Sarthak Jain, M.Sc.

Personal data

Name: Sarthak Jain

Completed degree programme: Global Foresight and Technology Management, M. Sc.

Alumni cohort: 2024

Current position:  Digitalization Professional (Innovation Manager)

Company: August-Wilhelm Scheer Institut gGmbH

Why did you decide to study GFTM?

As an engineer, I have always been curious about emerging technologies and their long-term impact on industries and society. I did not only want to understand how technologies work, but also how they evolve and shape the future. The GFTM program at THI offered me a structured way to explore global trends, technological developments, and strategic foresight. It gave me the opportunity to analyze how trends influence markets and organizations, and how companies can proactively prepare for future challenges instead of only reacting to them.

What was the most important lesson you learned during your studies?

The most important lesson I learned was how to approach the future with a strategic and structured mindset, especially in today’s increasingly dynamic and uncertain world. During the program, I developed the ability to connect technological developments with innovation strategy and global market dynamics. I learned that innovation is not only about generating new ideas, but about systematically analyzing trends and navigating future uncertainties.

When you look back on your studies: What do you still benefit from most today?

Looking back, I benefit most from the innovation management approach I developed during my studies. Today, I work as an Innovation Manager at an institute, where I have designed and implemented an innovation management process. The frameworks, analytical skills, and structured way of thinking I learned during GFTM help me in my everyday work. These skills continue to support my work in navigating innovation in an increasingly dynamic environment.

Since graduating, what phases of your profession have you completed?

After graduating, I started as a trainee at the August-Wilhelm Scheer Institute. During this phase, I gained practical experience. Over time, I transitioned into the role of Innovation Manager, which comes with greater responsibility, including designing and supporting internal innovation management processes and working more closely with different project teams.

How would you describe your typical workday?

My workday usually involves collaborating with multiple teams across the institute to analyze the potential of new ideas and technologies. I support teams in structuring their concepts, evaluating market relevance, and helping them move toward market-ready solutions. The work is quite dynamic, as projects often come from different industries and at different stages of development.

What makes your industry so exciting for you?

Working at a private research institute exposes me to a wide range of projects across different domains. This variety allows me to continuously engage with new trends, technologies, and business ideas. The opportunity to stay close to future developments and emerging innovations is what makes this field particularly exciting for me.

What do you particularly like about your job?

What I enjoy most is seeing unique and sometimes niche ideas develop into potential products or solutions. Being part of that journey — from an early concept to something more concrete — is very rewarding and motivating for me.

How has completing your studies contributed to the realization of your career goals?

Completing my GFTM studies equipped me with essential skills in innovation and technology management, strategic thinking, and understanding future trends. These competencies helped me transition into my current role and gave me the confidence to work in innovation-focused environments where structured approaches are important.

What criteria did you use to decide on a particular career path/step?

For me, two main criteria were important. First, the opportunity to learn, grow, and continuously improve my skills. Second, having enough freedom in the work environment to explore new ideas, try different approaches, and work on innovative topics. Both learning potential and creative flexibility played a key role in choosing my current career path.

What is your favourite future, professional or personal?

My favourite future is one where innovation and technology are used responsibly, balancing progress with sustainability and long-term societal benefit. I see value in a future that embraces change while remaining stable and forward-looking.