass highlighted why the electric vehicle (EV) sector is the quintessential testbed for multidisciplinary talent. Success in EV engineering requires knowledge that bridges:
-
Electrical Engineering: From battery management systems and high-voltage power electronics to robust charging infrastructure.
-
Mechanical Engineering: Chassis design, aerodynamics, and advanced thermal systems.
-
Materials Science: Sourcing and applying cutting-edge composites.
-
Software Engineering: Writing secure firmware, developing AI-driven diagnostics, and enabling autonomous functions—essentially turning cars into computers on wheels.
The theme: “EVs unite all engineering disciplines.”
4. Key Insights & Actionable Skills
The speaker delivered critical insights on industry skill needs:
| Skill Area | Relevance | Example Role |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Technology | Safety, longevity, robust design | Battery Systems Engineer |
| Embedded Systems | ADAS, AI/ML, real-time vehicle intelligence | Firmware Developer, ADAS |
| Charging Infrastructure | Reliable networks, rapid charging solutions | Infra Specialist |
| Mechatronics | Sensor fusion, automation | Test Engineer |
| Systems Thinking | Integration across domains | EV Product Leader |
Statistically, only 45-50% of India’s graduates are directly employable; there remains a 2.5 million skills gap for EV and clean energy expertise globally, and employer demand for skilled engineers is 70% higher than supply.
5. Interactive Elements & Real-World Exposure
Participants engaged with case studies and project-based learning that reflected genuine industry practices:
-
Simulation and Design: Using tools like SolidWorks, MATLAB, and ANSYS for building and testing digital twins.
-
Hardware Experience: Working with microcontrollers (STM32, ESP32), PCB design, and sensor integration through lab modules and DIY kits.
-
Collaborative Projects: Multidisciplinary teams tackled problems spanning mechanical, electrical, and software boundaries, mirroring current workplace trends.
6. Career Guidance & Pathways
The session closed with practical strategies for becoming an industry-ready engineer:
-
Master Fundamentals: Build a core base in physics, electronics, and computer science.
-
Continuous Learning: Enroll in certifications (Battery & BMS, EV Embedded Systems), participate in hackathons, and stay up-to-date with sector webinars.
-
Focus on Hands-On Projects: Employers seek demonstrated ability through capstone projects and hardware experience.
-
Network Building: Join alumni forums, EV career groups, and engage with industry mentors.
7. Program Recommendations
For aspiring professionals, the hero product is the DIYguru Electric Vehicle PG Certification, designed in partnership with leading institutions and guaranteeing direct exposure to cutting-edge EV tech and placement support. Nano degrees in Battery & BMS and EV Embedded Systems further specialize participants for top industry roles.
In conclusion, this Engineers Day masterclass challenged attendees to become the architects of progress, bridging disciplines and embracing hands-on, industry-driven learning. Opportunities in EV engineering are immense—start building multidisciplinary skills today for a high-impact and future-proof career.