HPWWI Convocates First-Ever Women Batch in Woodworking Sector

Faridabad, December 25, 2025: The Hettich Poddar WoodWorking Institute (HPWWI) marked a significant milestone in skill development and gender inclusion by holding the convocation and award ceremony for its first-ever batch of women trainees in the woodworking sector. The event recognised 108 students, including 50 women, who completed the institute’s three-month Short-Term Training (STT – Mobilized) programme, making it India’s first dedicated girls’ batch in this traditionally male-dominated field.

Held in Faridabad, the ceremony highlighted HPWWI’s focus on expanding access to technical skills and creating inclusive career pathways in the woodworking, furniture, and fittings industry. Many of the women graduates entered a technical trade for the first time and were presented with the “Ice Breaker Award” in recognition of their initiative and perseverance.

Speaking at the ceremony, Amit Prasad, Director – HPWWI and Chief Human Resources Officer, Hettich India, said, “At HPWWI, our objective is not just skill creation, but inclusive skill creation. By enabling women to enter technical trades through structured training and real industry exposure, we are working towards a more balanced and future-ready workforce – one where opportunity is driven by capability, not convention.”

Graduates received certifications recognised by the National Skill Development Corporation and the Furniture and Fitting Skill Council, along with awards including the Medal of Merit and Ice Breaker Award. The programme curriculum combines hands-on training with exposure to modern woodworking technologies, including CNC machines and pneumatic tools, to ensure industry readiness.

Reflecting HPWWI’s strong industry linkages, 15–20 students received on-the-spot offer letters from placement partners such as StudioKon Ventures Pvt. Ltd., Decora Kitchen Interiors Pvt. Ltd., Delbergia, Wudley, and Mobel Grace. Participants came from Haryana, Delhi, Rajasthan, Punjab, Bihar, and Uttar Pradesh, with a significant number from underprivileged backgrounds, underscoring the institute’s CSR-led approach to skilling and employment.

Operating across centres in Mumbai, Faridabad, and Kolkata, HPWWI continues to work with government bodies and industry partners to strengthen the woodworking ecosystem and support the Skill India Mission by delivering structured skilling, upskilling, and reskilling programmes.