One word to describe yourself: Curious
Alma Mater: MVGR Collage of Engineering, India; University of Texas at Dallas
Fast fact about yourself: My passion for fashion has filled my closet, which my wife finds overwhelming. I love exploring different styles and trends, collecting unique pieces that reflect my personality. Every item in my wardrobe tells a story, from the vintage jacket I found at a thrift store to the designer shoes I splurged on during our vacation. While my wife appreciates my enthusiasm, she often feels that the abundance of clothes creates clutter and makes it difficult to manage our shared space.
What’s your best experience on transit and what made it memorable? After completing my undergraduate studies, I embarked on a leisure train journey with a group of friends from my hometown to Bangalore, India. The train made stops at every station, which added up to 15 to 30 minutes, transforming a 10-hour trip into a 30-plus hour experience. However, this trip truly opened my eyes to the cultural diversity of India, making it an unforgettable and fun experience.
Abhishek Karanam is described as someone who is passionate about data, technology and innovation. He began his career at MV as an individual contributor, where he collaborated to establish the company's first data and analytics environment. During this time, he spearheaded the development of the first PowerBI dashboards, both for the company and for some of MV's largest transit agency clients.
Today, he serves as the manager of data science and analytics, overseeing MV’s data and analytics team. His journey to this position includes a number of accomplishments that have contributed to a decrease in operator turnover and an increase in customer safety. For instance, Karanam has led the advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) initiatives to implement two custom predictive AI models to support operator hiring and retention. The first provides a candidate’s hiring predictability to the manager for effective interviewing and efficient hiring. The second model supports post-hire talent management by alerting general managers to disengaged employees and suggesting engagement actions. These models are projected to reduce attrition by 20 to 30 percent.
In addition, during his time at MV, Karanam created the first data lake, which centralized core information that can be combined and shared to generate insights into transit operations. He introduced modern standards for data engineering and integration that are used across all IT projects. He built a centralized data hub, making it easy for end-users and customers to access reports and consumable data. He also contributed to customer-facing sales and solutions, driving significant efficiencies for transit clients.
Additionally, Karanam has driven innovation in safety and operations by automating and streamlining analytics and reporting. This has enabled the chief safety officer to lead data-driven initiatives and provided operational insights across key performance indicators. These insights span multiple transit platforms, offering customers a clearer view of performance metrics and the ability to take proactive measures that were previously unavailable. His strategic AI leadership is delivering measurable impact across the organization.
Karanam is described as embodying a continuous learning mindset, constantly staying informed about trends in the transportation industry and championing data-driven and technology-forward strategies. He regularly pursues certifications from Microsoft and other industry leaders to deepen his expertise and ensure he brings cutting-edge solutions to the table. He is also an active participant in transit-related conferences, where he expands his knowledge and network.
For instance, he is an active contributor to the American Public Transportation Association, where he serves on the Information Technology Sub-Committee. Recently, he delivered a talk on the transformative impact of AI on the transportation industry, offering valuable insights and helping members understand the foundational requirements for successful AI adoption.
Beyond his professional role, he is also committed to community engagement. He actively partners with nonPareil, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering autistic adults through technology training, work-readiness programs and community support. He is currently helping develop a data analytics curriculum designed to equip participants with in-demand skills and expand their employment opportunities.
Is there a specific experience that led you to where you are today?
In my opinion, it wasn’t just my personal experience that propelled me to my current position. Instead, it was the opportunities and the guidance of exceptional mentors who played a pivotal role in my journey. Additionally, the unwavering support from my wife has been instrumental in my success, and I see a path forward.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I would love to quote my parents on this: “Whatever brings food to the table is God, and your work is bringing food to the table, which should be God for you. Be devoted to it.”
What’s the most challenging part of your job?
I thrive on challenges. As the data analytics manager for a billion-dollar company with a noble purpose, every day presents new challenges and problems to solve. I find great satisfaction in this role and sleep well with a contented smile.
What is an accomplishment you would like to work towards in your career?
I’d like to include this on my resume: “Seeking a new role after automating myself out of the last one.”
What is your best advice/tip/best practice you can share from your area of expertise?
A mentor once advised me: "Do not shy away from doing the right thing." It's simple, yet powerful advice.
About the Author
Megan Perrero
Editor in Chief
Megan Perrero is a national award-winning B2B journalist and lover of all things transit. Currently, she is the Editor in Chief of Mass Transit magazine, where she develops and leads a multi-channel editorial strategy while reporting on the North American public transit industry.
Prior to her position with Mass Transit, Perrero was the senior communications and external relations specialist for the Shared-Use Mobility Center, where she was responsible for helping develop internal/external communications, plan the National Shared Mobility Summit and manage brand strategy and marketing campaigns.
Perrero serves as the board secretary for Latinos In Transit and is a member of the American Public Transportation Association Marketing and Communications Committee. She holds a bachelor’s degree in multimedia journalism with a concentration in magazine writing and a minor in public relations from Columbia College Chicago.