M. Anto George | CORNERSTONE

Every time you walk into a building, cross a bridge, or drive on a highway, you’re experiencing the tangible results of the construction and infrastructure industry. It’s a sector that quite literally builds the world around us, shaping our daily lives in profound ways. It’s a field where vision takes shape, transforming ideas into concrete reality.
In India, this sector plays a crucial role in national development yet faces challenges like skilled labor shortages, fluctuating economic conditions, and the need for sustainable practices. Success in this competitive landscape requires not only technical expertise but also strong leadership, unwavering commitment to quality, and a deep understanding of market dynamics.
At the forefront of this industry is CORNERSTONE, a construction and engineering company established in 1993 (registered in 1992). Founded by M. Anto George, who serves as Managing Director, CORNERSTONE has a rich history of delivering innovative and reliable construction solutions. Mr. George, a civil engineer by training, brings over three decades of experience to the table. His journey, fueled by a passion for construction and a vision for creating impactful structures, is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication. He is also recognised as distinguished alumini by Coimbatore Institute of Technology, Coimbatore.
From its humble beginnings as a proprietorship to its current status as a public limited company, CORNERSTONE has consistently prioritized quality, client satisfaction, and ethical business practices. Mr. George is supported by his daughter Mrs. Ankisha George Tharun, a gold medalist architect with a master’s degree in Advanced Architectural Design from the Columbia University, USA, and son Mr. Asherin George, a structural engineer with a master’s degree from the Stanford University, USA, and making it a true family business.
CORNERSTONE provides a comprehensive range of services, specializing in both traditional construction contracts and a unique “design and build” approach. With a full in-house team of architects, structural engineers, and other specialists, they manage projects from initial concept and design to final execution and completion. This integrated approach provides clients with a seamless, one-stop solution for all their construction needs. The company has grown from smaller projects, such as school buildings, to larger institutions, factories, and even government and corporate contracts, showcasing its versatility and expertise.
In this edition of our prestigious “Most Promising Leaders Making Waves in the Construction and Infrastructure Industry 2024-25” edition, we put founder Mr. M. Anto George in the spotlight. Learn from his insights and valuable lessons as an entrepreneur to excel and make it the best company. Stay tuned to uncover his inspiring tale of success.

Prime Insights: Tell us about the company.

My construction company, Cornerstone’s journey, began in 1993, though it was officially registered in 1992. It started as a proprietorship, later becoming a private limited company, and eventually transitioned into a public limited company.

Prime Insights: What are the offerings of the company?

As a construction and engineering company, we offer two main services. First, we undertake construction contracts, managing projects from start to finish based on existing designs. Second, and what we’re particularly known for, is our “design and build” service. We have a full in-house team of architects, structural engineers, and other specialists, allowing us to handle both the design and execution phases of a project. So, we’re not just providing blueprints; we’re also the ones bringing those designs to life, managing the entire construction process from concept to completion.

Prime Insights: Can you share the inception story of your company in the construction and infrastructure industry and what inspired you to pursue this field?

I’m a civil engineer, graduating in 1986 from the Coimbatore Institute of Technology, Coimbatore. Growing up, I was surrounded by construction, which sparked my interest in civil engineering. I was fascinated by the idea of visualizing something and then seeing it come to life—a truly tangible and creative process. After graduating, I moved to Madras (now Chennai) in 1986 and began working for an architectural firm. I was inspired by the construction activity in and around the city, as well as by international construction magazines showcasing innovative structures, especially high-rises, which were less common in Madras at the time. These magazines, which I accessed through libraries and other sources, fueled my desire to build and incorporate more mechanized processes into construction to reduce reliance on manual labor. I also gained valuable practical experience during a short stint of service with a construction company in Kashmir.

Prime Insights: What are the initial challenges faced by your business in its early years?

I saw many challenges in the construction industry early on. After gaining sufficient experience, I started my own company, literally from scratch, with zero investment. My passion for architecture drove me, and I had faith in my design abilities. Initially, I provided consultancy services, which led to clients requesting complete solutions, from planning and approvals to architectural, interiors, structural designs, electrical and air conditioning drawings. They expressed frustration with managing separate companies for design and execution, wanting a one-stop shop. This demand led me to take on construction projects as well. I received advance payments for these projects, which became the initial capital for the construction side of the business. We focused on modern, functional designs and provided accurate estimations. My estimates, with minimal profit margins, were highly competitive. This, combined with our commitment to completing projects on time, led to high customer satisfaction and rapid growth. We expanded from smaller projects like school buildings to larger institutions and factories, eventually qualifying for government and corporate contracts, building strong market relationships along the way.

Prime Insights: What are the core values and principles that guide your leadership approach?

My core values are rooted in resilience, continuous learning, and a deep understanding of every aspect of the business. Because I started as a one-man army, I’m involved in every project and understand the intricacies of each process. This prevents anyone from taking advantage. We also constantly update our knowledge with new technologies while valuing proven traditional methods. Innovation is key to our approach.

Prime Insights: How has your leadership contributed to driving innovation within your organization?

As the founder, I’ve always been deeply involved in the design process. Over the past 30 years, we’ve seen incredible advancements in construction technologies, materials, and structural systems. We actively incorporate these emerging technologies, like pre-engineered buildings, precast structures, and innovative materials for building elevation and interior designs, considering factors like regional climate. For example, we use heat reduction glass usage in hot regions.
We’ve also revolutionized how we present designs to clients. Instead of simply walking them through blueprints, we use software to create virtual building experiences. Clients can virtually walk through their future building, experiencing every angle and detail before construction even begins. This virtual reality approach, incorporating 3D modeling, allows them to truly visualize the final product.
My daughter Ankisha George and my son Asherin George also brings young generation ideas, fresh perspectives and expertise. It’s now a family business, and they are a great support.

Prime Insights: What key strategies have you implemented to overcome challenges in the construction and infrastructure sector?

Our goodwill and a systematic approach to problem-solving have been key. We break down challenges into manageable parts and develop targeted strategies. We never back down from challenges or pressure; this resilience is central to our success. My deep understanding of every aspect of the work, from being a one-man army in the beginning, means no one can take advantage. We also constantly update ourselves with new technologies while sometimes using traditional techniques. Innovation is key.

Prime Insights: How is your brand-defining trust in the market? What stands behind its uniqueness?

Our strength and differentiator are our specialization in distinctive building elevations, particularly Western classical styles. Clients approach us for design, material selection, pricing, and construction. We’re consistently competitive on price without ever compromising on quality. This commitment to quality, combined with word-of-mouth referrals based on our experience, has been the sole driver of our growth; we haven’t undertaken any formal marketing initiatives.

Prime Insights: What is the customer for you?

For me, the customer is everything. From a moral standpoint, they are the lifeblood of our business. Without customers, we wouldn’t exist. This is a core value instilled in us, echoing the wisdom of Mahatma Gandhi. We understand that customers are not dependent on us, but rather, we are dependent on them. They bring us business and enable us to thrive. Therefore, we prioritize their needs and satisfaction above all else.

Prime Insights: How do you ensure quality, sustainability, and safety in your projects while adhering to timelines and budgets?

We prioritize quality, sustainability, and safety through several key strategies. First, we have a dedicated team that sources materials exclusively from our approved list of high-quality brands. We also buy directly from manufacturers to ensure authenticity and avoid intermediaries. For execution, we employ trained engineers who adhere to strict timelines monitored by experts in our office and ultimately reviewed by me. These guidelines ensure that quality is never compromised. We also incorporate best practices and sustainable construction methods wherever possible. This multi-layered approach to oversight ensures that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality and safety.

Prime Insights: What role does technology play in shaping the future of the construction and infrastructure industry, according to you?

Technology is rapidly transforming the construction and infrastructure industry. We see new innovations emerging daily in bridges, flyovers, and all types of structures. I believe the future will heavily focus on 3D printing for low-cost housing and increased use of robotics. This will make affordable housing accessible to more people while reducing reliance on manual labor and increasing mechanized work. While this shift towards automation will inevitably impact employment in certain areas, particularly in affordable housing construction, I believe it is a necessary step towards greater efficiency and accessibility. Having been in this industry for over 30 years, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of technology, and I’m excited to see what the future holds.

Prime Insights: How do you foster a culture of teamwork and collaboration within your organization?

We foster a strong culture of teamwork and collaboration through motivation and recognition. We believe in celebrating achievements and providing incentives for reaching goals. This not only motivates our team but also reinforces the value of teamwork. The fact that we have repeat clients is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our employees. We strive to create a positive and supportive work environment where everyone feels valued and motivated to contribute their best.

Prime Insights: What measures have you introduced to address environmental concerns and promote green building practices?

We’re committed to green building practices and address environmental concerns through several measures. In our design and build projects, we use certified green building components and materials. We incorporate rainwater harvesting systems, solar power for energy conservation, and advanced sewage and drainage systems that convert biodegradable waste into bio-manure. We also prioritize greenery and landscaping, ensuring that every project includes dedicated green spaces for planting. These practices reflect our dedication to sustainable construction and minimizing our environmental impact.

Prime Insights: Can you discuss your approach to building strong relationships with clients, stakeholders, and communities?

Our approach to building strong relationships with clients begins professionally. However, over time, these relationships often evolve into friendships and even feel like family. Clients feel comfortable discussing their needs with us openly, as if they were talking to a trusted family member. We focus on providing economical solutions and ensuring their interests are always considered. This builds trust and reliability, making them feel like they’re receiving advice from a brother or respected elder. This personal touch is key to our long-lasting client relationships.

Prime Insights: What steps have you taken to navigate economic fluctuations and maintain financial stability in your projects?

COVID was unexpected, but fortunately, we had sufficient resources to survive the initial impact. The period after COVID felt like starting the business from scratch. It was challenging, but our determination to rebuild helped us overcome those difficulties. We focused on addressing each challenge methodically, and our inherent drive to regenerate and restart propelled us through the economic fluctuations.

Prime Insights: How do you ensure your workforce is equipped with the latest skills and training in such a dynamic industry?

We ensure our workforce is well-trained before they start any task. For example, in waterproofing, we have mentors train our workers on the latest techniques and technologies. We educate our labor on proper material usage and efficient timelines to maintain both work efficiency and high quality.

Prime Insights: What future trends do you foresee in the construction and infrastructure industry, and how is your organization preparing for them?

I foresee steel buildings becoming the future of commercial construction due to their stability and reliability. Affordable housing using new technologies will also be a major trend. With skilled labor becoming scarce, mechanization and robotic automation will be crucial. We are preparing for this by adopting new technologies and focusing on efficient, mechanized construction methods.

Prime Insights: How has your journey been as an entrepreneur?

My entrepreneurial journey has been incredibly interesting. I’ve been passionate about construction since 1986, and this work is truly my passion. It’s been a wonderful journey, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

Prime Insights: What are your personal and professional aspirations for the future, and what concerns do you have about the industry’s future?

My biggest concern is for the younger generation of engineers. During my college days, and even now, I see many graduates who seem disconnected from the practical application of their education. They have degrees but lack real-world understanding. I’ve noticed a trend where fresh civil engineers opt for coding jobs simply for higher immediate pay, even though it’s unrelated to their field. I estimate that less than 1% of engineers are technically sound, as they are easily distracted and diverted. I’d love to see more young people become genuinely passionate about construction. Many graduates prioritize salary and perks over gaining experience. They can’t handle the pressure or invest the time to truly learn their craft. They seek shortcuts to wealth, taking advances without delivering work. I hope to see more competent, dedicated engineers emerge who are passionate about building the future of construction.

Prime Insights: Can you share any Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives undertaken under your leadership?

My batchmates from the 1986 graduating class of the Coimbatore Institute of Technology reunited after 25 years. We decided to take on a collective social responsibility and formed a trust called CIT 86 Trust. Through this trust, we provide financial assistance to young people pursuing professional courses, helping them gain valuable skills and become more competent in their chosen fields. The trust is being professionally and honorarily managed by my batchmates. Many deserving students are benefitted from the Trust and they are also now placed in big companies.

Prime Insights: What advice would you give to aspiring leaders looking to make a mark in the construction and infrastructure industry?

My advice to aspiring leaders in this industry is to focus on ethical business practices above all else. While profit is a natural outcome of any business, it shouldn’t be the primary motivator. I believe the “love of the company” is the root of all good. And “love of money” is the root cause of all evil. Put your best efforts into your work, and prosperity will follow. When you prioritize ethics and refuse to compromise on quality, you’ll not only build a successful company but also a strong community of people who trust and support you. Greed for money is not a sustainable foundation for long-term success.

Prime Insights: Feedback from your end would be really appreciated. Your words matter to us!!

This interview has been very interesting and well conducted. The questions were sensible, varied, and covered all aspects of the business. I’ve been quite busy and didn’t have time to prepare, but the way you’ve asked the questions has kept me engaged. Even with two interruptions, I stayed to continue because the interview is so informative and enjoyable. It’s been a lovely experience.