For over two decades, Dr. CR Parthasarathy has reshaped India’s geotechnical landscape. As founder of Sarathy Geotech & Engineering Services, he built a leading firm that filled a crucial industry gap, combining entrepreneurial vision with technical expertise to elevate geotechnical services nationwide.
In this candid interview, Dr. Parthasarathy takes us on a journey from his early days as a lone geotechnical investigator to his current role as a respected industry figure. With warmth and wisdom, he shares his challenges, the risks he took, and the vision that drove him to create a company rooted in solid values and technical excellence.
- Can you share a project in your early career that solidified your passion for geotechnical engineering?
Early in my career, I embraced a solitary role in geotechnical investigation within the real estate sector. This position put me at the forefront of challenging projects, especially those involving foundation and deep excavation. Confronting these complexities on my own honed my skills and expanded my understanding of the field. This invaluable experience was instrumental in igniting my passion for geotechnical engineering, as it enabled me to cultivate a robust foundation in addressing engineering problems and solidified my commitment to advancing in this specialized discipline.
- What motivated you to found Sarathy Geotech & Engineering Services Pvt Ltd. in 2008?
Approximately sixteen years ago, India lacked dedicated geotechnical consulting services, leading to a significant dependency on international consultants, particularly within the oil and gas sector. Recognizing this substantial gap in the market, I was inspired to establish an organization capable of addressing these industry challenges domestically.
In 2007, we founded Sarathy Geotech & Engineering Services Pvt Ltd., a pioneering geotechnical firm augmented by geological and geophysical services. From its inception, my vision for the company was to create an enterprise grounded in robust values committed to delivering premier solutions, adding value to our clients, and adhering to best practices. Our goal was to bridge the industry gap by providing high-caliber, locally-based geotechnical consulting services.
Today, I am proud to say that Sarathy Geotech & Engineering Services Pvt Ltd. stands as one of the nation’s most preeminent geotechnical service providers.
- How have technological advancements influenced geotechnical engineering?
Technological advancements have significantly revolutionized geotechnical engineering practices, both offshore and onshore. Innovations in instrumentation, sensor technology, and software applications, bolstered by internet connectivity, have supplanted many rudimentary methods. Accessing real-time information from the comfort of one’s office or home has become a standard convenience.
These technological strides have not only elevated the quality and accuracy of data but have also significantly enhanced efficiency, leading to considerable cost savings and promoting sustainability. As a result, contemporary geotechnical engineering practices are more precise, economical, and environmentally conscientious, highlighting the significant impact of technology on the field.
- As the Chairman and Managing Director, what is your leadership style, and how do you inspire your team to achieve excellence?
As the Chairman and Managing Director, my leadership style is centered on disseminating knowledge and fostering employee confidence through effective mentoring. I empower my team to make autonomous decisions and ensure they receive genuine, commendatory, and constructive feedback. This approach inspires and motivates them, driving excellence in complex engineering projects.
- With your recent expansion into the Middle East, what opportunities do you see for Sarathy Geotech on the global stage?
Our recent expansion into Abu Dhabi and Saudi Arabia has unlocked new markets in the Middle East, presenting numerous opportunities aligned with the ambitious growth plans of both countries. Establishing a local presence allows us to actively engage in projects as specialists to address complex geotechnical challenges. We are witnessing the emergence of numerous mega and giga projects alongside the burgeoning oil, gas, and renewable energy sectors anticipated to flourish in the coming decades. The Middle Eastern region presents a wealth of opportunities where we can make significant contributions.
Looking ahead, we aim to leverage our expertise and success in the Middle East to penetrate other global markets, further solidifying Sarathy Geotech as a leader in geotechnical engineering on the world stage.
Having been in the industry for decades, I have observed significant evolutions in geotechnical engineering, transforming the field from traditional practices to highly sophisticated techniques. Technological innovations, such as advanced geophysical methods, real-time monitoring systems, and computer modeling, have greatly enhanced our capacity to analyze and resolve intricate geotechnical issues. Looking forward, I anticipate continued technological advancements playing a pivotal role in our field. Integrating AI and machine learning will become increasingly prevalent, leading to more intelligent, more resilient infrastructure solutions. Moreover, the growing emphasis on sustainability will drive the development of new materials and methods that minimize environmental impact.
- What advice would you give aspiring geotechnical engineers just starting their careers?
My advice to aspiring geotechnical engineers embarking on their careers is to cultivate a robust foundation in the core principles of geotechnical engineering while maintaining a sense of curiosity and openness to continuous learning. The field is perpetually evolving with new technologies and methodologies, making it crucial to stay abreast of the latest advancements and pursue ongoing education throughout your professional journey.
Hands-on experience is indispensable. Engage in fieldwork, internships, and practical projects as much as possible to gain invaluable real-world insights. Developing strong problem-solving skills and the ability to think critically will distinguish you in addressing complex geotechnical challenges.
Lastly, approach your work with integrity and a commitment to excellence.
