Celebrating Women in Energy | With VFlowTech Female Engineers, Jyothi & Sanjana
In the dynamic landscape of the energy sector, the voices and contributions of women are increasingly vital. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we celebrate the achievements and insights of our female professionals who are driving innovation and sustainability in this industry. We had the privilege to sit down and interview Jyothi and Sanjana, two remarkable women shaping the future of energy at VFlowTech.
Q: Can you tell us about your journey at VFlowTech and your role?
Sanjana: My journey at VFlowTech began as an intern while I was completing my Masters in Power Engineering at NTU. Being involved in the deployment of Energy Storage System projects and contributing to crucial R&D initiatives was both thrilling and deeply fulfilling. Witnessing the evolution of my contributions from inception to implementation was truly rewarding. The supportive work environment further enhanced my growth. I was surrounded by encouraging teammates who not only cheered me on but also were always open to sharing their knowledge. Upon completing my master’s program, I eagerly transitioned into a full-time role as a Power System Engineer at VFlowTech, where I continue to thrive in a fulfilling capacity, now with added responsibilities and deeper engagement in impactful work.
Jyothi: I began my journey as an Energy Management System (EMS) Engineer and have since transitioned into the realm of Internet of Things (IoT). My responsibilities encompass the development of the EMS software for our PowerCubes, IoT applications, and rigorous product testing. Working remotely in India has provided me with the flexibility to efficiently manage both household responsibilities and office tasks concurrently, eliminating unnecessary mental tensions.
Q: What motivated you to pursue a career in energy storage?
Sanjana: I’ve always been driven by the desire to combine my enthusiasm for technology with my commitment to advancing sustainability and combating climate change. As a former Electrical Engineering student, I’ve learned time and again about the immense potential of renewable energy. Renewables are a vital component in our journey towards global decarbonisation and essential climate action which is now more urgent than ever before. However, despite this vast potential, the necessary energy transition is still lacking support from policies worldwide in addition to certain technological limitations. During my master’s studies, as I sought internships aligning with my goals, VFlowTech caught my attention. It became evident to me that Energy Storage Systems play a pivotal role in bolstering renewable energy projects and accelerating their adoption. This made VFlowTech the ideal environment for me to not only learn but also to thrive, given the company’s alignment with my passion, and the critical role it plays in advancing sustainable energy solutions.
Jyothi: As environmental awareness grows, so does the appeal of the energy industry. Exploring its diverse roles within the industry allows me to align my interests and values with meaningful work. Unlike more established sectors like wind or solar, the energy storage industry is relatively still developing at an exponential rate, fostering rapid growth, evolution, and innovation, which keeps the work I do here dynamic and compelling. The energy sector confronts complex challenges daily, driving the need for software developers, data scientists, and experts in machine learning and optimisation. This continuous learning environment makes working in the industry both stimulating and rewarding.
Q: What challenges have you faced as women in a male-dominated industry?
Sanjana: In navigating a traditionally male-dominated industry, one of the notable challenges I’ve faced is the absence of female camaraderie. While a supportive work culture and male allyship can mitigate this issue, the lack thereof can impede growth as an engineer. I’ve observed that I often need to amplify my voice to ensure my interests and experiences are acknowledged, as they can easily be overshadowed in this predominantly male environment. However, maintaining assertiveness and seeking support when necessary have been crucial strategies in overcoming these obstacles.
Jyothi: Entering male-dominated fields presented both challenges and opportunities. In an era where women were breaking barriers, I was determined to leave my mark. My upbringing instilled resilience and the value of embracing diversity, guiding me through the complexities of these industries while advocating for inclusivity and equality. Despite facing unexpected hurdles, my determination and diverse perspective enabled me to overcome many obstacles. Resilience has been instrumental in navigating gender biases and skepticism toward my ideas. Over time, it earned me the respect and trust of my colleagues and superiors, validating the importance of perseverance in male-dominated industries for me personally.
Q: What role do women play in shaping the energy industry’s future?
Sanjana: Overall, women play a multifaceted and indispensable role in shaping the future of the energy industry, driving progress towards a more sustainable energy landscape. As an industry, it’s imperative that we actively promote gender equality within our workforce. Embracing diversity not only cultivates a wealth of perspectives but also fuels innovation. Moving forward, a crucial aspect of our responsibility is to empower the future workforce because sustainability and combating climate change know no gender boundaries. It’s a collective global challenge that demands the involvement of all. While gender equality may have been lacking in previous generations, our presence in the industry can serve as a beacon, inspiring more women to join and excel in this sector.
Jyothi: Inclusive decision-making is fundamental to achieving sustainable progress. Women leaders contribute unique perspectives that shape policies and strategies, placing a strong emphasis on clean energy and environmental stewardship. As role models, I believe women will inspire the coming generations to dismantle traditional gender barriers and actively participate in clean energy solutions.
Q: How can women manage multiple responsibilities while excelling in their roles?
Sanjana: Historically, women have often been expected to juggle multiple roles within the household, family, and community while also pursuing their careers or education. However, societal attitudes are slowly changing, allowing individuals to define their paths according to their preferences and capabilities. I believe setting boundaries and prioritising well-being are crucial for maintaining productivity and preventing burnout. Moreover, advocating for equal partnerships within households and workplaces, where responsibilities are shared, ensures that women can pursue their goals without being disproportionately burdened by duties outside of work. It’s also important to reevaluate traditional gender roles and unconscious biases we grow up with that may limit women’s opportunities or perceptions of their capabilities. By encouraging women to defy expectations, pursue their passions, and excel in their various roles, we can collectively move towards a more equitable and empowering society.
Jyothi: The modern woman’s life is incredibly multifaceted, irrespective of the culture, encompassing roles as a professional, a partner, a mother, and much more. Beyond these recognised responsibilities, there are numerous other duties that women like myself often undertake, yet they frequently go unnoticed and unacknowledged. I believe that success hinges on prioritising these roles based on their importance at various periods of our lives, and achieving a balance between familial support and professional obligations.
Q: What message do you have for aspiring female professionals in the energy sector?
Sanjana: Now, more than ever, it’s crucial for everyone to understand the effects of climate change and to play an active role in mitigating its impact. By entering the energy sector, we have a unique opportunity to contribute to building a cleaner and more sustainable future for generations to come. I understand that the gender ratio in the energy industry may seem daunting, but I urge aspiring female professionals not to be discouraged. Your passion, skills, and dedication are needed now more than ever in this field. By pursuing careers in sustainable technology and renewable energy, you can make a significant difference in shaping our collective response to climate change.
Remember, your presence in the energy sector is not just about breaking barriers or challenging stereotypes—it’s about driving real change. By actively participating in this industry, you are helping to ensure that the gender disparity that the industry sees becomes a thing of the past. Together, let’s work towards a future where diversity and inclusion are the norm, and where women play a leading role in shaping a more sustainable world.
Jyothi: Seek out mentors who inspire you and don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance. Remember, intimidation is a mental barrier that can be overcome with the support of others who believe in you. Confidence is key; if you have a passion for the technical aspects of the field, don’t let being a minority hold you back. Today, more than ever, women are encouraged to pursue careers in the energy sector. The contribution of women to energy sector teams is invaluable; their capacity for innovation, persuasion, and leadership is unmatched. Some of my most inspiring mentors have been incredible women. So, my advice is simple: Be proud of who you are, embrace your femininity, and let your voice and talents shine in the technological world.
