AI-led upskilling creates new pathways for women in India’s STEM ecosystem: EY India report

Upskilling and AI-driven roles are reshaping opportunity

Generative AI and technology-enabled skilling are emerging as significant catalysts for expanding women’s participation in STEM careers in India. STEM-related upskilling has witnessed rapid adoption among women, supported by increased digital access, flexible learning pathways, and rising demand for future-focused skills. Women’s participation in STEM upskilling increased from 22% in 2018–19 to 33% in 2023¹, reflecting a sustained shift in career aspirations and preparedness for high-growth technology roles. This momentum has been further accelerated by the rise of generative AI, with GenAI course enrolments surging 195% year-on-year in 2025².

Meanwhile, companies are also signalling a positive trend. 62% of employers reported hiring more women in STEM roles in fiscal year 23-2024³.

Sector representation

Despite strong graduation rates and growing enthusiasm for technical upskilling, women remain under-represented across several STEM-intensive sectors. In technology and IT, women account for 36% of STEM jobs⁴, demonstrating comparatively stronger representation but still below parity. Representation drops significantly in heavy manufacturing and engineering, where women make up only 3% of the STEM workforce⁵.

In India’s rapidly expanding electric mobility space, women hold approximately 13% of roles in the EV/automotive sector⁶. At a macro level, national employment patterns also shape STEM outcomes. India’s labour force participation rate for women rose to 41.7% in 2023–24⁷.

Strategic priorities for advancing women in STEM

The World Economic Forum has highlighted a looming shortage of over 85 million skilled workers by 2030. EY report recommends that addressing this gap is critical, and tapping into the untapped potential of the skilled female labour force is essential for driving economic productivity, innovation, and social mobility worldwide.

To fully harness the potential of women in STEM, the report calls for a comprehensive approach that expands inclusive education, strengthens mentorship and career support, and highlights women’s achievements to inspire future talent. It emphasises the importance of coordinated efforts across government, academia and industry, along with tackling unconscious bias and building robust support systems to create a more inclusive and innovative STEM ecosystem.

The report further recommends strengthening the education-to-employment bridge through internships, apprenticeships and structured industry exposure, supported by inclusive workplace systems such as flexible work models, returnships and unbiased advancement pathways. It also calls for sustained investment in upskilling, particularly in AI-driven capabilities, and greater visibility for women leaders in STEM to build aspiration, mentorship and long-term career progression.

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Notes to Editors

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