Kalpesh has been with ABB for over 15 years, having joined the company in 2009 as a Project Engineer with a background in EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) contracts. His journey at ABB began at a significant time when the company was just starting its eHouse business. “At that time, I had no plans to stay in Singapore, but upon a friend’s recommendation, I found that there was an open position in ABB. It felt like a good opportunity, so I decided to pursue it.” In the eHouse business, Kalpesh gradually advanced from a Project Engineer position to Lead Engineer roles, where he developed multimillion-dollar projects for various eHouse applications, particularly for offshore FPSO (Floating Production Storage and Offloading) units.

During his time in engineering, Kalpesh gained invaluable experience in eHouse technology, expanding his knowledge beyond electrical engineering products and systems. However, in 2017, as the global market slowed down, Kalpesh expressed his aspirations to try something new. “ABB has an open job market, where there are plenty of opportunities if you want to try something different,” he explains. He decided to go into sales, where he took on the role of Senior Sales Support Engineer. “The technical solutions that we develop at ABB differentiate us from our competitors, allowing us to secure several large projects over the years.” One of the most memorable moments of his career occurred during the pandemic when travel was restricted. “There was a $30-40 million project that involved implementing the largest power handling solutions for the offshore market – a first in the industry – and we had to work entirely from home. Despite the struggles, with support from various ABB functions, we still managed to secure and deliver a project with such technical complexities during the Covid phase,” he recalls. Kalpesh credits his success in his role to the skills and knowledge he developed throughout his time at ABB, which have made him well-versed in all the different disciplines in eHouse technology.

Currently, Kalpesh is a Sales Support Manager, where he oversees several large projects. He leads a team spread across Malaysia, Singapore, and India, where the team consistently secures major projects and exceeds budget targets. Yet, Kalpesh remains grounded, emphasizing the importance of finding fulfillment in everyday work. “Achieving results is just one part, but the journey is something that I enjoy. I always tell my team: Whatever you’re doing, the day-to-day work, feel the fulfillment in that. Feel good that you’re one inch closer to your goal every day.”

When asked what makes Kalpesh stay at ABB for such a long time, he replies that it is due to the freedom and confidence his superiors have placed in him. “When I make a decision, I know that I’m responsible for it. My superiors have full confidence and faith in me to pursue them.” Another reason Kalpesh has stayed with ABB is the collaborative and supportive environment, as he values the non-toxic work culture, where colleagues are always willing to help each other out. “If I have a problem, I can knock on anybody’s door. The same goes for anyone who has a problem – they can always come to me or my colleagues.” As a father of two, Kalpesh further appreciates the flexibility that ABB provides, allowing him to balance his professional responsibilities with quality time for his family. 

Looking ahead, Kalpesh doesn’t set rigid goals for himself, but instead focuses on giving his best every day. “Rather than pursuing something far beyond my reach now, I focus on my efforts and make myself capable. I believe that if you have the capability, opportunities will come naturally.” For those just starting their careers, Kalpesh’s advice is to focus on long-term fulfillment rather than short-term gains. “While financial rewards are important, the environment in which you work in and the opportunities to learn and grow are what truly matter. The sky is the limit at ABB; continue developing your skills, and opportunities will come in the future,” he concludes.