Air-conditioning Engineer

Kranthi Kumar Reddy Mahakala, 26, has specialised in air-conditioning and is the manager at LG East Africa Academy. He spoke to SHIRLEY GENGA

What does your job entail?

I support distributors and customers who have technical-related queries by providing engineering and product knowledge. My job also involves training customers, consultants and students at LG Air Conditioning (AC) Academy, Nairobi.

How do you keep your training sessions interesting?

Although the training is technical, I ensure the sessions are as interactive and practical as possible. I also encourage feedback.

Given your age, do you feel like you have to work extra hard to prove yourself? 

Once you have confidence and the necessary knowledge, things fall into place. However, since technology is constantly changing, I have to keep up with the latest developments in the field. I also attend trainings, whenever possible, to sharpen my skills and knowledge in the latest AC developments.

What do you love about your job? 

I love everything about engineering. My job gives me a lot of exposure and updates in the AC field, as well as related areas like research, projects, sales and marketing.

What challenges do you face in your line of work? 

My biggest challenge is convincing customers and consultants on the long-term benefits of using environmentally-friendly and energy-efficient AC systems.

Is this your first job?

No. I started my career as a project engineer at Marine AC industry in India in 2008. In 2010, I joined LG Electronics, India Subsidiary, as senior engineer in AC projects and services, handling West India region. In 2011, I joined LG East Africa as AC Academy Manager and moved to Kenya.

What did you study?

I did Mechanical Engineering at Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University, India, and graduated in 2008. I also have an executive MBA in Distance Operations Management from National Institute of Business Management, India.

What was your childhood dream?

My dream has always to been to be an engineer. I was not sure of which branch of engineering, but I knew I wanted to do something challenging. I guess you can say that I am living my dream.

Tell us a little about your childhood?

My native home is Hyderabad, India. The city is famous for a type of biryani known as Hyderabadi biryani. I am a cricket player. I played at state level in school competitions and won many trophies as a batsman.

What do you love most about Kenya?

I moved here two years ago and I love the fact that Kenyans are warm and welcoming. I also love the wildlife.

What are your future plans?

I hope to grow as a professional in the Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning field and start a consulting firm.

What do you do for fun? 

I love playing cricket and watching movies.