In this inspiring episode of Unbound with Mamtaa, we bring you the powerful story of Devashree Nampurkar, Director of Shree Refrigerations Limited, a company known for manufacturing specialized air-conditioning systems used in Indian Navy warships and submarines. Her journey is not just about business leadership but about breaking stereotypes and redefining what women can achieve in industries traditionally dominated by men.Growing up in an entrepreneurial family, Devashree was exposed to the world of engineering and manufacturing from a very young age. She witnessed her father building the company with dedication while her mother stood beside him as a strong pillar of support. Watching this journey unfold in front of her eyes helped shape her perspective toward entrepreneurship, leadership, and the importance of teamwork. For Devashree, mechanical engineering was never just a career choice it was a natural extension of the environment she grew up in.In a society where heavy industrial sectors like mechanical engineering and manufacturing are often perceived as male-dominated spaces, Devashree chose to step forward with confidence and determination. She pursued mechanical engineering with clarity in her mind and a strong belief in her abilities. What makes her journey even more inspiring is that her parents always supported her independence and never imposed decisions on her. This freedom to make her own choices played a crucial role in shaping her career path.One of the most interesting aspects of Devashree’s journey is how she entered the family business. Instead of directly taking up a leadership position, she started her career at the company as a marketing trainee. By working her way up step by step, she learned every aspect of the business. This allowed her to gain the trust of employees, understand the operations closely, and build meaningful relationships with the team.Many of the people working in the company have seen her grow since childhood, as she often visited the shop floor and observed the operations while growing up. Because of this connection, she never felt like an outsider in the organization. Over the years, she worked closely with the team, gained hands-on experience, and gradually moved up the hierarchy. Today, she holds the position of Director — not because it was handed to her, but because she earned it through dedication and hard work.In this conversation, Devashree also talks about the common misconception that second-generation entrepreneurs receive success easily. She openly shares that comparisons and assumptions are always there, but the only way to overcome them is through consistent effort and results. Her journey is proof that true leadership is built through experience, credibility, and the ability to work alongside people.Another powerful insight she shares is the importance of building a strong support system. According to Devashree, behind every successful individual there is not just one person, but a complete ecosystem of support. For her, this includes her family at home — her father, husband, and mother — as well as the team she has built within the company. She believes that when women want to grow professionally, they should actively build a support system that empowers them both personally and professionally.The conversation also highlights how industries are evolving today. Mechanical engineering is no longer limited to machines, oil, and shop floors. With advancements in technology, automation, design, and management, the sector now offers diverse opportunities for innovation and leadership. Devashree encourages more women to explore careers in engineering and manufacturing, emphasizing that the barriers that once existed are gradually breaking down.📩 Email: unboundwithmamta@gmail.comStay tuned for more inspiring conversations on Unbound with Mamtaa.