Education: B. A., communication, Michigan State University; M.A., communication, Eastern Michigan University; Public Communications Institute, Boston University

First automotive job: Advertising Manager, D-M-E Co. (Detroit Mold and Engineering), Madison Heights, Mich., 1986

Proudest achievement: "I have been a part of the management team that has taken Freudenberg-NOK from a $300 million company to a billion dollar company. It's been a lot of work but a fun ride."

On being successful: "Being successful is being able to apply talents to an organization's mission or goals and have fun in the process. When the fun or the thrill goes, it's time to set the bar higher or change the game."

On being a woman in the industry: "Seeing the list of the top 100 women in the North American auto industry is the first time in business I've seen my name associated with so many other women. For years I have participated in meetings where I was the only woman. Now we're seeing more women involved in the industry. It's a sign that times have changed. More and more opportunities are becoming available to women."

Career highlights:

Other positions at Freudenberg-NOK include:

• 1992-95 Director, Corporate Communications
• 1990-92 Manager, Advertising and Sales Promotions