Article: Engineering the Future: Eskandar Jahany's Path to Leading the Design Center at DB
Eskandar Jahany’s career is a remarkable blend of curiosity, expertise, and leadership. With over three decades in the field of engineering and project management, Eskandar's journey has seen him evolve from a passionate student of civil engineering to the Director of the Design Center at DB E&C in Bangalore. His story is one of continuous growth, driven by his fascination with railways and his dedication to creating world-class infrastructure.
From Childhood Fascination to Engineering Excellence
“I’ve always been fascinated by railways,” Eskandar begins, recalling his early years. “As a child, I had an insatiable curiosity about how rail systems operated, and this led me to pursue a career in civil engineering.” Although specialized railway courses weren’t available at the time, Eskandar’s desire to understand the intricacies of railway infrastructure shaped his academic choices. He began his education in civil engineering with a clear focus on railways.
Building Expertise and Expanding Horizons from Germany to Global Leadership
Eskandar Jahany's professional journey began in Germany’s thriving railway sector, where he honed his skills in high-speed rail, bridge construction, and tunneling. His roles spanned across supervision, contract administration, and quality control, laying a strong foundation for his later work at DB E&C. With over 30 years of experience in engineering, Jahany transitioned to international projects, leveraging his expertise in complex infrastructure in Asia and the Middle East.
Taking the Helm: Director of the Design Center in Bangalore
Becoming the Director of the Design Center in Bangalore was a natural evolution in Eskandar Jahany's career. In this role, he oversees a dynamic team that drives quality and innovation, ensuring DB E&C’s high standards are met in both German and international markets. Eskandar is passionate about developing a collaborative environment where technological advances like BIM, digital twins, and system engineering are seamlessly integrated into everyday projects.
The Unique Advantage of Working at E&C
What sets DB E&C apart, according to Jahany, is its ability to oversee projects from inception to completion. “We don’t just design; we manage the entire process, from design to operations,” he explains. This end-to-end care is a cornerstone of the company's success, allowing DB E&C to combine technical excellence with cost-effectiveness and resource efficiency. The Design Center in India plays a vital role in this, contributing to DB E&C's leadership in infrastructure innovation.
Collaborating Across Borders: The Power of DB E.C.O. Group Integration
Eskandar emphasizes the importance of collaboration within the broader DB E.C.O. Group. “The interconnectedness between our Design Centers and DB International Operations is essential,” he shares. This synergy ensures that DB E&C aligns with global goals and maintains operational excellence in projects worldwide, especially in regions requiring specialized standards or local adaptations.
Embracing Innovation: The Future of Digital Engineering
Eskandar Jahany is keenly focused on the digital evolution within his field, particularly the integration of technologies like BIM and digital twins. These innovations not only improve project efficiency but also enhance ongoing operational insights, especially in high-speed rail and accident management. Sustainability and resource optimization are also central to his approach, aiming to integrate eco-friendly processes while meeting global standards.
What It Takes to Thrive at DB E&C’s Design Center
When asked what makes someone a good fit for the Design Center, Eskandar stresses the importance of a solid foundation in civil engineering and railway system engineering, paired with expertise in industry-standard digital tools. “Adaptability and attention to detail are crucial,” he notes, as projects often require coordination across various standards and regions. A solution-oriented mindset and a commitment to safety and quality are also key traits he looks for in potential candidates.
A Memorable Project: Rail Baltica and the Power of Teamwork
Eskandar Jahany recalls the Rail Baltica project as one of the most impactful in his career. This high-speed, electrified railway line connecting the Baltic States to Europe spans 870 km and involves meticulous planning and collaboration. His role was to ensure design accuracy, align work across departments, and respond to client feedback, which required constant adaptation. The successful completion of the Latvian section exemplified DB E&C’s commitment to delivering high-quality, sustainable infrastructure.
The DB E&C Design Center: Five Key Words that Define Us
Jahany concludes with a reflection on what makes the Design Center at DB E&C truly unique. “We are a multi-cultural, collaborative, and reliable team, focused on driving innovation in every project,” he says. The dynamic nature of the team, combined with a commitment to excellence, sets DB E&C apart as a leader in the infrastructure industry.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Engineers
Eskandar Jahany’s journey is a testament to the power of curiosity, continuous learning, and leadership in shaping the future of infrastructure. As the Director of the Design Center, he is not only leading complex projects but also inspiring future generations of engineers to think globally, innovate boldly, and always pursue excellence. His story is a powerful reminder of the endless possibilities that lie ahead for those who are passionate about engineering and committed to making a difference in the world.