DR. AMIT CHAUDHARI, Associate Director and Head of MEP & Infrastructure at KPM Engineering Consultants, is a celebrated leader recognized for his expertise and approachability. With advanced degrees in management and engineering, along with global certifications like CFPS, PMP, WELL AP, and LEED AP, Dr. Chaudhari exemplifies excellence in sustainable design.
With over 15 years of experience, what inspired you to focus on sustainable infrastructure solutions, and how has this passion evolved throughout your career?
My journey in sustainable infrastructure began with a profound awareness of the environmental damage caused by conventional construction practices. This realization sparked a commitment to create designs that minimize resource consumption and reduce carbon emissions. Over time, I have witnessed how incorporating sustainable practices early in the design process yields significant long term benefits for both the environment
and communities. Advances in green technology and growing awareness of climate change have further fuelled this passion, solidifying my dedication to building infrastructure that responsibly serves the planet.
You have led MEP designs for projects ranging from India’s tallest building to its largest township. What key challenges did you face, and how did you ensure the integration of climate resilience and energy efficiency into these projects?
Leading MEP designs for complex projects posed the challenge of ensuring smooth integration without compromising energy efficiency and climate resilience. In a country with diverse climates, we implemented innovative strategies such as passive cooling, efficient water systems, and renewable energy solutions. Collaboration with architects and
environmental consultants was critical to at the keeping sustainability core of every decision. Using advanced modelling tools, we were able to forecast and optimize the long-term impact of these designs. These experiences reinforced my belief in the importance of holistic, sustainable solutions for large-scale projects.
Given the growing importance of climate resilience in urban communities, how do you incorporate these values into infrastructure design to ensure long-term sustainability?
Climate resilience is a cornerstone of modern urban infrastructure design. To ensure long-term sustainability, I prioritize the use of durable and adaptable materials that can withstand extreme weather conditions. Our designs incorporate efficient water management systems, renewable energy technologies, and energy saving systems. Green spaces and sustainable transportation options further enhance the liveability of urban
environments. By integrating these elements, we create infrastructure that not only meets today’s needs but is also prepared to endure future climate challenges.
How does energy efficiency play a role in the infrastructure solutions you design, and how do you see this evolving as cities continue to grow and develop?
Energy efficiency is central to every infrastructure solution I design because it reduces operational costs and minimizes environmental impact. As cities grow, systems like smart grids, renewable energy sources, and advanced HVAC technologies will become indispensable. The future of urban communities will rely on sophisticated energy management systems powered by IoT and AI to monitor and optimize energy usage. My designs are tailored to accommodate these advancements, ensuring flexibility for future innovations and contributing to the development of more sustainable, self-sufficient cities.
“Collaboration and transparency are key to keeping sustainability at the heart of complex projects”
As someone with multiple certifications such as CFPS, PMP, and LEED AP, how have these credentials shaped your approach to project management and sustainable design in the built environment?
Certifications such as WELL AP, CFPS, PMP, and LEED AP have profoundly shaped my approach to project management and sustainable design. Each credential has enhanced my understanding of safety standards, environmental regulations, and efficient management practices. For example, the PMP certification has equipped me with a structured approach to overseeing complex projects while adhering to budgets and timelines. Meanwhile, LEED AP has been instrumental in embedding sustainability into every phase of construction and design. These certifications enable me to lead teams effectively and deliver high-quality, sustainable outcomes.
You’re passionate about mainstream education engineering and management. How do you see the role of education in fostering the next generation of engineers, especially when it comes to sustainability and innovation?
Education plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of engineering by fostering innovation and sustainability. Promoting continuous learning and curiosity is vital to nurturing forward
thinking engineers. Integrating sustainability into engineering education equips future leaders to prioritize eco-friendly solutions. By emphasizing practical experience, collaborative learning, and real-world problem-solving, we prepare students to tackle global challenges. Education is the cornerstone of leadership and innovation in the next generation of engineers.
What trends do you foresee in the future of sustainable infrastructure design, and how is KPM Engineering preparing to address the challenges posed by rapid urbanization and environmental changes?
The future of sustainable infrastructure will be defined by smart cities, cutting-edge green technologies, and resilient designs that adapt to climate change. The integration of AI and IoT will play a crucial role in optimizing building performance, reducing waste, and managing resources more effectively. At KPM Engineering, we are proactively preparing by investing in advanced technologies and training our teams to implement them in projects. We also focus on modular construction and circular economy principles to minimize material waste. Addressing rapid urbanization and environmental changes requires innovative and forward-thinking solutions in design.
You’ve emphasized the importance of creating leaders. What leadership qualities do you believe are essential for the future of engineering and infrastructure design, and how do you cultivate these within your teams?
Effective leadership in engineering requires vision, adaptability, and exceptional communication skills. Future leaders must inspire their teams, drive innovation, and make decisions with sustainability at the forefront. Within my teams, I cultivate leadership by promoting mentorship, encouraging continuous learning, and fostering collaboration. Ethical decision-making and holistic problem-solving are key qualities I emphasize to navigate complex challenges. By nurturing these traits, I aim to develop leaders who can responsibly shape the future of infrastructure design.
KPM is a global multidisciplinary engineering practice providing solutions to built environment with presence in UAE, KSA, USA, UK and India
