Ajay Gupta Shares Real-World Civil Engineering Insights with SGT University Students

The Department of Civil Engineering at the School of Engineering & Technology, SGT University, Gurugram, organised an industry-focused guest lecture on October 7 to help students understand how civil engineering principles are applied in real construction projects.

Titled “Professional and Real World in Civil Engineering,” the session took place in the Board Room of the Vikram Sarabhai Block. Ajay Gupta, Founder and Principal Consultant of Perceptive Ideas Consulting Engineers Pvt. Ltd., shared insights into the practical challenges and professional responsibilities associated with civil engineering.

Bridging the gap between classroom learning and construction sites

During the lecture, Gupta discussed key areas such as structural engineering, value engineering and constructability. He explained why successful engineering requires more than preparing technically sound designs: professionals must also consider how those designs can be implemented on-site, along with the practical constraints and challenges that may emerge during construction.

The session highlighted the importance of evaluating designs from both technical and execution perspectives. Understanding construction feasibility, making informed engineering decisions and anticipating potential issues can help professionals develop solutions that are practical as well as efficient.

BIM and AI are changing civil engineering practices

Emerging technologies were another focus of the discussion. Gupta spoke about Building Information Modelling (BIM), artificial intelligence (AI) and other digital tools increasingly being explored in civil engineering.

Students learned how technology can support design coordination, verification and the identification of potential problems before construction begins. The discussion also highlighted the need for engineers to understand how digital tools fit into professional workflows and how engineering judgement remains essential when reviewing designs and making decisions.

Ajay Gupta highlights the importance of industry readiness

Emphasising the value of practical exposure for aspiring engineers, Gupta said students need to understand the transition from a design concept to an executable construction project.

“Civil engineering students need to understand what happens when a design moves from paper to an actual project. Technical knowledge is essential, but professional practice also involves looking at constructability, making informed decisions and understanding the challenges that can arise during execution. Tools such as BIM and AI are changing how engineers approach their work, so it is important for students to become familiar with these developments as they prepare for the industry,” he said.

Preparing students for evolving industry requirements

The guest lecture gave students an opportunity to connect classroom concepts with the realities of professional engineering. It also encouraged them to consider the technical knowledge, practical awareness and problem-solving abilities needed to begin their careers.

The discussion reinforced the importance of keeping pace with changes in construction technology and developing an understanding of industry expectations before entering the workplace.

SGT University's Department of Civil Engineering operates under its School of Engineering & Technology and emphasises practical learning alongside academic instruction. The university's official department information also highlights industry exposure and emerging areas such as smart infrastructure, sustainable construction and artificial intelligence in civil engineering.

By bringing an industry professional into the classroom, the session sought to strengthen students' understanding of real-world engineering practices and the skills required to contribute effectively to construction and infrastructure projects.