Alstom Empowers Women from Coimbatore to Drive Global Rail Mobility Sustainability
Coimbatore, August 10, 2023 – Alstom, the world-renowned pioneer in intelligent and eco-friendly transportation solutions, has embarked on a remarkable journey in fostering gender equality and unleashing the potential of women in the field of sustainable rail mobility. With a resolute vision, Alstom has empowered over 18% of women on its cutting-edge components manufacturing shopfloor in Coimbatore, propelling them into pivotal roles that contribute to the development of sustainable rail solutions on a global scale.
These determined women have triumphed over multiple rounds of assessments, rigorous interviews, and intensive training, enabling them to excel in demanding shop floor roles. Their impactful contributions span across crucial domains such as quality assurance, supply chain management, testing and commissioning, production and assembly, as well as warehouse and logistics. In a significant boost to the transport infrastructure, their efforts have significantly contributed to the creation of intricate components and subsystems that constitute integral parts of prestigious mainline and urban rail projects both in India and international markets.
What makes these achievements even more noteworthy is that many of these remarkable women hail from socially and economically disadvantaged backgrounds. By pursuing technical qualifications and gaining employment opportunities through Alstom’s campus recruitment drives, they have shattered socio-economic barriers and emerged as trailblazers for their families and communities. Beyond their professional roles, these resilient women have become beacons of inspiration, providing financial support to their families and even pursuing higher education to further propel their careers.
Alstom’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is underscored by the outstanding achievements of women who are leading by example, defying gender stereotypes, and contributing to international projects:
Ramya Pechimuthu, a seasoned electronics and communication engineering graduate, boasts a remarkable journey spanning 9 years at Alstom. Beginning as a short-term manufacturing trainee, she has evolved into a key figure handling audits for diverse clients. Ramya’s remarkable contributions extend to major projects like the Chennai Metro and Kochi Metro, where she continues to excel in her role as the customer quality in-charge. Balancing her professional responsibilities with the demands of motherhood, Ramya’s dedication is emblematic of Alstom’s unwavering support for its employees.
Venkada Lakshmi, a rising star within Alstom, swiftly ascended from a trainee position to become a dynamic Team Lead. Hailing from the town of Thirunelveli, her journey showcases the immense growth potential Alstom offers. Awarded for “Best Creation in Manufacturing,” Venkada Lakshmi’s accomplishments include presenting her achievements before the Chief Operating Officer and the Leadership team during their visit to Coimbatore.
Ramalakshmi Murugan, armed with an electronics degree and an MBA in Technology Management, is a testament to Alstom’s nurturing environment. Starting as a trainee, she rapidly ascended to the role of Management Executive, contributing to pivotal projects like the CMRL-Chennai and KMRL-Kochi Metro. Ramalakshmi’s journey reflects her exceptional skills and knowledge, exemplified by her current role as a Site Change and Configuration Engineer in the Projects team.
Thangamani Rangaraj, holding a Diploma in Electrical and Electronics Engineering and currently pursuing an MBA, exemplifies Alstom’s commitment to work-life balance. Over her decade-long tenure, she has matured from a manufacturing trainee to a team lead, ensuring impeccable quality across projects. Her growth has been supported by Alstom’s women-friendly initiatives, such as the creche facility, allowing her to seamlessly transition back to work after motherhood.
Elakiya Rajan, a stalwart with 8 years at Alstom, embarked on her journey as a manufacturing trainee and ascended to a leadership role. Her pursuit of an engineering degree underscores Alstom’s dedication to continuous development. Her contributions, including overseeing looms and harnesses for the Mumbai Metro Line 3, have earned her recognition on both national and international platforms.
Suvalakshmi R, a shining example of resilience, began as an associate in the manufacturing team and rapidly progressed to a Team Lead role. Her pursuit of an engineering degree under Alstom’s Associate Development Model speaks volumes about her dedication and ambition. Suvalakshmi’s journey is defined by remarkable achievements and a commitment to supporting her family’s education.
Revathi Annadurai, an industrious individual and the sole earner in her family of three, has left an indelible mark since joining Alstom in 2015. Rising through the ranks, she successfully initiated and led a significant Canadian metro project, securing impressive reductions in process time. Revathi’s journey is a testament to Alstom’s role in transforming lives and fostering success.
Shanmugi R, a seasoned professional with 7 years of experience at Alstom, transitioned from a manufacturing trainee to a team lead. Her involvement in international projects like the Trenmaya undertaking showcases Alstom’s global impact and opportunities for growth.
Sivapadmini Chinnamuthu, with over 4 years at Alstom, has excelled from her beginnings as a trainee to becoming a Team Lead overseeing a workforce of 30 employees. Her journey is marked by excellence, recognition, and a dedication to personal and professional growth.
Alstom’s sprawling 15-acre facility in Coimbatore stands as a testament to its commitment to advancing industrial efficiency in the production of components for international projects. This facility’s complexity spans from integrating and testing tractions, auxiliary converters, cubicles, and driver desks to crafting Rolling Stock looms. This production powerhouse caters not only to Alstom’s Indian sites but also serves as a vital contributor to projects on five continents, including countries like France, Canada, Italy, Germany, and Saudi Arabia.
Embracing an unwavering dedication to inclusivity, Alstom is firmly set on achieving its goal of 25% women representation in management, engineering, and professional roles in India by 2025. The company’s steadfast commitment to a respectful and harassment-free workplace environment has culminated in its recognition as a Top Employer in the mobility sector for the third consecutive year. Alstom’s relentless pursuit of excellence and its people-centric approach underscore its transformational impact on the global rail mobility landscape.
