CyberWire Daily Swati Shekhar: Challenges increase your risk appetite. [Engineering] [Career Notes]
Jul 6, 2025
Swati Shekhar, Head of Engineering at Ground Labs, shares her inspiring journey into the engineering world, marked by challenges and growth. She reveals how her early days as one of the few women in a male-dominated college sparked her resilience and risk appetite. Swati emphasizes the importance of stepping out of comfort zones and finding authenticity in career choices. She reflects on her transition from individual contributor to empathetic leader, highlighting teamwork and the power of effective communication in shaping a positive work culture.
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First Computer Experience
- Swati Shekhar first used a computer at 17 in her engineering college, a novel experience for her.
- She preferred solving big picture problems using available tools rather than dismantling devices.
Challenges Boost Risk Appetite
- Challenges and limitations push us beyond our comfort zones, making us better versions of ourselves.
- Swati believes these hurdles increase one's capacity to take risks.
Gender Imbalance in College
- Swati was one of 30 girls among 500 boys in engineering college, facing a daunting gender imbalance.
- She views this cultural shock as an opportunity to learn and grow outside comfort zones.