Education: B.S., Ohio State University; M.B.A., University of Michigan; Program for Management Development, Harvard University

First automotive job: Systems Analyst on GM's corporate financial staff, 1968

Proudest achievements: Educational accomplishments; being appointed (in 1983) by President Reagan as chairman of the Federal Labor Relations Authority; appointed as a delegate to United Nations conferences in Austria and Kenya; Pimlico Elementary School in Baltimore renamed its library the Barbara Mahone Learning Center.

On being successful: "I've always had a can-do attitude. If you tell me I can't do something, I am more motivated to overcome the obstacles. While this strong personal conviction has helped me in my career, I would not be where I am today without the support and encouragement of my family, colleagues and friends. They are a constant reminder that success is not measured by the achievement of a specific degree or title. Always do your best and enjoy life. Happy people are usually successful; but successful people are not always happy. Life is short - love what you do."

On being a woman in the industry: "During my 30-year career with GM, I have witnessed a lot of changes in the roles of women in very nontraditional career areas. Today, women are able to participate in every area of the automotive business and are recognized for their contributions and diverse business perspectives. Women are rapidly assuming more senior leadership roles. The globalization of the automotive industry and the demand for talent - regardless of gender - has had a positive impact for women such as me."

Career highlights:

Other positions at General Motors include:

• 1992-93 Corporate Director, GM Employee Benefits
• 1989-91 Divisional Director, Personnel, GM Inland/Fisher Guide Division, Warren, Mich.