Education: B.S., business administration, Michigan State University; M.S., management, Aquinas College

First automotive job: Product Planner, Oldsmobile, General Motors, 1981

Proudest achievement: "When I was named (one of) 'Michigan's Top 25 Women Business Owners of Distinction' and being referred to as 'one of the guys.' In automotive, it's hard to get 'in' with male CEOs."

On being successful: "Having a 25-year plan and sticking to it. I've had great mentors in North America and Europe: They have helped me stick to it."

On being a woman in the industry: "If you work 'with' the system, the industry will embrace you with all of its passion, energy and commitment; if you try to change it or fight it, it will suck the life out of you."

Career highlights:

• 1985-87 Product Sales Engineer, DuPont & Co., Wilmington, Del.