Sarika Shetty, CEO and Co-founder of RentenPe, shared her thoughts with The Hans India on National Engineers Day, focusing on the role of women in engineering and the importance of breaking barriers to foster innovation. She emphasized that providing equal opportunities, flexible workplaces, and pathways to leadership can transform the engineering landscape and empower more women to drive innovation. Engineering has always been central to human advancement, significantly influencing societies through innovation, infrastructure, and technology. Yet, it remains a predominantly male-dominated field in India, with women facing challenges such as societal expectations, stereotypes, and under-representation. Observing the engineering sector, one can find a scarcity of women in core engineering roles. However, the situation is evolving.
For instance, over 100 women, including scientists and engineers, made substantial contributions to India’s Chandrayaan-III mission, reflecting a shift where women are not merely participants but are actively reshaping the future of engineering. Although women’s participation in engineering is on the rise, the statistics still reveal a significant gap. According to an Avtar study, only 12 percent of women are engaged in engineering disciplines, while 27 to 40 percent are involved in services. This disparity can be linked to social, economic, and policy-related obstacles. Common challenges include safety issues, inadequate infrastructure, unconscious biases, and unequal access to STEM education, all of which hinder women’s full participation in this vital industry.
Societal expectations and workplace challenges often impact women’s paths to engineering. Traditional norms frequently steer women toward caregiving roles, and professions like nursing or teaching are often seen as more respectable than technical careers, which can limit their pursuit of engineering. Furthermore, in Tier II and Tier III cities, restricted access to quality educational institutions complicates the situation, making relocation for education a concern regarding safety and affordability. Those who manage to overcome these hurdles may still face inflexible and non-inclusive workplaces, where their contributions are undervalued, especially during internships or early career stages. The absence of visible role models exacerbates this issue, making it harder for young women to envision themselves in leadership roles within the engineering sector.
Diversity in engineering is crucial, not just as a moral obligation but as a catalyst for innovation. Engineering solutions must cater to a diverse society, necessitating teams that encompass a range of perspectives. Such diversity enables the creation of technologies that address real-world needs more effectively. Women provide unique insights that enhance problem-solving and yield more comprehensive and inclusive outcomes. In emerging fields like artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and biomedical engineering, women are broadening the horizons of what is achievable, ensuring that technological advancements reflect a wider array of human experiences. Women are leading significant progress across various sectors, heading sustainable energy initiatives, advancing biomedical engineering, and contributing to future endeavors in space exploration and robotics.
These accomplishments demonstrate that when barriers are removed, women not only participate but excel and lead. Their presence in engineering is transforming industries and motivating the next generation to explore careers in science and technology. To create a future where women thrive in engineering, systemic changes are essential. Early exposure to STEM education can ignite curiosity and build confidence among young girls, fostering a pipeline of future engineers. Mentorship and sponsorship programs are crucial, providing guidance and role models for those in male-dominated fields. Workplace policies must evolve to promote inclusivity and equity in the coming years, creating environments that nurture talent rather than restrict it.
Implementing structured pathways for women into leadership positions, ensuring equal pay, and offering flexible working conditions are vital steps. Recognition of women’s achievements is equally important, as it challenges stereotypes and highlights the successes of women engineers through media, conferences, and awards. Engineering stands at a pivotal moment. The future of innovation will largely depend on the industry’s commitment to embracing diversity and supporting women at every stage of their careers. Breaking barriers is no longer a distant goal; it is happening now. The challenge remains to sustain and expand these advances, fostering a profession where women can rise, lead, and inspire.
Empowering women in engineering is not merely about fulfilling quotas; it is about unlocking the full potential of human creativity to build a future that benefits all of society.