By Chandran Iyer
Nimesh Desai’s journey is a compelling saga of grit, resilience, and an unwavering positive mental opportunity. Born into a modest household, he was the son of a humble schoolmaster who instilled in him the values of discipline, hard work, and integrity. However, Nimesh was never one to settle for a conventional life or be confined by financial limitations.
Despite limited financial resources, he harbored grand ambitions—not just for personal success but for contributing meaningfully to India’s growth. While many in his position would have opted for the security of a stable job, Nimesh had a different vision. He wanted to build something impactful, something that would leave a lasting legacy.
The Entrepreneurial Leap
“I could have chosen an easier path, continued with a job, and led a comfortable life. But comfort was never my goal. I wanted to build something that would not only secure my future but also contribute to my country. Challenges didn’t scare me; they fueled me. Every setback was a lesson, every struggle a stepping stone,” says Nimesh.
In 1998, he founded Techcellency, starting with a modest revenue of Rs. 3.5 lakhs. Over the years, his leadership transformed the company into Jendamark Techcellency, a partnership with the South African firm Jendamark. By 2017, this multinational entity had over 200 employees and a revenue of Rs. 52 crores, earning a stellar reputation in the mechanical industry.
A New Chapter: The Birth of TechEra
In 2019, Nimesh stepped away from Jendamark Techcellency to embark on a new journey. Alongside his dynamic son, Meet Desai, he founded TechEra Engineering (India) Private Limited. Within its first year, the company achieved an impressive revenue of Rs. 13.5 crores. Under Nimesh’s visionary leadership and Meet’s sharp business acumen, TechEra quickly became a key player in aerospace and defense tooling manufacturing.
Meet Desai, the Co-Founder and Promoter of TechEra, took the bold step of establishing the company at just 26 years old. With a deep understanding of technology and innovation, he has played a pivotal role in TechEra’s growth, ensuring it stays ahead in a competitive market.
Meet said “ I have observed my father closely for the last 30 years, witnessing his remarkable journey from quitting his job to building his own company. Through every challenge, he remained steadfast in his principles, never compromising on integrity, and yet, always staying humble and grounded. His resilience, vision, and unwavering commitment to his values have been my greatest lessons—qualities I have imbibed deeply.
Meet said “taking my father’s legacy forward is not just about preserving these values but also about infusing them with fresh ideas and innovation. The true essence of growth lies in honoring the foundation he built while adapting to evolving times. By integrating tradition with transformation, I aim to chart a new path forward—one that upholds his wisdom while embracing the future with courage and conviction.”
Meet said the company was now planning to establish a dedicated design center to complement there extensive manufacturing capabilities. He said “Our goal is to provide our customers with a seamless experience, showcasing not only our expertise in manufacturing but also our strength in design. By integrating everything under one comprehensive solution, we aim to enhance efficiency, innovation, and value for our clients. This initiative is an opportunity to bring fresh ideas to the table, pushing the boundaries of creativity and technology to deliver cutting-edge solutions.”
About his mother Kalpana, Meet said “my mother had unwavering faith in my father’s abilities. She stood by him like a rock, offering her constant support and encouragement. At the same time, she nurtured me and my younger brother with immense love and care, ensuring that our home remained a place of warmth and stability. Her strength and belief in my father’s vision were the foundation upon which our family thrived.
Driving Innovation and Excellence
“Our commitment to innovation and precision positions TechEra as a key player in shaping the future of manufacturing in Aerospace and India,” says Nimesh. The company’s ability to integrate cutting-edge technology with deep industry expertise has enabled it to deliver customized solutions that meet the evolving needs of aerospace, defense, and automation sectors.
Nimesh also highlights the importance of continuous learning and collaboration. “At TechEra, we believe in empowering our team to push the boundaries of innovation. This ethos not only drives our product development but also strengthens our partnerships with clients.”
The toughest period for Nimesh came during the COVID-19 pandemic when the aviation sector was severely impacted. “It posed a big financial crisis for us. But even in those tough times, we did not lay off any of our employees,” he recalls. Instead of resorting to job cuts, Nimesh and his team focused on resilience and strategic planning. His commitment to his workforce fostered loyalty among employees and positioned the company for a strong comeback when the industry rebounded.
Nimesh acknowledges both the opportunities and challenges in the aerospace and defense sector. “The industry is experiencing tremendous growth, but one of the biggest hurdles is the shortage of highly skilled professionals. Bridging this skill gap requires a collaborative effort between industry players, academic institutions, and government initiatives.”
He emphasizes the need for training programs, upskilling initiatives, and industry-academia partnerships to create a steady pipeline of skilled professionals.
The Mentors Shaped his Life
Much of Nimesh’s success can be attributed to his mentor, Manish Gupta, founder of Chrysalis Business Solutions. Manish played a crucial role in helping him scale his business through structured coaching and strategic interventions. “Enrolling in Manish’s course was a game-changer. The insights gained during this period broadened my perspective and provided me with practical strategies to navigate business growth.”
Talking about Nimesh, Manish said the journey with Nimesh began during a business coaching program called The Game of Business, which he conducted sometime in 2016. Nimesh sat in the front row, brimming with questions and an eagerness to engage. “As a coach, I found myself naturally connecting with him because of his inquisitive nature and the depth of his interactions. His excitement to learn and constant curiosity made him stand out in the room.
“What truly impressed me about Nimesh was his ability to ask thought-provoking questions that not only reflected his keen understanding but also sparked meaningful discussions among the participants. His energy was infectious, and his desire to grasp every nuance of the subject was inspiring. It was clear from the very beginning that he was someone who believed in learning as a lifelong journey, and this attitude set the foundation for a remarkable professional relationship”, added Manish.
Another key figure in Nimesh’s journey is Haridas Bhabad, an Independent Director at TechEra. “With a strong background in engineering, finance, and MSME funding, Haridas has played a vital role in shaping the company’s financial strategies and expansion plans. He was instrumental in guiding us through the complexities of going public and launching our IPO,” added Nimesh.
Beyond his financial expertise, Haridas has been a trusted advisor, ensuring that TechEra maintains a strong foundation for sustainable growth. His strategic insights have not only helped the company navigate market challenges but also positioned it as a formidable player in the aerospace, defense, and automation sectors. His emphasis on financial prudence and innovation continues to drive TechEra’s vision forward.
Beyond Business: A Life of Adventure and Philanthropy
Nimesh’s ambitions extend beyond business. An adventurer at heart, he dreams of breaking the Guinness World Record for bungee jumping. He is also deeply committed to philanthropy, supporting social causes focused on children’s welfare and education. He actively contributes to Snehwan, an orphanage dedicated to empowering underprivileged children through education.
A Legacy of Inspiration
From humble beginnings to helming a pioneering aerospace company, Nimesh’s entrepreneurial journey is a testament to his passion, dedication, and vision. As he continues to drive innovation and inspire others, his story serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring entrepreneurs and leaders. Through TechEra and his philanthropic endeavors, Nimesh Desai is not just shaping industries but also uplifting lives and building a better future.