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MEET LOKESH: LEADING TECHNICAL SUPPORT ACROSS NSW
At Geofabrics, technical expertise and practical project knowledge play an important role in supporting infrastructure outcomes across Australia. As State Manager for NSW, Lokesh Kumar brings a civil engineering background and hands-on industry experience to the role, working closely with customers, contractors and consultants across a wide range of projects.
We sat down with Lokesh to learn more about his career journey, industry insights and what drives him in his role at Geofabrics.
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Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got started in civil engineering?
My journey into civil engineering began with a lifelong fascination with physics and mathematics, which naturally drew me toward understanding how things are designed, built and constructed. Engineering always felt like the ultimate challenge, and one I was determined to pursue.
I completed my Civil Engineering degree in 2013, and during that time undertook work placements with design firms that gave me a strong grounding in steel design. I later drew on that experience with Konecranes, assessing crane runways and portal frame warehouse buildings for structural suitability.
Since graduating, my career has spanned a combination of technical and high-level B2B sales roles with major companies including Hilti, CSR and Konecranes. This blend of engineering knowledge and commercial experience positioned me well for the challenge of excelling at Geofabrics Australasia.
What does your role as State Manager for NSW involve?
The role covers a broad range of responsibilities, including managing branch operations, commercial performance and the team, but what matters most to me is delivering an outstanding customer experience. Our customers are the driving force behind our business, so I'm committed to providing practical solutions, quality products and responsive service that make their jobs easier. I've always believed that even the smallest detail can make the biggest difference. By consistently delivering on our commitments, we build genuine trust with contractors, consultants and asset owners, strengthening confidence in the Geofabrics brand.
How does your civil engineering background help in your role today?
It helps enormously. We work alongside site engineers, civil engineers and other technical professionals every day, so understanding the engineering principles behind our solutions allows me to communicate with clients confidently and provide practical, informed advice. One of my strengths is translating technical information into clear, practical guidance for site teams and contractors, helping them make informed decisions with confidence. At Geofabrics, solving real-world problems is at the heart of what we do, and knowing we've helped a customer achieve a better outcome is what motivates me every day.
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What do you enjoy most about working in the infrastructure industry?
It’s exciting to be close to so many large civil projects that are shaping our state. Seeing them progress from design through to construction and completion and knowing you played a part in supporting that journey, is incredibly rewarding.
What trends are you currently seeing across the industry?
Current trends are increasingly focused on sustainability and renewable energy solutions. We’re seeing more solar and wind farms emerging across the state, alongside significant investment in energy infrastructure to support growth in regional parts of New South Wales. Key projects include Humelink project, Hunter Transmission, Snowy Hydro and the soon to commence Oven Mountain project.
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What advice would you give to consultants and contractors when selecting geosynthetic solutions for projects?
Knowledge is key. I often find that even experienced engineers overlook geosynthetic solutions when it is the perfect fix for the problem. Instead, they can spend a lot of time trying to work through a problem without realising there may be a simpler and more cost-effective option available.
My advice is to do some basic research into geosynthetics and understand where they can be applied. You may be surprised at how many challenges can be solved more efficiently and affordably by incorporating geosynthetics into a project. This is especially true for civil projects and anywhere a geotechnical engineer is involved.
For contractors, a small investment in using geosynthetics can result in significant savings across a project. Not only can it reduce material costs, but more importantly, it can save valuable time on site.
Looking for the right geosynthetic solution for your project?
Our team can help you choose geosynthetic solutions that deliver better outcomes for your site and project requirements. Contact us to discuss your next project.
