Engineering Solutions That Matter: Suman S.’s Journey at Cummins

Sometimes the spark for a lifelong career begins in the most unexpected places. For Suman S., it was a hobby course in electronic circuits that sparked a fascination with how technology could solve real-world problems. That early curiosity inspired her to pursue a master’s degree in electrical engineering, where she deepened her expertise and gained a global perspective on innovation and collaboration.

Nearly nine years ago, Suman joined Cummins and began working on Model-Based Development (MBD), a modern engineering approach that uses visual models to design, simulate and validate complex systems. “MBD plays a critical role in improving development efficiency by enabling early simulation and rapid prototyping,” she explained. “It reduces time to market by minimizing reliance on physical testing and manual coding. As systems grow more complex, MBD is no longer optional – it’s a necessity for sustainable development.” She credits Cummins with fostering that spirit of progress, adding, “Cummins supports innovation by providing access to advanced technologies, encouraging open communication and creating a safe space to try new ideas.”

As her career progressed, Suman transitioned into her current role with the Cummins Components and Software Digital Tools team, where she designs software that improves productivity and streamlines complex workflows. One project she is particularly proud of is the Certification Document Tool, which simplifies the creation and tracking of compliance-related documents – a critical step for engine production. “The goal is always to create solutions that reduce complexity and allow engineers to focus on what they do best,” she said.

Her work now incorporates artificial intelligence (AI), from chatbots that automate user support to tools that enhance decision-making. “AI is rapidly transforming the way we approach engineering and problem-solving, and at Cummins, I’ve had the opportunity to be part of that transformation,” she said.
Suman also credits Cummins’ culture of learning and collaboration for her growth. “Every project is an opportunity to learn from others, share ideas and push toward a common goal,” she said. “At Cummins, collaboration isn’t just encouraged – it’s built into our culture. I’ve had the opportunity to work with incredibly talented individuals across different functions and regions, and that collective mindset always leads us to better, smarter outcomes.”

Beyond efficiency, her work connects directly to Cummins’ mission. “It’s fulfilling to know that my work supports innovation that makes a real-world difference, not just in how we build, but in how we live,” she said.

Looking back, Suman values the opportunities she’s had and encourages others to consider joining Cummins. “I would highly recommend it, as it has helped me discover what I enjoy doing and given me the tools and opportunities to do it well,” she said. “What makes Cummins stand out is its strong culture of inclusion, integrity and innovation. Whether you’re early in your career or bringing years of experience, there’s space to explore your interests, take ownership of meaningful projects and learn from incredibly talented people.”

For Suman, Cummins is more than just a workplace – it’s where passion meets purpose. “It’s fulfilling to work for a company that values people, purpose and progress, inside and outside the workplace,” she said. Her story is proof that when curiosity is nurtured and innovation is embraced, engineers can help shape technologies that not only power the world but make it more sustainable for generations to come.