~ Tessy Thomas: Pioneering India's Missile Technology and Championing Women in STEM~
Early Inspirations and Educational Journey
Tessy Thomas grew up in Kerala in the 1960s, fascinated by airplanes and rockets. While most girls aimed to become doctors or teachers, Tessy was drawn to science and engineering. She studied Electrical Engineering at Calicut University and later joined a specialized program in guided missiles sponsored by DRDO in Pune. This was her first step into the world of defence research, where she began to excel despite societal expectations. Her journey from watching rockets at Thumba to pioneering missile technology reflects her determination to pursue her passion against all odds.
Entry into DRDO and Early Career
Joining the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in 1988 marked the beginning of Tessy Thomas's illustrious career in missile technology. She started as a young scientist at the Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) in Hyderabad, under the mentorship of renowned scientist Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. Dr. Kalam recognized Tessy's potential and assigned her to a team tasked with developing inertial navigation systems for Agni-guided missiles, thus igniting her passion for missile technology.
Role in India's Missile Development
Tessy Thomas's pivotal role in the Agni missile programme was instrumental in catapulting India's missile capabilities to new heights. She spearheaded innovations in guidance and control systems, overcoming numerous technical challenges and ensuring indigenous development of critical technologies essential for national security. Her contributions to the Agni series of missiles, from Agni-I to Agni-V, solidified her reputation as a trailblazer in missile technology.
Challenges and Milestones in Missile Technology
Throughout her career, Tessy Thomas confronted significant challenges, including early setbacks in missile testing such as the initial failures of Agni-3. Undeterred by these obstacles, she led her team with determination and resilience, conducting rigorous testing and development to achieve successful missile flights. Her expertise in energy management and guidance schemes for long-range missile systems played a pivotal role in India's strategic defence capabilities.
Leadership and Advocacy for Women in Science
As one of the few women in DRDO during the early years of her career, Tessy Thomas has been a staunch advocate for gender equality in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. Her leadership and accomplishments have inspired countless young women across India to pursue careers in STEM, challenging stereotypes and breaking barriers in traditionally male-dominated domains.
Vision for India's Technological Future
Looking ahead, Tessy Thomas remains committed to advancing India's technological prowess and achieving greater self-reliance in defence and aerospace sectors. She emphasizes the importance of collaborative efforts between academia, industry, and government to foster innovation and address technological challenges. Her vision includes leveraging India's scientific talent and resources to propel the country towards becoming a global leader in cutting-edge technologies.
Tessy Thomas's remarkable journey embodies courage, perseverance, and dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and national security. Her contributions to missile technology and her advocacy for gender inclusivity continue to inspire future generations of scientists and engineers in India and around the world. As she continues to lead and innovate, Tessy Thomas's legacy serves as a beacon of excellence and empowerment in the pursuit of scientific discovery and technological innovation.
