Education: Bachelor's, materials and logistics management, Michigan State University; M.S., operations management, Purdue University

What your college professors didn't teach you: "Those who helped me were the adjuncts; people who came in from the industry and taught. They taught things like (how to deal with) labor unions, how do you weave in the people side."

First automotive job: In production control at Chevrolet in 1985

Most fun automotive job: "When I went down to Spring Hill (Tenn.). I was part of the team that started Saturn. You were creating so many things new. There was a lot of clean sheet. We had a very small nimble team, including people from the UAW."

Proudest achievement: "I get the biggest kick when I see people I have mentored grow and achieve.

"In each of my assignments - helping someone overcome deficiencies, strengthen strengths, etc. - I take every opportunity at work to train or teach."

Current challenge: "Coming into a region where GM has a global purchasing organization, and having Latin America come together as a stronger region."

What about the auto industry surprised you: "The scope and reach."

What women need to know for success in the auto industry: "I wouldn't give different advice to a woman or a man. Be very global in thinking."

Job to which you aspire: "I want to be in an environment in which I can be creative and work to develop people. My options are more broad now based on the experiences I have."

What you do to relax: "I clean. I like to bake. It mostly focuses on the home and the family - homemaking is what I do to relax. My kids are 11 and 12 years old."