Kathy Oswald, 51
Senior VP and Chief Administrative Officer, DaimlerChrysler
Education: B.S., industrial management, Central Michigan University; M.A., personnel management, Central Michigan University; Advanced Human Resource Executive Program, University of Michigan; Advanced Management Program, Duke University
First automotive job: Summer internship as a key puncher at Warren Stamping, Chrysler Corp.
Proudest achievement: "My proudest achievement is what we've done recently in the area of health care. Health care is a huge issue in this country from the perspective of cost, quality and patient safety. DaimlerChrysler is working jointly with its UAW partners and the health-care industry to focus on process improvements which will both lower cost and improve the quality of health care for our employees, retirees and their families."
On being successful: "It's different for different people. For me, success is if you are happy doing what you are doing. Every day, I like getting up and I look forward to work - I think that's a sign of success."
On being a woman in the industry: "I think there are great opportunities for women in the automotive industry and that these opportunities will continue to increase. For young women entering college interested in pursuing a career in this industry, I would recommend focusing their efforts on a technical undergraduate degree coupled with a business graduate degree."
Career highlights:
Other positions at DaimlerChrysler (formerly Chrysler Corp.) include:
- 1998-2000 Senior VP, Human Resources
- 1994-98 VP, Human Resources
- 1993-94 Executive Director, Corporate Personnel
- 1992-93 Director, Compensation and Benefits Planning
- 1990-92 Director, Organization and Management Compensation Plannin
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