India has emerged as the global leader in Boeing engineering and technology headcount outside the United States.
According to Ajay Sharma, executive director of HR at Boeing India and South Asia, the company currently employs more than 5,500 engineers and technologists in India, out of a total workforce of 6,000.
This achievement reflects India’s growing prominence in the aerospace and defense industry.
Ajay emphasized that Boeing’s that the company plans to further expand its workforce in the country. While specific numbers were not disclosed, the ongoing hiring aligns with the Indian government’s vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India).
Focus on Boeing India Engineering & Technology Center
Looking ahead, Boeing’s focus will be on its India Engineering & Technology Center (BIETC) located in Bengaluru and Chennai. BIETC engages in complex advanced aerospace work and supports Boeing’s global engineering growth.
The recent inauguration of a 43-acre complex near Kempegowda International Airport, built with a substantial investment of Rs 1,600 crore, underscores Boeing’s commitment to India.
Ambitious Sourcing Goals
Boeing India aims to increase its sourcing from India, targeting an annual figure of Rs 10,000 crore—up from the current Rs 8,000 crore. This move reflects the company’s confidence in India’s capabilities and its strategic importance.
As technology disrupts industries worldwide, the aviation sector remains a magnet for talent. Sharma highlighted that engineers and technologists at the Boeing India Engineering & Technology Center continue to drive cutting-edge research and development.
Their work spans both traditional and emerging areas, including next-generation airplane health management, eco-friendly coatings, advanced networks, and secure communications—critical components for advancing aerospace and defense.
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Diversity & Inclusion at Boeing India
Boeing India is not only focused on technical excellence but also on fostering diversity and inclusion. Ajay Sharma highlighted the company’s commitment to gender diversity, particularly in STEM fields (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). Remarkably, more than a quarter of Boeing India’s workforce comprises women—a percentage that exceeds the industry average.
Sharma emphasized that their goal extends beyond mere numerical representation. They aim to create an inclusive environment where women thrive in leadership positions and contribute significantly to the company’s success.
The Boeing Sukanya Program: Empowering Girls and Women
In January 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Boeing Sukanya Program—an initiative that opens doors for girls and women across India. The program focuses on critical skills development in STEM fields, specifically tailored for the aviation sector. Here are the key components:
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- STEM Labs: The program will establish STEM Labs at 150 planned locations. These labs aim to ignite interest in STEM careers among young girls, providing hands-on experiences and exposure to cutting-edge technologies.
- Scholarships for Aspiring Pilots: Recognizing the need for more women in aviation, the Boeing Sukanya Program offers scholarships to women who are training to become pilots. By supporting their education and training, Boeing aims to increase female representation in the cockpit.
‘Return Flight’: A Holistic Re-Entry Program
Boeing India’s commitment to diversity extends beyond recruitment. The company has introduced the ‘Return Flight’ program, designed for individuals who have taken career breaks for various reasons.
- Gender-Agnostic Approach: The program is open to all—regardless of gender. It recognizes that career breaks can happen to anyone and seeks to provide opportunities for those returning to the workforce.
- Holistic Support: ‘Return Flight’ offers a holistic approach. Participants receive tailored onboarding, foundational upskilling, personal coaching sessions, and leadership skills development.
- Paid Re-Entry: This isn’t just about rejoining the workforce; it’s about thriving. The program provides paid employment opportunities, ensuring a smooth transition back into full-time roles.
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