Originally an architect, Varsha Deshmukh found her true calling in an unexpected field. Transitioning into the manufacturing industry, she took on various roles and joined forces with her husband, Abhay Deshmukh. Together, they embarked on a mission to create cutting-edge micro milling machines through their company, Shilpin Machine Tools. Under her leadership, Shilpin Machine Tools has not only become a key player in the Indian market but is also making significant strides on the international stage, aiming to expand its global footprint through strategic partnerships and increased exports. This story unveils Varsha Deshmukh’s path through the intricacies of the manufacturing sector, her insights on women’s evolving roles in this field, and the strategic visions driving Shilpin Machine Tools towards global recognition.
Shilpin Machine Tools Private Limited, nestled in the bustling industrial landscape of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, formerly known as Aurangabad, Maharashtra, is known for its innovative contribution to the manufacturing sector. Specialising in the production and export of CNC micro milling machines, the company originally made its mark with industrial automation and robotics over three decades ago. It wasn’t until 2015 that they decided to introduce their flagship product, the CNC micro milling machine. Varsha Deshmukh, serving as the Director, has been pivotal to the company’s expansion, introducing over eight models of high-precision, high-speed micro millers. Beyond milling machines, Shilpin also takes pride in exporting industrial automation and robotic solutions, along with offering engineering design and CAD CAM design solutions.
Varsha Deshmukh’s entry into this field was as unexpected to her as it was inspiring. Initially a trained and practising architect, she ventured into industrial automation in 2003 alongside her husband, Abhay Deshmukh. Despite having no prior background in this industry, Varsha has become an integral part of Shilpin Machine Tools, contributing significantly to its stature as the manufacturer of some of the finest micro-milling machines, which give the best precision finishes globally.
From Building Homes to Creating Precision Machines
Varsha Deshmukh’s journey began in architecture, where she ran her practice, focusing on interior and architectural design. However, around this time, Shilpin Machine Tools, a venture started by her husband Abhay Deshmukh in industrial automation, was beginning to gain momentum. With the business growing and Varsha facing challenges in managing her practice alone—lacking support within the family and seeing a need for her involvement in Shilpin—she faced a critical decision. “Abhay needed help with Shilpin, and after a deep discussion about our future, I decided to join the business, albeit reluctantly at first,” Varsha recounts.
Varsha’s willingness to embrace new challenges played a crucial role in this transition. “I believe education empowers you to tackle whatever comes your way. Being adaptable is crucial. I realised I couldn’t cling to my identity as an architect when there were new exploration opportunities. Joining the family business seemed the right move, especially when my architectural practice was struggling, and Abhay needed the support,” she explains. Varsha’s journey into Shilpin Machine Tools was fueled by a genuine interest in understanding the company’s operations, its products, clientele, and the technology driving the manufacturing sector. Over two decades, her curiosity and dedication transformed her into an indispensable part of the company’s journey towards innovation and growth.
Reflecting on her initial days, Varsha shares, “I stepped into the company without any knowledge of engineering or automation. My first step was to learn about our activities. Initially, my role revolved around finance, back-office tasks, and managing imports and exports, as we dealt with many hardware and software tools from abroad. We were also exporting our industrial automation and robotic solutions. Gradually, I found myself delving deeper into the commercial aspects of our business.” Her narrative is the transition from a novice to a central figure in Shilpin’s commercial strategy and operations.
Her role quickly expanded as Varsha took charge of imports, exports, and finance at Shilpin Machine Tools. She began working closely with the team on customer proposals, understanding client needs alongside her colleagues. When challenges emerged, Varsha took the initiative to communicate directly with customers, guiding the team through the process. This approach marked a significant shift in her career, deepening her involvement in business and technological aspects to ensure customer satisfaction.
Varsha’s responsibilities grew to include material procurement, and today, she oversees materials management, statutory compliances, commercial activities, and notably, the marketing and sales departments. “I’ve become the first point of contact for anyone visiting our website, looking to connect with us. I understand their requirements and facilitate the relationship between our team and the clients throughout the project’s duration,” she explains. Her role has also extended to representing Shilpin at national and international exhibitions, showcasing the company’s innovations and solutions on a global stage.
Embracing Engineering with Zeal
Varsha Deshmukh shares, “I’ve never been formally trained in manufacturing or mechanical engineering, but I live by a simple belief. You can either pursue what you love, do what you’re trained for, or grow to love what you do. I fall into the latter category, finding joy in every aspect of my work and always eager to learn something new.” When Shilpin Machine Tools embarked on the journey of creating their CNC micro millers, Varsha seized the opportunity to dive deep into the process. She learned everything from the ground up—how their designs come to life, the steps involved in manufacturing, and ensuring the machines meet the highest standards of accuracy and precision. Understanding the crucial timelines and how to enhance the machines’ overall performance became part of her role.
Varsha adds, “I consider myself lucky to have been involved in every stage of our product development. Being the primary point of contact for our clients, it’s essential for me to know our products inside out. This knowledge allows me to understand customer needs, translate them to our team, and see through the project till the end, except for some special customizations requested by the customer. My comprehensive understanding of our machines ensures we meet and exceed customer expectations.”
Varsha Deshmukh prioritises transparency in her work and business dealings. She believes in the importance of honesty, especially when acknowledging what she doesn’t know. “It’s crucial not to pretend to have all the answers. I’m never hesitant to admit when I need to consult my team for more information,” Varsha says. This approach has fostered trust with her clients, allowing her to return to her team for clarification as needed.
Her husband, Abhay Deshmukh, Founder and Managing Director of Shilpin Machine Tools, is the driving force and the Principal Architect behind the company’s innovation and technical prowess. “Abhay is the visionary behind our designs and projects. His focus on technology is Shilpin’s greatest asset. Despite being an SME, our technology prowess attracts international clients,” Varsha proudly explains.
The Shilpin team is composed entirely of skilled engineers, crucial to the company’s innovative solutions. This team plays a vital role, helping Varsha understand any technical queries or specific customizations requested by clients. “My learning comes from every interaction—be it with customers, Abhay, or our team,” she states. While Abhay is often on the move, meeting clients and exploring new opportunities both in India and abroad, Varsha serves as the vital link connecting the company’s visionary, its team, vendors, and customers. Her role in bridging these connections underlines her integral part in maintaining the flow of communication and ensuring the company’s success from their base in Aurangabad.
Empowering Self-Reliance: Shilpin Machine Tools’ Commitment to Quality and Value
Shilpin Machine Tools has carved a niche in India by crafting machines that match or even surpass the standards of expensive imports from Japan, Germany, Italy, the USA, and the more affordable options from China. “Our ability to offer machines that meet, if not exceed, the quality of these high-cost imports has made our customers more than happy to switch to Shilpin machines. We ensure great quality, value, and exceptional after-sales service,” Varsha explains.
Varsha believes in the power of excellence and visibility in today’s digital age. “Being great at what you do will naturally draw people to you. However, it’s crucial to broadcast what you have to offer, letting the world know through the digital platforms available,” she advises. Varsha emphasizes the importance of not just competing on price but highlighting the unique value their machines bring to a customer’s operations.
“The focus should always be on the value addition your product offers to the customer’s business. Once customers understand the benefits and the significant value your product brings, they will be willing to pay the right price. Leading with price can lead to undervaluation of your product and is not the right approach,” she adds. This philosophy underscores the importance of quality and service in building a successful business.
The Resilient Path of Entrepreneurship & Manufacturing
“Bracing for the Entrepreneurial Journey in Manufacturing,” Varsha cautions. The path of entrepreneurship, particularly in manufacturing, is not easy and requires resilience. “The business world is full of highs and lows, and you need the courage to face both,” she explains. “What rises must fall, and what falls will rise again. You need to be ready for these cycles.” The onset of 2020 brought unprecedented challenges, first with the pandemic and then with the Ukraine conflict, both heavily impacting the manufacturing sector. “These events pushed us into new challenges and work cultures. But the key is to persevere and not lose hope,” Varsha advises.
Running an SME, according to Varsha, means wearing multiple hats. “You can’t just focus on what you’re best at. Whether it’s design, accounting, or sales, you need to manage it all. Being a business owner means being versatile and adaptable across all areas of your business.” The collective vision of Varsha and her husband, Abhay, propelled Shilpin Machine Tools onto the global stage with their top-notch CNC Micro Millers. “Holding onto the dream of being a leader in the manufacturing sector fuels our perseverance. Remembering the successful times helps us through the downturns. It’s important to recall the good years during tough times, keeping faith that there’s always light at the end of the tunnel,” says Varsha.
Owning a business comes with its set of challenges, often unseen by society. “There were times, especially during COVID, when we had to forgo our salaries to support our team. These sacrifices are part of staying afloat and continuing the journey, as we’ve seen many businesses unable to withstand the pressure,” Varsha shares, highlighting the resilience required to navigate business ownership.
Patriotism in Modern Entrepreneurship: Earning Global Currency for India
Varsha Deshmukh emphasizes the natural learning environment in family businesses, where children absorb knowledge and values just by observing their parents. “From a young age, our kids see us working diligently in the business, visiting the factory, and understanding the processes. This instills in them a sense of responsibility and work ethic without any direct effort from us,” Varsha explains. She holds a strong belief that modern patriotism is about enhancing the nation’s wealth by earning foreign currency through exports. “The era of fighting for independence is behind us. Today, patriotism means attracting dollars and euros to our country, a principle we’ve imparted to our children,” she states.
Varsha proudly shares that their children are preparing to bring their international experiences home. “Our daughter is abroad, absorbing European work culture and skills, while our son is pursuing his MS with plans to join the business later. For us, as first-generation entrepreneurs, the involvement of the next generation is incredibly inspiring and assures us of the business’s future growth,” Varsha reflects, highlighting the significant impact of passing the entrepreneurial torch to the next generation.
#Womanufacturing: Empowering Through Strength and Multitasking
When Varsha Deshmukh stepped into the forefront of Shilpin Machine Tools’ operations as the initial point of contact, the surprise of callers hearing a woman’s voice led to skepticism. “Many would ask to speak with someone technical. I would calmly assure them I could address their questions. Their comfort grew as I answered their queries,” Varsha reflects on breaking stereotypes through action. Her advice is straightforward: “Be honest and transparent with customers. It’s crucial to openly discuss what your product can do and equally what it can’t. Honesty builds trust.”
Varsha Deshmukh highlights the evolving landscape of the manufacturing industry, where women are increasingly making their mark. “The industry once had few women, but that’s changing. More women are joining, and it’s a positive shift,” she notes. Varsha believes women’s natural intelligence, meticulousness, and focus contribute significantly to manufacturing. “Women bring a lot to the table, not just in technology but in soft skills – communicating effectively with teams, prospects, vendors, and customers,” she adds.
She points out that women’s inherent ability to manage finances is a huge asset. “Women are traditionally the savers at the heart of Indian families, always looking for the best value for money. This trait is invaluable in our company, especially as we navigate the cost-sensitive Indian market and compete with imports,” Varsha explains. Varsha encourages women to recognize and leverage their innate strengths. “Women are natural multitaskers, balancing professional and personal lives effortlessly. It’s a great time for the younger generation, with India poised for growth over the next 30 to 40 years. The world is watching India, making it an opportune moment for women to step into entrepreneurship,” she asserts.
At Shilpin, efforts to enhance gender inclusivity are evident, with women making up 30% of the workforce. Varsha aims to increase this number, emphasizing the importance of societal support for women in the industry. “We’ve seen the exceptional capabilities of women in our company, whether in on-site work or customer service. If given the chance, they excel,” she stresses. Varsha’s participation in a management course offered by Goldman Sachs and ISB at Symbiosis, Pune, for women entrepreneurs, emphasise her message. Winning the Best Business Plan Award from a diverse group of participants, Varsha sees this recognition as affirmation of her direction and the potential of women in leadership and innovation.
“The course pushed me to analyze our business in a new light, dedicating one week to learning and the next three to applying those insights,” Varsha shares. The highlight of her participation was the development and presentation of a forward-looking business plan, predicting the company’s trajectory over five years. Competing against peers from major cities, Varsha’s presentation, grounded in her practical experience and the comprehensive understanding she gained during the course, struck a chord with the jury. Winning the Best Business Plan Award was an affirmation of her strategic vision for Shilpin Machine Tools. “It confirmed that we were headed in the right direction, and my approach to our business strategy was sound,” she reflects.
Shilpin Machine Tools has been thriving for 30 years, yet Varsha Deshmukh believes that today is the prime time for aspiring business owners to step into the manufacturing arena. “With the current emphasis on ‘Make in India’ and the support from Indian and state governments, there’s no better time than now for manufacturing,” Varsha states. She also highlights the additional support for women entrepreneurs, including various government subsidies aimed at encouraging women’s startups. “This period is especially promising for those looking to venture into manufacturing in India,” Varsha notes, pointing out the unique advantages available today.
Charting a Global Path in CNC Machine Manufacturing
Since its inception in 1999, Shilpin Machine Tools has gained extensive experience working internationally. Recognized as a leading CNC micro milling machine manufacturer in India, Shilpin is now expanding its horizons through a joint venture with a European company, marking the commencement of their collaborative operations in India. “Looking ahead, we aim to introduce new technologies and position Shilpin as a top-tier machine producer globally,” Varsha shares with optimism. Varsha and Abhay are strategic about their growth, focusing on organic expansion rather than rushing to manufacture in high volumes. “We’re aiming to boost our share in the global market. Currently, 30% of our business comes from exports, but we’re working towards achieving a 70% export to 30% domestic sales ratio, or even a balanced 50-50 split in the near future,” Varsha outlines their vision.
Reflecting on her journey in manufacturing, Varsha recalls the initial curiosity and bias she encountered. “In the beginning, people were surprised to hear a woman on the other end of the line. Now, the industry recognizes me and respects the serious business we’re conducting at Shilpin,” she notes, acknowledging the progress and challenges along the way. Varsha stresses the value of feedback, especially from direct interactions at exhibitions. “Honest customer feedback is crucial for continuous improvement. It’s not just about the compliments; it’s about genuine reactions that guide us to enhance our products and services further,” she states. As Varsha Deshmukh looks to the future, she is prepared to take on even greater responsibilities, contributing significantly to India’s standing in the global manufacturing sector.