What is it like to work in the semiconductor industry in India? Poonam Gupta studied engineering and also has an MBA. She has more than 20 years of experience in managing deliveries in the hardware, semiconductor, IoT, automation and other emerging technologies industries. Poonam is CIG Chair WiSE which is part of the India Electronics and Semiconductor Association.

A life as an Engineer in the Semiconductor Industry

Background

Were you interested in science and engineering when you were a child? Did you like understanding how things worked?

Yes, absolutely. As a child, I was naturally inclined towards science and learning. I fondly remember watching Girish Karnad’s science programme on Indian Television Doordarshan “Turning Point.” It was one of the few available at the time and it sparked my curiosity and inspired me to understand the world through a scientific lens.

Growing up in a small town without access to English newspapers, I took the initiative to subscribe to Reader’s Digest to improve my language skills and broaden my exposure.

These early experiences played a significant role in shaping both my interest in science and my drive to keep learning and growing.

Can you remember the first piece of equipment (mechanical or electrical or electronic) which impressed you?

Yes, I still remember a science exhibition project we created that left a lasting impression on me.

We designed a hollow box with a hole at the top and multiple holes at the bottom. The interesting part was that when you pressed on the top hole, no water would leak out from the bottom—even though it had several openings. It was a simple yet powerful demonstration of air pressure and fluid dynamics.

I was fascinated by how basic principles of physics could be applied in such a tangible way. That project really deepened my interest in science and gave me an early glimpse into the power of engineering.

Studying Engineering

Was there anyone in your family who guided you towards engineering?

While my family background was rooted in business, it was actually my teachers who played a key role in guiding me towards engineering. I was always good at academic subjects, and subjects like Mathematics and Physics fascinated me the most. My teachers noticed my interest and aptitude in these areas and encouraged me to pursue a technical field. Their support, along with my own curiosity and love for problem-solving, naturally led me to choose engineering as a career path.

The Semiconductor Industry

What attracted you to the semiconductor industry?
During my engineering studies, I developed a strong interest in VLSI and Digital Signal Processing, which is why I chose VLSI as one of my electives. I was genuinely intrigued by how chips were designed and optimized at such a granular level.

When Texas Instruments visited our campus, they hired only one student, which narrowed the options for the rest of us.

Fortunately, Synopsys came next, and I, along with several of my peers, was selected.
That marked the beginning of my journey into the semiconductor industry. Looking back, it was a perfect fit for both my interests and skill set, and it opened up a world of opportunities to grow in this space.

The Semiconductor Industry in India

How important is the semiconductor industry in India, and how is it impacting the future?

The semiconductor industry is crucial for India’s digital future. With increasing global demand and the government’s $10 billion India Semiconductor Mission, the country is working to become a global manufacturing hub. This will not only reduce import dependency but also boosts national security and economic growth.

It’s expected to create over 300,000 jobs by 2026 and attract major global investments from companies like Tata and Lam Research. With new fabrication plants underway and demand growing across sectors like automotive, defence, and telecom, India is positioning itself as a key player in the global semiconductor supply chain.

The government’s proactive policies have created an environment conducive to high-tech investments and collaborations, attracting international partnerships. For instance, the government has approved the construction of three semiconductor plants worth $15.2 billion, involving partnerships with prominent semiconductor industry companies like Tata Group and Renesas Electronics. These facilities, set for Gujarat and Assam, will produce chips for sectors including defence, automotive, and telecommunications.

Additionally, significant investments are being made by global companies. For example, Lam Research plans to invest over $1 billion in Karnataka to boost the semiconductor ecosystem.
With continued focus on policy support, infrastructure development, and skill enhancement, India is poised to play a pivotal role in the global semiconductor landscape.

Leadership roles

Your career quickly moved into leadership and management. In your opinion, what character traits make the best leaders?

Coming from a business-oriented family, I was exposed to decision-making, risk-taking, and people management from a very young age. That background gave me a strong foundation in strategic thinking and accountability. On the other hand, my technical background keeps me grounded and hands-on. I’ve found that blending both—the strategic and the technical—helps me build teams that are not only high-performing but also deeply collaborative and resilient.

In my experience, great leadership is defined by the ability to envision the future clearly, take calculated risks, maintain sharp focus, and most importantly, empower others. A leader should be able to see the big picture, step into the unknown with confidence, and still keep the team aligned with a clear direction. I also believe true leadership is about enabling others to grow, make decisions, and take ownership. When people feel trusted and supported, they thrive, and so does the organization.

Why do you enjoy leading projects and teams?

I enjoy leading projects and teams because it gives me the opportunity to guide, mentor, and help individuals stay focused on their goals. I find it incredibly fulfilling to build clarity and confidence within a team and see people grow through that journey.

I also absolutely love connecting with customers, understanding their pain points, and translating those insights into meaningful solutions.

What energizes me is the ability to drive momentum, foster collaboration, and create a positive, purpose-driven atmosphere where everyone feels motivated and valued.

How much of a leader’s role is also to be a mentor?

I believe mentorship is at the heart of great leadership. A leader isn’t just someone who drives results; they’re someone who lifts others up, helps them navigate challenges, and brings out their full potential. In my experience, when you invest time in mentoring your team, you build trust, loyalty, and a culture of continuous learning.

Personally, I’ve always seen my role not just as a decision-maker, but as a guide, someone who helps team members connect the dots, grow with confidence, and stay aligned with both their individual goals and the larger mission. Mentoring is what transforms a team from good to exceptional.

MBA

Why did you decide to return to studying and why did an MBA attract you?

After gaining experience in the semiconductor industry, I realised that while my technical foundation was strong, I needed a broader understanding of business, strategy, and leadership to grow further. An MBA offered the right platform to develop these skills.

IIM Bangalore is a prestigious institute, and initially, I had the opportunity to pursue a full-time MBA. However, I wasn’t ready to give up my salary and career momentum, so I decided not to take it. Later, I got the chance to pursue an MBA on weekends, which was a great option as it allowed me to continue working while gaining invaluable knowledge. The programme, especially the Strategy and Operations courses, provided new perspectives and really helped me think in a more strategic, business-driven way.

Do you think studying once you had work experience was easier? And why?

Initially, it wasn’t easy to balance work and study, especially for the first month. The transition was challenging, but once I got used to managing both, it became much more manageable. My work experience actually made it easier over time, as I could relate the concepts directly to real-world situations, which enhanced my learning and focus.

Having practical experience helped me understand the relevance of the theories and frameworks we studied, making them more meaningful. Additionally, I was more focused and clearer about my goals, which made it easier to apply what I learned directly to my work and leadership roles in the Semiconductor Industry.

Women in engineering

The number of women in the semiconductor industry is increasing. How can this be helped?

To increase the number of women in the semiconductor industry, we need to start by attracting more girls to the field. This can be achieved by enlightening them about the opportunities in the industry and incorporating relevant curriculum as early as the ninth grade.

Engineering education should also offer dedicated streams that cater specifically to women.

Additionally, women returning to the workforce after a break should be given priority.

Having women in leadership roles is essential to motivate the next generation. When young girls see female leaders at the top, it inspires them to pursue similar paths.

What advice would you give to a woman when they are the only woman in a team/in a meeting?

This has happened to me on many occasions.
My advice would be to embrace your uniqueness and own your voice. Being the only woman in a team or meeting can sometimes feel isolating, but it’s also an opportunity to bring a fresh perspective.

Don’t hesitate to contribute your ideas, ask questions, and challenge assumptions when necessary. It’s important to build confidence in your abilities and not shy away from leadership opportunities. Surround yourself with allies who support your growth and always remember, your perspective adds immense value to the discussion.

When you’re the only woman in a work meeting, focus on the discussion at hand. By staying engaged, you can contribute meaningful insights, add relevant suggestions, and capture the key takeaways. Active participation ensures your voice is heard and valued.

What would you say to a woman who is considering working in the semiconductor industry?

I would say go for it!

The semiconductor industry is dynamic, innovative, and full of opportunities for growth.

While it might seem intimidating at first, it’s a field where women are making a significant impact. It offers great career potential, the chance to work on cutting-edge technologies, and to contribute to shaping the future. Don’t let gender stereotypes hold you back—this is a space where your skills, creativity, and passion will shine. Surround yourself with mentors, build your confidence, and keep pushing forward!

The semiconductor industry is rapidly growing, and with fabs coming to India, it will expand beyond just pre/post silicon to include the manufacturing process as well. If you have a scientific mind or are passionate about technology, this is an industry where you’ll definitely thrive and grow. The opportunities are vast, and the impact you can make is significant.”

What are your tips for feeling confident and not out of place?

To feel confident and not out of place, focus on your strengths and expertise. Prepare well for meetings or discussions so you can contribute meaningfully. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or share your ideas as your perspective is valuable. Remember that confidence comes from experience, so the more you engage and learn, the more comfortable and self-assured you’ll feel.

Clear thinking, a scientific mindset, a solid grasp of the basics, and having self-awareness, knowing my strengths and weaknesses, have been key factors in building my confidence. Understanding myself and my abilities has helped me navigate challenges and stay grounded in any situation.

The semiconductor industry is changing but remains predominantly male. What do you think will change over the next ten years?

The semiconductor industry is evolving, and over the next ten years, I believe we will see much greater gender diversity. With more focused initiatives on inclusion, skilling programmes for women, leadership development, and strong return to work programmes, more women will not only enter but also thrive in this industry. Increased awareness, mentorship, and visible women leaders will play a critical role in breaking biases and encouraging more participation at all levels.
As AI becomes a major driver of work in the semiconductor industry and more people, including women, gain expertise in AI, I believe we will see a significant rise in women joining and shaping this industry.

CIG Chair WiSE

You are the CIG Chair of WiSE, introduced by IESA.
Why did you decide to take on this role?

Taking on the role of CIG Chair at WiSE under IESA felt like a natural extension of my passion for building communities and driving change. I have always believed that diversity and inclusion are critical for innovation, especially in a rapidly evolving sector like semiconductors and electronics.

Through WiSE, I saw an opportunity to mentor, support, and inspire more women to enter and thrive in this industry and to encourage more women to join the semiconductor industry, guide them through skill-building programmes, and introduce top leadership initiatives to help them grow into future leaders. It’s also a platform to create real conversations around leadership, technical excellence, and policy advocacy. Being part of WiSE allows me to give back to the ecosystem that has shaped my own journey, and to help shape a more diverse, future-ready industry.

The future of WiSE

What are your plans and hopes for the future of WiSE?

My vision for the future of WiSE is to make it a strong platform that not only encourages more women to enter the semiconductor and electronics industries but also supports them in scaling to leadership roles. We want to expand skilling programmes, mentorship networks, and leadership initiatives so women feel equipped, confident, and empowered at every stage of their careers.

We also want to focus on women who have taken career breaks, ensuring they have the right opportunities and support to confidently return to the workforce. The goal is to build a more inclusive, resilient, and empowered community of women leaders.

Ultimately, I hope WiSE becomes a catalyst for long-term change, where diversity is not just encouraged but is seen as a core strength driving innovation and growth in our industry.

How can other women become involved with WiSE?

WiSE is open to all women who are passionate about making a mark in the semiconductor and electronics industries. They can get involved by participating in our skilling programmes, mentorship initiatives, leadership workshops, and networking events. We also encourage women to take up active roles as mentors, speakers, and volunteers to help build a stronger, more connected community.

“Everyone’s contribution, big or small, helps move the industry forward.”

Women can get involved with WiSE by volunteering in our four key activities focused on retaining women in the workforce and encouraging more young women to choose careers in the semiconductor industry. We also encourage members to actively promote diversity in leadership and create an environment free from bias, helping to build a truly inclusive and supportive ecosystem.

Conclusion

In this fast-evolving industry, continuous learning, building strong networks, and fostering inclusive cultures are essential. We must encourage young girls early, mentor others as we rise, and continue pushing boundaries. With India’s booming Semiconductor Industry ecosystem, this is truly a golden era for women to step in and lead the future.”

Further reading about the semiconductor industry

India Electronics and Semiconductor Association India’s Semiconductor Industry Association

Global Semiconductor Alliance Women’s Leadership Council

Semiconductor Industry Women’s Leadership Initiative

Meet a passionate new onsemi Field Application Engineer from India.

Semiconductor Industry Association the Semiconductor Industry Association of the USA

A look at how to become a Field Marketing Manager

The changing exciting world of the global Semiconductor Supply Chain