As against the traditional notions around female presence in sectors like manufacturing and engineering, more women are choosing manufacturing sector and creating a sustainable career. Women in manufacturing have gained attention over the recent years due to the contributions of more women who join the sector out of passion and talent. They have proved that talent and not gender is what defines a person’s strength. This indeed helps in bridging the gender gap and creating more job opportunities for women in male-dominated sectors. We caught up with some of the women who are associated with Rhino Machines Pvt Ltd, one of the leading manufacturers which provide automation solutions for the foundries across the country. As they share their experiences of working in the manufacturing sector, we could understand the changes happening in the industry and its impact upon women’s careers. Let’s read on.
Priti Mehta – Sales Engineer, Rhino Machines Pvt Ltd
After completing my engineering, I started searching for jobs. I thought that it will be very difficult to get a job in manufacturing industry as I am a girl. However, the scenario was different. Both men and women are considered equal. I started my career in a small company in Anand. I was looking after design, sales and ISO development. As a result of my hard work, I got an opportunity to work in a large engineering company in Vidyanagar. I have been associated with Rhino Machines Pvt Ltd since 4 years. It was a different experience to work with one of the fast growing companies. I was able to participate in learning activities, skill development, work shop etc .This has made a difference in my career as well as my personal life. Also,the respect, support and empathy that working women get from their family is different.
Nidhi Shah, R&D and Sales Engineer, Rhino Machines Pvt Ltd
My career started six years ago, after I pursued my graduation in Metallurgy Engineering from MS University. I engaged working in a reputed forging company known as Sanghavi Forging & Engineering Ltd. I was one of the few women technical persons.Everyone considered me as a soft person and doubted my compatibility with the industry.However, I worked hard to show my capability.As a woman the idea of success and acceptance is not so easy.I had to continuously work hard to reach my goal and everyone started applauding me.Later, I joined another company from where I learned casting technology, design and ISO development.I was offered a position in the R&D department of a reputed wagon building industry called BESCO ltd. Recently, I have started working with Rhino Machines. It is a great experience working here.As a woman, it gives you immense confidence and enthusiasm when you are working with sublime leaders around you.
Kusum Ambala Chavda – Administrator, Rhino Machines Pvt Ltd
Being a B.Com graduate.I have 21 years of industry experience. During 1997-2008, I was working at the Methodist Technical Institute. I was also working as a teacher in computer course. From 2009-2014, I was associated with Rhino Machines Pvt. Ltd. Company where I worked in Sales department. Usually, it will be difficult to directly join a manufacturing company after working in education sector for so long. However, Rhino supported me in all ways and I was able to work without any trouble. Now I am working in the Skill Development Centre, ACE Foundation .I must say both Rhino Machines Pvt. Ltd and ACE Foundation have supported me to grow in my career.
