Our People
Shivanka Mishra, a resident of Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, knew she needed a secure source of income to support her family. Rather than pursuing a BSc or BA, she opted for a Diploma in Chemical Engineering as she was always curious about the subject. In 2019, Shivanka joined Hindalco through campus recruitment, where she found herself assigned to the R&D department at Renukoot and had to delve into the realm of metallurgical processes.
However, this was very different from what she had learnt as a chemical engineer. When she confided in her boss about her fears, he reassured her, saying, "You can do it; you just have to try. What you've learned in college doesn't matter. You can always learn new things here. Start by reading some books on metallurgy.”
As Shivanka transitioned into the role of a shift supervisor, she encountered numerous challenges. “The people I was working with were senior and had a different mindset, but my manager taught me how to handle them. Slowly I learnt the ropes.”
Soon after, her boss informed her of a new opportunity—a new extrusions plant was coming up in Silvassa, and she would have to undergo intensive training in Dubai if she wanted to be a part of the project. Filled with excitement, she discussed the opportunity with her parents who wholeheartedly encouraged her to seize this chance.
During her stay in Dubai, Shivanka delved into surface treatment quality—an entirely new subject for her. Subsequently, she visited Hindalco’s Kuppam plant in Andhra Pradesh where she could apply her newfound knowledge on surface treatment.
“I am very proud to work in Hindalco Silvassa, which is the first plant in the country to have a vertical powder coating plant. At Silvassa, I have the chance to also learn about other aspects of engineering, such as electrical and mechanical. Plus, there is the excitement about being part of a team setting up a new plant,” she says, beaming with pride.
Shivanka began her journey with one goal—to secure employment—but has acquired a lot of knowledge and skills along the way. “I owe my journey to my parents and my interest in trying new things. I want opportunities, and when I see one, I will do anything to take it!”
