Education: B.S., industrial and operations engineering, University of Michigan; M.B.A., Harvard University

First automotive job: Industrial Engineer for General Motors' Fisher Body Division, 1984

Proudest achievement: "Initiating the turnaround of one of the most recognized brand names in automotive, Bendix, by establishing a disciplined global organization and process for driving Six Sigma improvements and aggressive global procurement cost takeouts. Results led to over $30 million in net cost reductions annually."

On being successful: "Focus on exceeding expectations, work hard and have fun. Success will come as a result."

On being a woman in the industry: "I have been fortunate to work in organizations that judge contributions based on performance regardless of sex. By focusing on results with strong teamwork skills and an unswerving will to win, I've found being a woman in the auto industry has been an enjoyable challenge."

Career highlights:

Positions at AlliedSignal Automotive include:

• 1999-2000 VP, E-Business, Friction Materials, Troy, Mich.
• 1998-99 VP, Operations and Supply Base Management, Friction Materials
• 1995-97 Plant Manager, Safety Restraint Systems, St. Clair Shores, Mich.
• 1993-95 Director, Cost Management, Southfield, Mich.

Positions at Chrysler Corp. include:

• 1992-93 Activity-Based Costing Project Implementation Manager
• 1991-92 Sales and Marketing Financial Analyst