While some stories interest their readers, others move them even more because of their close connection to everyday realities and struggles. One such story is that of Alekhya Gandra, which shows the rise of an individual in the tech industry who grew up in a small town in India.
With a strong will and passion for technology, Alekhya has achieved her goals, demonstrating that even the most ordinary beginnings can result in something extraordinary. Technology is not only a vehicle for her work but also a means for personal development, making her an inspiration for aspiring talent and proof that determination and ambition go hand in hand.
Gandra hails from a small town in South India and has had a curiosity for technology since a young age. Growing up with limited resources to becoming a Lead Engineer at a Fortune 500 company is a great example of her willpower and determination. She has not only made a mark in the healthcare technology field but has also shown that it’s possible to combine personal and family goals with professional aspirations—particularly as a woman with children.
Alekhya pursued a bachelor’s degree in information technology, where she first made her mark in the technology sector. After working in a growing market in India, she got the opportunity to travel and work in the US, where she left her job as a software developer to pursue a career in healthcare technology
Alekhya’s story outlines the struggles faced by women in the technology sector, which is male-dominated. Moving from Hyderabad to the United States with her four-month-old baby was not only a career change but a completely new world for Alekhya.
She earned recognition through her hard work over time, climbing to high ranks. Her scaling career proves that this industry craves both technical skills and creativity. Her professional path includes several important positions held at esteemed organizations, such as a major American health insurance provider. It was through these initial steps in the working world that Alekhya found her interest in the use of data and technology for the betterment of healthcare.
Alekhya’s incredible work ethic is the bedrock of her achievements in the United States, and she has worked on solutions to some of the most prevalent problems in health care. Another significant milestone in Alekhya’s journey was learning to juggle the demands of being a new mother with her career. Moving to the U.S. with her infant daughter came with its own challenges, but she quickly figured out a way to overcome them.
Her ability to manage these competing priorities shows her adaptability, and establishing a daily routine became a crucial strategy for staying organized and focused. With the support of her family, who provided constant encouragement and a reliable professional network, Alekhya navigated this challenging phase in her life successfully.
According to Alekhya, the experience shaped her into a more resilient leader. It made her realize the power of the right mindset and support from loved ones to strike a balance between personal and professional life. Her journey is motivating for many working mothers, showing that ambition and family life can go hand in hand.
Alekhya’s career has been shaped by her accomplishments, most notably in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and healthcare analytics. She currently handles major projects while focusing on creating sophisticated data solutions that have already enhanced how millions of Americans approach healthcare.
Beyond her career contributions, Alekhya is also the author of several research papers, most of which were published in reputable scientific journals such as the International Journal of Health Sciences. Besides her role as an engineer lead, Alekhya also served as a judge in the 2024 edition of the Globee Awards and the Digital Health Awards, which is yet another nod to her influence in the field. She was recently recognized with the Young Women Achiever Award at the Fortune Leadership Awards 2024, proving her position in a male-dominated industry.
Alekhya is not merely on a quest for individual fulfillment but also empowerment, especially for women hailing from the non-metro cities of India. She values the idea of representation and takes it upon herself to guide women who are interested in entering the technology sector. As a senior member of IEEE, member of IEEE Women in Engineering (WIE) and a member of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE), she is committed to mentoring and empowering other women. She actively contributes to the community by sharing her expertise and fostering growth within these professional organizations
Alekhya found a role model in her mentor, Dr. Vyshali Madhavarapu, who inspired her to believe that technology can promote positive changes. This principle has been the ethos in Alekhya’s life. She doesn’t just lead technical projects but aims to change the lives of the people around her.
Her message to other women is to never be afraid to pursue their dreams, no matter how daunting the challenges may seem. Balancing work and family is possible with a strong support system and a focus on what truly matters.
Alekhya’s experiences—from growing up in a small town to becoming a successful leader in healthcare technology in the U.S.—have provided important lessons in resilience and hard work. She is a woman who exemplifies how success is achievable regardless of where a person comes from or the challenges encountered on their journey.
Alekhya encourages others to chase their dreams fearlessly, find strength in their support systems, and believe in their ability to foster change. Her story is empowering women worldwide, proving that with the right mindset and determination, it is possible to thrive in both family life and a demanding career.
Advertising disclosure: We may receive compensation for some of the links in our stories. Thank you for supporting LA Weekly and our advertisers.