Automotive Sector Sees Rising Demand For Future-Ready Talent: ASDC

New Delhi, Jun 18 (KNN) The automobile industry is undergoing a significant transformation, creating diverse career opportunities for students interested in technology, innovation and sustainability, according to Vinkesh Gulati, Chairperson, Automotive Skills Development Council (ASDC).

Automotive Sector Opens New Career Pathways

Gulati said the automotive sector of 2026 bears little resemblance to the industry of a decade ago, with modern vehicles increasingly powered 
by software, sensors, artificial intelligence (AI), connectivity, advanced electronics and clean energy technologies.

He noted that India's emergence as the world's third-largest automobile market is generating unprecedented demand for skilled professionals as electric vehicles (EVs), connected cars, autonomous technologies and smart mobility solutions gain traction.

EV Transition Fuels Demand For Specialised Talent

According to Gulati, opportunities are expanding across areas such as battery technology, intelligent transport systems and AI-enabled mobility solutions, with professionals already working on innovations aimed at improving road safety, reducing pollution and enhancing urban mobility.

The transition towards electric mobility has also created demand for specialised roles, including battery engineers, EV design specialists, charging infrastructure experts, battery-swapping planners, thermal management engineers and EV service professionals.

AI And Connected Technologies Reshape Job Profiles

He added that the growing integration of AI in automobiles has increased opportunities for software developers, AI specialists, data analysts, cybersecurity professionals and digital engineers. 

Technologies such as Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), predictive maintenance, intelligent navigation, voice recognition and connected mobility platforms are becoming integral to modern vehicles.

Opportunities Extend Beyond Engineering

Gulati emphasised that students from science, commerce and humanities backgrounds can explore opportunities in design, marketing, customer experience, digital media, supply chain management, fleet operations, entrepreneurship, sustainability and business development.

He further highlighted the role of India's expanding mobility startup ecosystem, which is creating new career pathways in areas such as EV charging, battery recycling, mobility platforms, fleet technology, vehicle diagnostics and connected services.

Continuous Learning Key To Future Mobility Careers

According to Gulati, the global applicability of skills related to electric mobility, automotive software, AI, battery technology and advanced manufacturing makes the sector particularly attractive for students seeking international career opportunities.

He stressed that continuous learning, digital capabilities, problem-solving skills, innovation, teamwork and adaptability will be critical for success in the evolving mobility landscape.

ASDC Launches Initiative To Build Early Awareness

Gulati also underscored the importance of creating awareness about emerging opportunities at an early stage. 

In this regard, ASDC has launched the National Automobile Olympiad (NAO), an initiative aimed at introducing students from Classes 6 to 12 to developments in automobiles, mobility, technology and innovation while fostering interest in the sector.

(KNN Bureau)