Emine Dilek Gündüz, General Manager of Erkunt Industry (a Mahindra company), always dreamt  of following in her father's footsteps and become a metallurgical engineer. Today she has shattered the glass ceiling in this male-dominated world of metallurgy, challenging the notion that certain professions were off-limits to women. After facing the stark reality that female metallurgical engineers weren't even getting job interviews, she made it her mission to excel in this field.

Emine’s journey with Erkunt Industry began in 1996, when she joined as a foundry engineer. By 2004, she had broken barriers by becoming the company’s first female factory manager. In 2021, her team's hard work was recognised with the prestigious Mahindra Excellence Award, and in 2022, she made history by receiving the inaugural Foundry Woman Award – the 1st CAEF European Foundry Women's Award.

Since 2022, she has been serving as the Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Turkish Foundry Association, a pivotal organisation in Turkey's iron, steel, and aluminium casting industry. This year, she became a member of the Erkunt Board of Directors.

But Emine's most recent achievement in 2023 is a true game-changer. Her dream of of introducing women operators to the shop floor became a success and in turn diversified the blue-collar workforce.

Emine's journey has not only transformed her company but also earned them a spot among Turkey's top 500 large industrial organisations. Her collaboration with the Mahindra Group since 2017 led to their '2021 Excellence Award,' a testament to her dedication and the commitment of her colleagues.

Emine Dilek Gündüz's fearless approach to challenging gender norms is inspiring to all. She truly represents #SheIsOnTheRise.

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