The DFX Women Engineers and Leaders (DWEL) Forum is an important initiative at AMD, dedicated to fostering the growth of women engineers in the Design for Test (DFT) and Design for Debug (DFD) domains. Founded and led by Pankaj Sharma, Sr. Manager of Silicon Design Engineering, DWEL creates a vital platform for mentorship, technical excellence, and community building.
A Three-Pillar Mission
DWEL’s mission is built on a clear, three-part foundation:
· Develop Leaders through dedicated mentorship, coaching, and networking.
· Advance Technical Capability by promoting knowledge-sharing and innovation.
· Build Community to support both personal and professional growth.
Driving Impact Through Key Initiatives
DWEL brings its mission to life through targeted programs:
· Technical Session Series: These monthly meetings feature experts from within DWEL community presenting on a range of topics from DFX field and encourages members to pursue publications and patents.
· Structured Mentorship: The 2025 Mentor Circle program guides members in developing technical papers and presentations, providing peer feedback to refine ideas and build confidence.
· Global Membership: With over 50 members from interns to senior directors across AMD sites worldwide, the forum ensures diverse perspectives and inclusive collaboration.
Proven Value and Future Vision
The forum’s impact is clear in member feedback, which highlights DWEL as “an exciting initiative that provides a space to share ideas” and a platform that “connects people and their work across teams and the globe.”
Looking ahead, DWEL plans to expand its reach by offering career coaching, engaging in university outreach, and broadening its impact across the wider DFX industry. Supported by a diverse core team, DWEL exemplifies AMD’s commitment to inclusion and innovation.
Author: Panjak Sharma, AMD