Okay, let’s break it down. Akshay has a strong skill set in areas like structural optimization, research, and leadership. His proficiency in languages like English and Malayalam is also an asset. However, his location in West Lafayette, Indiana, which is a smaller city, might affect his earning potential compared to larger cities. Considering his skills and education, I would estimate his hourly rate to be around $120, which is slightly below the national average for engineers in the United States. This is because his location and the specific industry he works in might not be as lucrative as others. However, his skills and experience still make him a competitive candidate in the job market.