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Why did you want to work in the auto industry? Working with Toyota, I got intensive training, not only [on] planning inbound logistics but on how the Toyota production system worked. That intrigued me and got me interested in automotive. I like the fact the job is never done no matter how great the job was with Toyota. You take the weekend off, and on Monday it's kaizen again.

First automotive job: I started in the transportation industry in trucking. I was assigned to work with Toyota in 1988.

Proudest professional achievement: Leading teams to achieve several key bottom-line savings for Chrysler, including implementing lean inventory and materials management tools that reduced working capital per vehicle by 25 percent; contributing to 25 percent per-vehicle reduction in third-party sequencing logistics costs with key suppliers; and developing a container management system that reduced packaging costs by over 30 percent per vehicle.

Current challenge at work: I'm responsible for advanced program planning for all new products in stamping, powertrain and assembly plants. I also support Mexico, Canada and the U.S. So I'm responsible for all parts coming into the plant, packaging it, planning it and moving it.

What you do to relax: I try to jog 12 miles every weekend because it provides stress relief. I like to watch my daughter play basketball, softball, volleyball and soccer. Last week she hit a grand slam.

— Bradford Wernle