‘Talking About Life’s Engineering Saga – (TALES)’ exclusively focuses on structural consultants across the nation wherein they share their engineering journey in their own words.
In an in-depth interview, Yogesh Ghodke, Founder of Karmayog Structural Engineers, discusses his journey from a passionate engineering student to a seasoned structural consultant with over 25 years of experience. In conversation with Vanshika Raigaga, he explores the evolution of steel structures in India, consultancy challenges, and his forward-thinking approach to structural design, offering a unique perspective on the industry’s growth and future.
Your inspiration to pursue engineering and the drive behind choosing structural consulting.
My passion for engineering stems from a deep fascination with structural engineering but is not limited to civil engineering alone. I believe we should not bifurcate the engineering streams; instead, we should see all streams as one. My career in structural consulting was driven by passion rather than the need or a desire to follow the stereotypical industrial path.
Highlight key milestones from your journey as a student to becoming an accomplished professional.
When I graduated from Sardar Patel College of Engineering, Mumbai, the industry was facing a recession, and many engineers were shifting towards the booming software sector. Companies were offering lucrative packages to core engineers, yet I chose to stay true to my passion for structural engineering.
I began my career at a mechanically focused company with no civil division. Recognising the untapped potential, I convinced the management that structural engineering could add significant value. Over time, this led to the formation of a dedicated Civil Engineering department, marking my first major professional achievement.
In order to gain a holistic understanding of structural engineering, I worked with renowned Indian and multinational companies, contributing to diverse sectors, including residential, commercial, industrial, oil & gas, and infrastructure. In the meantime, I pursued my master’s in Structures. This extensive experience laid the foundation for my entrepreneurial journey.
After 20 years of industry experience, I established my own practice/Karmayog Structural Engineers, a firm dedicated to delivering innovative and research-driven structural solutions. From simple to highly complex projects, we have consistently pushed the boundaries of engineering. Our tagline, ‘Engineering without Boundaries,’ reflects our commitment to solving structural challenges without limitations creating solutions that redefine possibilities in steel and RCC construction.
What are the key challenges you face as a structural consultant, and how do you address them?
Starting my journey as a structural consultant came with its share of challenges. Our first project was a long cantilever canopy, a complex design due to its large span and stability concerns. Despite initial struggles, we successfully delivered the design, marking a significant learning milestone.
Unlike in MNCs, where engineers specialise in specific tasks, a consultant must provide solutions for diverse structural challenges. In the early years, making critical design decisions without prior exposure was daunting, but over time, experience and a problem-solving mindset helped navigate these hurdles.
Another major challenge is the decline in consultancy fees. Earlier, structural consultants commanded competitive fees, enabling them to sustain operations comfortably. However, with advanced software automating design processes, clients now demand faster outputs at minimal costs, making it harder to manage overhead expenses.
Additionally, there is a lack of dedicated platforms connecting engineering consultants with potential clients. Existing platforms primarily cater to material suppliers, vendors, and B2C services, while the B2B space remains underdeveloped. Most clients still select consultants based on references, limiting broader opportunities.
To address such challenges, we are continuously upgrading our software capabilities and technological expertise to match industry demands. Looking ahead, we aim to integrate AI-driven solutions to enhance engineering productivity and profitability, ensuring that structural consultants remain at the forefront of innovation in the evolving construction landscape.
How do you view the evolution of steel structures in India, especially with the growing use of rolled sections?
Steel has been a part of Indian construction since the early 20th century, but its widespread adoption was initially limited due to cost and traditional preferences for concrete. However, over the past few decades, the industry has witnessed a significant shift, with steel becoming a preferred material for high-rise buildings, industrial structures, and infrastructure projects.
The introduction of Pre-Engineered Buildings (PEBs) marked a turning point, offering faster construction timelines and cost efficiency, especially for industrial and warehouse structures.
The evolution of steel structures in India has been closely tied to advancements in design and engineering. For instance, the use of high-strength steel and composite materials has enabled the construction of taller, more resilient buildings with larger spans and reduced material usage.
If you could introduce one transformative change to construction?
If I could introduce one transformative change in the construction industry, it would be the widespread adoption of modular and prefabricated construction methods. This approach addresses key challenges such as inefficiency, waste, labour shortages, and environmental impact. Modular construction involves manufacturing building components off-site in controlled factory environments and assembling them on-site, significantly reducing construction timelines by 30-50 per cent. It also lowers costs by minimising material waste and labour expenses while improving quality and safety through precision engineering. Additionally, modular construction supports sustainability by optimising material use and integrating energy-efficient systems.
In the context of India, where conventional steel sections like I-beams and angles are still dominant, modular construction can further drive the adoption of advanced materials such as hollow rectangular sections (HRS) and pipe sections, which offer higher strength-to-weight ratios and aesthetic appeal. While some companies produce sections that comply with international standards like AISC and Eurocodes, their limited availability remains a challenge due to manufacturing constraints, higher costs, and lack of widespread demand. Modular construction could accelerate the use of these innovative sections, making them more accessible and aligning with global best practices.
Despite challenges like cultural resistance, logistical complexities, and regulatory hurdles, modular construction has the potential to revolutionise the industry. It can make construction faster, safer, and more sustainable while addressing labour shortages and supporting India’s goals for modern infrastructure and sustainability. This transformative change would not only enhance efficiency but also pave the way for a more resilient and innovative construction ecosystem.
Describe how steel has shaped your career and design approach.
Steel has been at the core of my technical expertise, providing me with a deep understanding of material properties, structural design, and construction methodologies. Mastering the intricacies of steel, from conventional sections to advanced hollow profiles, has enabled me to tackle complex engineering challenges with confidence.
Your favourite steel project so far and what makes it so special?
Structural design and drawings of striking domes for the Palghar Zilla Parishad Offices in Palghar. These domes serve as iconic architectural features, enriching the visual landscape and functional efficiency of the complex.
An international steel project that inspires with its structural brilliance, and what about it stands out?
One of the most inspiring steel projects by Santiago Calatrava is the Turning Torso in Malmö, Sweden. This 190 m tall skyscraper, completed in 2005, is an engineering marvel that showcases steel’s adaptability, strength, and aesthetic potential.
The twisting form of the structure is achieved through a steel exoskeleton, which enhances its visual dynamism and provides structural stability. The steel spine, combined with a reinforced concrete core, allows the building to withstand high wind and seismic forces, making it a perfect example of steel’s role in modern high-rise construction.
What makes this/One thing that makes this project truly fascinating is Calatrava’s fusion of art and engineering. The use of prefabricated steel elements ensured precision in construction while maintaining an organic, sculptural form. This project exemplifies how steel can push the boundaries of architectural innovation, creating both functional and visually striking structures.
How do you stay ahead in an industry driven by innovation and technology?
Staying ahead in the steel industry requires a blend of technical expertise, innovation, and collaboration. By embracing new technologies, prioritising sustainability, and staying connected to global trends, I ensure my work remains relevant and impactful in this ever-evolving field. This proactive approach enhances my professional growth and contributes to the advancement of the steel industry as a whole.
What advice do you have for young engineers aiming to excel in structural engineering?
Always keep learning, stay updated on industry codes and software, design considerations and understand project economics.
How do you collaborate with architects, fabricators, and contractors to bring designs to life?
Utilising BIM (building information modelling) facilitates a shared digital platform where all can contribute and access up-to-date project information, enhancing coordination, reducing errors, and streamlining the design and construction process.
Involving fabricators and contractors during the design phase provides valuable input on constructability and material optimisation, leading to more efficient designs and potential cost savings.
Quick Fire:
Your College: Sardar Patel College of Engineering, Mumbai
Years of Experience: 25+ years
Your Mentor/idol: Shirish B Patel and Badrinarayan
Your mantra for success: Translate customer’s needs into cost-effective structural solutions
You want to be remembered as: An engineer without boundaries
Steel Projects you are currently working on:
- MS Formwork design of inverted conical dome for Fly ash silo at Madhya Pradesh
