On April 15, 2026, PES University EC Campus hosted an inspiring and thought‑provoking session titled “Women in Tech: Rise, Innovate, Inspire” at Seminar Hall 4. The event brought together over 60 students and faculty members for an engaging discussion on technology, leadership, and inclusion in an era increasingly shaped by Artificial Intelligence.
Insights from Industry: Navigating Tech in the Age of AI
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Soma Pandey, Assistant Vice President at Jio, whose session offered a compelling overview of the rapidly evolving technology landscape. Dr. Pandey spoke extensively about the impact of Artificial Intelligence on the modern job market, emphasizing how automation is reshaping traditional roles while simultaneously creating new opportunities.
She highlighted the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and future‑ready skill sets, encouraging students to stay resilient in the face of technological disruption. Her insights helped demystify industry expectations and provided attendees with practical guidance on staying relevant in an AI‑driven professional environment.
Women, Leadership, and the Corporate Reality
Beyond technology, the session addressed a crucial and timely topic - women’s representation and leadership in the corporate world. Dr. Pandey shared eye‑opening statistics on gender disparity in senior leadership roles and spoke candidly about the systemic challenges women often encounter in their professional journeys.
This segment of the event resonated strongly with the audience, serving as a call to action. It encouraged participants to reflect on their individual roles in building safer, more inclusive, and equitable workplaces, regardless of their position or career stage.
An Interactive and Engaging Experience
The event stood out for its highly interactive format, moving beyond a traditional lecture to foster meaningful dialogue between the speaker and the audience. Students actively participated by sharing perspectives, asking insightful questions, and seeking clarity on navigating careers in today’s complex tech ecosystem.
The engaging atmosphere was made possible with the guidance and support of Dr. Farida Begam, IEEE Student Branch Counselor, whose mentorship ensured the session achieved both its academic and professional objectives.
Even after the formal session concluded, discussions continued as students approached Dr. Pandey to seek career advice, discuss project ideas, and gain deeper insights into industry expectations and emerging standards.
Building a Roadmap for Inclusive Growth
By seamlessly bridging current corporate realities with future AI‑driven transformations, the session offered participants a clearer roadmap for personal and professional growth. More importantly, it reinforced the importance of inclusive leadership and collective responsibility in shaping the future of the tech industry.
“Women in Tech: Rise, Innovate, Inspire” was more than just an event - it was a platform for learning, reflection, and empowerment. The session left attendees motivated, informed, and better equipped to navigate both the technical and human dimensions of a career in technology.
