The Inspiring Journey of Yogen Shah: From ‘Average Engineer’ to Global Success
Yogen Shah’s story is one of resilience, hard work, and the pursuit of excellence. His debut book, An Average Engineer’s Diary, reflects his experiences as a young graduate from K.J. Somaiya College of Engineering in Mumbai, and his journey through the highly competitive landscape of the engineering world. This collection of short stories is aimed at resonating with the millions of engineering graduates in India, many of whom face the daunting challenge of carving out a successful career in a world that often favors only the crème de la crème from prestigious institutions like the IITs and NITs.
Despite his humble beginnings and self-proclaimed status as an “average engineer,” Shah’s career trajectory has been anything but ordinary. With over 30 years of professional experience across India, the Middle East, and Japan, Shah has held various leadership roles in globally renowned companies such as Larsen & Toubro, IHI in Japan, and Petrofac in Sharjah. Currently serving as the Procurement Director in the Middle East, Shah’s impressive career is a testament to the power of perseverance, integrity, and continuous self-improvement.
At the start of his career, Shah, like many young engineers, faced the harsh reality of being perceived as less employable due to his background at a non-top-tier institution. Yet, through sheer determination and an unwavering commitment to his craft, Shah gradually climbed the ranks, proving that success is not determined solely by the name of your alma mater but by your willingness to work hard, learn continuously, and adapt to the demands of the industry.
In An Average Engineer’s Diary, Shah addresses a critical question that haunts many young professionals: How can one build a rewarding career without graduating from a prestigious institution? Through real-life anecdotes, practical advice, and motivational insights, Shah seeks to bridge the gap between the so-called “average engineers” and the professionals they aspire to become. The book offers a candid look at the challenges faced by engineering graduates and presents a blueprint for how to overcome these obstacles and thrive in a competitive job market.
Shah’s writing is not only deeply relatable but also inspiring. He shares personal stories of overcoming challenges, building resilience, and finding success in both life and the corporate world. Drawing from his experiences as a successful professional abroad, a seasoned investor, and a motivational speaker, Shah provides valuable lessons for young engineers who may feel discouraged by their early career struggles.
What makes Shah’s journey even more remarkable is the way he embraced writing during the COVID-19 pandemic. As the world came to a standstill and social interactions were limited, Shah found solace in sharing his insights and stories on LinkedIn. His posts quickly resonated with a broad audience, leading to overwhelming positive feedback from friends, colleagues, and followers. Encouraged by their support, Shah decided to compile his writings into a book, marking his debut as an author.
Beyond his engineering career, Shah is also a qualified financial advisor, an active investor in the Indian stock market, and a motivational speaker. His diverse skill set and experiences have not only shaped his professional life but also allowed him to mentor and inspire others.
Through An Average Engineer’s Diary, Shah hopes to empower young engineers to redefine their paths to success, regardless of their educational background. His message is clear: success is not exclusive to graduates of top institutions. With hard work, honesty, and a passion for learning, anyone can achieve their dreams.
Yogen Shah’s story is a powerful reminder that the labels of “average” and “elite” are only as limiting as we allow them to be. His journey from a self-described average engineer to a global professional is a testament to the transformative power of persistence and a willingness to embrace the challenges of life head-on.
