A Mentor's Mettle: Fostering Female Led Futures In STEM Fields

In an industry where the clang of metal is often louder than the voices of women, making their presence known is difficult for women in STEM and heavy industries. Women in these fields encounter systemic barriers, gender biases, and a lack of representation and mentors. Having climbed the ranks in the steel industry to elevate, I understand these hurdles.

Mentorship, I believe, is the linchpin in surmounting these obstacles. It is the beacon that lights the way for women, providing direction, support, and the courage to break through. Mentorship is the cornerstone of fostering female futures in STEM and industry. It’s about illuminating the path for others, just as it was lit for me. Our conviction in mentorship's power is reflected in our efforts to create a gender-neutral workspace, where almost 50% are women and many have executive roles.

The Mettle To Mentor

In the early days of my career when I was often the only woman in the room, I faced skepticism and underestimation. Yet, these experiences only fueled my determination to succeed and to pave the way for other women.

Participating in industrial events and sharing our journeys as women leaders can profoundly impact and inspire future generations. As a speaker at various industry events, I seize the opportunity to impart my experiences and insights, igniting a spark of inspiration in young women who tread similar paths. It's about sharing the highs and lows of my journey, offering guidance and hope to those who find themselves in the same positions I once occupied. These initiatives transcend mere policy—it's a beacon of possibility, illuminating the path for women navigating the challenges of STEM and industrial careers.

Fostering Female Futures

Based on my experience working in the STEM field, I strongly believe that both organizations and women need to adopt several key practices to make this industry more inclusive. It is crucial to recognize that organizations alone cannot create equal opportunities for women in this field.

Firstly, promoting STEM education for girls from a young age is crucial for building confidence and interest. Creating mentorship and sponsorship programs specifically targeted at women can provide them with the guidance and support needed to navigate their careers. Women should seek out and leverage mentorship opportunities, continuously expanding their skill set and industry knowledge. Embracing networking, both within and outside their organizations, can open doors to new opportunities and insights.

Women aiming for success in STEM fields should actively cultivate certain key attributes and approaches. Beyond possessing well-defined career aspirations and the courage to advocate for their value, it is vital to prioritize professional development as a commitment to both personal and organizational growth. Additionally, developing resilience to failure and viewing setbacks as learning opportunities can pave the way for innovation and progress. By challenging societal norms and stereotypes, women can redefine perceptions of their capabilities in STEM, advocating for themselves and others to create a more equitable and successful future in these fields.

Implementing flexible work policies can also help accommodate diverse life commitments, making STEM careers more accessible to women. It is essential to acknowledge that women and men had very different and defined roles in the past. While we are currently blurring the lines between these roles, achieving true gender neutrality in all jobs is a gradual process. Until then, women need more flexible policies to balance work and household responsibilities without having to choose one over the other. This quality should not be seen as a lack by management, but rather as a way to bring a more holistic perspective to the team, providing new insights. After all, one cannot ask for things in isolation.

Furthermore, fostering an environment that actively challenges gender stereotypes and encourages diverse hiring practices is crucial. The culture of companies needs to change, starting from the top down, where sexist comments are shunned and looked down upon. Everyone should be given the opportunity to prove their mettle.

These initiatives, coupled with continuous education on gender bias and the promotion of women into leadership roles, can significantly contribute to a more inclusive culture in STEM.

A Vision For Tomorrow

Looking ahead, I envision a future where the gender disparities in STEM and industrial sectors are relics of the past. The road is long, but every step taken is a stride towards a future where women are recognized not for their gender but for their contributions and capabilities.

If you are embarking on your journey in STEM and industry, embrace every challenge as an opportunity for growth. Let your passion be your guide. Together, we can forge a future that celebrates diversity, champions equality, and recognizes the invaluable contributions of women in every field.

Authored by Kairavi Mehta, CEO, and Executive Director of V. K. Industrial Corporation Limited (VKICL)