DETROIT — As General Motors sought to amplify its diversity, equity and inclusion efforts last year, the automaker didn't have to look far for guidance.
A passion for engineering led Telva McGruder to GM 27 years ago, but a distinct focus on people has propelled her career forward. The tenured engineer was named the automaker's first chief diversity, equity and inclusion officer in 2020, spearheading the company's initiatives during a fragile yet transformative time for the country.
"In my whole career, I have been really focused on people, which many think is unusual for an engineer," McGruder, 52, told Automotive News. "Working with people and teaching them and learning from them is the way I've gotten things done when it comes to problem-solving as an engineer."