Spotlight on Saurabh Khemka, AI Lead at Parspec!

Saurabh, who leads our AI team, is a seasoned leader in the field. A coffee aficionado and a champion of healthy food choices at the office, Saurabh can often be heard talking spiritedly about various blends of coffee, the latest open-source AI models, and his upcoming travel plans. Currently, he is focused on unlocking high-leverage AI capabilities for our app, and we are excited to see where he takes us on this journey!

Read more about Saurabh's journey, his role, and what excites him about the future in the interview below. Discover his insights on AI, his career trajectory, and what drives his innovative spirit.

What is your role at Parspec?

I lead the AI and Data Science team at Parspec, where our primary focus is on document understanding, particularly in the construction industry. Every day, we research and work on implementation of state-of-the-art models to enhance our product, ensuring it is superior and customer-friendly.

Why did you join Parspec?

While seeking to expand my horizons in the field of AI, I discovered Parspec. During my initial introduction, I was immediately captivated by the application of AI in construction technology, a relatively unexplored domain. Subsequent meetings with the founders of Parspec further convinced me that this company aligns with my professional goals. It offers an opportunity to tackle cutting-edge problems while collaborating with exceptional colleagues.

What challenges are you looking forward to trying to solve?

I am looking forward to tackling challenges related to enhancing AI-driven document understanding and processing within the construction industry. Specifically, I am excited about improving the accuracy and efficiency of data extraction from complex documents, optimizing machine learning models for real-world applications, and integrating advanced AI solutions to streamline workflows and decision-making processes.

What do you see as the most exciting trends or developments in your domain right now?

In my domain, the most exciting trends include the rapid advancements in large language models (LLMs) and their applications in natural language processing (NLP). Additionally, the integration of AI with computer vision, especially in automating and enhancing document understanding, is particularly thrilling. These developments are pushing the boundaries of what AI can achieve, making it an incredibly dynamic and innovative field to be part of right now.

What do you think is the most important skill that a successful professional needs to have?

I believe the most important skill for a successful professional, particularly in the AI and data science domain, is adaptability. The ability to quickly learn and apply new technologies, methodologies, and concepts is crucial in a field that evolves so rapidly.

What gets you out of bed in the morning?

What gets me out of bed in the morning is the thrill of solving new challenges and the chance to create innovative AI solutions. Knowing that my work can make a real difference and collaborating with a passionate team to push the boundaries of technology is what keeps me excited and motivated every day.

What have been some of the most important lessons you’ve learned throughout your career?

Throughout my career, some of the most important lessons I've learned include the value of adaptability and continuous learning in a rapidly evolving field. I've also realized the significance of effective communication and collaboration, as working well with diverse teams often leads to better problem-solving and innovation. 

What techniques help you stay organized and productive?

To stay organized and productive, I rely on a combination of techniques such as prioritizing tasks with a to-do list, using project management tools to track progress, and setting clear, achievable goals. 

What sparked your interest in the technology industry?

My interest in the technology industry was sparked by the endless possibilities for innovation and problem-solving. The ability to create impactful solutions and constantly learn and evolve in a rapidly changing field captivated my curiosity and passion for technology.

Are there any recent projects or initiatives at Parspec that you’re particularly excited about, and why?

I am particularly excited about our recent expansion in the construction industry at Parspec. As we venture into new domains, we are poised to encounter new challenges, which will lead to innovative work in the AI domain. This expansion presents a unique opportunity to apply our expertise to uncharted territories and drive advancements in AI solutions.

What is the biggest challenge that you’ve faced since joining the team?

The biggest challenge I've faced since joining the team has been integrating advanced AI models into our existing systems while ensuring scalability and efficiency. Given the nature of unstructured and unlabeled data, significant efforts are required to prepare the data, which is crucial for any modeling exercise.

What are your career goals? Where do you think Parspec can take you?

My career goals include advancing my expertise in AI and data science, contributing to groundbreaking projects, and eventually leading innovative tech initiatives. I believe Parspec can provide me with the opportunities and challenges needed to grow professionally, allowing me to work on cutting-edge technologies and make a significant impact in the industry.

If you were not working at Parspec, where would you be?

If I were not working at Parspec, I would likely be immersed in another cutting-edge AI or data science role, exploring new technologies and solving complex problems.

What is your favorite food?

My favorite food is Mediterranean cuisine, but I also enjoy indulging in Indian street food from time to time.

What do you like to do outside of work?

Outside of work, I spend the majority of my time with my family. My favorite pastime is building Legos or playing video games with my kids. I also enjoy playing badminton every alternate day and occasionally indulge in a few frames of snooker.

Describe your perfect weekend.

My perfect weekend involves a good amount of relaxation and quality time with family and friends. I enjoy occasionally indulging in binge-watching a favorite series or playing a series of games late into the night. This balance of downtime and social connection makes for an ideal and rejuvenating weekend.

Where are you located? 

I am currently based in Bengaluru, India. After completing my PhD in Switzerland, I sought opportunities in Data Science and AI, and a perfect opportunity led me to Bengaluru.