Education: B.A., economics and political science, Yale University; M.B.A., international business, Yale University

First automotive job: Consulting assignment through McKinsey & Co. for Saturn, 1985

Proudest achievement: "Balance."

On being successful: "Early on, I had the chance to work with many different people from all over the company and world - these experiences built a breadth of functional understanding and a network of people that are my foundation. Living in China for two years and Europe for six years has also given me a unique perspective and level of confidence. Mentors are extremely important, and I had several along the way. Finally, I have always sought jobs that I enjoyed and worked for people whom I respected and trusted. One should not compromise on these fundamentals."

On being a woman in the industry: "It has certainly been lonely at times, but I always had one person ahead of me, Christine Vujovich, who paved the way. One has to work harder for acceptance and be willing to laugh at the many, many slights and 'tests' from customers."

Career highlights:

Brooks worked as a staff assistant, U.S. House of Representatives; as a teacher in the People's Republic of China and as an international business consultant before joining Cummins. Other positions at Cummins include:

• 1996-99 VP, Worldwide Marketing, Heavy and Medium Duty Trucks
• 1994-96 Director, Automotive Marketing and New Business (Europe, Middle East, Africa)
• 1990-94 Director, Affiliates, New Business and Distribution (Europe, Middle East, Africa)
• 1986-89 International Business Analyst/Manager