Hetal Vyas has spent more than 30 years turning challenges into opportunities in the manufacturing world. From working with big names like General Motors, Whirlpool, and Bosch to mentoring up-and-coming professionals, his journey is nothing short of inspiring. After graduating from Michigan State University with a degree in Business Management, Hetal carved out a career focused on solving tough problems—whether it’s improving safety, cutting costs, or streamlining operations.
But Hetal’s impact goes beyond the workplace. As a mentor, podcaster, and workshop leader, he’s shared his wisdom with countless professionals, helping them navigate their own career paths. When we spoke with Hetal, he reflected on his journey, lessons, and advice for those just starting out.
What motivated you to join your company, and how did you choose your industry?
Ever since I was young, I’ve been curious about how things are made and how ideas turn into something real. That curiosity shaped my path and pushed me toward a career where innovation and efficiency come together. When I graduated, General Motors felt like the perfect place to start. Their commitment to advancing manufacturing was exactly what I was looking for.
Later, I joined Bosch because their focus on safety and constant improvement really resonated with me. I believe in finding better ways to do things, and Bosch gave me the chance to put my skills to use while also learning cutting-edge methods and technologies. It’s been a journey of growth, combining what I know with what I continue to discover.
What were the biggest challenges you faced in the early stages of your career, and how did you overcome them?
When I started as a project manager, I had to prove myself in an industry where experience often carries more weight than ambition. At General Motors, I was frequently the youngest person in the room, and that meant working harder than anyone else to earn respect. One of my biggest supporters was my mentor, John F. Smith Jr. He taught me to prepare thoroughly and anticipate challenges before they even surfaced. Thanks to his advice, I gained the confidence to handle tough situations and consistently deliver results.
Another hurdle I faced was the shift from manual, paper-based processes to digital tools. It wasn’t easy—it felt like learning a whole new language—but it taught me the importance of being adaptable. That lesson has stuck with me, and it’s something I always share with anyone starting out in this field. Adaptability isn’t just useful—it’s essential.
What was your approach to building a customer base when you first started?
I’ve always believed that understanding people is the key to success. While I wasn’t the one directly bringing in customers, I spent a lot of time working with clients and team members to make sure we hit the mark on every project. I made it a point to listen carefully, figure out what was causing them problems, and come up with solutions that really worked for them.
One time at Whirlpool, I handled projects focused on safety and compliance. This meant working closely with both regulatory officials and internal teams. Trust was everything in these relationships. I built that trust by staying consistent, delivering results, and being upfront about any obstacles we faced and how we planned to overcome them. It wasn’t always easy, but clear communication and a focus on solutions made all the difference.
If you could give one piece of advice to someone just starting out in your industry, what would it be?
Never stop learning. I’ve always held onto that, especially in the manufacturing world, where everything is constantly changing—new technologies, processes, and rules seem to pop up every day. When I moved to Magna International as a Senior Data Manager, I was thrown into working with huge datasets and advanced analytics tools. Honestly, it was initially intimidating—I’d never worked with that kind of complexity. But instead of letting it overwhelm me, I saw it as a chance to push myself and grow.
Another thing that’s made a big difference in my career is surrounding myself with the right people. Mentors have been a game-changer for me. They’ve not only taught me the technical side of things but also helped me navigate tough moments and figure out how to keep moving forward. Their guidance has shaped how I approach challenges, and I’m incredibly grateful for that.
What role does mentorship play in your career now?
Mentorship has been one of the most rewarding parts of my career. I love guiding young professionals, whether it’s within Bosch or during workshops outside of work. Watching them grow and achieve their goals brings me a sense of pride that’s hard to put into words. When I talk to my mentees, I always emphasize that project management goes beyond organizing tasks—it’s about understanding people, managing expectations, and navigating emotions.
Through my podcast, I’ve found another way to connect and share what I’ve learned. It’s a space where I dive into real-world challenges, talk with other experts, and explore the lessons that have shaped my career. Knowing that my stories and insights can help others find their path makes it all so worthwhile.
How do you balance your demanding career with personal pursuits like marathon running?
Running marathons has taught me more than just how to endure physically—it’s shown me the power of mental discipline. Every step is about pacing myself, setting realistic goals, and learning to push through discomfort. Those lessons naturally spill over into how I manage projects. When I train, I have to stick to a schedule and make time for it, which sharpens my ability to prioritize and stay organized in other areas of life.
What I love most about running, though, is the clarity it brings. During long runs, my mind clears, and I often find myself coming up with some of my best ideas. It’s proof that taking a step back from work doesn’t mean you’re wasting time—it can actually help you come back sharper, more focused, and ready to tackle challenges.
What’s next for you in your career?
I’m deeply invested in driving innovation at Bosch, working on projects that could change how we approach safety and efficiency in manufacturing. Beyond that, I’m passionate about mentoring and growing the reach of my podcast. Guiding the next wave of project managers is something close to my heart, and I’m always looking for fresh ways to share what I’ve learned along the way.
Key Takeaways
Interviewing Hetal Vyas was a masterclass in understanding what it takes to sustain a successful career over decades. What stood out to me the most was his unwavering commitment to adaptability and continuous learning. In an industry as dynamic as manufacturing, Hetal’s ability to embrace change—whether it was adopting new technologies early in his career or transitioning to advanced data management later on—illustrates a key lesson: stagnation is the enemy of progress.
Beyond his technical expertise, Hetal’s emphasis on mentorship resonated deeply. It’s rare to meet someone so willing to invest in the next generation, not just within his organization but also through external platforms like his podcast and workshops. His belief that project management is as much about managing people as it is about processes reframes how we often view leadership roles.
Finally, his connection between marathon running and project management struck a personal chord. It reminded me that the qualities we cultivate outside of work—perseverance, goal-setting, and mental resilience—often help us succeed professionally. Hetal’s story isn’t just one of success in manufacturing; it’s a blueprint for balancing ambition, adaptability, and purpose in any field.
