Inspired by Determination: A Story That Echoes — What’s Next?
“It is not the strongest of the species that survives, nor the most intelligent—it is the one most adaptable to change.”
— Charles Darwin
What does it truly mean to adapt? For some, it’s a buzzword. For others, like Mallikarjuna, it’s been the core of their life journey—a compass through uncertainty, transformation, and self-discovery.
Laying the Foundation: From Rural Beginnings to Early Hustles
Growing up in a humble village where farming was the norm, Mallikarjuna’s first job was far from what many would expect from a future AI project lead. He began as a dish antenna fitter in his seventh grade, carrying cables, climbing rooftops, and connecting televisions—earning ₹50 per installation.
Education was never a luxury; it was a challenge. Back then, clearing the 7th standard board exam in Andhra Pradesh felt like crossing a life milestone. “Once I clear this, I’m done,” he thought. But life had more chapters in store.
The Cycle of “What Next?”
After each milestone came the inevitable question: What next?
From the 8th grade to 10th, to a diploma in engineering, and eventually topping his college without realizing it, Mallikarjuna’s journey was a series of small but significant wins—each fueled by the mindset of not settling.
Topping his diploma was just the beginning—his journey had only begun. With determination in his heart and dreams in his eyes, he set out to earn a livelihood. His first milestone came in the 1990s, when he landed a role at one of Bangalore’s most respected electrical companies, Kirloskar.
By day, he worked tirelessly in the electrical and process industries, often traveling to remote greenfield sites. But his ambition didn’t rest. By evening, he transformed into a student, attending engineering classes that began just an hour after his workday ended. Sundays weren’t for rest—they were for growth, filled with practical sessions that shaped his future.
By the time he graduated, he already had 7–8 years of experience.
A Strategic Reset: Choosing Growth Over Comfort
Armed with experience and a degree, Mallikarjuna realized that opportunities in electrical and process engineering were limited. It was time for another leap: into core electronics and software.
This wasn’t a promotion—it was a reset.
Despite 8 years of experience, he re-entered the workforce as a fresher in EDA (Electronic Design Automation), earning less than a trainee. But instead of resisting, he negotiated: “Give me three months. Keep my salary. If I prove myself, give it back. If not, I’ll Walk away.”
Within a month and a half, that offer letter was voided—for all the right reasons. He not only earned back his withheld salary but also tripled his income within three months.
Over a decade and a half in the field brought a wealth of experience, collaborating with some of the world’s leading multinational companies in electronics and EDA. It was a journey marked by global travel, a thriving professional network, and rapid career growth. And then came the next wave.
Resilience in Crisis: Rebuilding After a Life-Altering Setback
Just as Mallikarjuna was considering a transition into R&D and AI, life threw its harshest curveball—he was hospitalized during the brutal second wave of COVID-19. Oxygen levels dropped to 45. The doctors asked him to settle his accounts. He wrote instructions for his family, unsure if he’d make it back.
Surrounded by death and darkness, one thing kept him going: mental resilience.
“I will take the medicine. You do your job. I’ll do mine—fight with my mind,” he told the doctors.
After 25 days in ICU and three months with an oxygen concentrator always by his side—even during most routine tasks—he survived. And he didn’t just bounce back. He returned stronger.
Back to Classrooms. Back to Growth.
After recovery, he chose to sign up for a master’s program. But not just any online course. Mallikarjuna was clear: “I want to sit in a classroom. I want to challenge the professor, and challenge myself.”
That’s what brought him to REVA Academy for Corporate Excellence (RACE)—an institution that blended academic rigor, peer learning, industry mentorship, and hands-on application.
The classroom experience reignited his hunger. He started to apply what he learned directly into his workplace, integrating AI into VLSI design processes and workflows. Soon, he wasn’t just contributing—he was leading.
In a company-wide AI initiative with 25 proposed projects, Mallikarjuna was chosen to evaluate them all. After rigorous assessment, only 7 made the cut—and he now leads all of them.
The Mindset That Changes Everything
Today, Mallikarjuna stands as a testament to one philosophy: Adapt. Grow. Repeat.
He’s already preparing for his next two years—diving deeper into AI, leading innovation, and driving impact. His advice?
We are the serpents—seasoned, strategic, and steady,” he says. “But now, the ants are rising—4,500 fresh graduates marching out each year, full of energy, ambition, and momentum. They’re coming fast, and we must be prepared to evolve, adapt, and lead”
Why RACE?
Mallikarjuna closes with sincere gratitude for RACE: a UGC and AICTE-approved program that gave him more than just knowledge—it gave him a platform to rise again.
With hands-on projects, strong mentors like Dr. J.B Simha, Dr. Shinu Abhi, Ravi Shukla, and unmatched peer engagement, RACE provided everything he needed to thrive—not just academically, but professionally.
“Whether others come to class or not, I will be there,” he says. “Because I know what it means to make the most of every minute.”
Final Takeaway
Mallikarjuna’s story isn’t just about career growth. It’s about life—how resilience, curiosity, and relentless adaptation can lead you from rooftops with dish antennas to boardrooms and innovation hubs.
The lesson is clear: If you aren’t adapting, you’re preparing to be replaced. Keep growing. Keep asking, What next?
Do you want to be featured as one of our best alumni and showcase your own career transition? Start your journey with RACE – M.Tech in Artificial Intelligence.
