Education: B.A., business and economics, Meredith College; Master of Management, Duke University

First automotive job: Current position

Proudest achievement: Getting the alliance up and running

On being successful: "At the alliance, I've been able to assemble the best team and I have a good understanding of the goals of our members. But most importantly, I love the product and I believe in it."

On being a woman in the industry: "Most of the positions I've held have been in male-dominated environments. Being a woman in some cases has been a tough challenge and in some cases an incredible distraction. (But) it has allowed me to become a change maker. It has encouraged me to think much more broadly and to be sensitive to the need to build consensus. I've been able to take risks and address issues others might not have been willing to (address)."

Career highlights:

• 1992-99 VP, Regulatory Affairs, American Forest & Paper Association
• 1991-92 Founder and Principal, Capitoline International Group, Washington
• 1988-91 Senior VP, Hill & Knowlton Public Affairs Worldwide
• 1986-88 Senior VP for Policy and Issues, Synthetic Organic Chemical Manufacturers Association
• 1985-86 Assistant VP for Environment and Health, American Paper Institute
• 1983-85 Assistant Administrator for External Affairs, EPA
• 1980-83 Environment Counsel and Senior Professional Staff, U.S. Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works