When I first heard about Hetal Vyas, I was struck by the sheer depth of his career. Thirty years in the manufacturing industry is no small feat, but what stood out to me wasn’t just his impressive resume—it was the principles behind his success. Hetal’s story isn’t one of shortcuts or overnight triumphs. It’s about persistence, curiosity, and a belief in people.
As a writer for Success Blueprints, I often meet leaders with compelling stories, but Hetal’s perspective feels refreshingly authentic. He talks about mistakes as openly as milestones. He sees mentorship not as a duty, but as a privilege. And he approaches every challenge, whether on the factory floor or in a marathon, with the same steadfast determination.
In speaking with Hetal, I realized this wasn’t just an article about project management—it was a blueprint for leading a meaningful career. Through his words, I discovered lessons that apply not just to manufacturing but to any profession, any life. Let me take you into the world of Hetal Vyas—a world where leadership is about heart, innovation is about purpose, and success is about leaving things better than you found them.
How Did You Get Started in the Industry?
Hetal’s path began at General Motors, where he spent 12 years sharpening his skills. “My first role was a baptism by fire,” he laughs. “I had to manage timelines, budgets, and people—all while learning how the industry worked. It was exhilarating.”
His time at GM was not without its challenges. Early on, Hetal faced high-stakes projects that required rapid decision-making. “Mistakes were part of the process,” he says. “What mattered was how quickly we adapted.”
A key turning point came when he worked closely with John F. Smith Jr., a mentor who taught him the value of strategic thinking. “John would always say, ‘See the forest, not just the trees.’ It’s advice I’ve carried with me ever since.”
Hetal’s ability to blend technical expertise with big-picture vision made him stand out. By the time he left GM, he was already known as a leader who could deliver results without sacrificing team morale.
What Advice Can You Give Future Leaders in Your Industry?
“Be flexible but firm,” Hetal says, offering advice for aspiring project managers. In his view, the industry is too dynamic to rely on rigid playbooks.
“You need to listen more than you speak. Whether it’s a supplier or an engineer, everyone has something valuable to contribute.” Hetal credits his success to building trust within his teams. “Trust isn’t given—it’s earned through consistency and empathy.”
He also emphasizes the importance of continuous learning. “The manufacturing world changes every day. If you’re not learning, you’re falling behind.” Hetal stays updated by reading extensively on topics like AI in manufacturing and supply chain trends.
Another cornerstone of his leadership philosophy is humility. “Being a leader doesn’t mean having all the answers. It means knowing how to find them—often with your team’s help.”
What Do You Want to Focus on Over the Next 10 Years?
As Hetal looks ahead, his focus is clear: mentoring the next generation and advocating for sustainable practices.
“Mentorship is a two-way street,” he says. “Young professionals bring fresh ideas, and experienced leaders provide context. Together, we can create something extraordinary.”
Sustainability is another priority. “The manufacturing sector has a responsibility to lead the way in reducing environmental impact,” Hetal explains. He sees a future where innovation and eco-consciousness go hand in hand.
Hetal also plans to explore new technologies, particularly in automation and safety. “Safety isn’t just a checklist. It’s a mindset. With technology, we can make manufacturing safer for everyone involved.”
Key Takeaways
1. Embrace Challenges as Learning Opportunities:
Hetal’s career is proof that setbacks can be stepping stones. “Every mistake is a chance to improve,” he says.
2. Build Relationships, Not Just Processes:
Collaboration has been the backbone of Hetal’s success. “People are the heart of any project,” he insists.
3. Stay Curious:
From his early days at GM to his current role at Bosch, Hetal has made learning a lifelong habit. “Curiosity is the fuel for growth,” he adds.
4. Think Beyond the Bottom Line:
Whether mentoring young professionals or advocating for sustainability, Hetal believes in leaving a positive legacy. “Success is about more than profits—it’s about making a difference.”
5. Balance Work and Life:
Hetal’s marathon participation is a metaphor for his philosophy. “In both running and work, you need endurance, focus, and the ability to pace yourself.”
A Career Defined by Purpose
Hetal Vyas has spent 30 years proving that success in project management isn’t just about processes—it’s about people, passion, and purpose. His journey offers a roadmap for anyone looking to lead with impact.
As Hetal puts it, “A good project manager builds systems. A great one builds trust.” In an industry that’s constantly evolving, Hetal’s timeless wisdom serves as an inspiration for both seasoned professionals and those just starting out.
If the next 10 years are anything like the last 30, Hetal Vyas will continue to lead, mentor, and innovate—one project at a time.
Conclusion
We know the difference between a good leader and a transformative one. Hetal Vyas is the latter. His career isn’t just a testament to his technical skills but to his ability to inspire and empower others. In a world of constant deadlines and shifting priorities, Hetal reminds us that project management is as much about relationships as it is about results.
His new book, Project Management Power Play: Your Guide to Delivering on Time, Every Time, captures this philosophy perfectly. Hetal doesn’t just provide a roadmap; he gives readers a toolkit for navigating the complexities of modern projects. It’s not about shortcuts or magic formulas—it’s about mastering the fundamentals, adapting to challenges, and building strong teams.
Reading his book feels like sitting down with a trusted mentor. His stories are practical and relatable, infused with humor, humility, and the kind of wisdom that only comes from three decades of hard-earned experience. As Hetal himself says in one of the book’s standout chapters, “A project’s success is measured in results, but its legacy is defined by the people who made it happen.”
For anyone looking to redefine what it means to lead, this is your playbook. And for those of us at Success Blueprints, Hetal’s story is a powerful reminder of why we share these insights—to empower leaders to build their own legacy, one project at a time.
Do you want to see more of Hetal? Follow him on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and visit his website!