A sustainable world can be accomplished only through scalable engineering solutions that convert recycled materials into usable products by understanding material behaviour, evaluating mechanical properties, analysing experimental results, and studying the challenges associated with their use.
Kautilya Patel, our next pathbreaker, works as Product Development Manager – R&D at Petra Industries Ltd. , a specialty materials company that develops polymer compounds and lightweight composite materials for industrial applications.
Kautilya talks to Shyam Krishnamurthy from The Interview Portal about his doctoral research focused on additive manufacturing, carbon-fibre-reinforced polymer materials, and the utilisation of plastic waste.
For students, do not worry if you do not know your entire career path while you are still young. Start by being curious and building strong basics. Ask questions, try practical projects and learn to explain your thinking clearly.
Kautilya, Your background ?
I am Dr. Kautilya Patel, originally from Valsad, Gujarat, and currently working as a Product Development Manager – R&D at Petra Industries Ltd. My journey has been shaped by education, research, and a curiosity to understand how things work—and, occasionally, why they refuse to work despite our best efforts!
I have always believed in learning through observation, experimentation, and asking questions. My academic journey helped me develop a structured approach to problem-solving, while research taught me patience, persistence, and the importance of learning from failure. Outside my professional life, I enjoy reading books and exploring new ideas. I speak Gujarati, Hindi, and English, which helps me connect with people from different backgrounds.
What did you do for graduation/post-graduation?
I completed my Mechanical Engineering education at Silver Oak University, where I developed a foundation in engineering principles, analytical thinking, and problem-solving. I later continued my academic journey at Nirma University, where I pursued further studies and research, strengthening my technical knowledge and research capabilities.
My education taught me to look beyond textbooks, question assumptions, and connect theory with practical applications. My research journey also taught me patience and persistence— because experiments don’t always cooperate, no matter how carefully you plan them!
What made you choose this career?
I chose this career because I have always been interested in understanding how things work and finding practical solutions to problems. My background in Mechanical Engineering gave me a technical foundation, while my further studies and research at Nirma University helped me develop a deeper interest in investigation, experimentation, and innovation.
What attracted me to research and product development was the opportunity to turn an idea into something practical and useful. I enjoy analysing problems, testing different approaches, and understanding why a particular solution works—or doesn’t work as expected!
How did you plan the steps to get into your career?
I planned my career by focusing on developing the right skills, gaining practical experience, and taking on challenges that helped me grow professionally. I believe that choosing a career is not always about having a fixed plan from the beginning; sometimes, it is about recognising what interests you and building on it.
My approach has been to stay open to learning opportunities, understand problems from different perspectives, and continuously improve my ability to find solutions. Research taught me to be patient and systematic, while practical projects helped me understand the importance of teamwork, planning, and execution.
After completing my B.Tech in Mechanical Engineering from Silver Oak University in 2018, I pursued a postgraduate diploma in Product Design at CADD Centre.
For me, the decision was not about pursuing a qualification that was higher or lower academically. It was about developing a more specialised understanding of product design and strengthening my engineering skills.
My B.Tech gave me a broad foundation in mechanical engineering, while the postgraduate diploma allowed me to focus more specifically on product design. I wanted to understand how engineering concepts could be translated into practical products and how design decisions influence the final outcome.
My experience at Axis Printers gave me exposure to the practical side of engineering and industrial problem-solving.
I was involved in R&D-related work concerning paper and plastic offset printing processes, machine design, and production efficiency. It helped me understand how machines operate in a real production environment and how design improvements can influence productivity and quality.
One of the important lessons I learned was that an engineering solution must work under actual operating conditions, not just in theory.
Next, at QVC Chemical Equipment, I worked as a Product Design Engineer.
This role helped me build on my mechanical engineering and product-design background. It gave me an opportunity to understand how design requirements are converted into engineering solutions for industrial equipment.
I learned to appreciate the importance of design accuracy, functionality, manufacturability, and attention to detail. A design must satisfy technical requirements, but it must also be practical to manufacture and reliable in its intended application.
My experience at QVC strengthened my interest in product development and helped me recognise that successful engineering involves bringing together design knowledge, manufacturing considerations, and practical requirements.
I chose CAD/CAM for my M.Tech at Nirma University because I wanted to deepen my understanding of the relationship between product design and manufacturing.
CAD, or Computer-Aided Design, helps engineers develop and refine designs, while CAM, or Computer-Aided Manufacturing, connects those designs with manufacturing processes.
What interested me was the opportunity to understand how a product moves from an initial concept to a design that can actually be manufactured.
My earlier education and industrial experience had already exposed me to mechanical engineering and product design. Through my M.Tech, I wanted to strengthen my technical understanding and explore more advanced approaches to design and manufacturing.
This specialisation also provided a strong foundation for my subsequent research in additive manufacturing, where design, materials, and manufacturing processes come together.
During my Mtech, I was a full time student and after that I started with my PhD where I was a full time research scholar
After completing my MTech in CAD/CAM at Nirma University in 2021, I continued my academic journey with a PhD in Additive Manufacturing at the same university, which I completed in 2025.
My interest in pursuing a PhD came from wanting to understand engineering problems at a deeper level and explore how research could contribute to practical technological improvements.
My research focused on additive manufacturing, carbon-fibre-reinforced polymer materials, and the utilisation of plastic waste.
Broadly, the work explored the potential of processing waste plastic into filament for 3D printing and investigating the properties and performance of the resulting printed materials.
The research involved understanding material behaviour, evaluating mechanical properties, analysing experimental results, and studying the challenges associated with converting recycled materials into usable products.
One of the broader motivations was to explore how waste materials could be given another useful application through additive manufacturing, while carefully evaluating the quality and performance of the resulting products.
These kinds of real world experiences help students understand engineering.
As I progressed, I focused on taking greater responsibility and applying my knowledge to real world challenges. This eventually led me to my current role as Product Development Manager – R&D at Petra Industries Ltd.
One thing I have learned is that you don’t need to have your entire career figured out on day one. You just need to make thoughtful decisions, keep learning, and be ready when the next opportunity comes along.
How did you get your first break?
My first break came through a combination of my research experience, persistence, and willingness to step outside my comfort zone. During my academic journey, I learned how to approach unfamiliar problems, analyze results, and keep working even when things did not go according to plan.
My experience at Bralco was another important step, as it gave me practical exposure and helped me understand how technical knowledge is applied in a professional environment.
After completing my M.Tech at Nirma University, I joined Bralco Additive Private Limited, where I worked as Head of Technology & Applications – Composites.
It was a significant step in my career because it gave me the opportunity to take ownership of both technology development and practical applications of advanced materials.
My work involved conducting material trials for polymer composite pellets and 3D-printing filaments, evaluating print quality, and improving material performance for different applications. I also worked closely with OEM customers to understand their requirements, resolve design-related challenges, and implement necessary modifications.
Alongside the technical work, I was responsible for coordinating production planning, material testing, and delivery schedules, including for Large Format Additive Manufacturing (LFAM) materials.
One of the projects I particularly valued was my R&D work on medical applications, where we successfully developed a prosthetic leg cover. I was also involved in researching LFAM materials and evaluating potential applications in the aerospace and automotive sectors.
This experience helped me understand the complete journey of product development—from material research and trials to customer requirements, production, and practical application.
It was not through a campus interview. The team at Bralco approached me through LinkedIn after coming across my profile and background in engineering and research.
We connected, discussed the role and its requirements, and the opportunity aligned well with my interests in product development, advanced materials, and additive manufacturing.
I saw it as an opportunity to apply my academic and research experience to real-world industrial challenges. Joining Bralco allowed me to take on responsibilities in technology development, composite materials, and customer applications.
It also taught me an important lesson: opportunities can come through different channels, so it is valuable to keep your professional profile updated, build your skills, and remain open to conversations that can help you grow.
Beyond the professional side, I believe my personal attitude played an equally important role. I have learned that opportunities don’t always arrive when you expect them to, and you don’t necessarily need to have everything figured out before you begin.
I kept learning, adapting, and making the most of the opportunities that came my way. Looking back, I would say my first break was not just about getting an opportunity; it was about being prepared to recognize it and having the confidence to take it. After all, sometimes you don’t need the entire roadmap—you just need the courage to take the first step!
What were some of the challenges you faced and how did you address them?
One of the challenges I have faced is dealing with situations where things don’t go according to plan, whether in my personal life or at work. Earlier, I sometimes felt frustrated when the results didn’t match my expectations. Over time, I learned to step back, understand the situation, and focus on what I could do differently instead of worrying about what was beyond my control.
Another challenge has been balancing professional ambitions with personal happiness. I have learned that success is important, but so are good relationships, peace of mind, and making time for yourself.
My approach is simple: face problems instead of avoiding them, learn from mistakes, treat people well, and keep a sense of humour even on difficult days. I believe challenges become easier when we focus less on blaming circumstances and more on finding solutions.
Where do you work now?
I work at Petra Industries Ltd. in Ahmedabad as Product Development Manager – R&D.
Petra Industries Ltd. is a specialty materials company, and my work focuses on developing polymer compounds and lightweight composite materials for industrial applications.
In my role as Product Development Manager – R&D, I work on developing and evaluating materials such as mineral-filled polypropylene compounds and lightweight composites. The objective is to develop materials that meet specific application requirements while balancing mechanical performance, weight, processing requirements, and cost.
These materials have potential applications across industries such as automotive, electric vehicles, electrical equipment, and industrial manufacturing. For example, lightweight polymer compounds can be used in automotive interior components, electrical housings, and other engineered parts where reducing weight without compromising essential performance is important.
My responsibility is to work on the material formulation, coordinate trials, evaluate test results, and help translate research and development into commercially viable products.
I work on developing and evaluating specialty polymer materials, including mineral-filled polypropylene compounds and lightweight composites. I help investigate how materials can be designed to meet the performance and processing needs of a particular application while managing weight and cost.
My experience at Bralco contributed to my professional development, and my current role at Petra allows me to apply my engineering and research background to specialty polymer materials and lightweight composite development.
Each stage of my career has helped me develop a better understanding of how engineering knowledge can be translated into practical products and industrial solutions.
How does your work benefit society?
Materials are used in everyday products, vehicles, electrical equipment and industrial components. Developing materials that are lighter and fit for their intended purpose can help improve product performance and use resources more efficiently. My work aims to connect research with practical applications, so that new material ideas are not just interesting in theory but useful in real products.
Tell us about a specific memorable piece of work that is close to you ?
One memorable experience for me was completing my doctoral research. There were times when things became difficult, progress was slow, and I had to push myself to keep going. Completing it taught me that success is not always about being the smartest person in the room; it is often about showing up consistently, staying patient, and refusing to give up when things get uncomfortable.
What makes this achievement special to me is the personal growth that came with it. I became more independent, learned to handle uncertainty, and developed confidence in my ability to work through difficult situations.
It taught me a lesson I carry into my professional life even today: you don’t have to get everything right the first time; you just have to be willing to learn, improve, and keep moving forward.
What advice would you give students?
Do not worry if you do not know your entire career path while you are still young. Start by being curious and building strong basics. Ask questions, try practical projects and learn to explain your thinking clearly. When something goes wrong, do not immediately assume you have failed; look at what the result can teach you and decide what to try next. Be consistent, seek guidance from people who have experience, and remember that progress often comes from small improvements repeated over time.
Future plans ?
I want to continue growing as a research and product-development professional, lead meaningful innovation projects and help develop specialty materials that solve practical industry problems. I also want to strengthen the connection between scientific research, material performance and real-world applications, while continuing to learn from new projects and people.