In recent years, women have been playing increasingly pivotal roles in the traditionally maledominated field of engineering. Their contributions extend beyond breaking gender barriers; women leaders in engineering bring diverse perspectives, innovative thinking, and exceptional problem-solving skills to the table. This evolution is reshaping the landscape of the engineering domain, fostering an inclusive environment that encourages excellence and creativity. One notable example of a trailblazing woman in the engineering sector is Nidhi Kanoi, the Director of Tech Fab India. Alongside her husband Anant Kanoi, Nidhi co-founded Tech Fab India in 2003 with a vision to produce geosynthetics tailored for the indigenous market.

Over the past two decades, Tech Fab has emerged as a powerhouse in the manufacturing of geosynthetics, securing its position as a market leader in India. As a woman at the forefront of an engineering enterprise, Nidhi stands as an inspiration, showcasing the invaluable contributions that women make in shaping and advancing the engineering industry. Let’s hear more from her in this one on one interaction.

Walk us through your academic history and the relevant industry expertise you possess.

I hold the designation of a Chartered Accountant and also have a background in Interior Design. I completed my B.Com and M.Com degrees at Mumbai University, where my strong interest in mathematics and science was evident. During my Chartered Accountant internship, I gained valuable experience working with various manufacturing companies, gaining a comprehensive understanding of their processes. From 1999 to 2003, I actively participated in my family's plastics business, paving the way for a seamless transition into geosynthetic manufacturing.

Share with us the broad range of professional skills and knowledge you have cultivated throughout your career.

I played a pivotal role in establishing factories and navigating a then-new technology in India. Collaborating closely with my husband, we successfully steered Tech Fab to its current position as an industry leader. In the past few years, my focus has extended to administration, accounting, and finance within the company. More recently, I've actively contributed to strategic initiatives and overall planning in collaboration with the Board of Directors.

As a Chartered Accountant by qualification and a professional investor, could you elaborate on the different responsibilities you undertake within the realm of finance?

I've been actively involved in scrutinizing the company's finances and accounts, contributing to cost reduction efforts, and overseeing bookkeeping. As we transitioned to ERP, I played a role in streamlining and optimizing our systems. Additionally, my keen interest in family investments has become more pronounced, a discovery made during the period of COVID.

What, in your view, are some of the key hurdles you face as a versatile leader in the Indian business scenario? How do you navigate and surmount these challenges?

One significant challenge I've encountered involves the mental barriers that some men experience when working with women leaders. Overcoming this obstacle has been possible by adopting a determined approach and refusing to accept rejection. Another challenge revolves around achieving a harmonious balance between family and professional commitments. Fortunately, the unwavering support from my parents, husband, brother, and children has made this balancing act considerably smoother. They have demonstrated understanding and encouragement throughout my journey, never hindering my progress.

Illuminate the most significant professional milestones you've reached throughout your career. What lends importance to these accomplishments for you?

Firstly, achieving my CA qualification on the initial attempt and securing a position in the top 50 in both Inter and Final exams stands out as a crucial milestone. The significance lies in the fact that these exams posed one of the most challenging academic endeavors I had undertaken.

Another noteworthy milestone was the establishment of Tech Fab India in 2003. Through extensive brainstorming and exploration of opportunities, we identified a venture that aligned with our strengths and the prevailing Indian scenario. Looking forward, the trajectory of Tech Fab in 2024 and beyond is a source of great excitement. Our business expansion into different products and geographies is a thrilling journey, and I am eager to witness its unfolding success.

The COVID period brought another pivotal moment with my involvement in Millennium Mams', a notfor- profit organization I joined in 2020 to delve into investment learning. Guided by Bishnu Dhanuka, my mentor, this experience has not only contributed to my personal growth but has also played a vital role in achieving my family's investment goals.

What is your outlook on the advancement of Indian women leaders in the business arena in 2024? Additionally, what factors do you believe can enhance the representation of women in prominent leadership positions across various industries?

Over the years, Indian women leaders have exhibited remarkable strength, buoyed by support from their counterparts. I believe it is crucial for these accomplished women to transition into influential allies and mentors for the younger generation. The continued success of women in leadership roles hinges on their access to top-tier education and employment opportunities. It is imperative that women excel in these areas to ascend to leadership positions and break through the glass ceiling. Addressing any hesitancy towards.

Nidhi Kanoi, Co-Founded, Tech FAB India

Nidhi Kanoi co-founded Tech Fab India along with her husband Anant Kanoi in 2003 with a vision to produce geosynthetics tailored for the indigenous market. A CA by qualification, Nidhi also has a background in Interior Design. At Tech Fab, she scrutinizes the company's finances & accounts, and also plays a role in streamlining and optimizing the company’s systems. As a woman at the forefront of an engineering enterprise, she is an inspiration, showcasing the invaluable contributions that women make in shaping the male-dominated engineering industry.

• Awards of Recognitions won so far – Rank holder in Inter and Final CA; President Mumbai Chapter of Millennium Mams’ – a Not-for-profit organisation empowering women through financial literacy.

• Advice for aspiring women entrepreneurs/business leaders – ‘Whatever women do, they must do twice as well as men to be thought half as good. Luckily, this is not difficult’ - Charlotte Whitton. Hopefully things are changing for the younger women entrepreneurs out there today. Keep pushing boundaries and support each other.