Education: B.S., business administration, University of Detroit; M.B.A., University of Detroit

What your college professors didn't teach you: "I've learned a lot as I've moved through my career. But one thing I don't have is an engineering degree. It would be helpful for someone starting out to have both the financial savvy of a sales background (and) also a technical expertise."

First automotive job: Account manager for a small privately held engineering supplier in 1980

Proudest achievement: "When Visteon first became independent of Ford, it had no outside sales organization.

"My assignment was to create a sales force that could begin to market a multibillion-dollar company to new customers for the first time."

On being successful: "My philosophy is that women should help other women become successful. I'm always happy to mentor. It comes down to taking time to support other women. We owe each other that."

What about the auto industry surprised you: "It continues to surprise me every day that despite the size of the industry and the impact it has on world economies, just how small this business is when it comes to people.

"You run into the same people everywhere you go."

What women need to know for success in the auto industry: "Never compromise who you are and what you want to do. Your integrity is what will distinguish you."

Job to which you aspire: "I'd like to run a small manufacturing business."