NICMAR HR Summit 2025 Sheds Light on Future-Ready Workforce Trends in Infrastructure Sector

In an age where industries are rapidly evolving, the HR Summit 2025 hosted by NICMAR University, Pune, on April 4 emerged as a critical platform to decode the shifting dynamics of the workforce—particularly in the infrastructure and construction sectors. Drawing HR stalwarts, academic leaders, and students under one roof, the summit highlighted how agility, adaptability, and resilience are no longer optional—they are essential.

GenAI Is Redefining HR: L&T’s C. Jayakumar Sets the Tone

Inaugurating the summit as Chief Guest, Dr. C. Jayakumar, Executive Vice President and Head of Corporate Human Resources at Larsen & Toubro Limited, delivered a compelling address on the digital transformation sweeping through HR functions.

“Recruiters are now using Generative AI to screen resumes, generate interview questions, and conduct assessments,” Jayakumar said, underscoring how deeply AI has been embedded into hiring practices. He pointed out a fascinating shift—job seekers are also using the same AI tools to anticipate questions and tailor responses.

Beyond hiring, Jayakumar highlighted how GenAI is driving change across learning and development, offering personalized feedback and coaching. “The future of HR is no longer traditional—it’s technology-first, data-driven, and employee-centric,” he emphasized.

In an industry like construction, where on-site work is the norm, flexibility is being redefined. “It could mean work-from-home for some, or flexible shifts for others. What matters is how companies reinterpret flexibility for their unique workforce,” he added.

NICMAR: A Symbol of Modern HR Values

Sahil Nayar, a well-known HR leader and influencer, took a fresh approach to his keynote address by redefining NICMAR as an acronym for:

• Navigating Change
• Intellectual Curiosity
• Courage
• Mastering Agility and Adaptability
• Authenticity
• Resilience

Nayar’s framework reflected the values that modern professionals must embody to thrive in a rapidly evolving work environment. His session struck a chord with students, who resonated with the call for personal and professional authenticity amid transformation.

Construction Sector’s Massive Role in Nation-Building

NICMAR University President and Chancellor Dr. Anil Kashyap emphasized the vital role of the construction industry, which contributes 9–10% of India’s GDP and is the country’s second-largest employer. He reiterated NICMAR’s mission to fuel nation-building by producing skilled talent equipped to handle the challenges of the modern infrastructure landscape.

Dr. Kashyap also shed light on the university’s focus on cutting-edge domains like artificial intelligence, construction technology, digitization, and 3D printing, asserting that future-ready education must evolve with industrial needs.

Preparing Students for Industry 5.0

Vice Chancellor Dr. Sushma S. Kulkarni outlined NICMAR’s strategic direction toward launching new academic programs in energy, environment, civil engineering, architecture, and general management. She emphasized the necessity of preparing today’s youth for Industry 5.0, where human intelligence and digital innovation intersect.

Panel Discussions That Mattered

The summit hosted four impactful panel discussions, each curated to spark dialogue on the most pressing issues facing the workforce today:

1. Workforce Generational Transformation
2. Academia’s Role in Skill Development
3. The Impact of AI on Employment
4. Key Skills for Career Success

These sessions saw participation from industry veterans and HR leaders, providing real-world insights into challenges and opportunities for upcoming professionals. The audience—largely made up of NICMAR students—gained a front-row seat to the future of work, benefiting from live interaction with top minds in HR and business strategy.

A Platform for Practical Learning

The HR Summit 2025 wasn’t just another academic conference—it was a dynamic learning experience for students, offering them a rare chance to engage with senior professionals and ask the questions that matter. From resume-building tips to AI’s role in shaping careers, the insights shared were both timely and transformative.

The summit concluded with a heartfelt vote of thanks by Dr. Jonardan Koner, Dean of Career Services, International Affairs, and Alumni Relations, who acknowledged the collaborative spirit that made the event a grand success.

Looking Ahead: NICMAR at the Forefront of Change

As the lines between human and machine-led processes blur, events like NICMAR’s HR Summit serve as a guiding light for future professionals. By aligning academia with industry needs and focusing on future skills, NICMAR University is not just reacting to change—it’s helping lead it.

For students, educators, and industry leaders alike, the message from the summit was clear: The future belongs to those who adapt fast, think ahead, and remain human in the age of AI.