Engineering Innovation: How Atul Gadre is shaping the future of BIM

Tell us about your role and where you are based 

My role involves developing and maintaining cutting-edge digital intelligent content, covering the standardised components used in building information modelling (BIM), such as walls, doors and windows. 

As a principal digital engineer, I lead and mentor a dynamic team based in Bangalore, India, collaborating with engineers, architects and other team members across regions and projects. We ensure that digital components meet the requirements of in-house teams and external clients across regions and projects.

Why did you choose you career path? 

Passion for BIM 

I’ve always had a strong interest in BIM and digital engineering as tools to improve infrastructure performance and project delivery. My work on the centralised library for “Revit Family” (RF) creation means that project teams have access to standardised BIM objects that can be reused instead of recreated, and optimised with each successive use. This is essential for maintaining consistency and accuracy across projects, which is crucial for effective BIM implementation.

Innovation 

Moata Intelligent Content is a Mott MacDonald digital solution, known for its innovative approach in the creation of intelligent Revit families. Working on a standardised, centralised library contributes to cutting-edge solutions that enhance the efficiency and accuracy of projects.

Technical expertise 

My role requires a high level of technical skill in Revit and other BIM tools. As I enjoy working with advanced software and developing precise digital models, so this career path offers a perfect fit.

Collaboration and impact 

Creating and managing a centralised library involves collaborating with architects, engineers and other stakeholders. This collaborative environment is very rewarding as it allows for the exchange of ideas and the creation of high-quality digital content that has a significant impact on project outcomes. 

Professional growth 

Working on the centralised library allows for continuous learning and growth, both in terms of technical skills and career advancement.

Contribution to sustainable solutions 

Work delivered in Revit family creation contributes to more efficient and sustainable solutions and. aligns with broader goals of improving infrastructure performance and social outcomes.

Interested in BIM roles in India? 

Are you interested in joining Mott MacDonald or have you previously worked for us and would love to return? 

We are proud to be part of an ever-changing global industry, delivering transformative work that’s defining our future. It’s our people who power that performance.

Submit your CV today 

Why Mott MacDonald? 

Reputation and values 

Mott MacDonald is renowned for its commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainability. The company's values align with those who are passionate about making a positive impact. 

Global opportunities 

As a global consultancy, Mott MacDonald offers diverse opportunities to work on projects around the world. This exposure to different markets and challenges can be incredibly enriching and broadens professional horizons. 

Collaborative environment 

Mott MacDonald fosters a collaborative and inclusive work culture. The chance to work with talented professionals from various backgrounds and disciplines enhances creativity and innovation. 

Professional development 

Mott MacDonald is dedicated to the continuous development of its employees. There are so many opportunities for training, mentorship and career advancement, ensuring that individuals can grow and thrive.  

Impactful projects 

Mott MacDonald works on projects that have a significant impact on communities and the environment. Being part of such meaningful work is highly motivating and fulfilling. 

Personal alignment 

Mott MacDonald’s focus on innovation, sustainability and excellence resonate with my professional goals and personal values. 

What are some of the most exciting or innovative projects you’ve been trusted to lead or contribute to? 

One of the most innovative projects I have worked on to date is the development of a Smart Object Library for the UK Environment Agency. This project involved creating a centralised library of parametric objects to standardise design content across the organisation and its supply chain. The library helps visualise, design, and analyse projects efficiently, contributing to climate-resilient infrastructure. In 2022, we were awarded the Bentley Going Digital award for our achievements.  

What does being part of a global team mean to you, and how does it influence your work? 

Being part of a global team, means more than just working across different time zones – it’s about embracing diversity, collaboration and a shared purpose on a global scale. 

• Working with colleagues from different countries and cultures brings a rich mix of ideas, approaches and problem-solving styles. 

• Being part of a global network provides access to a vast pool of expertise. Whether it’s BIM standards, Revit family creation techniques or digital asset management, there’s always someone to learn from. 

• Cultural Awareness: Working as part of a global team has made me more mindful of communication styles, time zones and cultural nuances, which helps build stronger, more respectful working relationships. Digital collaboration platforms help our teams to stay connected, share updates and co-develop content in real time. 

Some of the most creative solutions come from cross-cultural brainstorming sessions. It’s a reminder that innovation thrives when everyone has a voice. 

What advice would you give to someone looking to start their career at Mott MacDonald? 

If you're looking to start your career at Mott MacDonald, especially in a digital or engineering-focused role, it’s important to familiarise yourself with our company values, such as our commitment to sustainability, collaboration and digital transformation. Then you can think about how your skills and passions align with them. 

If you're aiming for roles like Revit family creation or BIM content development, you should learn about the foundations of those digital tools: 

• Become proficient at using Revit software and parametric family creation. 

• Learn about international standards for managing information using BIM, such as ISO 19650. 

• Explore data-driven design and how digital content supports infrastructure delivery. 

Can you share an example of how the company culture has helped you achieve your personal and professional goals? 

Since 2020, I have deepened my expertise in BIM and Revit family creation and been able to contribute to something meaningful on a global scale. The company culture at Mott MacDonald played a huge role in helping me achieve that. 

From day one, I was encouraged to bring new ideas to the table. When I proposed improvements to the centralized Revit family library, such as standardising metadata or automating quality assurance checks, the team supported me in developing and implementing those ideas. That trust boosted my confidence and helped me grow as a digital engineer. 

I had access to internal training, mentorship from senior BIM specialists and even cross-team knowledge sharing sessions. This helped me sharpen my technical skills and understand how digital content fits into the broader infrastructure lifecycle. 

The company’s flexible work culture allowed me to balance personal commitments while staying productive. This balance helped me stay motivated and focused, which in turn accelerated my professional development.