Education: B.S., speech therapy, Colorado State University; Dealer Management, General Motors Institute

First automotive job: Introduced dealership computerized communication to Vidmar Motor Co.

Proudest achievement: "It's in the health care industry in my community. I've been on the board of a local hospital for 12 years. During that time, we went to the Deming style of management and the hospital has become a high-quality, low-cost facilitator and deliverer. I'm very proud of that."

On being successful: "I really got my core values from my grandmother, my father's mother. She had a lot to do with raising me. That's where I got 'do the right thing, have a strong conscience.' She taught me to develop my ability to provide for myself yet be supportive of others. So many high achievers who are so competitive don't support or care about others. She and my father both showed me that anything is possible - also taught me to be dependable yet curious."

On being a woman in the industry: "I think the combinations of years in the business, a different business climate in 2000 and the fact that there are more women in the industry all contribute to my sense that being a woman in the industry isn't much of a factor now. When I went to GMI (General Motors Institute), the zone manager told me that women don't belong in the auto industry; my response was 'I welcome your opinion, but sign here, I want to go.' That's an example of the directness I've had."

Career highlights:

With Vidmar Motor Co. (Honda-Volkswagen-Chrysler-Plymouth-Jeep-Oldsmobile-Daewoo), Pueblo, Colo.:

• 1995-present VP
• 1986-95 President