IIT Bombay and Autodesk signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to prepare the next generation of engineers, designers, and innovators, equipping them with the skills and expertise needed to thrive in the evolving design and manufacturing sectors.

The Design and Make industries—spanning architecture, engineering, construction, design and manufacturing, and media and entertainment—currently employ nearly 300 million people worldwide and are projected to reach a valuation of $30 trillion by 2027. This collaboration will merge Autodesk’s extensive industry expertise with IIT Bombay’s excellence in education, research, and innovation. The partnership aims to nurture and prepare top talent, drive India’s development, and contribute to shaping its technological and scientific future.

The MoU was signed by Mr. Steve Blum, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Autodesk, and Prof. Ravi Gudi, Dean ACR at a ceremony held on the IIT Bombay campus. Also present at the occasion were Mr. Andrew Anagnost, Autodesk’s President and CEO, Prof. Shireesh Kedare, Director, IIT Bombay, Mr. Ravi Gedela, CEO IITB DRF. And other dignitaries.

Mr. Blum spoke on the upcoming partnership and said, “We are excited to partner with IIT Bombay, a leader in the field of engineering education and research worldwide. This MoU underscores Autodesk’s commitment to fostering innovation, promoting skills development, and enhancing equity and access to the world of work. As the industry strives for continuous innovation and sustainable outcomes, partnerships with academia play a significant role in creating opportunities for collaboration and helping the industry to embrace digital transformation.”

Prof. Kedare stressed the importance of this collaboration and added, “We are delighted to partner with Autodesk in empowering tomorrow’s engineers, designers, and innovators. Through Autodesk’s Fusion, Forma, and Flow platforms, our students will gain access to transformative tools and hands-on experiences that will enable them to excel in today’s competitive design and manufacturing landscape. This collaboration will bridge academic learning with cutting-edge industry technology, foster innovation, and position our graduates as vital contributors to India’s progress in science, technology, and sustainable industry practices. Together, we are paving the way for a new era of workforce readiness that will shape the future of India’s design and make industries.”

This partnership between IIT Bombay and Autodesk marks a significant milestone in bridging the gap between academia and industry. As the global Design and Make industries continue to expand and redefine possibilities, initiatives like this will not only strengthen India’s talent pool but also drive innovation and sustainable development on a global scale. Together, IIT Bombay and Autodesk are shaping a future where innovation, technology, and education converge to create meaningful impact.