Mini Thomas, a prominent figure in the power industry and a senior member of IEEE, is dedicated to increasing women’s participation in the energy sector. With a career spanning several leadership roles in India, she has contributed significantly to academia and industry. Currently a professor of electrical engineering at Jamia Millia Islamia University in New Delhi, Thomas previously served as the first female president of the National Institute of Technology Tiruchirappalli and has held several dean positions.
Thomas emphasizes the importance of family support for women pursuing careers in engineering. “For a woman to succeed, she needs a lot of family support,” she states, highlighting the challenges many women face due to caretaking responsibilities. Her commitment to empowering others stems from her own experiences, as she aims to create pathways for women in the power and energy industries.
From Student to Leader: A Journey in Engineering
Born and raised in Kerala, India, Thomas initially chose engineering over medicine—her only other option—due to a personal aversion to blood. She found her passion for teaching during her undergraduate studies at the University of Kerala, where her extensive note-taking made her a sought-after tutor among peers. After earning her bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering in 1984, she pursued a master’s degree at the Indian Institute of Technology, Madras, completing it in 1986.
Shortly after, Thomas began her teaching career at the National Institute of Technology, Calicut. A significant life change occurred when she married and moved to New Delhi. Instead of seeking immediate employment, she decided to pursue a Ph.D. at the Indian Institute of Technology, New Delhi, completing her doctorate in electrical engineering by the age of 28.
Her teaching career at Delhi Technological University began shortly after, where she taught for five years before moving to Jamia Millia Islamia in 1995. During her tenure there, she led the establishment of research labs and developed innovative curricula.
Mentoring the Next Generation
In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Thomas has been instrumental in mentoring women in the power sector. Through the South Asia WePOWER network, she trains mid-career women, enhancing their skills for advancement to technical and management roles. The program, which spans six months, provides valuable training and networking opportunities to women from various South Asian countries.
According to a 2020 World Bank study, women in technical roles within the power industry in South Asia make up between 0.1% and 21%. Thomas is one of the 40 experts involved in this initiative, focusing on critical topics such as renewable energy and the role of women in leadership.
Reflecting on her journey, Thomas acknowledges the vital role mentorship played in her career. She recalls her hesitation in pursuing leadership roles until a transformative leadership training program gave her the confidence to advance. “Mentorship is what changed my career trajectory,” she notes, emphasizing her desire to help others navigate similar challenges.
In her mission to foster innovation and entrepreneurship, Thomas established the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Jamia Millia Islamia in 2014. This center supports startups in transforming ideas into viable business models.
Throughout her career, Thomas has remained an active member of IEEE, joining in 1990 as a graduate student. Her dedication to the organization has allowed her to stay updated on emerging technologies and contribute to the development of educational resources, including co-authoring a book on SCADA systems.
Thomas’s journey reflects her commitment to teaching, mentoring, and advocating for women in the power industry. Her belief in the importance of passion in one’s work drives her ongoing involvement in both education and volunteer activities, making a significant impact on future generations. “You should always do what you enjoy,” she advises, underscoring her dedication to empowering women and promoting innovation in the field.
