Education: B.S., mechanical engineering, Queen's University of Belfast, Belfast, Northern Ireland

First automotive job: Engine Research Lab, Ford Motor Co. (U.K.), 1988

Proudest achievement: "Ford Focus: simultaneous car of the year in Europe and North America. Also the best-selling car in the world."

On being successful: "It's delivering products and services that exceed customers' expectations achieved through a combination of leadership, insight and hard work. I want to thank the teams that have contributed to our successes. Being a part of a company that is involved in a significant transformation with the goal of trying to make the world a better place is great."

On being a woman in the industry: "There are unlimited opportunities in the auto industry for everyone. Being a part of the transformation at Ford Motor Co. has allowed me to connect with customers, the community and the environment while doing my job."

Career highlights:

Other positions at Ford include:

• 1997-98 Project Manager for Ford Focus
• 1995-96 Quality Manager for Ford Escort
• 1994 Member of Ford 2000 global reorganization team
• 1989-92 Powertrain Systems Engineer