Education: B.A., history and political science; Kalamazoo College; M.A., international relations, Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies

First automotive job: Director, Corporate Communications, Lear Corp., 1994

Proudest achievement: "I'm proud of my ability to conceive new ideas and work with a broad range of individuals to make them real."

On being successful: "My philosophy is 'You are the CEO of your life.' It's important to have a strategic vision - know what you want to accomplish and why, and have the confidence and drive to achieve your goals."

On being a woman in the industry: "I think it's a great time for women in the auto industry. The growing number of women in the industry in greater areas of responsibility is exciting. If you analyze statistics, women yield tremendous influence in terms of vehicle purchases and have growing spending power, which means this is a market segment that deserves increased attention."

Career highlights:

• 1993-94 Executive Director, Michigan International Trade Coalition
• 1991-93 Policy Adviser to Michigan Gov. John Engler
• 1984-89 National Security Analyst, Office of the Secretary of Defense
• 1981-82 Intern, United Nations