On International Women’s Day, we celebrate the journeys of women who are not only shaping the future of technology but also ensuring that its benefits reach communities everywhere. In this conversation, our editor speaks with a seasoned technology leader, Chhavi Bajpai, IT Leader – Plq factory and Project management solutions, STMicroelectronics -India, Director, ST Foundation- India, whose career spans more than three decades across global IT, semiconductors, and digital transformation at STMicroelectronics. From her early decision to join the ST Foundation as a volunteer in Asia to leading large-scale enterprise programs worldwide, her path reflects a deep belief that technology must serve people and enable opportunity.
At a young age, you chose to join the ST Foundation. What inspired you to become part of the organisation so early in your career, and how did that experience influence your personal and professional growth in technology?
Chhavi Bajpai: Having graduated from college with a degree in computer engineering, I began working in manufacturing industries before evolving with STMicroelectronics (ST) over three decades. It’s my belief that technology has to serve more than just its own purpose; rather, it must enhance people’s lives. In today’s world, where access to digital skills greatly impacts one’s ability to prosper, I knew joining the ST Foundation would be a natural extension of my career.
I served as a volunteer early in the Foundation in Asia. Through my travels across Malaysia, China, Philippines and Thailand, I had many experiences that gave me a broader cultural perspective and an even greater empathy for inclusion. I was reminded to be humble, further committed to digital empowerment and influenced my leadership style toward being both people and impact focused.
As a woman navigating leadership roles in tech, what barriers did you encounter along the way, and what strategies helped you overcome them?
Chhavi Bajpai: In my three-plus decades at ST, I have experienced a tremendous transformation of not only my company but the entire industry. In my career, I have mostly been in companies that value a diverse workforce and merit-based promotions. However, there is pressure when leading in Global IT and Digital Transformation.
Managing extensive enterprise systems, leading worldwide programs, and providing 24/7 operational support means being resilient and clear-minded about how you do these things. What I found most helpful was to focus on my competency and credibility. Consistent open communication, reliable service delivery, and long-term persistence build trust. Eventually, performance speaks for itself.
With rapid advancements in AI, semiconductors, and digital transformation, what skills should young women focus on today to stay future-ready in tech careers?
Chhavi Bajpai: Today’s technologies are linked together in many ways, including semiconductor technologies, enterprise digital platforms, etc. While strong fundamentals continue to be most essential, the ability to adapt and learn new skills on an ongoing basis is also important. In addition to innovation cycles impacting the technology industry/sector, global and market conditions also play a significant role.
New female workers entering the technology industry/sector should have deep technical knowledge along with confidence and strong communication skills. It is also beneficial for new female workers to seek out both mentors and sponsors, and remain curious to take on challenging work, to accelerate growth. In my mind, learning continuously and making meaningful contributions to an overall process of transformation will keep individuals relevant over time.
From your leadership perspective, what practical steps can organisations take to create truly inclusive environments where women not only participate but thrive and lead?
Chhavi Bajpai: Inclusion should be initiated at the executive level because the representation of leaders can help convey a strong message about organisational values. Additionally, the representation at these levels requires structured development opportunities and sponsorship.
Organisations can invest in targeted leadership development programs, bias awareness programs, and professional networks that will support employee retention. I have built confidence through participation in the Women in Leadership (WiL) Network and i-WIL initiatives because both provide women with opportunities to gain confidence through exposure and access to mentors. With inclusion integrated into systems and culture rather than simply through policies, women will succeed.
On this International Women’s Day, what message would you like to share with young women and girls who aspire to enter technology but may doubt their abilities or opportunities?
Chhavi Bajpai: Perseverance and problem solving are core parts of the technology industry. If you are curious, have the desire to learn and are willing to make a commitment to growing yourself, there’s a place here for you. Also, trust your preparation, put time into learning, and don’t underestimate your ability. I have been in the industry long enough to witness its evolution over the past several years, those who demonstrate resilience and can adapt continually find a way to succeed. The attributes of confidence, competence, and consistency will allow an individual to far exceed their potential through doubt.
To know more about ST Foundation, click here.
