I spent my summer working for Toshiba Machine, Chennai Pvt Ltd, one of the large players in the plastic molding machinery industry in India. The company manufactures Injection molding machines those eventually get used in manufacturing plastic goods. I was tasked with the development of a cost model for the company that would allow them to improve their processes and brings in more control.
My whole experience can be synopsized in this Jim Rohn's quote - 'Take time to gather up the past so that you will be able to draw from your experience and invest them in the future'
The project demanded that I drew all my experience since school days to ensure delivery and success. From basic excel skills to machining processes to management skills. For example, a cross-departmental interaction was primary for the project which involved data collection, organization and then in the building of the cost model. A lot of the theory from topics such as costing, financial management, operations management, human resource management were playing out before my eyes, and it was then that it struck me how the management course shapes us in seeing the world around us in a different light. I consider the role to be akin to that of an entry-level consultant because of the above-stated reasons. It required quick understanding and thorough execution keeping the timeline in mind. My previous work experience as a sales engineer required a similar set of skills and those lessons came to my rescue. Combined with my mechanical engineering background, the model came out well and the management was pleased with the outcome.
The project is a crucial stepping stone for a series of subsequent steps that'd eventually establish another monitoring system for the company. It would eventually be streamlined in their processes, potentially saving thousands or even lakhs of rupees. Such an immense value addition in such a short span was the first time and I thank IFMR and Toshiba Machine for providing me that opportunity.
Arjun Aathish
"2nd-year MBA student at Institute for Financial Management and Research"
