From Engineering to Supply Chain: My CII-FM-AA Journey

My name is Prithvish S. Poonja, and I was a member of the CII-FM-AA Training Batch-30 (SE) from November 2019 to February 2020. This program was a transformative chapter in my life, fundamentally reshaping my technical understanding and my career path.

I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to Dhamankar Sir for selecting me. Although I had prior work experience, this training offered a unique professional environment that challenged my perspectives as a Mechanical Engineer.

Bridging the Knowledge Gap
I entered the program with the misconception that steam was an outdated energy source. However, the theoretical lectures served as an eye-opener, demonstrating why steam remains the most efficient and cost-effective energy source for modern industry. During the Hands-On training, working across SSD Fabrication, Assembly, the Machine Shop, and the Boiler Shop, I gained a deep understanding of how steam equipment is constructed and tested.

Personal Growth & SWOT Analysis
The program also prioritized holistic development:

  • SWOT Analysis: Dhamankar Sir’s session helped me identify my strengths and weaknesses, teaching me to analyze my skills every three months.
  • Soft Skills: Communication and interview preparation sessions significantly boosted my confidence.
  • Well-being: The ‘Importance of Happiness at Work’ session taught me that a positive mindset is key to high performance.

A Lasting Impact
Our final presentation on “Spirally Indented Tubes in Boilers” was recognized as one of the most unique topics, reflecting how much we had grown. At the valedictory ceremony, the change was visible: we weren’t just the same students who started months earlier; we were more confident, skilled, and happier professionals.
I am deeply grateful to the faculty, the employees at Forbes Marshall, and the CII for this life-changing experience. It remains one of the best journeys of my life, helping me develop and grow together with others.

The Foundation of My Career
The most significant impact of the program was the exposure to diverse business functions. The guest lectures on Lean Manufacturing and Supply Chain Management were particularly engaging. I can confidently say that my current expertise and career in the Supply Chain domain are all thanks to the foundations laid during those sessions. Today, I am proud to be working at General Mills India Pvt Ltd as a Senior Demand Planner, where I handle Demand Planning for North America region Business Units. The insights I gained during the training continue to support me in this global role.