STEM Talk with Leaders

STEM Talk with Leaders is a transformative initiative that bridges the gap between STEM education and the corporate world. This platform serves as a hub for engaging discussions on the intersection of STEM learning and real-world challenges. Spearheaded by ISF, the goal is to foreground STEM skills, fostering innovative thinking and problem-solving in addressing societal issues. By bringing together leaders from diverse fields, STEM Talk with Leaders catalyzes the integration of STEM education into corporate strategies, propelling organizations toward a future of sustainable growth and meaningful impact.

About the Speaker: Mr. Neeraj Mehra

Meet Mr. Neeraj Mehra is the Vice-President of Human Resources and leader of Talent Strategy as well as Social Impact at Infogain. He is a passionate advocate for encouraging STEM education in the corporate realm. With a commitment to bridging the gap between education and industry, he is playing a pivotal role in promoting partnerships that empower the workforce with essential STEM skills, driving innovation and growth. 

Highlights from the Interview

Q1. According to you, what is STEM?

STEM, an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, forms the cornerstone of holistic education. It fosters logical thinking by encouraging individuals to explore, question, and analyze. Through hands-on experiences, STEM equips individuals with the ability to form informed opinions and engage in respectful debates, fostering critical thinking. Moreover, STEM nurtures life skills like problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability, essential for thriving in a dynamic world.

Q2.Does working at infogain require proficiency in STEM skills?

Proficiency in STEM skills is paramount for enhanced employability in today’s rapidly evolving job market. STEM underpins innovation, a vital component for any company’s growth and sustainability. Organizations across industries rely on STEM principles for project execution and informed decision-making. As decision-making becomes increasingly data-driven, employees equipped with strong STEM foundations are better positioned to provide data-backed results. With STEM at the forefront, individuals can not only secure employment but also contribute effectively to the innovation and progress demanded by modern workplaces.

Q3.How does hands-on training help students prepare for the future?

Hands-on training is a transformative approach that equips students for the future by bridging theory and practice. Learning technology through hands-on experiences inculcates practical learning and enhances problem-solving abilities, a skill deemed crucial in today’s rapidly evolving landscape. As problem-solving emerges as a paramount skill, hands-on training encourages active engagement and cultivates analytical thinking. STEM skills acquired through this method not only impart subject knowledge but also mold students to think critically and creatively. Ultimately, hands-on training enriches their capacity to navigate challenges and innovate, ensuring they are well-prepared for the complexities of the modern world.

Q4. How do you think parents and coaches can encourage their daughters to pursue STEM careers and contribute in the industry?

The significance of the contribution made by the girl child to society cannot be overstated. Promoting gender diversity is a fundamental mission, not just a CEO’s agenda but a collective commitment. Sponsoring diversity and extending opportunities to LGBTQ+ individuals is crucial. Ensuring fairness in increments, promotions, and recognitions by relying on analytics is paramount. In the hiring process, considering women candidates is imperative. Targeting equitable wages and acknowledging the value of women’s work is essential. Opportunities for promotion and proper induction into organizations should be a norm. All these efforts are vital for a balanced society where diversity thrives. Organizations must cultivate diversity, fostering collaborative and inclusive work environments. Shifting mindsets is necessary, as diversity brings multifaceted perspectives that drive progress. Encouraging more females in workspaces is essential, and investing in organizations championing diversity is a wise move.

Crux of the Interview

To conclude, this STEM talk with leaders has illuminated the vital role of STEM education in shaping the future. We extend sincere appreciation to Mr. Neeraj Mehra, VP Human Resources at Infogain, for his invaluable insights and commitment to advancing STEM in the corporate sphere. His endeavors exemplify how industry frontrunners can bridge the gap between education and employment, nurturing adept professionals to conquer intricate challenges.

This conversation underscores STEM’s significance as the cornerstone of holistic learning. Through practical experiences, it cultivates essential life skills, including problem-solving, collaboration, and adaptability, vital for thriving in an evolving world. As we progress, a shared duty beckons to magnify STEM education’s reach. We encourage organizations to emulate leaders like Mr. Neeraj Mehra, embedding STEM initiatives in their ethos. Together, let’s champion the cause of STEM education, preparing a more capable workforce for the future ahead.

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