Education: B.S., nutrition and food, Cornell University; M.A., journalism, Syracuse University

First automotive job: Public relations, Eltra Corp. (now part of Honeywell), Toledo, Ohio

Proudest achievement: Product improvements that better meet the needs of consumers, particularly women

On being successful: "People at Ford would say, 'passion.' I don't disagree. I really am passionate about what I do. If I'm not, then I don't do it. And they'd use 'tenacious.' I'd probably say I'm persistent and find it difficult taking no for an answer."

On being a woman in the industry: "The thing that affected my career most was my personal interest. That's what took me in various directions. It was not title or salary motivated. It was always that it was a real challenge and I had a personal interest. Whether that was important to me because I'm a woman, I don't know. But I'm sure it could be because my outlook on what is important is colored by the fact that I'm a woman."

Career highlights:

Since leaving Eltra Corp. to join Ford in 1977, Lee has handled public relations for numerous departments and operations before being named to her current post in 1995. Specific areas of responsibility have included:

• 1993-95 Marketing Programs
• 1992-93 Design and Alternative Fuels
• 1988-92 Product Development
• 1986-88 Lincoln Mercury
• 1985-86 Technical and Regulatory Affairs