Mr. Mohapatra’s journey began with a deep-rooted fascination for chemistry, inspired by his father’s work in agriculture. He became fascinated by the incredible things chemicals could do, which inspired him to pursue a career in chemistry. His academic journey led him to groundbreaking research, and he even started and grew a successful business. This experience motivated him to pursue a Ph.D. from none other than the most premium institutes – IIT Bombay. In his Ph.D. program, he explored unconventional topics and faced challenges gaining approval for his research. Despite doubts, his dedication led to significant breakthroughs, especially in green chemistry, where he aimed to make unused materials valuable. This early passion propelled him through academic excellence and groundbreaking research, setting the stage for his entrepreneurial endeavours. His passion led him to pursue Postdoctoral work in Chemical Engineering at the University of Nevada, Reno.
VENTURING INTO UNCHARTED TERRITORIES
After he transitioned to the United States for further studies, he encountered new challenges, from securing scholarships to pioneering research in green chemistry. His academic achievements and prolific patents laid the groundwork for his impactful career. In his role as a professor, Mr. Mohapatra gained recognition for his numerous patents, securing government grants, and collaborating with renowned institutions. Teaming up with organisations like the Department of Energy, Starbucks, and Foster Farms, he led initiatives to transform waste materials into usable fuels such as biodiesel. His proficiency drew the attention of an Oil and Gas company, where he applied his expertise in green chemistry, resulting in tangible advancements in product development through patented techniques and extensive research. This is where the foundation of his entrepreneurial journey was laid.
In 2016, he joined hands with his two friends and co-founded CrudeChem Technology. This collaborative effort aimed to engineer highly efficient specialty products tailored for applications in oil and gas and water treatment. Although the company was born to a humble origin, in Mr. Mohapatra’s garage, it is his drive and passion that has taken CrudeChem to be a market leader and one of the most sought after names in the industry.
THERE IS NO ‘I’ IN TEAM
Mr. Mohapatra is one of the most collaborative leaders out there. He goes all out for his team and that’s one of the things that form a solid foundation in his success story. His communication and a flexible approach ensures that none of the conflicts in the team remain unresolved. A seamless team effort leads to cohesive collaboration toward shared goals. All of his decisions and actions are aways in complete alignment with the company’s mission. He is not only a people oriented individual but also a forward thinking leader, qualities that set him apart as a formidable leader in his field. His positive leadership fosters a very inspiring work environment where each employee feels compelled to give the best they can not only for the company but also their own future.
PIONEERING SUSTAINABILITY
Under his vision, CrudeChem’s commitment to sustainability has flourished over the years. Mr. Mohapatra has led the company to embrace technology and innovation in a manner that it fuels the larger goal of being sustainable as well as adaptable to the consistently changing times. It is his long-term vision that has led to the brand actively developing eco friendly solutions, contributing to a greener planet while maintaining industry leadership. At the company, sustainability is not just a commitment; it’s a guiding principle shaping the company’s growth. The company’s vision revolves around manufacturing high-quality products aligned with customer expectations while minimising waste and preserving resources.
NAVIGATING INDUSTRY TRENDS
Mr. Mohapatra’s keen insight into industry trends positions CrudeChem at the forefront of emerging markets, from sustainable technologies to digitisation and AI integration. By staying agile and proactive, CrudeChem continues to adapt to evolving consumer needs and market dynamics. Mr. Mohapatra’s acute understanding of industry trends plays a crucial role in positioning CrudeChem as a leader in emerging markets. By being agile and proactive, the company effectively responds to changing consumer demands and evolving market dynamics. This adaptability ensures that CrudeChem not only stays relevant but also maintains its competitive edge in a rapidly evolving industry landscape. For Mr. Mohapatra, guiding and mentoring in technology and innovation is a priority for continuous growth. “By staying closely connected with market trends, collaborating with suppliers, and fostering a culture of innovation, we position ourselves to meet current demands and anticipate and adapt to future changes, driving the sustained growth of our multimillion-dollar company,” he says.
TURNING WITH THE TIDE
In the face of rapid technological evolution and short product lifespans, CrudeChem remains resilient, focusing on innovation, collaboration, and a robust supply chain. Mr. Mohapatra’s leadership fosters a culture of adaptability and excellence, ensuring CrudeChem thrives amidst industry challenges. The shift towards energy transitions is influencing chemical trends and creating new opportunities. The escalating demand for sustainable technologies has led Mr. Mohapatra to actively work on developing solutions that align with its commitment to being eco-friendly.
MANTRA FOR WORK AND LIFE
Mr. Mohapatra has been highly influenced by his father since the beginning. As per him, his guiding mantra throughout his journey has been inherited from his father. “Be a good human being, prioritise goodness over money and success will follow.” This is the philosophy that has been steering his journey. His path to choosing environment-friendly products and sustainable business practices has all been governed by this principle.
LOOKING AT THE HORIZON
Looking ahead, Mr. Mohapatra’s vision for CrudeChem encompasses balanced growth, employee well-being, and community involvement. As CrudeChem embarks on a journey of transformation, Mr. Mohapatra’s leadership serves as a beacon of inspiration, guiding the company towards a future of innovation and sustainability.
