My SWE Experience
“The networking that SWE brings really stands out for me. It creates learning and growth opportunities that we don’t always get within our own organizations.”
What makes SWE valuable for you?
SWE is a platform that connects many women in engineering. Typically, in a work environment—especially in core engineering—we often see very few women. On the SWE platform, you get to see, hear, and meet many more women in engineering across the world. It makes us feel that we are not alone and that there is so much more happening globally. That is what makes SWE feel special and valuable to me.
Janaki Gadiyaram
Job Title & Company: Senior Program Manager – LEAD Engineering & Operations India, Wabtec
Location: Bengaluru, India
Academic Background:
- Masters in Mechanical engineering from Tennessee Technological University
- Advanced diploma in management from ICFAI
- Certified Analytics engineer and Reliability Practionioner Program from GE
Years in SWE: since 2020
As a senior professional, how does SWE support your growth and learning?
When I talk about support, the networking that SWE brings really stands out for me. In our organizations, work can often be siloed. But through SWE—whether it’s speed mentoring sessions or professional development events—you get to build a network that supports your learning and professional growth. It may not always be direct, but it definitely contributes to growth, especially for those in senior leadership roles.
What would you say to an experienced STEM professional wondering if SWE would be valuable for them?
SWE is doing immense work by partnering with colleges through affiliate programs and professional development initiatives. It creates a platform for students and professionals to understand what’s happening across the industry—whether in software, manufacturing, or heavy engineering.
For example, within our organization, we conducted a virtual lab program and reached out to several colleges across India. We engaged with over 300 students and walked them through our mechanical labs, simulation labs, and component labs. Without SWE, it would have been very difficult to execute an initiative of that scale. SWE gives STEM professionals a strong overview of real-world industry practices and helps build collaboration between students, affiliates, and industry.
How has SWE helped you gain visibility or recognition in your field?
As the former co-chair of the SWE India Corporate Council (ICC), I’ve been involved in writing blogs, conducting webinars, and organizing activities in collaboration with SWE. Being the focal point for SWE within my organization in India has added to my professional profile, as I’m often the go-to person for related initiatives.
Additionally, being an ICC member has given me visibility within the broader ICC community. Participating in panel discussions and webinars has also helped people recognize me for the work I do—opportunities that likely would not have happened without an organization like SWE.
