Want to break into Big Tech? The world of AI, software engineering, and innovation can seem like one that’s tough to enter. But what if you had the roadmap to get there, from someone who’s cracked the code, and helped hundreds of thousands of others do the same?
I am beyond excited to feature Mr. Arsh Goyal on Calculated Conversations.
From winning a Gold Medal at NIT Jalandhar and working as an ISRO engineer, to becoming a Senior Software Engineer at Samsung and now making waves at StarTree, Mr. Goyal’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Over the years, he has mentored over 15,000 students and spoken at more than 100 institutions, including IITs and NITs, sharing his vast knowledge and experience.
In this conversation, Mr. Goyal shares his journey, his passion for AI, and the steps you need to take to succeed in Big Tech. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to build a career in this space and level up your tech game, you’re in for an insightful conversation!
Here is what he had to say:
1. You have built an incredible career in tech, from being a gold medalist at NIT Jalandhar to working at ISRO, Samsung, and now StarTree. What sparked your passion for technology, and how did your time at NIT Jalandhar influence your career path?
From an early age, I was fascinated by solving problems and understanding how things work. This curiosity naturally steered me toward technology and engineering. My time at NIT Jalandhar played a pivotal role—it provided me with a solid foundation in programming and critical thinking. Getting the gold medal gave me even more confidence. More importantly, the collaborative environment, exposure to diverse perspectives, and guidance from mentors helped me realize my potential and set me on a path to pursue excellence in tech.
2. Artificial intelligence and software engineering are evolving at an unprecedented pace. With your deep expertise in both, what aspects of AI’s development excite you the most, and where do you see the biggest potential for transformative impact in the coming years?
The ability of AI to personalize and optimize solutions at scale excites me the most. From healthcare diagnostics to supply chain efficiencies, AI is reshaping industries. I’m particularly intrigued by AI’s role in democratizing access to knowledge and opportunities, leveling the playing field for individuals worldwide. In the coming years, I see transformative impact in areas like precision medicine, climate modeling, and education, where AI can bridge gaps and empower humanity in unprecedented ways.
3. You’ve mentored over 15,000 students, helping bridge the gap between Tier-3 and Tier-1 colleges. Based on your experience, what are the most common mistakes students make when preparing for tech careers, and what advice would you give to those trying to break into top companies?
Many students focus excessively on theoretical knowledge and ignore practical application. Others underestimate the importance of soft skills like communication and teamwork. My advice? Build strong fundamentals, work on real-world projects, and contribute to open-source communities. Networking is equally important—connect with professionals, seek mentorship, and stay curious. Remember, consistency beats intensity. Breaking into top companies is not just about coding; it’s about showcasing problem-solving skills, adaptability, and a growth mindset.
4. You’ve delivered multiple TEDx talks and spoken at over 100 institutions across India. If there’s one key lesson or mindset you always aim to leave your audience with, what would it be and why?
I always emphasize the power of a growth mindset. Challenges are inevitable, but how you respond to them defines your journey. Failures are not the end—they’re stepping stones to success. I want my audience to believe in continuous learning, stay resilient, and embrace change. Opportunities are abundant for those who dare to dream big and take consistent action toward their goals.
5. Balancing a full-time job, content creation, and mentoring is no small feat. How do you structure your time to manage these commitments effectively while continuing to provide value to your audience and community?
Time management is an art I’ve refined over the years. I prioritize tasks based on impact and urgency, delegate when possible, and leverage tools for productivity. My mantra is clear: focus on quality over quantity. I carve out dedicated time blocks for work, content creation, and mentoring, ensuring each gets my full attention. Additionally, I make time for self-care and reflection, which helps me stay balanced and energized.
6. With your extensive experience in AI, big data, and software engineering, what industries or emerging trends do you believe hold the biggest opportunities for young professionals entering the workforce today?
Some of the most promising industries include AI/ML, renewable energy, blockchain, and biotechnology. Emerging trends like decentralized finance (DeFi), generative AI, and quantum computing are also creating unprecedented opportunities. Young professionals should focus on interdisciplinary skills—combining technical expertise with domain-specific knowledge. Industries like healthcare, climate tech, and education are ripe for innovation, offering opportunities to solve meaningful problems while building impactful careers.
7. Finally, what’s next for you? Are there any exciting projects, collaborations, or initiatives on the horizon that you’re particularly looking forward to?
I’m excited about several projects on the horizon! I’m exploring collaborations in AI-driven analytics and scalable data systems. Additionally, I want to expand my reach as a mentor, launching structured programs to empower more students, especially from underrepresented backgrounds. Creating impactful content, speaking at global platforms, and contributing to open-source initiatives also remain priorities. Ultimately, my goal is to continue learning, sharing, and making a difference in the tech community and beyond.
What an incredible conversation with Mr. Arsh Goyal! His insights on breaking into Big Tech, AI, and software engineering are nothing short of inspiring. From his roots at NIT Jalandhar to working at ISRO, Samsung, and now StarTree, Mr. Goyal’s journey is a testament to the power of curiosity, hard work, and continuous learning.
Key takeaways from our chat:
- Building strong fundamentals is crucial. Practical application and real-world projects are just as important as theoretical knowledge.
- Soft skills matter. Communication, teamwork, and a growth mindset are just as valuable as coding skills when it comes to success in Big Tech.
- AI’s transformative potential is limitless, with opportunities in healthcare, education, and beyond. It’s about leveling the playing field and empowering humanity.
- Consistency beats intensity. It’s about showing up, staying curious, and making progress every single day.
- Balancing multiple roles is all about prioritization, time management, and focusing on quality over quantity.
If you’re ready to break into Big Tech and take your career to the next level, connect with Mr. Goyal and start applying his wisdom today:
Thank you again, Mr. Goyal, for sharing your wisdom and journey with us. Your story and advice are invaluable to anyone looking to break into Big Tech and make an impact. Keep learning, stay curious, and keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible!
If you’re ready to break into Big Tech and level up your career, don’t wait, start applying Mr. Goyal’s insights today! Have any thoughts or questions on how to get started in AI or Big Tech? Drop them in the comments below! I’d love to hear your thoughts!
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