The Power of Support: How Mini Thomas’s Journey Reveals the Future of STEM Leadership
Just 21% of the engineering workforce in South Asia is female. This stark statistic underscores a critical challenge: retaining and promoting women in STEM fields. But the story of Mini Thomas, a pioneering electrical engineer and leader in Indian academia, reveals a powerful, often overlooked factor in overcoming this hurdle – the indispensable role of familial support. Her trajectory, from a classroom tutor to the first female president of the National Institute of Technology, Tiruchirappalli, isn’t just a personal triumph; it’s a blueprint for building a more inclusive and innovative future.
From Kerala Classrooms to National Leadership
Born and raised in Kerala, India, Thomas’s path to engineering wasn’t predetermined. While academic excellence often steered students towards medicine or engineering, a childhood aversion to blood quickly narrowed her focus. A natural aptitude for mathematics, coupled with a burgeoning passion for teaching discovered during her undergraduate studies at the University of Kerala, set her on a course that would see her earn a Ph.D. from the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, and ultimately lead to decades of academic leadership.
Her career is a testament to consistent advancement. From early roles at the National Institute of Technology, Calicut, and Delhi Technological University, to establishing innovative programs at Jamia Millia Islamia – including a master’s program in electrical power system management and a Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship – Thomas consistently broke new ground. Her tenure as president of NIT Tiruchirappalli was particularly significant, making her the sole woman among 90 leaders of national institutions at the time.
The Unseen Foundation: Family as a Catalyst for Success
Throughout her remarkable career, Thomas repeatedly emphasizes the crucial role of family support. “For a woman to succeed, she needs a lot of family support,” she asserts, recognizing the disproportionate burden of caretaking and child-rearing responsibilities that often interrupt women’s career trajectories. This isn’t merely a matter of emotional encouragement; it’s about practical assistance that allows women to navigate the demands of a challenging profession without sacrificing personal life.
This observation is particularly relevant in the context of the South Asian STEM landscape. A World Bank study highlights the significant gender gap in technical roles within the region, ranging from a mere 0.1% to 21%. Addressing this disparity requires not only institutional changes but also a cultural shift that prioritizes and facilitates family support for women pursuing STEM careers.
Mentorship and the WePOWER Initiative: Expanding the Circle of Support
Recognizing that her own supportive environment wasn’t universal, Thomas has dedicated herself to mentoring the next generation of women in the power and energy industry. Her involvement with the South Asia WePOWER network’s SAR 100 professional development program exemplifies this commitment. WePOWER provides crucial technical training, mentorship, and networking opportunities to 100 women across South Asia, equipping them with the skills and confidence to advance their careers.
This initiative is a prime example of how targeted interventions can address systemic barriers. By focusing on skill development, leadership training, and peer support, WePOWER aims to create a more equitable and inclusive environment for women in a traditionally male-dominated field. Thomas’s contributions extend beyond training; she actively mentors women, sharing the lessons learned from her own experiences and advocating for their advancement.
IEEE: A Lifelong Learning and Networking Hub
Thomas’s 35-year association with the IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers) has been instrumental in her professional growth. From accessing cutting-edge research on SCADA systems to co-authoring the book Power System SCADA and Smart Grids, IEEE has provided a platform for continuous learning and collaboration. Her volunteer work, including roles chairing student activities and serving on editorial boards, demonstrates a commitment to giving back to the community.
The IEEE’s emphasis on knowledge sharing and professional development underscores the importance of lifelong learning in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. Furthermore, the organization’s global network provides invaluable opportunities for mentorship, collaboration, and career advancement.
The Future of STEM: Prioritizing Holistic Support Systems
Mini Thomas’s story isn’t just about individual achievement; it’s a powerful illustration of the interconnectedness between personal support, institutional structures, and professional success. As STEM fields continue to evolve, and the demand for skilled engineers grows, creating truly inclusive environments will be paramount. This means not only addressing gender biases within organizations but also actively fostering the family support systems that enable women to thrive. The future of innovation depends on unlocking the full potential of all talent, and that requires a commitment to holistic support – a lesson Mini Thomas’s journey powerfully embodies. What steps can organizations take to better support the families of women in STEM? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
