Celebrating International Women’s Day

26 March 2025

As the world advances towards a more inclusive and diverse future, the role of women in engineering and entrepreneurship has become more pivotal than ever. Breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and driving innovation, women engineers and entrepreneurs are not just contributing their best to industries but reshaping them. On the occasion of International Women’s Day, we celebrate the relentless spirit, resilience, and achievements of women who have carved a niche for themselves in domains traditionally dominated by men.

This feature brings together voices of remarkable women who continue to break new ground, proving that the future of engineering and entrepreneurship is promising, empowering and undeniably bright. – Editor

Key challenges faced:

I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have had exceptional leaders and managers who have believed in me, provided guidance, and advocated for me, over the course of my career. However, one of the key challenges I faced early on—particularly as a student—was the absence of visible female role models in the corporate world. Role models play a pivotal role in shaping aspirations and career choices, and when women see other women achieving their goals, it reinforces their belief that they too can succeed. Another challenge that many women encounter, including myself, is navigating unconscious gender biases. Additionally, access to influential networks and sponsors—key drivers of career advancement—is often more limited for women.

Over the course of my career – I’m aimed to root my approach in authenticity, resilience, and results. I believe confidence is key – speaking up, taking ownership of your decisions, and asserting expertise, helps establish one’s credibility. Quintessential is mastering technical and business knowledge apart from developing robust and authentic people and leadership skills. And finally, important, if not critical, is building a strong network of mentors and having a strong support system, to ensure one navigates one’s career with the utmost professionalism and resilience.

Steps organizations should take to accelerate gender inclusivity:

The landscape of traditionally male-dominated industries is already evolving; sectors like manufacturing, engineering, and technology are seeing steady progress, reflected in rising female participation. For example, in India, women now make up approximately 29.7% of engineering undergraduates, signalling a positive shift toward greater representation in technical fields.

Achieving gender equality is not just about policies—it’s about changing mindsets and behaviours across an entire organization. Real progress happens only when everyone—men and women—actively participate in driving change.

At ELGi, we’re focused on driving gender inclusivity through structured initiatives that empower women in manufacturing in both white and blue-collar roles. From employing women on the shop floor and establishing all-women production lines, to offering ELGi Vocational Training School (EVTS) opportunities to under-privileged young girls to introducing shop-floor policies that focus on workplace safety, health, and career development, providing nutritional support, maternity benefits, fitness programs, and counselling. With creche facilities, structured mentorship, and skill-building programs, ELGi is committed to fostering a workplace where women can thrive at every stage of their careers.

Advice to young aspiring women:

The first and most courageous step in any journey is to take charge of your own growth. Think deeply about what you want, believe in yourself, and go after your goals with confidence. Stay true to who you are, always.

Big dreams lead to bold visions. Yet, across the world, 132 million girls are out of school, and gender disparities persist in education due to barriers like poverty, child marriage, and lack of safe learning spaces. Despite these challenges, every young girl has the power to seize opportunities, find her passion, and pursue her dreams.

No matter where you come from, your dreams are valid. What truly matters is your dedication, resilience, and willingness to push forward. If you love what you do and are willing to put in the effort, success will follow. Believe in yourself, work hard, and make it happen.