A few words about me:
I am a Space Engineer with specialisation in Electronics. I am from India, I came to the UK in 2021 to pursue a Masters in Astronautics and Space Engineering, prior to that I completed a Bachelors' in Electronics and Telecommunication. I am currently working as a Project Engineer at ALTEN, UK.
Outside of ALTEN, I am the European Young Engineers' Vice President for Internal Relations. My main duties centre on fostering internal connections, encouraging efficient communication and cooperation, and assisting members' engagement and professional growth. I have also established the Global STEM Initiative’s (GSI) chapter in the UK and am working as the Chapter Director for GSI UK.
I am a public speaker and the industry has recognised my efforts with multiple awards:
‘Rising Star of the Year’ by Forward Ladies Award in 2023
‘Women of the Future’ Award by FORTI, Women Wing, Rajasthan
Finalist for Women of the Future Awards in the ‘Technology and Digital’ category
Winning the Women’s Engineering Society and Engineers in Business Fellowship competition for INWED 2023
The BrightSparks Award in 2022 recognised me as one of the 30 brightest young electronic engineers in the UK, highlighting my exceptional skills and potential in the field
Apart from work, I'm an ardent art enthusiast, particularly drawn to dancing and painting. Trained in Bharatanatyam (Indian Classical Dance), I hold a Diploma from Tilak Maharashtra Vidyapeeth, Pune. Currently engaged with Surtal Arts, I serve as a Board Member, fostering South Asian art's growth in a volunteer capacity. I am a self-proclaimed food enthusiast who takes pleasure in both preparing and savouring a variety of culinary delights.
Are there any professional experiences you've had that are quite unexpected compared to what you do nowadays?
Apart from my responsibilities mentioned above, I embarked on a personal mentoring journey, guiding students planning to study overseas and empowering girls/women pursuing careers in STEM fields. I believe it is our responsibility to give back to the society that has been giving us so much. Additionally, I am a mentor at UKSEDS (UK Students for Exploration and Development of Space).
Is your background more STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) or non-STEM related?
I am a STEM professional. I have recently again taken up education and currently, I am pursuing my second Master's in Engineering Management.
Where did your professional journey start?
My career journey began during my undergraduate studies in Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering. However, I consider my first significant entry into the tech industry to be my role as an IoT intern, marking my introduction to the professional world and my first paid work experience.
How did you get into tech and what motivated you?
I have always been captivated by the wonders of space, and this childhood fascination has been the primary motivation behind my pursuit of a career in technology. Despite my initial inclination towards space studies, I chose to undertake a bachelor's degree in Electronics and Telecommunications. The rationale behind this decision was the versatile applicability of electronics across various domains, including IT, medical, space, and everyday home appliances.
As I honed my skills in electronics, I discovered my proficiency in the field and made the conscious choice to specialise in it for my bachelor's degree. Subsequently, I applied this expertise to pursue a master's degree in space engineering, aligning my passion with a targeted focus on contributing to the space industry.
Have you experienced any 'career in tech' challenges / stereotypes?
In all the interviews I've participated in throughout my life, I've noticed a scarcity of female interviewers, with very few or almost none in the mix.
"Just go for it, no one is going to come with a plate full of opportunities before you. You got to go out, look for opportunities and make them yours."
What you wish you knew before getting started in tech...
You are never going to know everything because the tech world is ever evolving and you will always have something new to learn every single day. The tech industry is known for being at the forefront of advancements.
What has been your biggest 'wow!' moment related to working in tech so far?
The marvel that humanity has crafted to explore the depths of space and conduct research and communication from those distant realms.
What do you like / not like about working in tech?
The tech industry spans various domains, from software development to hardware engineering, deep space, and more. This diversity allows individuals to find roles that align with their interests and skills. As mentioned above, the fast-paced nature of the tech industry means that there are always new things to learn. I find this aspect intellectually stimulating.
Something that can be improved is ensuring that technology is accessible to all individuals, including those differently abled, is crucial. I think designing products and services with inclusivity in mind and adhering to accessibility standards can create a great impact.
"Chase your dreams, and even if success doesn't come, consider it an opportunity to gain valuable experience."
What's been your favourite / most memorable / funniest 'career in tech' moment so far?
It was when I first came to Cranfield University (for Masters in Astronautics and Space Engineering). Since Cranfield University has its flying school and an airport, there are always planes flying over the area. I was so mesmerised and it felt like being a kid in a candy store. That day, I knew, I was exactly at the right place.
And to wrap up, is there any advice you'd like to give to others interested in a career in tech?
Just go for it, no one is going to come with a plate full of opportunities before you. You got to go out, look for opportunities and make them yours. Chase your dreams, and even if success doesn't come, consider it an opportunity to gain valuable experience. Do not wait for anyone to be your role model, be your own role model and mainly, always believe in your self.
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