Women in Tech: Transitioning careers from teaching, to thriving at Sony Research India
By Kumud Tripathi, Senior Engineer at Sony Research India
19th February 2024
Brijraj Singh and Sonal Dabral summarize their paper that was recently accepted at the IJCNN conference in Australia, a premier conference in the area of neural networks theory, analysis and applications.
Embarking on a career transition is a bold step, but for women, it often signifies a profound journey of resilience, determination, and boundless potential. If you’re a woman in academic research dreaming of transitioning into a dynamic research environment like Sony Research India, we share an inspiring narrative, echoing the transformative power of passion, adaptability, and courage by Kumud Tripathi.
My career began as an assistant professor in the department of Computer Science and Engineering at IIIT Lucknow, where I dedicated years shaping young minds, nurturing curiosity, and fostering a love for learning. It was a world I cherished, filled with profound connections and the joy of witnessing growth in every student I mentored.
The Transition
As the years progressed, I developed an insatiable curiosity to delve into the realm of technology and research. The transition from the classroom to the vibrant corporate corridors of Sony Research India started as an idea and was nurtured by a relentless pursuit of growth and an unwavering belief in the power of possibilities. My first step towards exploring a career in the corporate world was networking with professionals in the tech industry. Speaking to industry insiders provided invaluable insights and guidance. My decision was fuelled by my passion for technology and the desire for professional growth.
Transitioning careers as a woman came with its set of challenges and triumphs. It demanded adaptability, courage to embrace the unknown, and the belief that every obstacle is an opportunity to soar higher. At Sony Research India, I found a nurturing environment that embraced diversity and fostered a culture where my voice was heard, my ideas valued, and my contributions recognized.
Leveraging Strengths
Instead of focusing on the fact that I was new to the corporate world, I leverage my strengths from a professional background in education– empathy, communication, adaptability, and the ability to inspire – traits that seamlessly integrated into the fabric of a research-driven environment. The art of simplifying complex concepts and nurturing collaborative spaces found resonance in the innovative projects and collaborative spirit at Sony.
Today, being a part of Sony Research India, my journey signifies a fusion of passion and purpose where curiosity is celebrated, creativity flourishes, and women are empowered to lead and innovate. Every challenge I encounter is an opportunity to apply my teaching expertise to innovative research endeavours that shape the future of technology.
My Message for Women looking for a Career Transition
My journey from teaching and researching at university labs, to working on real world industry problems, echoes the transformative power of courage, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of one’s aspirations. As a woman navigating this transition, I aspire to inspire others, particularly women, to break barriers, embrace change, and unleash their potential in unconventional yet rewarding career paths.
For every woman educator contemplating a career shift, remember – your journey holds the power to redefine boundaries, challenge norms, and inspire generations. My transition from teaching to thriving in a research-driven environment at Sony Research India is not just a career move – it’s a testament to the resilience and limitless potential of every woman’s journey.
