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Brij Sharma

A Transformational Leadership – Mr. Brij Sharma: Driving the Course of Human Progress with PowerVolt

The annals of human history are punctuated by pivotal moments that irrevocably altered the course of civilization. Among these, the discovery of electricity stands as a luminous beacon. Benjamin Franklin’s pioneering work in the 18th century ignited a spark that would illuminate the path to modernity. Electricity, once a mysterious force of nature, was harnessed and channeled, becoming the lifeblood of societies to come.

The subsequent invention of the transformer marked a quantum leap in humanity’s dominion over energy. The minds of Ottó Bláthy, Miksa Déri, and Károly Zipernowsky, working in tandem, laid the foundation for a technology that would revolutionize the way electricity was generated, transmitted, and consumed. Their groundbreaking work was subsequently refined by the collaborative efforts of Lucien Gaulard, Sebstian Ferranti, and William Stanley, resulting in a device that could efficiently and safely manage electrical power.

The transformer, in essence, became the linchpin connecting the power source to the end-user. Regulating voltage ensured that electricity could be delivered safely and effectively across vast distances. This technological breakthrough paved the way for the electrification of cities, industries, and homes, propelling societies into an era of unprecedented growth and development. From powering the first electric lights to driving the complex machinery of modern factories, the transformer has been an indispensable component of human progress. It has enabled the rise of countless industries, spurred innovation, and improved the quality of life for billions of people. “The transformer, therefore, is more than just a piece of electrical equipment; it is a symbol of human ingenuity and a testament to our enduring quest to harness the forces of nature for the betterment of humankind,” says Mr. Brij Sharma, an Indian stalwart, who is greatly inspired by the genius minds mentioned earlier.

The visionary leader behind establishing PowerVolt, Mr. Sharma, is not only the company’s CEO and President but also a celebrated Entrepreneur of the Year 2024.  His journey with PowerVolt, a leading manufacturer of transformers and power supplies, is a testament to his dedication and innovation in the power electronics industry.

A Catalyst for Civilization

For nearly four decades, Mr. Sharma has been a driving force in reshaping the transformer industry. His visionary leadership has propelled PowerVolt from its inception as a small enterprise to a global powerhouse specializing in power and control transformers and DC power supplies.

PowerVolt’s reputation for delivering top-tier, reliable products is a testament to Mr. Sharma’s unwavering commitment to quality. The company’s adherence to stringent international standards, including UL, CSA, and CE certifications, underscores its dedication to excellence. Beyond manufacturing standard transformers, PowerVolt excels in crafting tailored solutions to meet the specific needs of its clients.

A cornerstone of PowerVolt’s success is its emphasis on long-term partnerships. Mr. Sharma believes in fostering enduring relationships with clients, providing unwavering support and continuous improvement. This commitment extends beyond product delivery, encompassing comprehensive after-sales service, expert technical advice, and on-site consultations.

PowerVolt’s Rise to Prominence

PowerVolt’s ability to optimize supply chains and control costs ensures that clients receive maximum value. By consistently exceeding customer expectations and delivering innovative solutions, Mr. Sharma has solidified PowerVolt’s position as a leading player in the global transformer market.

Mr. Sharma has always been an independent thinker with ambitious goals. From a young age, he aspired to self-employment and considered government service as an alternative path. His passion for electrical engineering began early, leading him to pursue a career in the field. After completing his Electrical Engineering degree, Sharma attempted the Indian Administrative Services examination but was unsuccessful. This prompted him to focus on entrepreneurship. After working for a transformer manufacturing company, he identified areas for improvement in transformer designs, particularly in safety, quality, and performance. Following his engineering degree, Mr. Sharma gained industry experience working for Advani Oerikon in Pune, India, before pursuing further training in Germany. He subsequently held management positions with Siemens in Brazil for a decade. This ignited his entrepreneurial spirit, and he took a bold step. In 1983, he relocated to Chicago, USA, where he founded PowerVolt in 1986.

With limited financial resources, Mr. Sharma began manufacturing transformers and DC power supplies from his home, balancing the demands of the nascent business with regular employment. To support his family during this challenging period, he also operated a gas station. After five years of bootstrapping, Mr. Sharma acquired an existing transformer manufacturing company, allowing PowerVolt to expand into a larger facility. This marked a pivotal moment in the company’s growth, transitioning from a home-based operation to a full-fledged manufacturing enterprise.

Starting from humble beginnings in his apartment, Mr. Sharma’s unwavering focus on quality and customer satisfaction has been instrumental in PowerVolt’s growth. The company’s commitment to excellence is reflected in its UL, CSA, and CE certifications. Through strategic acquisitions and a focus on research and development, PowerVolt has grown into a global leader, offering a comprehensive range of power transformers, industrial control transformers, DC power supplies, and custom transformers.

A Grounded Leadership Philosophy

Often credited as the driving force behind PowerVolt’s success, Brij Sharma is known for his hands-on leadership style. Rather than simply delegating tasks, he believes in leading by example. His core philosophy is rooted in the principle of “practice what you preach.”

Sharma recognizes that mistakes are an inevitable part of the learning process. Instead of punishing errors, he encourages a culture of learning and growth. By analyzing failures, the company can implement measures to prevent recurrences.

Thus, Mr. Sharma’s leadership philosophy is centered on innovation and tackling complex challenges. By embracing difficult projects that competitors often shy away from, PowerVolt has carved a distinct niche in the electrical transformer market. This strategic approach, combined with a strong emphasis on teamwork, has propelled the company to its current position of industry leadership.

Adapting to Industry Dynamics

PowerVolt has established itself as a pioneering force in the transformer industry. Mr. Sharma attributes the company’s success to a steadfast commitment to hard work, perseverance, and goal orientation at all organizational levels. He emphasizes the crucial role of a dedicated team in achieving these milestones.

The industrial landscape is constantly evolving, necessitating adaptable solutions. PowerVolt recognizes the critical role transformers play in modern electrical systems. The company’s comprehensive range of AC and DC power solutions caters to a diverse array of electrical applications.

By prioritizing quality and timely deliveries, PowerVolt has solidified its position as a preferred supplier for industry leaders.

PowerVolt: A Focus on Innovation and Efficiency

The key to future success lies in innovation, disruption, and an unparalleled customer experience. Mr. Sharma emphasizes that while customer satisfaction is paramount for long-term growth, it must be underpinned by operational efficiency and profitability. PowerVolt prioritizes customer satisfaction by implementing innovative strategies across engineering, manufacturing, purchasing, and packaging. This focus on process optimization, such as inventory management and streamlined paperwork, ensures both customer delight and business growth.

Digital transformation is a cornerstone of PowerVolt’s strategy. The company recognizes the importance of staying at the forefront of technological advancements. By leveraging modern ERP software and automation, PowerVolt has significantly enhanced efficiency and reduced costs. This commitment to technology is evident in the company’s production processes, where productivity has increased manifold through automation.

PowerVolt’s Problem-Solving and Workforce Development

PowerVolt has distinguished itself by tackling complex engineering challenges. A prime example is the company’s role in the global pandemic. When faced with the urgent need for transformers to support the cold storage of COVID-19 vaccines, PowerVolt swiftly designed and manufactured thousands of units, meeting the critical demands of the healthcare industry.

Mr. Sharma emphasizes the importance of human capital in driving organizational success. PowerVolt’s commitment to employee development is evident in its robust training programs. By fostering a culture of learning and empowerment, the company has cultivated a highly skilled and loyal workforce. With an average employee tenure of over 20 years, PowerVolt’s team is a testament to its people-centric approach.

A Powerful Resiliency Strategy

The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the need for business resilience. PowerVolt has responded by implementing a multi-faceted contingency plan, informs Mr. Sharma. By establishing multiple manufacturing facilities in the United States and Mexico, as well as cultivating a network of five vendor partners in China, the company has created a robust supply chain capable of weathering unforeseen disruptions. This diversified approach ensures uninterrupted service to customers even in the face of challenges like the recent pandemic. Additionally, PowerVolt’s emphasis on cost-effective operations enhances its ability to navigate economically turbulent times.

Entrepreneurship: A Path to India’s Economic Growth

Indian businesses are instrumental in driving the nation’s economic progress. To budding entrepreneurs, Mr. Sharma offers sage advice. He acknowledges the challenges inherent in starting a business and emphasizes the importance of perseverance. Just as Arjuna focused intently on his target, aspiring entrepreneurs should maintain an unwavering focus on their goals. With sustained hard work and determination, success is attainable.

Brij Sharma’s Vision for PowerVolt

Mr. Sharma acknowledges the looming economic challenges of 2024, including the potential for a slowdown. Despite these headwinds, he maintains a forward-looking perspective for PowerVolt.

Mr. Sharma envisions a transformative role for the company in the Indian transformer industry. He proposes the introduction of an International Standard Series of Transformers to the domestic market. This strategic move aims to simplify the design process for Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) by providing standardized transformer options.

By streamlining the design process, OEMs can achieve significant cost reductions and accelerate product development cycles. This initiative positions PowerVolt as a catalyst for innovation and efficiency within the Indian manufacturing sector.

Brij Sharma’s recognition as one of the top Entrepreneurs of 2024 is a well-deserved tribute to his remarkable achievements. His leadership and vision have not only transformed PowerVolt but also significantly impacted the power electronics industry.