From Navy Battle Tanks to High-Speed Trains: Meet Chetan Karanwal
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In a remarkable career trajectory that underscores the power of adaptability and lifelong learning, Chetan Karanwal has transitioned from engineering battle tanks for the Indian Navy to designing cutting-edge trains for global transportation leader Alstom. Her decade-long journey reflects an impressive blend of technical prowess, leadership, and an unyielding commitment to excellence.
A Solid Foundation: From Navy Ships to Corporate Trains
Chetan Karanwal’s professional voyage began with a civil engineering degree from Himachal Pradesh University, followed by a short service commission in the Indian Navy. Her passion for naval architecture led her to pursue a postgraduate diploma from IIT Delhi, where she honed her skills in mechanical engineering—laying a robust foundation for her future endeavors.
Her initial major assignment was at the ship repair facility in Cochin, where, as deputy manager at just 24 years old, she led a diverse team of 150 personnel. Despite facing challenges such as language barriers and managing older colleagues, Chetan’s leadership approach was marked by empathy and understanding. Recognizing that traditional commands were insufficient, she invested time in learning about her team’s dynamics, fostering a collaborative environment that drove success.
Innovation in Action: A Noteworthy Achievement
A testament to her innovative spirit, Chetan spearheaded the development of a slipway-cum-dredger using salvaged materials, including discarded metal plates and malfunctioning motors. This inventive solution eliminated the need for manual silt removal, greatly enhancing efficiency in vessel operations. Presenting this prototype to then-Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman was a highlight of her tenure, showcasing her ability to blend creativity with practical solutions.
Chetan’s career also saw her contributing significantly in Visakhapatnam and Delhi. In the capital, she facilitated crucial collaborations between the Navy and various governmental agencies, expediting the development of strategic assets—a role that enriched her problem-solving skills and strategic thinking.
A Strategic Shift: From Defence to Corporate Innovation
As her contract with the Navy neared its end in 2023, Chetan embraced the opportunity to further her education with a pre-release MBA course at IIM-Trichy. This program, reserved for top performers, provided her with advanced business skills that complemented her engineering expertise.
Now, as a Train Design Performance & Deployment Manager at Alstom, Chetan applies her background in naval architecture to assess and refine business requirements for the company’s products. Her proficiency in data analytics and business intelligence, gained through specialized courses, supports her role in aligning product performance with market demands.
During her interview at Alstom, Chetan’s ability to adapt was highlighted. Despite her civil engineering background, she confidently articulated how her varied experiences equipped her to excel in a new industry. Her response, “Change has been a constant in my life with different postings and roles. I can shift gears easily,” underscored her readiness to tackle new challenges.
The Broader Impact: Lessons Beyond Engineering
Chetan’s journey exemplifies that success in both defense and corporate sectors involves more than just physical stamina; it demands mental agility and effective communication. Her experiences underscore the value of diverse skills and continuous learning in achieving career milestones.
Chetan Karanwal’s transition from engineering battle tanks to designing high-speed trains is a powerful narrative of versatility and innovation. Her story is a reminder that with a blend of technical acumen, strategic insight, and adaptability, professionals can navigate and excel in vastly different fields.
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