In the ongoing narrative of nation-building, women are emerging as dynamic architects of change, reforming industries and excelling in domains once considered exclusive. From technology and scientific advancements to leadership and innovation, women are leaving an indelible mark across various domains. In boardrooms and laboratories, on construction sites and in the digital realm, women are rewriting the script of success. In an era where women are breaking barriers in artificial intelligence, leading sustainable initiatives, or spearheading innovation in traditionally male-dominated fields and redefining their roles, SAIL, Rourkela Steel Plant stands as a testament to the pivotal role that women play in nation-building.
The Contract Cell Works (CCW) department, responsible for intricate contract processing, file management, and database operations, is making waves for all the right reasons. At the forefront of this transformative journey is an exceptional team—The All-Women Technical Team of CCW. Traditionally, the corridors of technical expertise in steel plants have echoed with male-dominated voices. However, CCW is challenging these echoes with sheer competence, dedication, and resilience shown by the all-women team. Run by a dynamic group of women, the technical team is not just excelling; they are redefining the norms and setting new standards in the field of contract management.
The team of 12 technical women, including both executives and non executives, with a very wide age group are looking after various contract related jobs in the department. The day to day activities of the team ranges from Purchase Orders processing, generating competitive statement, scrutinising it, handling tender inquiry proposal, maintaining P.O copies, record keeping, etc. The sub team among them look after contracts of various departments.
“Women are leading big businesses today. As women, we feel empowered to see other female colleagues in the department who are maintaining both home and office works with ease. We get inspired from each other’s journey” says Ms. Satabdi Sahu, ACT, who is proficient in statistics and has the responsibility to send monthly report to the top management. Ms. Sonali Nanda, ACT, who looks after the contracts of some major departments like the Blast Furnaces, New Plate Mill, CPP – 1, SSM, C&IT, and Fire Services gives credit to the management for providing great support to the team and creating a cordial work environment for the team without any discrimination.
Ms. Rukmini Kerketta, Executive Assistant and P.S to HOD, who looks after vital areas like Audit and Vigilance, and is also responsible to keep record of all the bills, says, “Being a mother, wife and a working woman, it is a challenge to manage time and perfect work in the office and house. For this I set my priorities first and try to complete that in due time with utmost perfection.” Ms. Gyaneswari Padhy, Senior Manager, who is also the Dealing Officer of the department, says, “The switching over from pen and paper documentation system to SAP, EPS, SRM & currently GeM portal has been challenging because of the rapid transition to digitalisation mode. With the help of seniors, colleagues and collateral teammates we are able to overcome the challenges.”
The team has also brought laurels to the department by winning various competitions and awards at different functions. Ms. Divya Dash, AGM has active involvement in business quizzing, and is a multiple-time winner of Saksham and Samriddhi, SAIL Management quizzes and other regional and local quizzes. She has won and represented RSP in CTYM, 2014 and a plethora of awards and accolades in plant level slogan and essay writing held annually on different occasions. She has also represented RSP in badminton tournaments on national level and brought home the gold every time. Similarly, other members of the team are proud recipient of NVKP, Karamveer awards, Shram award, and various awards at the Women’s Day celebrations.
Appreciating the efforts of the team, Mr. Debadatta Satapathy, GM In-charge, (CCW) said, “For them, even sky is not the limit”. In a world where gender stereotypes persist, these women are dismantling barriers and proving that technical acumen knows no gender. The All-Women Technical Team of CCW is not just excelling within the confines of the steel plant; they are becoming a beacon of inspiration for the industry. Their success is a testament to the power of diversity and inclusion, proving that when given equal opportunities, women can excel in technical roles and contribute significantly to the growth and success of any organization.
