DataWIE 2026 - Shaping Tomorrow with Data-Driven Minds

#WIE #data-visualization #WomenInEngineering #IEEEWIE #IEEEWIEMadrasSection #data-science #analytics #leadership
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DataWIE 2026 is a one-day, in-person technical event organized by IEEE Women in Engineering (WIE), Madras Section, focused on equipping participants with modern data tools and strengthening their skills in data science, analytics, and AI. The event, themed “Shaping Tomorrow with Data-Driven Minds,” aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry expectations through practical, hands-on exposure. Core activities include a Workshop on Data Visualization with Tableau, an Interactive Session on Building a Predictive Model, and a competitive Data Science Challenge that provides participants with real-world data experience similar to what professionals handle in industry settings. The program also features a Keynote Address and a Panel Discussion to offer insights on data-driven leadership, emerging trends, and career pathways within the data ecosystem. Overall, the activity is designed to build foundational and intermediate data competencies, promote meaningful engagement between academia and industry, and contribute to developing a future-ready data workforce in the region.



  Date and Time

  Location

  Hosts

  Registration



  • Add_To_Calendar_icon Add Event to Calendar
  • Chennai, Tamil Nadu
  • India

  • Contact Event Host
  • Dr. Soma Prathibha - prathibha.it@sairam.edu.in
    Chair, IEEE Madras Section WIE AG

    Indhumathi Gunasekaran - indhumathi.g2203@ieee.org
    Secretary, IEEE Madras Section WIE AG

  • Starts 04 January 2026 06:30 PM UTC
  • Ends 11 February 2026 06:30 PM UTC
  • No Admission Charge


  Speakers

Arun

Topic:

Data-Driven Leadership for the Future

This keynote session will introduce participants to how data-driven leadership is influencing today’s organizations, industries, and everyday decision-making. The speaker will explain the rapid changes happening in the data and AI world and why future professionals need to understand tools like big data, analytics, and AI. The talk will highlight how data is used to solve problems, improve processes, and support innovation across different fields. It will also emphasize the importance of developing a data-first mindset, asking the right questions, and using data responsibly. The session is designed to help attendees understand the skills and thinking patterns that future leaders require in a world increasingly shaped by AI and automation.

Attendees will gain a high-level understanding of:

  • Key trends and opportunities in the fast-growing data and AI landscape.

  • How data, analytics, and machine learning are used to make better decisions in industry.

  • Fundamental skills and mindsets needed to work confidently with data.

  • Why organizations are moving toward a data-first culture and what that means for early-career professionals.

  • Basic ethical and responsibility considerations when using advanced data technologies.

Biography:

Seasoned IT Leader | Data, Analytics & AI | Driving Digital Transformation at Scale
With over 21 years of experience in the IT industry, I’ve had the privilege of leading transformative initiatives across Data, Analytics, and AI. Currently, I serve as AVP – Delivery Director at Genpact, where I lead a large-scale Databricks Unified Platform migration for a global client, while also heading the Data Engineering Practice.
My passion lies in solving complex business problems using cutting-edge technologies—Agentic AI, AI Agents, automation, generative AI, and data-driven decision-making frameworks—across diverse industries.
🎓 I’m a strong advocate of lifelong learning. I hold a Senior Management Program degree from IIM Ahmedabad and an MBA from ICFAI University, along with certifications in Generative AI, Large Language Models, and DCAM (Data Management Capability Assessment Model).

🔑 Core Strengths
1. Continuous Learning & Growth Mindset
I view learning as a strategic asset. This mindset has consistently positioned me as a high-impact performer in every organization I’ve worked with.
2. Delivery Excellence through Thought Leadership
I lead with integrity, accountability, and a zero-tolerance approach to process deviation—fostering a culture of excellence and innovation.
3. Structured Governance & Team Empowerment
By clearly defining RACI matrices and KPIs, I enable team members to deliver with clarity and confidence—ensuring high performance in a collaborative and healthy work environment.

🏆 Career Highlights
1. Global Recognition at Infosys
Ranked among the top 3,000 employees globally for consistent delivery excellence. Honored with an iPhone 6 and a personal appreciation note from the CEO.
2. Leadership Growth & Delivery – A Dual Win
Completed a 40+ hour/week senior executive leadership program from IIM A, while simultaneously leading key programs at Genpact—demonstrating resilience, discipline, and a relentless drive for excellence.
3. From Learner to Leader in Premier Tech Summits
Progressed from an attendee to keynote speaker and moderator at leading conferences like Data Engineering Summit and MLDS 2024–25. Delivered a high-impact keynote at MLDS 2025, Bangalore, with just 3 hours’ notice—on the topic, “Solidify Your AI Foundation: Roadmap to Success.”

Abinayaa

Topic:

Talk: The Power of Data Storytelling in Business

This session will introduce participants to the importance of data storytelling and how it helps transform raw numbers into meaningful insights for business decision-making. The speaker will explain how combining data, visuals, and narrative can make complex information easier to understand and act upon. Attendees will learn why good storytelling is essential for presenting findings to managers, clients, or teams, and how it can influence strategy, highlight opportunities, and solve real business problems. The talk will also cover simple techniques for creating clear, engaging, and impactful data stories using charts, dashboards, and real-world examples. This session is ideal for participants looking to strengthen their communication and analytical skills in a data-driven workplace.

Attendees will gain a high-level understanding of:

  • What data storytelling is and why it matters in business environments.

  • How to convert data insights into simple, engaging narratives.

  • Basic principles of visual storytelling using charts, dashboards, and reports.

  • How effective storytelling influences business decisions and supports problem-solving.

  • Common mistakes to avoid when presenting or explaining data.

Biography:

Passionate and results-driven Data Analyst with a strong foundation in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, currently working at LatentView Analytics. With extensive experience in data analysis, business promotion, and embedded systems, I bring a unique blend of technical expertise and leadership skills to every project.

My journey began with internships in Java SpringBoot development and embedded systems, where I developed a keen interest in leveraging technology to solve real-world problems. This passion led to the successful development of an automatic hand sanitizer dispenser, a low-cost, contactless solution designed to combat the spread of viruses during the pandemic.

In addition to my technical experience, I have been actively involved in IEEE, holding various leadership positions, including Chairperson of the IEEE SJCE Student Branch - Women in Engineering (WIE) and Vice Chairman of IEEE WIE. My contributions to the IEEE community have been recognized with several prestigious awards, including the IEEE R10 WIE Award and the IEEE India Council Award.

Beyond my professional and academic achievements, I am committed to empowering others through mentorship and volunteering. My role as an Execom Member and YP MAS Representative for IEEE WIE MAS reflects my dedication to advancing women in engineering and fostering a supportive community for young professionals.

With a strong analytical mindset, a commitment to continuous learning, and a passion for leadership, I am excited to contribute to innovative projects that drive positive change.

Specialties: Data Analysis, Business Promotion, Embedded Systems, Java SpringBoot, Leadership, IEEE Volunteering


Indhu

Topic:

Workshop: Data Visualization with Tableau

This hands-on workshop will introduce participants to the fundamentals of data visualization using Tableau, one of the most widely used analytics and business intelligence tools in the industry. Attendees will learn how to connect datasets, build interactive charts, create dashboards, and design clear visual stories that communicate insights effectively. The session is designed for beginners and intermediate learners, providing step-by-step guidance on navigating Tableau’s interface and applying essential visualization techniques. Through practical exercises, participants will gain confidence in transforming raw data into meaningful visuals that support analysis, reporting, and decision-making.

Attendees will gain a high-level understanding of:

  • How to navigate Tableau and work with its core features and interface.

  • Connecting and preparing datasets for visualization.

  • Creating basic and intermediate charts such as bar charts, line charts, maps, and more.

  • Designing dashboards that present insights clearly and interactively.

  • Best practices for choosing the right visual for the right type of data.

  • How data visualization supports analytics, storytelling, and business decisions.

Biography:

Indhumathi Gunasekaran is a Data Analyst with over five years of experience in transforming complex datasets into clear, actionable insights. She specializes in tools such as Tableau, Power BI, Excel, Python, and Oracle PL/SQL, using them to collect, process, and analyze large volumes of data across diverse domains. With a strong command of data visualization techniques, she is skilled at designing interactive dashboards and reports that help stakeholders understand key trends and make informed decisions.

Indhu is known for her ability to blend analytical thinking with storytelling, making technical insights accessible to both technical and non-technical audiences. She has a proven record of delivering impactful recommendations that support business growth and operational improvement. Passionate about continuous learning, she actively keeps herself updated with emerging technologies and best practices in data analytics.

Prathibha

Topic:

Inauguration & Opening Remarks

The Inauguration & Opening Remarks will include a welcome address by the IEEE WIE Madras Section Chair, Dr. Soma Prathibha, where she will introduce the event's theme and outline the objectives and significance of DataWIE 2026: Shaping Tomorrow with Data-Driven Minds. This session will set the tone for the event, emphasizing the role of women in driving innovation in the field of data science and analytics.

 

Biography:

Dr. Soma Prathibha is a passionate academician and the Chair of IEEE WIE Madras Section. With a strong background in Information Technology, she is dedicated to fostering women’s empowerment in engineering and technology. Dr. Prathibha is an advocate for gender diversity in technical fields and works tirelessly to provide women with opportunities to lead and contribute to technological advancements. She is deeply committed to mentorship, education, and creating platforms where women can excel in engineering and data science. As an active member of IEEE, she strives to make a lasting impact on the professional journeys of young women in technology, especially in the growing fields of data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence.