The clanging symphony of a factory floor isn’t typically a place you’d expect to find a revolution brewing. But in Sriperumbudur, India, Saint-Gobain’s World Glass Complex is shattering the glass ceiling with an all-women team leading the charge. This isn’t just a symbolic gesture; it’s a bold experiment proving that women can excel in what was once considered a man’s world.
“We see diversity and gender inclusion as the cornerstones of our business, not just HR buzzwords,” emphasises P. Padmakumar, executive director, human resources, Saint-Gobain India. “Our goal isn’t just to have more women, it’s to smash the stereotype that these roles are for men.”
The factory floor, a realm of scorching heat and intricate tasks such as glass cutting and coating, might seem intimidating. But for these women, it’s an opportunity. The idea sparked from a simple suggestion by a business head: why not create a team specifically for women?
Finding the right people wasn’t just about ticking a box. Saint-Gobain recruits individuals who thrive in a continuous improvement environment. Through the World Class Manufacturing (WCM) framework, women are equipped with the skills they need, from the basics to becoming experts in their specific roles.
“We see diversity and gender inclusion as the cornerstones of our business, not just HR buzzwords. Our goal isn’t just to have more women, it’s to smash the stereotype that these roles are for men.”
P. Padmakumar, executive director, human resources, Saint-Gobain India
Concerns about maintenance, a crucial aspect of any factory, were addressed with a robust preventive maintenance plan. Additionally, a dedicated maintenance crew is readily available, empowering the women to operate independently.
But Saint-Gobain goes beyond technical expertise. They understand that success is built on a strong foundation. A comprehensive training programme ensures each team member is confident and capable. The WCM framework isn’t just about acquiring skills; it fosters a culture of excellence. Regular assessments keep everyone focused on improvement, breeding a sense of pride and ownership among the women.
Leadership roles are distributed seamlessly within the team. Clear communication is key, with regular meetings at the beginning of each shift to discuss priorities, safety, and immediate tasks. This transparency fosters a positive team dynamic and high efficiency – there have been no reported conflicts or issues.
“Leadership sets the tone,” says Padmakumar. “This plant proves that strong leadership, regardless of gender, is the driving force behind an inclusive and empowering workplace.”
Saint-Gobain’s commitment to gender equality extends far beyond Sriperumbudur. They’ve implemented various initiatives throughout the company, from workforce inclusion programs to targeted outreach at engineering colleges. Partnering with these colleges, they offer female students valuable internships, giving them a taste of the industry and career guidance. “Many of these interns return to join us after graduation,” reveals Padmakumar, a testament to the programme’s success.
But Saint-Gobain doesn’t stop at policies. They foster a culture of ownership and proactive problem-solving. One such initiative challenged tradition by training women to operate forklifts. Today, 10-15 per cent of forklift drivers in some factories are women. Building on this success, Saint-Gobain established dedicated manufacturing spaces for women, such as the Sriperumbudur mirror facility and a paper-making unit in Bangalore. “These spaces achieve productivity levels that meet or even exceed industry averages,” says Padmakumar, “proving our commitment to gender inclusivity is not just words, but results.”
Recognising that well-being goes beyond just a paycheck, Saint-Gobain established a wellness centre on the shop floor. This dedicated space allows women to rest and recharge during working hours.
Looking ahead, Saint-Gobain is dedicated to the success of the all-women team and continues to break barriers. They’re actively working towards achieving gender balance in leadership roles, with a goal of 40 per cent women at the top. “We’re overcoming challenges associated with location by improving transportation and offering enhanced benefits for women who travel,” concludes Padmakumar.
Saint-Gobain’s journey in Sriperumbudur is more than an experiment; it’s a powerful testament to the transformative power of inclusion. By fostering a supportive ecosystem that empowers women and shatters stereotypes, Saint-Gobain is not only creating a more equitable workplace, but also setting a shining example for the entire construction industry.