Tools such as AutoCAD are essential for creating precise 3D models, technical drawings, and practical designs that help ensure product quality and manufacturability.
Srishti Srivastava, our next pathbreaker, Manufacturing Engineer at Siemens, is responsible for process planning of various components that are assembled in steam turbines.
Srishti talks to Shyam Krishnamurthy from The Interview Portal about her memorable experiences in blade product development, from selecting suitable machines and tools, to creating various blade models and generating CAM (computer-aided-manufacturing) programs for each, ensuring that every blade met the required quality standards.
For students, academic achievements are important, but real growth comes from stepping out of your comfort zone and facing challenges head-on, especially for careers in core engineering.
Srishti, can you share your background with our young readers?
Hi, I’m Srishti Srivastava.
I was born and raised in Lucknow, where I completed my schooling with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as my core subjects in 12th grade. Back then, I considered myself an average student academically, but I always carried a strong desire to do something different, something that would set me apart.
My family has played a big role in shaping who I am. My father works in the private sector, and my mother is a dedicated government school teacher. It was my mother who first inspired me to dream big and strive to make a meaningful impact in life. Her encouragement and belief in me have been the driving force behind my ambition to carve out a unique path.
What did you do for graduation/post graduation?
After completing my schooling in Lucknow, I pursued my graduation (BTech) in Mechanical Engineering from Uttar Pradesh Technical University, where I excelled academically and was honored as the Gold Medalist of my batch. This milestone was a turning point in my journey, reinforcing my commitment to excellence and innovation.
To further deepen my technical expertise, I went on to complete my master’s in Computer Aided Analysis & Design (CAAD) from the prestigious Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra. This program equipped me with advanced skills in design and analysis, laying a strong foundation for my career in engineering and technology.
What were some of the key influences that led you to such an offbeat, unconventional, and unique career in Computer aided Manufacturing in DeepTech?
I’ve always had a drive to do something different, to break the mold—and that’s what led me to pursue Mechanical Engineering as a woman in a field where we were just a handful. When I joined, there were only two or three other women who had chosen this path. It wasn’t an easy decision, but I drew strength from someone who believed in me even when my marks didn’t—my physics teacher, Mr. Sanjeev Mishra. His unwavering support and belief in my potential gave me the courage to follow a path less taken. He saw value in me before I could see it in myself, and that made all the difference.
How did you plan the steps to get into the career you wanted? Or how did you make a transition to a new career? Tell us about your career path
After completing my Bachelor of Technology, I faced a pivotal decision: whether to enter the workforce or pursue further studies.
After considerable reflection, I chose to continue my academic journey and enrolled in a Master’s program. During this time, I developed a strong interest in research, which led me to apply to various research institutions. I was fortunate to secure a position at the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR).
However, over time, I realized that the work environment at CSIR did not align with my aspirations for working on innovations and practical applications. I was seeking a more hands-on, dynamic role where I could contribute to tangible outcomes. This realization prompted a significant career shift towards the mechanical industry—a transition that came with its own set of challenges, including financial risks and the uncertainty of starting anew.
Despite these hurdles, I trusted my instincts and made the move. After numerous interviews, I joined a startup in the mechanical sector, where I gained valuable industry experience over the course of eight months. This role laid the foundation for my industrial career and eventually led to a breakthrough opportunity at Siemens, marking a significant milestone in my professional journey.
How did you get your first break?
I consider my role at Siemens to be my first significant break, as it has provided me with the kind of exposure and opportunities I had always envisioned—practical, innovative, and aligned with my professional aspirations.
While my career path has been shaped by deliberate choices and persistent effort, I also believe that destiny has played a meaningful role in guiding me through key transitions. One important lesson I’ve learned along the way is to never lose hope. Challenges and uncertainties are inevitable, but staying committed to your goals and continuously striving for what you truly want will eventually lead to rewarding outcomes.
What were some of the challenges you faced? How did you address them?
Challenge 1:
Choosing mechanical engineering as a woman often comes with unique challenges, many of which stem from societal perceptions and workplace dynamics. It’s a field traditionally dominated by men, and women entering it may face skepticism about their capabilities, limited representation, and fewer role models. There can be assumptions that mechanical work is physically demanding or not suited for women, which can lead to biases during hiring or project assignments.
Despite these challenges, what truly matters is skill, passion, and perseverance. With the right mindset and support, women can thrive in mechanical engineering and bring valuable perspectives to innovation and problem-solving. Personally, I’ve faced moments where I had to prove my competence more than others, but each experience has strengthened my confidence and commitment to the field. The key is to stay focused, keep learning, and never let stereotypes define your potential.
Challenge 2:
One of the most significant challenges I faced was switching my career from research to industry. Despite having strong academic qualifications and research experience, I was often considered a fresher in the industrial domain due to the lack of direct practical exposure. This led to multiple rejections during job applications, which was both discouraging and emotionally taxing. Additionally, I had to accept a lower salary than what I was earning in research, just to gain a foothold in the industry. However, I viewed this phase as an investment in my future. The experience I gained during this transition was invaluable, and it ultimately helped me secure a role at Siemens, where I now work in a space that truly aligns with my passion for innovation and practical engineering.
Challenge 3
Even after securing a position at Siemens, the challenges didn’t end. Since I transitioned from a research background and was considered a fresher in the industrial domain, I had to continuously prove my capabilities. There’s a constant need to demonstrate that I can perform at par with, or even better than, those with more direct industry experience. This involves not just learning quickly but also adapting to fast-paced environments, understanding complex systems, and delivering results with precision. Every task becomes an opportunity to validate my decision to switch careers and to show that with dedication and the right mindset, even a non-traditional path can lead to success in a highly technical field.
Where do you work now?
Currently, I am working at Siemens as a Senior Executive, where I am responsible for process planning of various components that are assembled in steam turbines. Siemens steam turbines are large-scale turbomachinery used in power generation, industrial processes, and mechanical drives to convert thermal energy from steam into mechanical energy
My role involves selecting appropriate machines and tools, creating CAM (Computer aided Manufacturing) programs, and ensuring that the final product meets all required quality standards. This is part of my daily routine and demands both precision and coordination across multiple stages of manufacturing.
In addition to my core responsibilities, I have also started learning Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to strengthen my capabilities across all three key areas of engineering: design, manufacturing, and analysis. This continuous learning helps me stay aligned with evolving industry demands and enhances my ability to contribute more effectively to complex engineering projects
What problems do you solve?
In my role, I solve a variety of problems related to manufacturing processes and product development. This includes addressing design-to-production challenges, improving process efficiency, reducing material waste, and ensuring product quality and consistency. I also work on integrating design data using tools like NX and AutoCAD to streamline documentation and production workflows. These problem-solving efforts help ensure that products are manufactured accurately, cost-effectively, and in alignment with industry standards.
What skills are needed for your role? How did you acquire the skills?
This role demands a strong foundation in engineering principles, proficiency in manufacturing tools and software, and the ability to solve complex problems efficiently. We use software like Siemens NX and AutoCAD to design, model, and validate manufacturing components and processes. These tools are essential for creating precise 3D models, technical drawings, and simulations that help ensure product quality and manufacturability. I acquired proficiency in these tools during my academic training and further enhanced my skills through hands-on experience in both research and industrial roles, where I regularly applied them to real-world engineering tasks.
What’s a typical day like?
A typical day in my role as a Senior Executive at Siemens begins with reviewing the components scheduled for production and understanding their design and functional requirements. I then focus on creating CAM programs to ensure accurate and efficient machining. Throughout the day, I coordinate with cross-functional teams to address any production challenges and ensure that the final product meets all quality standards. Alongside these responsibilities, I dedicate time to learning and expanding my technical skills—currently focusing on finite element analysis to strengthen my capabilities in design, manufacturing, and analysis.
What is it you love about this job?
What I love most about my job is the opportunity to work on real-world challenges where I can apply both creativity and technical knowledge to develop practical solutions. It’s fulfilling to see how my contributions directly impact product quality, efficiency, and innovation. I enjoy the dynamic nature of the role, the continuous learning it offers, and the sense of purpose that comes from being part of something that drives progress in industry and society.
How does your work benefit society?
As a Manufacturing Engineer, my work contributes to society by enabling efficient, safe, and sustainable production processes that support technological advancement and economic growth. I help transform innovative designs into practical solutions, ensuring high-quality products while minimizing waste and energy consumption. This not only benefits industries but also promotes environmental responsibility and improves everyday life for end-users. Through continuous improvement and hands-on problem-solving, I aim to make engineering more impactful and accessible.
Tell us an example of a specific memorable work you did that is very close to you!
One of the most meaningful projects I’ve worked on at Siemens was establishing the process planning for the Blade Shop. It was a large-scale and technically demanding assignment that required a deep understanding of manufacturing workflows. With the guidance and constant support of my mentor, Mr. Parag Bhavsar, I was able to gain extensive knowledge—from selecting suitable machines and tools to creating various blade models and generating CAM programs for each. Ensuring that every blade met the required quality standards was a critical part of the process.
This project was not just a technical challenge but also a personal milestone. It involved a steep learning curve, and having the support of a mentor was invaluable in helping me understand the complexities and nuances of the project.
He was always available whenever I needed guidance, and his encouragement gave me the confidence to take ownership of the work. The experience not only enhanced my technical skills but also reinforced the value of mentorship and teamwork in achieving complex engineering goals.
Your advice to students based on your experience?
Based on my experience, my advice to students would be to stay open to exploration and never hesitate to take bold decisions, even if they involve risks. Academic achievements are important, but real growth comes from stepping out of your comfort zone and facing challenges head-on. Whether it’s choosing between research and industry or switching career paths, trust your instincts and be willing to learn continuously. Most importantly, never lose hope—consistent effort and clarity of purpose will always lead to meaningful and rewarding outcomes.
Future Plans?
In the future, I aim to continue growing both technically and professionally by deepening my expertise in manufacturing technologies and process optimization. I plan to take on more challenging projects that allow me to innovate and contribute meaningfully to industrial advancements. Additionally, I’m interested in exploring leadership roles where I can mentor others and help drive strategic improvements within the organization. Continuous learning and staying updated with emerging technologies will remain a key part of my journey.