Why I’m Launching Skill Craft School: A New Way to Build Skills That Actually Matter

Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to work across some of the most exciting and high-growth industries — computer software, advertising, cinema, finance, engineering, logistics, education, and more. From co-producing Dadasaheb Phalke Award-winning films to scaling businesses in manufacturing and guiding early-stage startups, my journey has never followed a single lane — and I’ve loved that.

But across all these industries, one challenge has followed me everywhere: the gap between knowledge and skills.

That’s why I’ve launched Skill Craft School — a new-age learning platform built to solve one of India’s most urgent problems: the disconnect between academic learning and real-world readiness.

A Cross-Industry Lens No Textbook Can Teach

I’m Avinash Mandelia, an entrepreneur and strategist with over 35 years of hands-on experience across industries that couldn’t be more different from each other — from soap operas to startups, from auto parts to angel investing.

I’ve worn multiple hats — building companies, mentoring professionals, guiding funds, and speaking at institutions like IIT Bombay, NMIMS, DY Patil University, and more. Every role gave me insight into how industries work. But even more so, they showed me how ill-equipped many young professionals are when they first enter the real world.

I’ve hired candidates who were bright on paper, but completely lost in live environments. I’ve mentored students who had the potential, but not the practical exposure. And I’ve seen firsthand how frustrating it can be — for both companies and candidates — when the education system doesn’t evolve fast enough to match the pace of industry.

What’s Broken in Skilling — and Why It Needs to Be Fixed Now

We’re in a time where skills are more important than degrees. But unfortunately, most students still graduate without the tools they need to start contributing from day one. They’re fluent in theory, but uncomfortable with ambiguity. They know how to answer exam questions, but not how to build strategies, solve live business problems, or pitch ideas with confidence.

This isn’t just an education issue — it’s an economic issue, a productivity issue, and a growth issue.

That’s where Skill Craft School comes in.

What We’re Building with Skill Craft School

Skill Craft School is built on one clear idea: learning should be practical, relevant, and rooted in the real world.

This is not about generic “upskilling.” It’s about crafting skills that align with how businesses actually operate. The focus is on experiential learning, industry collaboration, and mentorship — directly from professionals who’ve done the work themselves.

This venture brings together everything I’ve learned over the years — not just about business, but about people, learning, and what it really takes to thrive in today’s economy.

This Is Just the Beginning

To me, Skill Craft School isn’t a side project — it’s a mission. A platform designed to help students, job seekers, and professionals learn what truly matters — from those who’ve been there, done that.

We have building something fresh, modern, and meaningful — for a generation that doesn’t just want to pass, but wants to perform.

And this is just the beginning.

Avinash Mandelia is a multi-sector entrepreneur and business mentor with over 35 years of experience in industries including software, cinema, manufacturing, education, finance, and advertising. He is the founder of Skill Craft School, a new skilling platform focused on practical, industry-aligned education for modern professionals.