From joining CGI as a Graduate to working across modern data and AI platforms, Kartik Kaushik shares how exploring different roles, taking risks and strong support helped him find his place in data, turning raw information into meaningful outcomes for clients.
January 2025
When I joined CGI through the graduate scheme, I was ready to take everything I’d learned at university and apply it to real-world projects that genuinely mattered. What attracted me to the scheme was the flexibility, the chance to explore different career paths before committing to one, while being supported by people who wanted to see me succeed.
My journey
My journey started on our Student Kickstart Initiative project, which was a great introduction to client delivery and helped me build confidence early on. I began as a Test Engineer, where I learned the importance of quality and structure, before moving into the data space as a BI (business intelligence) Developer. Being able to move between roles helped me understand where my strengths and interests really lay, and it gave me the confidence to take ownership of my own career direction.
One of the biggest turning points for me came when I took on a BI Developer role without any prior experience in data. It felt like a risk at the time, but CGI encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone. As soon as I started working with raw data; analysing it, shaping it and turning it into something meaningful for clients, I knew I’d found something I genuinely enjoyed.
After completing the graduate scheme, I stepped into a permanent role as a BI Developer and expanded into data engineering, leading a proof of concept, which pushed me to think creatively and strengthened my technical confidence. I now work with modern data platforms like Databricks and am particularly excited about the responsible use of AI within data solutions, an area I’m keen to keep developing.
The power of people
What’s made the biggest difference throughout my journey is the people. From mentors and directors to project teammates, I’ve always felt supported to ask questions, take on challenges and grow. That support, combined with the freedom to explore, has helped me build a strong foundation across multiple technologies rather than being limited to just one area.
What's next
Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue growing within the Data & AI space and work towards a leadership role. I want to deepen my technical expertise while also supporting others, especially graduates and new joiners, as they start their own journeys. Being able to pass on what I’ve learned and help shape CGI’s future data capability is something I’m really motivated by.
Learn more
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