Meet Manvi Bali Mishra: Powered By The Passion to Inspire the Progress Of The Nation

“The safety, honor, and welfare of your country come first, always and every time.” – Field Marshal Kodandera Madappa Cariappa.?

These words resonate deeply with Manvi Bali Mishra, a veteran Air Force officer and the current Plant Head at Tata Cummins Pvt. Ltd. Green Energy Solutions in Jamshedpur. Manvi's journey reflects her relentless spirit and dedication to overcoming challenges and contributing to national progress.?

A Childhood Inspired by Science and Service?

Born into a family of scientists and military personnel, Manvi’s path was shaped early on. Her scientist father often emphasized the importance of failure in achieving success. She recalls working alongside him on scientific experiments- “blowing up light bulbs, opening transistors, television sets” which ignited her passion for engineering. But Manvi was most allured by the uniform. “The aircraft, the fighter jets, and their sheer thrust power excited me no end”, she reminisces. That’s how her determination to soar was born.?

A Decade with the Indian Air Force: A Dream Takes Flight?

After earning her degree in Computer Science from Himachal Pradesh University, Manvi pursued her dream of joining the Air Force. Confident from the very beginning, she knew it was her destiny when she was selected as one of only two candidates from thousands of applicants. In 2006, she was inducted into the Short Service Commission, embarking on a bold new chapter.?

“My training days were tough, marked by injuries and even hospitalization, but they built my resilience.”, Manvi reminisces.? “As an aeronautical engineer, I had the privilege of being part of the pioneering group that inducted advanced radar technology into the Indian Air Force, earning numerous accolades and honors—an opportunity few are granted. Working alongside exceptional engineers and pilots, I witnessed firsthand how our teams weren’t divided by ranks or hierarchies. Instead, we bonded like a family, held together by trust and driven by a shared mission. Learning and growing among the best helped me transform into a leader for the people.”, she proudly states.??

Married to an Air Force officer, Manvi was soon blessed with a daughter. But motherhood came with challenges – a time that truly tested her mettle and the strength of relationships. Her Air Force colleagues stood strong with her in this trying time – a call far beyond duty.???

After serving in the Air Force for 10 glorious years—the maximum tenure allowed for women officers- it was time to usher in a new chapter of life.?

Manvi decided to switch careers and took up the management course at IIM Indore. Her daughter was merely six months old, but with the support of her mother – always her idol for the way she brought up Manvi herself - she successfully juggled the two worlds.?

Military Veteran, Corporate Fresher: Bold Entry into Cummins?

Manvi’s transition to corporate life wasn't easy. During campus placements at IIM Indore, where she pursued a management course, companies offered her stereotypical roles that failed to recognize her engineering background. Manvi was campus-hired by Cummins on the credibility of her invaluable decade-long experience in the Defense Forces and the potential she displayed.

“I will forever be indebted to my mentor who could foresee the value that I could bring to the table”, she emphasizes as she recalls this turning point in her life. Her first role was on the shop floor at Cummins' Kothrud Engine Plant.?

“It was like déjà vu – once again, I felt that this is where I was meant to be – at a workplace driven by people, not machines. Cummins saw beyond the biases and became a place where I forged friendships of a lifetime. Everyone put in a lot of effort to help me settle in. Thanks to the care and support extended, I picked up a wealth of learning in just a few months, despite my non-corporate background and experience. I learnt how providing a safe environment could help people thrive, and how that was a priority for Cummins, always.”???

After a brief year-long break, Manvi chose to return to Cummins, grateful for the organization's unwavering support and belief in her.?

Leading a Landmark Plant: Engineering a Green Future?

As Plant Head, Manvi plays an important role in Cummins’ efforts in decarbonization. Under her leadership, the facility produces low-to-zero emissions solutions, aligning with Cummins’ goals and advancing progress in this area. She also manages the integration of future products, ensuring compliance and meeting delivery commitments.?

Manvi is also an advocate for gender diversity and hopes to inspire young women to confidently pursue their ambitions in the manufacturing industry.

“I’ve noticed that Cummins is a place where women hold roles in engineering, R&D, and leadership, both in India and globally. I am extremely proud of being part of this organization that fosters an environment where everyone can grow.”?

Discipline in her Veins, Love for Family in her Heart: The Secret to her Success??

Manvi attributes much of her success to the values instilled in her by her family. Her husband works in a different location, but they ensure that they take family holidays twice a year. This time together is her way of appreciating his silent support and reciprocating the encouragement he has provided throughout her career.?

In her personal life, Manvi is meticulous and organized, planning each day the night before. She cherishes her early mornings in the garden, where she finds solitude and peace. She owes her fulfilling life today to the freedom of thought and expression and to make life’s choices, one that comes from the right upbringing. Now she is ensuring the same for their child. “I ensure my quality time for our daughter. But with my mother and mother-in-law taking care of her, I know she is in the best hands”, she beams with satisfaction.??

Cummins: A Place of Growth and Empowerment?

Manvi credits Cummins for shaping her into the leader she is today. She describes the company as her dream workplace, a place that recognized her potential early on and empowered her to steer her career. Cummins, she says, has always trusted her capabilities.

“It is my turn to return that faith by bringing in the change Cummins envisions, as their torchbearer. And by playing a crucial role in powering my nation, a service I have always stood tall for.”??

Soldier on, we say.??