4 September2022Editor NoteReimagining Job Role in Manufacturing Can Go a Long Way in Creating a Gender Balanced Workforce In a recent discussion with Ashwini Patil, Director of Hypro Group, a Turnkey Solution provider for Hygienic Process Industry & a manufacturing giant for Industrial Brewery, CO2 Recovery, Energy Recovery, WaterDeaeration systems I was introduced to the harsh reality of a shop floor in a manufacturing facility. Ashwini explained how difficult it for her initially to get the labourers to respect her authority as a leader. Perturbed by the sight of a woman on a shop floor, the workforce was unable to trust her know-how and skill set. She mentioned that she had to work doubly hard for the workforce to acknowledge her expertize and treat her with the respect that she very well deserved. This is not an isolated example. The manufacturing industry has long been known to be a male dominated sector. Traditionally, manufacturing is perceived as being a labour-intensive field which makes it a non-conducive environment for women, or so the industry believes. However, today's reality is far from that. With technology advancing drastically, the manufacturing field has evolved as well and there is ample space for women to participate equally in all levels of work. Some organizations have also made an effort to bring in diversity, equity and inclusionary strategies in the manufacturing industry. As a result today India's manufacturing sector has 12 percent women. While the number is rather small, yet there is ample scope for improvement. Companies today need to rethink traditional roles and jobs. They must also invest in creating more awareness and educating the professions to understand the various types of job roles available in manufacturing. Countering myths and showcasing the huge opportunities that the sector holds will surely motivate more women to come forward and join the manufacturing sector. Simple steps such as putting in place policies and strategies that promote DEI in the company culture can also go a long way. Another key aspect can be building up role models in the industry; highlighting the prolific women leaders who have been doing superlative work in the manufacturing industry can also work wonders. For instance, take a look at Sivasankari TP, the Managing Director of EMF Innovations. The astute leader is one such rising leader who is creating a significant influence in the Indian manufacturing industry. "A majority of our workforce is made up of women, and we train them to be at par with the men. I believe no achievement is impossible for women. Our production shifts will soon be entirely controlled by female personnel; we are working towards this objective and expect to accomplish it shortly", she says.This is the kind of growth a single visionary leader can bring about. Just image how much better the entire industry would be if we could cultivate an army of such role models? This is certainly food for thought.Do read on and let us know your thoughts. Rachita SharmaManaging Editor
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