Expert Talk on “Innovations in Civil Engineering: Scope for Emerging Entrepreneurs”

On 27th January 2025 the Entrepreneurship Development Cell and Institution’s Innovation Council, in association with the Department of Civil Engineering, organized an expert talk on the topic “Innovations in Civil Engineering: Scope for Emerging Entrepreneurs”. The resource person for the session was Fr. Jeraldin Sundara Robin, Managing Director of Alpha Omega Construction, KTC Nagar, Tirunelveli. 42 students and 1 faculty member participated in the programme. The event was coordinated by Mrs. P. Raja Priya, Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Francis Xavier Engineering College.

The session explored into the transformative role of innovation in civil engineering and its vast potential for entrepreneurial opportunities. The resource person emphasized how modern advancements, such as prefabrication, 3D printing, smart materials, and artificial intelligence, are revolutionizing construction practices and opening new business avenues. He highlighted the importance of embracing cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices to address contemporary challenges like resource scarcity and climate change. The resource person stressed that budding entrepreneurs in civil engineering should focus on integrating technology with traditional construction methods to create innovative, cost-effective, and eco-friendly solutions.

Participants were encouraged to explore opportunities in areas such as modular construction, sustainable housing, infrastructure modernization, and digital project management tools. The talk also underscored the role of entrepreneurial skills, including leadership, networking, and effective decision-making, in ensuring the success of a startup. During the session, he provided practical insights into overcoming challenges like financial constraints, intense competition, and regulatory hurdles. He recommended strategies such as leveraging government initiatives, building strategic alliances, and utilizing digital platforms to create market visibility. By sharing success stories from his own entrepreneurial journey, he inspired students to think outside the box and take bold steps toward innovation and enterprise.

The program concluded with an interactive Q&A session, where students actively participated, seeking guidance on transforming innovative ideas into viable business models. The expert’s responses provided clarity and motivation for the participants, equipping them with actionable knowledge to embark on entrepreneurial pursuits in civil engineering. The session was highly enlightening and motivated students to view entrepreneurship as a dynamic and rewarding career option, especially in the evolving field of civil engineering.