A new beginning
It’s hard to believe that more than two decades have passed since I first stepped into the Schneider Electric factory in Bangalore. I still remember the date—January 5, 2003—standing outside the gates with four friends, eager to seize a job opportunity. That moment marked the beginning of what would become a fulfilling and transformative supply chain career at Schneider Electric.
It all started with a simple phone call from a friend about a job opening. I was told to be there by 6 a.m. for the selection process. At the time, I had no idea that this call would change the course of my life.
Early days on the shopfloor
Driven by passion, I cleared all the selection rounds and joined Schneider Electric as a contractual employee for six months. I began working on the assembly lines, quickly learning different workstations and giving my best every day.
My efforts paid off. Within six months, I was offered a full-time role as a manufacturing associate. June 1, 2003, marked the official start of my journey. I was overjoyed, especially knowing I could now support my father financially.
Embracing new roles
In 2007, I became a Technical Trainer, conducting sessions for new trainees on the shopfloor. Over time, my responsibilities expanded. By 2013, I was serving as a Training Manager across multiple plants.
One of my proudest contributions was helping to develop DISHA, a world-class training center for new joiners. DISHA focuses on end-to-end practical skill simulations, preparing employees before they begin shopfloor work. It has since become one of Schneider Electric’s most benchmarked practices, adopted by many sites to strengthen their training systems.
A setback that sparked growth
During this period, I faced my first major career setback. I applied for a role in the Training & Development department and, despite a promising interview, was not selected. The reason: I didn’t have the required degree. It was a difficult moment that left me disheartened and uncertain about my future.
Instead of giving up, I chose to see it as a turning point. I enrolled in a distance education program at a respected university in Bangalore and completed my bachelor’s degree in 2013.
Investing in education
Understanding the value of continuous learning, I pursued a Postgraduate Diploma in Learning & Development from the Ministry of India in 2017. Balancing two degrees while managing work and family life was challenging, but once I committed to personal growth, nothing could hold me back.
Following this, I led several impactful projects on the shopfloor, developed training simulations, and designed Supervisor Development Programs.
Growing with Schneider Electric
Schneider Electric’s commitment to employee development played a key role in my journey. I participated in various soft skills programs, including the Women’s Advancement Program (WAP), Front Line Managers Program (FLM), and Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP).
These experiences helped me grow into the role of Senior Manager for End-to-End Training & Development. I was responsible for eight plants, supporting over 1,000 employees and leading a team of eight trainers.
Exploring new horizons
My journey didn’t stop there. I began exploring other functions, particularly in Supply Chain Performance. To bridge technical skill gaps, I took advantage of Schneider Electric’s training programs.
I completed courses in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, MTM Basics and Logistics, Lean Office, Lean Diagnosis, and the Global Innovation Ambassador and SPS Auditor programs. These trainings sharpened my skills and prepared me for future roles.
A new challenge
In 2022, I took on a new challenge as Senior Manager in Supply Chain Performance. For the first time, I relocated to a different Schneider Electric plant. Immersing myself in a new environment, I collaborated with different teams and tackled unique challenges. This experience broadened my perspective and strengthened my capabilities.
Today, I serve as Deputy General Manager. I’m deeply grateful for Schneider Electric’s values and support system, which have been instrumental in both my personal and professional growth. My supply chain career at Schneider Electric has been defined by continuous learning, adaptability, and the company’s unwavering support.
Reflections and advice
Looking back on my 20-year journey, I see how self-determination and Schneider Electric’s unwavering support helped me grow from a contractual employee to Deputy General Manager.
Over the years, I’ve transformed from an introvert into an influencer, developing essential soft skills like public speaking, presentation, and decision-making. One key lesson I’ve learned: if I had stepped out of my comfort zone earlier, my growth might have accelerated even more.
To the next generation, my advice is simple: don’t wait for the “right time.” Treat every moment as an opportunity to grow, learn, and explore new horizons.
Schneider Electric will always hold a special place in my heart. It was my first company, and thanks to the mentorship and guidance I’ve received—and continue to receive—it has become the foundation of my success. Interested in joining us? Explore job openings and join the Schneider Electric talent community.
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