How an Electrical Engineer in Renewable Energy Can Enter the Cement Industry?

Question: Since my student days, I have had a strong interest in working in the cement industry. However, I never got the right opportunity despite making several attempts. Later, I tried in the renewable energy sector and today I am working as the in-charge of a 40 MW solar power plant at Prism Johnson Cement Limited.

Still, my passion remains in the core cement industry. If I could get an opportunity through your guidance or support, it would be of great help to me. I do not have any external backing — only hope.

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My reply: Dear friend,

Your current experience in handling a 40 MW solar power plant is a strong technical foundation, especially since it is within a cement company environment. While direct entry into a core cement plant electrical role may be challenging without prior process experience, it is not impossible.

I suggest you explore opportunities within your current company for exposure to cement plant electrical maintenance, even if on a short-term or shutdown basis. You can also look at openings with EPC contractors or service companies who work in cement plants, these often serve as steppingstones.

The key will be to position your solar and power plant experience as directly relevant to cement industry needs, and to remain flexible on role and location initially. If you can get your foot in the door, your growth in the industry will depend on your ability to adapt quickly to plant operations.

I will keep you in mind for any relevant opportunities.

Best regards,

Sawan Jasoliya


Step-by-Step 6-Month Action Plan

Month 1 - 2: Build Relevant Exposure

  • Request your Prism Johnson Cement HR or Plant Head to allow you to assist during cement plant shutdowns or major electrical jobs.
  • Shadow plant electrical engineers for kiln, cooler, VRM, and packing plant maintenance.
  • Study cement plant electrical systems - HT motors, slip ring motors, VFDs, MCCs, substation layouts, process automation.

Month 2 - 3: Upgrade Skills

  • Enroll in an Industrial Automation & Drives for Cement Plants short course.
  • Take online courses on kiln and mill operation basics (YouTube, NPTEL, CemNet).
  • Get certified in safety systems - LOTO, arc flash safety, hazardous area compliance.

Month 3 - 4: Network Strategically

  • Join cement industry LinkedIn groups & WhatsApp technical forums.
  • Connect with Electrical HODs & Maintenance Heads, not HR, in cement plants.
  • Start sharing technical content online related to cement plant electrical systems.

Month 4 - 5: Entry Route Exploration

  • Apply to electrical roles in cement via contractors, service providers, or OEMs like FLSmidth, ABB, Siemens, BHEL, or local maintenance firms.
  • Keep location flexibility - be open to remote or smaller plant postings.

Month 5 - 6: Cement Industry Entry

  • Accept even a lateral move or contract role - priority is entry, not designation.
  • Once in, volunteer for additional responsibilities and quickly adapt to cement processes.

Key Mindset:

Treat your renewable energy background as a plus - your ability to handle large power systems, safety compliance, and automation is already valuable to cement plants. Your missing link is process familiarity, which can be learned on the job once you’re inside.


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