I am Keshav Prasad Kuruva and I am an experienced engineering leader with over 15 years of experience in creating and building high-performing engineering teams, creating opportunities and growth for people, and building innovation and value streams for organizations.

I currently work as the Director of Digital Experiences/Platform Engineering at Autodesk in San Francisco. Prior to this, I held various engineering leadership roles at companies like RPX Corporation, Castlight Health, and Honeywell Aerospace. I have a Master's degree in Engineering Management and Systems Engineering from George Washington University, and a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and Engineering.

I am a member of the IEEE Computer Society and IEEE, as well as a Platinum member of AAAS. I am also a patent inventor, holding a US patent (US Patent 11,567,571) for "Remote control of a device via a virtual interface".

In addition to my technical work, I have published articles on topics like artificial intelligence, sustainability, and building high-performing engineering teams. I have also spoken at various industry events like DeveloperWeek and Speaker Bureau as a featured speaker.

Overall, I am an accomplished engineering leader with a diverse background in software development, engineering management, and innovation.

Responsible as Director of Engineering for driving vision/strategy/culture/execution and delivery of 3 engineering domains at Autodesk (Digital Experience Platform, Education and Community Engineering). I contribute to the web experiences for Autodesk.com using AEM as CMS and React Micro frontends as reusable and individually operatable components for use by eCommerce teams.

As part of the Platform Engineering domain, I also contribute to CI/CD, Devops, Automaton, inner sourcing systems and Scalability/Reliability functions of the engineering teams. Responsible for building a new org for platform and creating strategic vision to the new platform engineering teams to increase engineering productivity across all application domain teams.

I created 5 new functions (Integration & Delivery, Platform Automaton, Scalability & Reliability, Standards and Predictive Analysis for Logging and Tooling, Customer Facing Platform for Inner Source systems using MFEs and Design Systems) under Platform org with a team of Devops and automaton engineers and a senior manager to drive each of these functions.

I work with managers, architects and platform owners in creating and prioritizing Quarterly Roadmap with rest of the platform teams and sharing the roadmap with leadership for stakeholder alignment and engagement.

I also foster Autodesk culture code across the org and creating succession planning to promote career growth for engineers and managers in the team. I drive monthly reviews and OKR reviews across the org and reflecting the impact and outcomes that are contributing to the engineering productivity with stakeholders (Product, Design and Engineering Teams).

Accomplishments in my role:

Patent Inventor: I'm a patent inventor, holding a US patent (US Patent 11,567,571) for "Remote control of a device via a virtual interface". I have been involved in innovative work and product development at Autodesk.

Engineering Leadership Role: I currently serve as the Director of Digital Experiences/Platform Engineering at Autodesk in San Francisco. This senior engineering leadership position indicates that I have played a key role in building high-performing engineering teams and driving innovation at the company. 

Speaking Engagements: The search results mention that I have spoken at various industry events as a featured speaker. This suggests that I am recognized as an expert in this field and has contributed thought leadership within the engineering community. 

Published Articles: I have published articles on topics like artificial intelligence, sustainability, and building high-performing engineering teams. This demonstrates my technical expertise and ability to share knowledge. 

Tenure at Autodesk: I have been with Autodesk since 2019, indicating that have been able to establish myself and make meaningful contributions over an extended period at the company.

Founded in 1982, Autodesk is an American Software corporation and global leader that specializes in creating software products for designers and innovators in a wide variety of industries including: architecture, engineering, construction, product design, media, and entertainment.

Autodesk has deemed itself a restless organization, and one committed to making technological progress by providing its customer basis with the software–related tools needed to solve industry challenges and shape our everyday experiences. The highly reputed company is currently headquartered in San Francisco, California, and has generated an impressive $5.01 billion U.S. dollars in the year 2023 alone.

Autodesk is a leading software company that specializes in developing and marketing computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software. [1]

Some of Autodesk's key areas of focus and specialization include:

Manufacturing CAD/CAM software: Autodesk develops and markets a wide range of CAD/CAM software tools used in the manufacturing industry. [1]

Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) software: Autodesk offers software solutions for the design, construction, and management of buildings and infrastructure projects. [1]

Media and entertainment software: Autodesk provides software for 3D computer graphics, animation, and visual effects used in the media and entertainment industry. [1]

Utility and transportation software: Autodesk has acquired companies and developed software for the utility, surveying, and transportation industries.

Some of the main characteristics of Autodesk as an organization include:

-Growth through acquisitions: Autodesk has a history of acquiring other software companies to expand its product portfolio and capabilities. The search results detail numerous acquisitions made by Autodesk over the years. [1][2][4]

-Diversification of product offerings: Autodesk has diversified beyond its core CAD/CAM software to offer a wide range of industry-specific design, engineering, and visualization tools.

-Focus on cloud-based and collaborative solutions: Autodesk has been investing in cloud-based platforms and collaboration features to enable distributed teams to work together more effectively.[4]

-Commitment to innovation: Autodesk continuously develops new features and capabilities in its software to stay at the forefront of design, engineering, and manufacturing technologies.[2][4]

Overall, Autodesk emerges as a leading provider of specialized software solutions for a variety of industries, with a history of growth through strategic acquisitions and a focus on innovation and collaboration.

Citations:

[1]  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Autodesk

[2] https://www.autodesk.co.uk/solutions/cad-manager

[3] https://www.credly.com/organizations/autodesk/directory

[4] https://www.autodesk.co.uk/products/fusion-360/features

As an engineering leader, my passion has always been to push the boundaries of what's possible, to build high-performing teams, and to create solutions that drive real value for organizations and their customers. This award validates that the work I have done, both at Autodesk and throughout my career, has had a meaningful impact.

I am grateful to the esteemed panel of judges for their thorough evaluation and for recognizing my contributions as worthy of this distinguished honor. It is a privilege to be counted among the elite group of innovators and business leaders celebrated by the TITAN Business Awards.

This award will only serve to further inspire me to continue striving for excellence, to foster a culture of innovation, and to mentor the next generation of engineering talent. I am committed to using this platform to share my knowledge, insights, and best practices with the broader business community.

Thank you once again for this incredible recognition. I am humbled and energized to continue making a positive difference in the world of technology and business.

Developing and marketing my winning entries presented several challenges that required strategic planning and perseverance to overcome. One of the primary challenges I faced was in the development phase, where I needed to ensure that my product/service not only met but exceeded industry standards and customer expectations. This involved extensive research and development efforts, as well as meticulous attention to detail to ensure the quality and innovation of my offerings.

Additionally, in the marketing phase, I encountered the challenge of effectively communicating the unique value proposition of my entries to my target audience. This required me to tailor my messaging and marketing strategies to resonate with different segments of my audience while also navigating competitive landscapes and market dynamics.

Furthermore, as I entered new markets or introduced innovative features, I faced the challenge of gaining traction and building brand awareness amidst established players. This required me to be agile and adaptive in my approach, constantly refining my marketing tactics and iterating based on market feedback.

However, despite these challenges, I was able to leverage my expertise, creativity, and collaborative spirit to successfully navigate through these obstacles. Through strategic partnerships, targeted marketing campaigns, and a relentless focus on customer satisfaction, I was able to overcome these challenges and achieve success in both development and marketing.

Overall, while the journey was not without its hurdles, overcoming these challenges has only strengthened my resolve and reinforced my commitment to excellence and innovation in the business industry.

As a business owner, the ideation process is a fundamental aspect of driving innovation and growth within my organization. It begins with fostering a culture that encourages creativity, curiosity, and collaboration among team members. I firmly believe that great ideas can come from anyone within the organization, regardless of their role or level of experience.

To kickstart the ideation process, I often initiate brainstorming sessions where team members are encouraged to think outside the box and explore unconventional solutions to existing challenges or opportunities. These sessions are characterized by an open and inclusive environment where all ideas are welcomed and valued, fostering a sense of ownership and empowerment among team members.

In addition to internal brainstorming, I also prioritize staying informed about industry trends, market developments, and emerging technologies. This involves conducting thorough market research, attending industry conferences, and engaging with thought leaders and experts in relevant fields. By staying abreast of the latest trends and insights, I am able to identify potential gaps or opportunities in the market that can serve as inspiration for new business ideas.

Furthermore, I actively seek feedback from customers, partners, and stakeholders to gain a deeper understanding of their needs, pain points, and preferences. This customer-centric approach not only helps validate existing ideas but also inspires new ones that are tailored to address specific market demands.

Once potential ideas have been identified, I leverage a structured evaluation process to assess their feasibility, viability, and potential impact on the business. This involves conducting thorough market analysis, assessing resource requirements, and evaluating potential risks and challenges associated with each idea.

Ultimately, the ideation process is an ongoing journey that requires continuous iteration, experimentation, and refinement. By fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, staying informed about market trends, and prioritizing customer feedback, I am able to drive forward-thinking ideas that contribute to the long-term success and sustainability of my business.

My definition of a successful team, organization, or business encompasses several key components, including succession planning, purpose, trust, and kindness.

Firstly, a successful team or organization is one that is built on a foundation of trust. Trust forms the bedrock of strong relationships within the team and fosters an environment where individuals feel empowered to collaborate, take risks, and innovate. This trust is earned through transparent communication, integrity, and a shared commitment to the organization's values and goals.

Secondly, purpose is central to the success of any team or organization. A clear sense of purpose provides direction, meaning, and motivation for team members, guiding their actions and decisions towards a common goal. When individuals understand and believe in the purpose of their work, they are more engaged, resilient, and committed to achieving collective success.

Moreover, successful teams and organizations prioritize kindness and empathy in their interactions and decision-making processes. Kindness creates a supportive and inclusive work environment where individuals feel valued, respected, and appreciated for their contributions. Acts of kindness, whether big or small, strengthen relationships, boost morale, and enhance overall well-being within the team.

Additionally, succession planning is essential for the long-term success and sustainability of any organization. By identifying and developing future leaders from within the team, organizations ensure continuity, agility, and resilience in the face of changing circumstances. Succession planning involves nurturing talent, providing opportunities for growth and development, and empowering individuals to step into leadership roles when needed.

In summary, a successful team, organization, or business is characterized by trust, purpose, kindness, and effective succession planning. By prioritizing these elements, teams and organizations can cultivate a culture of collaboration, innovation, and resilience that drives sustained success and positive impact in the long run.

Our success within our industry can be attributed to several key factors that have been instrumental in driving our growth and prominence.

First and foremost, our relentless focus on innovation and adaptability has been pivotal in navigating the dynamic landscape of our industry. We have consistently sought to stay ahead of emerging trends, technologies, and consumer preferences, allowing us to anticipate market shifts and capitalize on new opportunities.

Moreover, our commitment to delivering exceptional value to our customers has been a cornerstone of our success. By prioritizing customer satisfaction and cultivating long-term relationships, we have earned a reputation for reliability, quality, and customer-centricity that sets us apart from competitors.

Additionally, our dedication to fostering a culture of collaboration, empowerment, and continuous learning has been instrumental in harnessing the collective expertise and creativity of our team. We believe in investing in our people, providing them with the tools, resources, and support they need to thrive professionally and personally.

Furthermore, our strategic approach to talent management and succession planning has ensured that we have the right people in the right roles at every level of the organization. By nurturing talent from within and promoting from within whenever possible, we have cultivated a strong leadership pipeline that is capable of steering the organization towards sustained success.

In addition to these internal factors, our ability to forge strategic partnerships, alliances, and collaborations with other industry stakeholders has played a crucial role in expanding our reach, capabilities, and market presence.

Overall, our success within our industry can be attributed to a combination of innovation, customer focus, collaboration, talent management, and strategic partnerships. By remaining agile, proactive, and committed to excellence, we have been able to achieve significant milestones and establish ourselves as a leader in our field.

The United States has played a significant role in moving our industry forward through various means, including supportive policies, infrastructure development, and fostering a conducive business environment.

One of the key ways in which the States has supported our industry is through the formulation of favorable policies and regulations that promote innovation, entrepreneurship, and investment. These policies provide incentives for research and development, facilitate access to funding and capital, and create a regulatory framework that encourages business growth and expansion.

Furthermore, the government has made significant investments in infrastructure development, including transportation networks, communication systems, and digital infrastructure. These investments have helped to improve connectivity, reduce logistical bottlenecks, and enhance the efficiency of our operations, enabling us to reach new markets and customers more effectively.

Moreover, the States has prioritized investments in education, skills development, and workforce training initiatives, ensuring that we have access to a talented and skilled pool of labor. This has helped to fuel innovation, drive productivity, and maintain our competitive edge in an increasingly globalized economy.

Additionally, the States's commitment to sustainability, environmental stewardship, and corporate social responsibility has helped to shape our industry's approach to sustainability practices, ethical standards, and community engagement. By aligning with national priorities and values, we have been able to integrate sustainability into our business strategy and operations, contributing to both environmental and social progress.

Overall, supportive policies, infrastructure development, skilled workforce, and a values-driven approach in the States have played a crucial role in moving our industry forward and positioning us for continued success in the future.

During the entire course of the pandemic, one of the significant hindering factors for Autodesk, and many businesses alike, was the transition to remote work and its impact on collaboration and productivity. As a company deeply rooted in software development and design tools, our success depends heavily on effective collaboration among teams and with our customers.

To overcome this hindrance, Autodesk implemented several strategies:

Investment in Remote Work Infrastructure: We swiftly invested in and upgraded our remote work infrastructure, including collaboration tools, cloud-based platforms, and virtual meeting software. This ensured that our teams could continue working seamlessly from home while maintaining productivity and collaboration.

Virtual Collaboration and Communication: We leveraged virtual collaboration platforms and communication tools to facilitate ongoing interaction and engagement among team members. This included virtual project management tools, video conferencing software, and instant messaging platforms to foster real-time communication and collaboration.

Training and Support for Remote Work: We provided extensive training and support to employees to adapt to remote work practices effectively. This included virtual training sessions, resources, and guidelines to help employees navigate challenges such as remote collaboration, time management, and maintaining work-life balance.

Agile Work Practices: We adopted agile work practices and methodologies to adapt to the changing dynamics of remote work and ensure continued productivity and innovation. This involved implementing agile frameworks such as Scrum and Kanban, conducting virtual stand-up meetings, and prioritizing flexibility and adaptability in our workflows.

Focus on Employee Well-being: We prioritized employee well-being and mental health by offering additional support services, resources, and initiatives to help employees cope with the challenges of remote work and the pandemic. This included virtual wellness programs, mental health resources, and regular check-ins to ensure that employees felt supported and connected.

By implementing these strategies and prioritizing flexibility, adaptability, and employee well-being, Autodesk successfully navigated the challenges of remote work during the pandemic. Our ability to innovate, collaborate, and support our employees ultimately enabled us to overcome this hindrance and continue driving value for our customers and stakeholders.

AI and Machine Learning: AI and machine learning continue to revolutionize various aspects of business operations, from data analysis and decision-making to customer service and automation. The ability of AI algorithms to analyze vast amounts of data and extract actionable insights is reshaping industries, enabling businesses to make more informed decisions, optimize processes, and personalize customer experiences at scale.

AR and VR in Marketing and Customer Engagement: Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies are increasingly being integrated into marketing strategies to enhance customer engagement and drive sales.

AR allows customers to visualize products in their real-world environments, improving their shopping experience and reducing purchase hesitation. VR, on the other hand, enables immersive brand experiences, virtual showrooms, and interactive product demonstrations, providing unique opportunities for businesses to connect with their audience in meaningful ways.

Remote Work and Digital Collaboration Tools: The shift to remote work prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of digital collaboration tools and remote work technologies. Businesses are investing in solutions that facilitate seamless communication, collaboration, and project management among distributed teams.

From video conferencing platforms to cloud-based collaboration tools and project management software, these technologies empower teams to collaborate effectively regardless of their physical location, enabling greater flexibility and productivity.

Sustainable Business Practices: Sustainability has emerged as a prominent trend in the business industry, with companies increasingly prioritizing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives.

From reducing carbon footprints and adopting renewable energy sources to promoting ethical supply chains and diversity and inclusion, businesses are recognizing the importance of sustainability in driving long-term value creation and meeting the expectations of stakeholders, including customers, investors, and employees.

E-commerce and Digital Transformation: The ongoing digital transformation of the retail sector, fueled by the growth of e-commerce and omnichannel strategies, continues to reshape the business landscape.

Businesses are investing in digital storefronts, online marketplaces, and seamless omnichannel experiences to meet the evolving needs and preferences of customers. The integration of AI-driven personalization, AR-enhanced shopping experiences, and frictionless payment solutions is driving growth and innovation in the e-commerce space.

Overall, the convergence of AI, AR, VR, and other emerging technologies, along with evolving consumer behaviors and societal trends, is shaping the future of the business industry in exciting ways. Businesses that embrace these trends and leverage technology to drive innovation, enhance customer experiences, and foster sustainability will be well-positioned to thrive in the increasingly digital and interconnected global marketplace.

Books: There are countless books written by business experts and thought leaders covering a wide range of topics, including entrepreneurship, leadership, management, marketing, finance, and innovation. Some highly recommended titles include "Good to Great" by Jim Collins, "The Lean Startup" by Eric Ries, "How to Win Friends and Influence People" by Dale Carnegie, and "The Innovator's Dilemma" by Clayton Christensen.

Online Courses and Webinar: Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer a plethora of online courses and webinars covering various aspects of business management, strategy, and skills development. These courses provide flexible learning opportunities and often feature industry experts as instructors.

Podcasts: Podcasts are an excellent resource for learning on the go. There are many business-focused podcasts featuring interviews with entrepreneurs, CEOs, and industry experts sharing insights, strategies, and success stories. Some popular business podcasts include "The Tim Ferriss Show," "How I Built This," and "The GaryVee Audio Experience."

Industry Publications and Journals: Subscribing to industry-specific publications, journals, and magazines can provide valuable insights into the latest trends, developments, and best practices within your sector. These publications often feature case studies, research findings, and expert analyses relevant to your industry.

Networking Events and Conferences: Attending networking events, conferences, and industry seminars is a great way to connect with like-minded professionals, expand your network, and stay abreast of industry trends. These events often feature keynote speakers, panel discussions, and workshops covering a wide range of topics relevant to business success.

Online Communities and Forums: Engaging with online communities and forums, such as LinkedIn groups, Reddit communities, and industry-specific forums, can provide opportunities for learning, knowledge sharing, and networking with peers and industry professionals.

Mentorship Programs: Seeking mentorship from experienced professionals or joining mentorship programs can provide valuable guidance, support, and advice as you navigate your business journey. Mentorship programs offered by industry associations, business organizations, or entrepreneurship incubators can pair you with mentors who can offer personalized guidance and insights based on their own experiences.

Digital Transformation: The pace of digital transformation will continue to accelerate across all sectors of the economy. Businesses will increasingly leverage advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), big data analytics, and cloud computing to optimize operations, enhance customer experiences, and drive innovation.

The integration of digital tools and automation will streamline processes, improve efficiency, and enable greater agility in responding to market dynamics.

E-commerce and Omnichannel Retail: The growth of e-commerce and omnichannel retail will continue unabated, reshaping the retail landscape and consumer shopping behaviors. Traditional brick-and-mortar retailers will further invest in digital storefronts, online marketplaces, and seamless omnichannel experiences to meet the evolving needs and preferences of customers.

Technologies such as augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) will enhance the online shopping experience, providing immersive and interactive ways to engage with products and brands.

Sustainability and ESG Initiatives: Sustainability will become an increasingly important focus for businesses, driven by growing environmental concerns, regulatory pressures, and consumer demand for ethical and sustainable products and practices.

Companies will prioritize environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives, adopting sustainable business practices, reducing carbon footprints, and promoting social responsibility throughout their operations and supply chains.

Remote Work and Flexible Work Arrangements: The pandemic has accelerated the adoption of remote work and flexible work arrangements, leading to a fundamental shift in how businesses operate and how employees work. Remote work will become more prevalent and normalized, with businesses embracing hybrid work models that combine remote and in-office work.

Employers will invest in remote work infrastructure, digital collaboration tools, and employee well-being initiatives to support distributed teams and maintain productivity.

Rise of the Gig Economy and Freelancing: The gig economy and freelancing will continue to grow as more individuals seek flexible work opportunities and businesses embrace contingent labor models.

Platforms facilitating gig work and freelancing will proliferate, offering opportunities for individuals to monetize their skills and expertise on a project-by-project basis. Businesses will increasingly rely on freelancers and gig workers to supplement their workforce and access specialized talent on-demand.

Innovation in Health and Wellness: The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of health and wellness, leading to increased innovation in healthcare, telemedicine, and wellness technologies.

Businesses will invest in digital health solutions, wearable devices, and personalized wellness programs to support employee well-being and promote a healthy work-life balance. Remote health monitoring, virtual fitness classes, and mental health support services will become more prevalent in the workplace.

Overall, the business industry will continue to evolve rapidly in response to technological advancements, changing consumer preferences, and global challenges. Businesses that embrace innovation, adaptability, and sustainability will be well-positioned to thrive in the dynamic and interconnected business landscape of the future.

Reflecting on my life, I find inspiration from various sources, including my family, culture, and the values I hold dear, such as universal benevolence and kindness.

First and foremost, my family has been a constant source of inspiration and support throughout my journey. Their unwavering love, encouragement, and guidance have shaped me into the person I am today. From my parents' sacrifices and hard work to my siblings' resilience and camaraderie, each member of my family has instilled in me the importance of perseverance, empathy, and integrity.

Moreover, my cultural background and heritage have deeply influenced my values and worldview. Rooted in traditions of compassion, respect, and community, my culture emphasizes the significance of treating others with kindness and understanding. The principles of universal benevolence, which transcend boundaries of race, religion, and nationality, resonate deeply with me and guide my interactions with others.

In addition to my family and cultural influences, I draw inspiration from individuals who embody the values of kindness, empathy, and altruism in their actions and deeds. Whether it's a renowned humanitarian, a selfless volunteer, or a compassionate leader, I am inspired by those who dedicate themselves to making a positive difference in the lives of others.

Ultimately, the people and experiences that have inspired me in life are those that exemplify the values of universal benevolence and kindness. They serve as a constant reminder of the power of empathy, compassion, and human connection to uplift and transform individuals and communities. As I navigate my own journey, I strive to embody these values and contribute to creating a more compassionate and inclusive world for all.

My key to success lies in embodying the values of universal benevolence and kindness that have been instilled in me by my family, culture, and life experiences. I believe that success is not only measured by personal achievements but also by the positive impact we have on others and the world around us.

In my journey, I've found that practicing empathy, compassion, and integrity in all aspects of life not only enriches my own experiences but also enables me to build meaningful relationships, foster collaboration, and inspire positive change. By prioritizing kindness and treating others with respect and understanding, I create a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

As for parting words of wisdom, I would encourage others to embrace the power of empathy and compassion in their own lives. In a world that can often be challenging and unpredictable, acts of kindness and understanding have the ability to uplift spirits, bridge divides, and sow seeds of hope and positivity. Whether it's lending a helping hand to those in need, listening with an open heart, or offering words of encouragement, small gestures of kindness can make a big difference in the lives of others.

Ultimately, success is not just about personal accomplishments or material wealth; it's about the impact we have on the lives of others and the legacy we leave behind. By cultivating a spirit of universal benevolence and kindness, we can create a brighter and more compassionate world for generations to come.