In the sprawling landscape of Chicago’s architectural and engineering achievements, few names stand as prominently as that of Niranjan Shah. From humble beginnings in a small Indian village to becoming the visionary founder of one of the Midwest’s most influential engineering firms, Shah’s journey embodies the quintessential American success story of determination, innovation, and giving back.
From Matadaha to the Midwest
Born in 1944 in Matadaha, Gujarat, Niranjan Shah experienced a childhood without modern conveniences like electricity or running water. Despite these limitations, his community placed immense value on education, instilling principles that would later fuel his professional ambitions.
After earning his engineering degree from Birla Engineering College at Sardar Patel University in 1967, Shah and his wife decided to relocate to the United States to pursue greater opportunities. Continuing his education at the University of Mississippi, he secured a master’s degree in civil engineering before settling in Chicago in 1972.
Founding a Chicago Institution
Shah’s professional journey in America began at Sargent & Lundy Engineering in Chicago, where he worked as a structural engineer. However, his entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish Globetrotters Engineering Corporation in 1974, starting as the firm’s sole full-time employee.
What began in a modest office on Chicago’s South Side has since evolved into one of the region’s most respected engineering firms. Under Shah’s leadership, Globetrotters expanded beyond its initial focus to encompass architecture, construction management, and various specialized engineering disciplines including electrical, structural, and mechanical engineering.
Today, the company employs over 250 professionals, leaving an indelible mark on Chicago’s infrastructure and skyline. Notable projects that bear Globetrotters’ signature include:
- The international terminal at O’Hare International Airport
- Chicago’s 911 Emergency Communications Center
- The Deep Tunnel Project, which earned the Outstanding Civil Engineering Achievement Award from the American Society of Civil Engineers in 1986
- Midway International Airport’s Redevelopment
- John Stroger Jr. Hospital
- McCormick Place Expansion
- Chicago’s six-lane I-355 South Extension
A Half-Century of Excellence
October 2023 marked an extraordinary milestone for Globetrotters Engineering Corporation as it celebrated its 50th anniversary. The significance of this achievement was recognized at the highest levels, with Illinois Governor JB Pritzker proclaiming it “Globetrotters Engineering Corporation Day” throughout the state—a testament to the firm’s lasting contributions to communities across Illinois and beyond.
Shah often credits the company’s enduring success to its people, frequently noting that “Our people have always been our best asset.” This philosophy has fostered a corporate culture that values expertise, innovation, and collaborative problem-solving.
Leadership Beyond Engineering
Chicago’s business landscape has been significantly influenced by Shah’s leadership beyond his own company. His civic engagement includes serving on Mayor Richard Daley’s Economic Development Committee from 1991 to 1995, helping to shape policies that guided Chicago’s growth during a critical period.
His influence extended to the state level as well, with an appointment by Governor Jim Edgar to the Illinois Board of Regents, the governing body for three state universities: Northern Illinois University, Illinois State University, and Sangamon State University. As Vice Chairman of the statewide Asian-American Advisory Committee under Senator Paul Simon, Shah worked to ensure diverse communities had representation in decision-making processes.
Shah’s expertise and leadership were recognized nationally when President Bill Clinton appointed him to the Goldwater Foundation for Excellence in Technical Education in 1994—a position requiring Senate approval for a six-year term. In 1996, he was nominated to the U.S. Institute of Building Science by President Clinton.
Philanthropy Without Boundaries
Throughout his successful career, Shah has maintained a deep commitment to philanthropy, focusing mainly on education and healthcare initiatives both in Chicago and internationally.
Locally, he has served on boards for prestigious institutions like the University of Chicago’s Laboratory Schools and Loyola University. His philanthropic vision led to the establishment of The Shah Center at McHenry County College, expanding educational opportunities for the community.
His generosity extends back to his roots in India, where he has funded the construction of a high school and medical clinic in his home village. Shah is also actively involved with Leading India’s Future Today (LIFT), an organization dedicated to creating educational opportunities.
In recognition of his philanthropic contributions, Shah received the Ellis Island Medal of Honor in 2006, an award presented to influential leaders who significantly contribute to American society. That same year, the Government of India presented him with the prestigious Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award, with Indian President Kalam stating, “Shri Niranjan Shah has made the country proud of his achievements and increased the prestige of India and Indians not only in America but in the entire world.”
Lessons in Entrepreneurship
For aspiring entrepreneurs, Niranjan Shah’s journey offers valuable insights. He emphasizes that genuine passion is essential for long-term success—when you truly love what you do, perseverance through challenges becomes natural.
Shah also advocates for developing practical skills, particularly in financial management and strategic thinking. These tools, combined with a willingness to adapt to changing circumstances, have been crucial to Globetrotters’ sustainability through five decades of economic fluctuations and industry evolution.
A Lasting Legacy
As Globetrotters Engineering Corporation moves beyond its 50th anniversary, Niranjan Shah’s legacy continues to shape the company and Chicago’s built environment. His multifaceted impact—engineering excellence, civic leadership, and philanthropic generosity—represents a comprehensive approach to community building that extends beyond physical infrastructure.
For Chicago, Shah exemplifies what can be achieved when innovation merges with a commitment to giving back. His story continues to inspire future generations to pursue excellence while lifting up those around them, creating a legacy that will endure well beyond the impressive structures and systems his company has helped build.