Friday, March 26

The five of us that stayed at the Welcom Hotel in Vadodara met for breakfast this morning, then we headed off to the ITT India plant,where we met up with the rest of the volunteers who drove in from Ahmedabad. Malove Pandya, who works at the ITT plant in Vadodara, and was teamed with Vikram Nanwani (from Sweden) for Gujarat state for the scoping study, organized our transportation arrangements, meeting room, refreshments & lunch. The ITT India plant (we got a tour), which produces pumps, is an impressive facility that is only two years old.

It was great to meet the rest of the volunteers in person – it seemed like we already knew each other. After the initial introductions, with Jim as our facilitation, all of the teams shared their experiences and challenges. After a delicious Indian lunch in the canteen, and me as the note-keeper, we had an open, lengthy discussion on lessons learned, things that went well, and suggestions for improvement. It’s hard to believe that we are done with the India scoping study assignment (athough most of us still have to complete the report after we get back home). It’s been a life-changing experience, and something we are all grateful to have been a part of.

Some of the team is headed home tonight, and some leave tomorrow. I rode to Ahmedabad with Paula and Vikram where my cousin picked me up. He said it’s been very hot here, about 115 degrees F a few days ago, but is not quite as hot now. After dinner & watching a cricket match (Rajasthan Rangers & Deccan Chargers) on TV, I am ready to get some sleep. I will be staying here a few days to see my family.

Our team in front of the ITT India facility.