Keerthi Vaddi, Director of QA, Encora
Scientific Temperament Is About Asking the Right Questions
For me, developing a scientific temperament isn’t just about learning formulas or conducting experiments—it’s about thinking critically, asking the right questions, and never taking ‘this is how it has always been done’ as an answer.
For young women in India, this mindset is more than just important—it’s game-changing. We still live in a world where subtle (and not-so-subtle) biases exist, telling women what they should or shouldn’t do. Science helps cut through the noise with logic and evidence. It empowers women to challenge outdated norms, solve real-world problems, and step into leadership roles with confidence.
But let’s be honest—this shift won’t happen overnight. It needs:
More visible women in STEM – If young girls see successful women scientists, engineers, and tech leaders, they’ll believe they belong there too.
Encouraging curiosity from a young age – Families, teachers, and society need to nurture questions, not shut them down.
Breaking the "perfect score" mindset – Science is about exploring and failing, not just getting everything right on the first attempt.
India has brilliant minds waiting to change the world. If we create an ecosystem where young women feel encouraged to explore STEM fearlessly, there’s no limit to what we can achieve as a nation.
Your STEM Inspiration
If I had to name one person who inspired me, it would be Dr. Tessy Thomas, India’s ‘Missile Woman’. Her journey into missile technology, a field heavily dominated by men, was nothing short of groundbreaking. She proved that talent and determination matter more than gender.
But inspiration isn’t just about famous names. It’s also about the teachers who made science fun, the parents who encouraged questions instead of dismissing them, and the colleagues who lifted me instead of competing.
I believe that when one woman pushes boundaries, she unknowingly paves the way for hundreds of others. That’s what keeps me going—knowing that every step I take makes it a little easier for the next girl who dreams of a future in STEM.
At the end of the day, if we equip Indian youth with a scientific mindset and fearless ambition, we won’t just be participating in the global innovation race—we’ll be leading it.
“To all the young women in STEM out there—know this: You don’t need permission to dream big, ask bold questions, or break the status quo. The future isn’t waiting for someone else to lead—it’s waiting for YOU.”
