Insights India leads the way: How women in STEM are shaping the future of innovation

India has set a world record with 40 % enrolment of women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields. 

India is said to have reached a ‘watershed’ moment both for STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) subjects and innovation in the wider industries. How has India achieved an almost equal gender divide and edged ahead of developing nations?

In response to its accelerating digital evolution, India has formulated a well-detailed roadmap towards making STEM more accessible and attractive to women. This spans from sparking a STEM culture in schools, right up to creating more opportunities for women within research and development teams. 

At AtkinsRéalis, we share this commitment to diversity and inclusion, creating an environment where women in STEM can thrive, contribute to groundbreaking projects, and advance their careers in a supportive and collaborative setting. 

By joining AtkinsRéalis, women in India and across the globe can be part of a global team leading innovation in infrastructure, engineering, and technology.

Fostering a STEM culture in the classroom

Encouraging more women to pursue STEM at university starts with fostering a STEM culture in schools. 

This means creating an environment where curiosity is nurtured, students are inspired to become changemakers, and they learn how the world around them works. 

By instilling a love for learning, we empower the next generation to pursue careers in fields like civil engineering, environmental science, or even project management, where STEM skills—such as strong mathematical ability—are essential for success.

Initiatives that are making a STEM career more attractive for young females

In India’s growing economy, investing in STEM education is crucial to meet the rising demand for skilled professionals. 

The Indian government has implemented initiatives like the KIRAN programme, which offers career opportunities and fellowships for women in science and technology, inspiring females at all stages of their education to pursue impactful careers. 

Other programs, such as CURIE and the Indo-US Fellowship for Women in STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine), provide women access to advanced research labs, helping address the underrepresentation of Indian women in research, where they account for 15% of the workforce compared to 30% globally.

Building a better future

In recent years, India has made significant strides toward achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in fostering innovation and strengthening industry infrastructure. 

However, for India to maintain its momentum and continue being recognized for its pioneering solutions in areas like transportation, cities, and sustainable industry, it must place an even greater focus on the role of women in these sectors. 

Diversity—across gender, backgrounds, and abilities—is essential to driving sustainability. As India faces critical challenges such as the climate crisis, the need for diverse, innovative thinkers has never been more urgent. 

Further your STEM career with AtkinsRéalis

At AtkinsRéalis we strive to create a working environment where our women have everything they need to develop enriching careers. 

Creating equal opportunities is not only about doing the right thing for the individual, but we know building diverse teams is right for our businesses.

What are you waiting for? Search our latest jobs in India, and join our talent community. 

Alternatively, if you’re just starting your career with the vision of becoming a changemaker, there is no place better for you than AtkinsRéalis. Our graduate and internship opportunities in Asia offer a chance to work alongside a supportive team on some of the most exciting projects.

FAQs about STEM careers

What is a STEM career? 

A STEM career refers to jobs in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. 

These careers are focused on problem-solving, innovation, and using technical knowledge to create solutions that can drive advancements in various industries, such as healthcare, technology, environmental science, and more.

What is an example of a STEM job? 

An example of a STEM job that AtkinsRéalis recruits for is a Civil Engineer. 

Civil Engineers at AtkinsRéalis are involved in designing, planning, and overseeing the construction of infrastructure projects like bridges, roads, and transportation systems, ensuring they meet safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.

Are STEM jobs better? 

STEM jobs are often seen as offering strong career prospects due to the growing demand for skilled professionals in these fields. 

With competitive salaries, job security, and opportunities for advancement, many consider STEM careers to be highly rewarding, though the "better" nature of these jobs depends on an individual's interests, values, and career goals.