An amalgamation of Systems and Strategy
Roopak Ingole symbolizes the intersection of business and technology as he leverages his skill in technology strategy (20+ years of software development) and product management (a Kelly MBA) to build and launch products and applications while developing and nurturing high performance teams simultaneously. Based in the US, he is presently the Director – Advanced Electronic Systems & Strategy, at Cummins Inc.
Roopak’s journey has been characterized by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a passion for leveraging technology to drive positive change. With a BE in Computer Science and Engineering from Amravati University (India); Master’s in Business Administration from Kelley School of Business, Indiana University (USA); and a background in Robotics and Mechatronics; Roopak brings a unique blend of business acumen and technical expertise to the table. His track record of delivering impactful solutions and his dedication to mentoring the next generation of STEM professionals reflect his deep-rooted commitment to advancing the field and making a meaningful difference in the world.
With over two decades of leadership in manufacturing and software, Roopak is an experienced Engineering Director specializing in new product introduction. At Cummins Inc., he now leads the development of Electronic Control software for various research programs. His responsibilities include aligning technology roadmaps with market needs, managing investments, and identifying new business opportunities.
Previously, as the Engineering Manager for Advanced Embedded Software at Cummins, he managed a 15-member team and successfully delivered software solutions for different powertrain systems, reducing warranty costs by 15% and improving development efficiency through Agile adoption. His leadership and technical contribution earned him the Business Impact Award for innovation. At Motorola Solutions Inc., he led global teams in developing infrastructure platforms for radio communications systems, achieving a 33% improvement in issue resolution rates. His tenure at KPIT Technologies Inc. as an Engagement Manager for Cummins resulted in a 100% business growth and earned him several awards for outstanding performance and business impact.
With expertise in various technical domains and certifications, Roopak is keen on contributing strategic thinking and innovation to a technology-focused organization. He has published over 20 research articles and holds multiple patents. He co-authored the book ‘Intelligent Vehicles: Harnessing AI and ML for IoT Edge Computing’. In addition, his commitment to community engagement as the Chair of Communications for the Bartholomew County Financial Literacy Coalition, and a STEM Mentor for high school students, underscores his dedication beyond professional realms.
Wise beyond his years, Roopak truly believes in and practices Authentic Leadership. He feels by embracing authenticity, leaders build trust and create a culture of openness and collaboration. This approach not only enhances team performance but also drives innovation and resilience. Authentic leaders inspire by example, showing that success is not just about achieving goals but also about maintaining ethical standards and supporting the growth and development of those around them.
Yet as is usually the case, success is not always easy to come around, he explains. Success is often debated as a product of either luck or hard work. While luck can present opportunities, it is hard work that truly seizes and maximizes them. Hard work builds skills, resilience, and a strong foundation, making one prepared to recognize and act on fortunate breaks. Moreover, consistent effort fosters a mindset geared towards growth and improvement, creating one’s own luck over time.
In Roopak’s case, his passion is his real luck. He envisions himself as a catalyst for positive change in the field of advanced electronic systems, driving innovation and sustainable solutions that benefit both society and the environment. With over two decades of experience in the field, he has seen firsthand how innovative solutions can address critical challenges and create meaningful impact. From developing advanced embedded systems that enhance operational efficiency to mentoring the next generation of STEM professionals, his journey has been fueled by the greater good. His goal is to continue pushing the boundaries of innovation to build a more sustainable, equitable future for all.
Today, as Roopak stands on the threshold of global change, it is easy for him to reflect on the qualities and skills that will define the times to come. In such a scenario, we can’t let him leave without sharing some words of wisdom for our loyal readers. Happy to oblige, he says, “In today’s rapidly evolving world, curiosity, continuous learning, and innovation are paramount. Curiosity drives us to explore the unknown, sparking the discovery of new ideas and solutions. Continuous learning ensures that we stay relevant and adaptable, fostering personal and professional growth. Innovation, fueled by curiosity and learning, transforms industries and solves pressing global challenges. Embracing these principles enables individuals and organizations to remain competitive, resilient, and forward- thinking. By cultivating a culture that values curiosity, invests in ongoing education, and encourages innovative thinking, we pave the way for a brighter, more sustainable future.”