In the vast and ever-evolving world of engineering, few names command as much respect and admiration as Dr. Arun Kumar, a distinguished figure whose contributions have transformed the global landscape of road and transport infrastructure. With a remarkable career spanning over five and a half decades, Dr. Kumar stands as a beacon of innovation, leadership, and excellence — an individual whose passion for building a better, connected world continues to inspire engineers, researchers, and policymakers alike.
A blend of academic brilliance, global experience, and visionary leadership defines Arun Kumar Civil Engineering Visionary — a man who not only built roads and bridges but also strengthened the very foundations of knowledge, institutions, and human potential.
Arun Kumar: A Legacy Built on Knowledge and Purpose
Dr. Arun Kumar’s journey began at one of India’s most prestigious institutions — the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi (IIT Delhi) — where he earned his Bachelor of Technology in Civil Engineering in 1968. His pursuit of excellence soon took him abroad to the United States, where he earned both his MSCE and PhD in Civil Engineering from the renowned Purdue University.
Later, he complemented his technical acumen with a Graduate Diploma in Management from RMIT University, Australia, embodying a rare combination of technical mastery and managerial insight.
This educational foundation set the stage for an extraordinary global career — one that seamlessly blended construction, consulting, research, and academia. Over the decades, Dr. Kumar became synonymous with excellence in transport infrastructure, organizational capacity building, and policy advisory at the highest levels.
Global Expertise with a Transformative Impact
What distinguishes Arun Kumar Civil Engineering Visionary from his peers is the sheer breadth of his global experience. His professional journey spans continents — from Australia and India to China, the USA, the UK, Southeast Asia, and Africa.
As an advisor to the World Bank, Dr. Kumar has led initiatives that strengthened national and regional road networks, built institutional capacity, and enhanced project management in developing economies. His involvement in India’s Prime Minister’s Rural Road Program played a pivotal role in improving connectivity for millions in rural communities, proving that infrastructure can be a catalyst for social and economic transformation.
In Australia, he continues to serve as an Independent External Reviewer for major transport infrastructure projects — each valued between $250 million and $1 billion — ensuring excellence in delivery, quality, and long-term sustainability.
Arun Kumar: Academic Brilliance and Global Influence
As an Emeritus Professor at RMIT University, Melbourne, and a Visiting Faculty Member at the University of Melbourne, Dr. Kumar remains deeply committed to nurturing the next generation of engineers and innovators. His tenure at RMIT saw him rise to leadership positions such as Dean of Research and Innovation (now Deputy Pro Vice-Chancellor) in both the Faculty of Engineering and the Faculty of Business.
He also served as Head of the Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geological Engineering, where he championed interdisciplinary research and fostered global partnerships.
Between 2017 and 2022, Dr. Kumar served as Editor-in-Chief of the Infrastructure Asset Management Journal at the Institution of Civil Engineers (UK) — an influential platform shaping global discourse on asset sustainability, resilience, and innovation. His editorial leadership helped bridge the gap between research and real-world infrastructure challenges.
Board Leadership and Professional Service
Dr. Kumar’s expertise is recognized not only in academia but across global professional circles. He currently serves as:
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Board Member, Accreditation Board, Engineers Australia, focusing on AI and Risk Management
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Board Member, Working Heritage, Victoria, contributing to Audit, Risk Management, and Metro Properties
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Past Board Director, Engineers Without Borders, Australia, advancing engineering for humanitarian development
His service extends to numerous committees, boards, and working groups — embodying a lifelong dedication to strengthening engineering governance and professional excellence.
Awards, Recognition, and Lifelong Achievements
The world has rightfully recognized Arun Kumar Civil Engineering Visionary for his exceptional contributions. Among his many accolades are:
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IIT Delhi Distinguished Alumni Award (2024) for outstanding achievements in academics and research
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Lifetime Achievement Award, IIT Alumni Victoria (2025)
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Finalist – IABCA Australia India Science, Research & Development Award (2025)
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Vice President, Australia and New Zealand, International Society for Maintenance and Rehabilitation of Transport Infrastructure
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Invited Fellow, International Society of Engineering Asset Management
His earlier recognitions include the Excellence Award for Road Asset Management by Engineers Australia, the Innovation Research Award by the Government of Queensland, and the Innovation Team Award by RMIT University.