Sonal leads the end-to-end implementation of Internet of Things (IoT) enablement for residential water solutions. She has been a crucial part of Pentair’s digital transformation, creating smart, connected products that improve customer satisfaction by helping to keep safety standards high and maintenance costs low. Sonal has been with Pentair since 2007.

What is one piece of advice you have received in your career, personally or professionally, that greatly impacted you as a woman today?
My father used to say, “Think positive but stay prepared for worst,” so that failures don’t destroy you. So early on, I understood that failures may happen, but I can overcome them. This inspires me to think of options, possibilities, and alternate paths so that I am able to achieve my goals. At the time, I did not realize that this was risk analysis and Design Failure Mode Effect and Analysis. I was already thinking like an engineer!

What is one piece of advice you would give women trying to enter the STEM fields based on your experiences?
I am from a country where there are few opportunities for women to have a long career due to social obligations and priorities. We have same intellect and strengths as men and can contribute equally to society; it’s just a matter of staying consistent. I suggest that we make choices that make us happy and feel proud of ourselves when we look back.

Who has inspired you and why?
I am highly inspired by the passion of agencies working to solve the water crisis in so many parts of the world. I have worked with some of them personally and seen their selfless efforts. Because I was born on World Water Day, I take this as guidance that I should use my skills to help resolve water issues in our communities.

Sonal was recently recognized by The Manufacturing Institute as a Women in Manufacturing STEP Ahead Award winner. The STEP Ahead Awards honor women who have demonstrated excellence and leadership in their careers and represent all levels of the manufacturing industry. Read the press release here.