In this special Women in Tech takeover, Sheryl Miles speaks with Selu Gupta, Hardware Engineering Manager, Tektronix about the importance of networks.
Gupta discusses her background, starting as a design engineer at Tektronix for 20 years before transitioning into a management role about 4.5 years ago. She was also the founder of the Women in Technology Resource Group at Tektronix and the Women's Alliance Leadership Council at the parent company Fortive.
She explains how the Women in Technology group started organically when she and a few other new mothers on her team noticed they were struggling to connect with other women at the company. They realised there was a need for more frequent opportunities for women to support each other. Despite some initial resistance, the group quickly grew to over 35 members at the first event and has continued to thrive, now with around 250-300 active members.
Gupta discusses how being part of this group has greatly benefited her personally. It has helped her make valuable connections and find support, both professionally and personally. The group has also allowed her to develop new skills like public speaking and leadership that have advanced her career. She is proud that the group has had a positive impact beyond just her, creating a sense of community and support for women across the company, and even expanding globally to other Tektronix locations.
Gupta reflects on how her own mindset has evolved over her 25-year career at Tektronix. Early on, she felt the need to fit in with the male-dominated environment, but becoming a mother was a turning point that made her realise the immense value of having a supportive network of women. Now she makes it a priority to be that mentor and role model for younger women, sharing her experiences openly in the hopes of inspiring them.
In closing, Gupta encourages others, especially women and individuals from diverse backgrounds, to have the courage to create their own support networks, even in the face of resistance. She believes the benefits, both personal and professional, are immense, and that making those human connections is key to growth and success.
To hear more from Selu Gupta, you can listen to Electronic Specifier’s interview on Spotify or Apple podcasts.
