Computer science alumna balances life as software engineer, pageant contestant and fashion model

The Mrs. India USA pageant, hosted by the Indian Festival Committee, is the longest-running Indian pageant outside of India and brings together 47 contestants from various states.

Chinmayee Ayachit, MS ’20, was recently named the 2024-25 Mrs. India second runner-up. Since earning her degree in computer science at Binghamton University, she works in the United States as a software engineer and model for New York Fashion Week (NYFW), navigating two worlds that she hopes to bring closer together. Incorporating both science and fashion into her work, she continues to push the boundaries.

Ayachit’s mission is to advocate for and inspire young girls to explore STEM fields and support women in gaining confidence in their work. Her Mrs. India achievement allowed her voice to be heard. Representing Binghamton University on such a prominent platform reaffirmed her commitment to carrying forward the values she cultivated during her time on campus. It also showcased her belief in the importance of embracing diverse talents and interests.

Could you share a bit about your background and what inspired you to pursue both software engineering and modeling?

I grew up in a middle-class Indian family where education was a top priority. My parents played a huge role in shaping my curiosity, constantly encouraging me to ask questions. The inquisitive nature they instilled in me drew me toward software engineering — a field where I could dig into complex systems, solve problems and build something impactful from the ground up.

At the same time, I’ve had a deep passion for fashion ever since I was young. For me, it’s more than just aesthetics — it’s about identity and expression. I see fashion as a way to celebrate culture and individuality, and modeling became my outlet to bring that vision to life. The vibrant textiles, intricate designs and rich heritage of Indian fashion deserve a bigger platform, and I wanted to be part of that narrative.

These two passions might seem worlds apart, but they come together for me in a unique way. Software engineering satisfies my analytical, problem-solving side, while modeling fuels my creative and expressive side. I think it’s that blend of discipline and artistry that keeps me driven in both fields.

What challenges did you face while pursuing a career in a predominantly male-dominated industry like software engineering? How did you overcome those challenges?

Growing up, I never imagined how much being a woman in software engineering would test me. It’s a male-dominated field, and I’ve felt that weight — like when I’d pitch ideas in meetings only to see them ignored, then praised when a guy repeated them later. That stung, and early on, it chipped away at my confidence. Even now, I see the bigger hurdle: Most C-suite positions are still held by men, and it’s disheartening. Those top roles sometimes seem out of reach for someone like me. There’s this quiet frustration of hitting a glass ceiling I can’t quite crack yet.

I had a mentor once — a woman — who told me, “Your work will outlast the noise.” That stuck with me. I started focusing on what I could control: sharpening my skills and building a reputation I could stand behind. I found allies, too — people who saw my potential and cheered me on. I got better at speaking up and celebrating the small wins. The C-suite gap still looms, and some days it feels like the system’s rigged, but I’m not giving up. Every challenge has become fuel to prove I belong and to pave the way for other women who feel the same.

How has the platform of Mrs. India shaped your perspective on empowering women?

It’s been a transformative lens. It’s not just about beauty – it’s about showcasing resilience, talent and ambition, especially for married women who are often sidelined. Seeing women from diverse backgrounds step up and own their stories has reshaped my view. Empowerment isn’t just a buzzword here — it’s real, raw and rooted in giving us the tools to break free from stereotypes. For me, it’s reinforced that women can redefine their worth, no matter where they start.

It’s also deepened my belief in community as a catalyst for change. The Mrs. India USA experience mirrors what I learned growing up — how my friends’ support pushed me past doubts to chase big dreams. This platform does the same, connecting women across borders, offering mentorship and amplifying our potential. Empowerment isn’t just about personal growth — it thrives when we lift each other up.

What advice would you give to women who are hesitant to enter STEM fields?

I’d say: Your potential is bigger than the doubts. Growing up in India, I saw software engineering as this towering, male-dominated world, and it felt intimidating. But here’s what I learned: Start small, trust your curiosity and build your skills one step at a time. You don’t need to have it all figured out — just dive in. Find a mentor or a friend who believes in you. STEM needs your voice, and you belong there as much as anyone. Make use of all the social networking platforms, work on your skills, and there will be a day when you achieve success in the rarest of careers as well. Consistency is the key here.

You have a master’s in computer science. Can you speak about how the skills you’ve gained in this field are applicable to your other endeavors, such as modeling and advocacy?

Binghamton gave me a toolkit that goes far beyond coding — it’s shaped how I approach modeling and advocacy with precision and creativity. I learned to break down complex problems into manageable parts, a skill I now use in modeling to master choreography or perfect a photoshoot’s vibe. The data-driven mindset from my degree also helps me study trends. It’s about efficiency and adaptability, skills that let me stand out in a competitive field where every detail counts.

In advocacy, those engineering skills amplify my impact. Designing systems taught me how to structure ideas logically. I can craft compelling arguments. My master’s also honed my ability to collaborate across teams, and I apply that now to build networks with other advocates or organize events. Even the resilience I built tackling tough algorithms translates: When a campaign hits a roadblock, I troubleshoot it, finding solutions instead of giving up. Computer science gave me a foundation to think critically and act strategically, making me a better model and a stronger voice for change.

You are also a model for New York Fashion Week — what has it been like to represent women in such a high-profile platform?

Walking the runway at NYFW has been a whirlwind. Representing women on a high-profile stage feels like holding a megaphone for those who don’t get heard. As someone from a small town in India, stepping onto that global platform wearing designs that echo my heritage feels deeply personal. It’s a chance to show that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. The sheer scale of it is overwhelming, but it drives home how much this moment can inspire others. I’ve felt the weight of eyes on me, not just for how I look but for what I stand for, and that’s pushed me to carry myself with strength and authenticity.

It’s also been a lesson in the power of visibility. NYFW isn’t just fashion — it’s a cultural force. Being part of it lets me challenge the narratives women face. I’ve met designers, models and audiences who connect with my story, and that fuels me. There’s pressure — you’re representing more than yourself. But it’s worth it when I hear from women who say they see themselves in me. It’s taught me that platforms like this aren’t just about glamour — they’re about showing women everywhere that they can claim their space, no matter the stage.

Fashion and tech seem like worlds apart. How have you used your platform in fashion to talk about and advocate for women’s empowerment in STEM fields?

Fashion and tech might look like opposites, but I’ve found they’re perfect stages to amplify each other, especially for advocating women’s empowerment in STEM.

As a model at NYFW, I’ve used my platform to spotlight how skills like creativity and precision overlap in both worlds. I’ve leaned into this by joining a few podcasts where I share how my software engineering background fuels my confidence in fashion — and vice versa. On social media, I’ve posted about my journey, from coding late nights to strutting runways, reaching out to more people with the message that these fields aren’t separate silos. It’s about showing that you don’t have to pick one path. My advocacy isn’t just words — it’s showing up as proof that women can own these spaces.

Looking ahead, what are some of your long-term goals, both in your career and your advocacy work for women in STEM?

My career goals are about pushing boundaries in both software engineering and fashion while carving a space where they intersect. I want to climb higher in tech. I see myself growing as a model. Long-term, I’d love to blend these worlds — imagine a tech-driven fashion initiative that empowers designers from underrepresented communities, merging my master’s skills with my runway experience. It’s ambitious, but I thrive on challenges.

In my advocacy for women in STEM, my goal is to build a lasting impact. I dream of starting a mentorship program or foundation that connects girls from small towns — like the one where I grew up — with STEM opportunities. I’ll keep using platforms like podcasts and social media to share stories and strategies, but I want to take it further — maybe partnering with schools or companies. My vision is to see more women enter and rise to the top, breaking that C-suite ceiling. It’s about creating a ripple effect: If I can inspire one girl to code her first app or chase her dream, that’s a win that keeps growing.

How do you plan to continue using your voice and platform to encourage young girls to break boundaries and pursue their dreams, especially in STEM and unconventional fields?

I plan to keep showing them that boundaries are made to be broken — especially in STEM and fashion. I’m looking to amplify this by joining more podcasts and shows, and to dive into the nitty-gritty of chasing dreams against the odds. Partnering with brands that align with empowerment and educational institutes like Binghamton University is also on my radar. It’s about reaching as many people as possible.

My approach is hands-on and persistent — I want to be a living example, not just a voice. Through these collaborations, I’ll push messages like “failure is a stepping stone” or “your uniqueness is your strength,” tailored to girls who might feel STEM or creative fields aren’t for them. I see myself hosting coding bootcamps with universities, partnering with brands for campaigns that blend tech and style, or popping up on shows to share how I juggle both worlds. Every platform is a chance to dismantle stereotypes. My goal is to keep the conversation loud and accessible.

As a successful woman who has excelled in both tech and fashion, what legacy do you hope to leave for the next generation of women?

I hope to leave a legacy of fearlessness — a testament that you can excel in any field, blending logic and creativity. I owe so much of this to my family who’ve been my rock, endlessly supporting me and making me believe in myself. Their faith in me — from my parents’ push for education to my sister’s encouragement and my husband’s steady strength — gave me the courage to go from a small-town dreamer to a software engineer and NYFW model. I want young women to see that journey and feel inspired. My legacy is about breaking ceilings, whether it’s coding something groundbreaking or redefining beauty.

Beyond that, I want to leave a ripple of empowerment. I’m so thankful to my family for being my strong pillars. They’ve shown me that a solid support system can turn dreams into reality. Through mentoring and collaborating, I hope to open doors, leaving a world where every girl knows her worth isn’t boxed by expectations.