Why Engineering? I was good in math and science. I wanted to understand how things worked. I wanted to be on a team that was focused on creating solutions that made people happy.
School Days I received a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from Kettering University. I also received a Master of Science in Engineering Science from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
My Day At Work I spend most of my day reviewing the status of battery design and development topics, discussing our team's goals and how to achieve them, learning about the next generation of solutions.
Best Part The best part of my job is completing a project and seeing vehicles on the road knowing your batteries give them power.
Proud Moments My most cherished accomplishments were implementing new technology in the Corvette and battery technology in the Volt. Additionally, I am happy I had the courage to broaden my experiences by moving from Michigan to California and Austria.
Challenges Challenges met and conquered present themselves all the time. Some are completing the requirements for degrees when tough courses are encountered; working with difficult people that are required to accomplish a team goal; obtaining recognition for your personal sacrifice in accomplishing a company's goal; creating time for yourself when you are constantly focused on others....
My Family I have been blessed to have a wonderful family who have encouraged me to be the best I can be. I have been married for 33 years to an amazing retired engineering executive. We have two sons who have started their careers in automotive technology companies. I have an ever supportive mother, a twin sister and a younger bother and sister. I have too many relatives to count.
Dreams and Goals My short term goal is to contribute to the increased number of Electric Vehicles on the road. My longer term goal is to contribute to the increased number of people pursuing engineering and technology careers here in the United States.
Inspiration The greatest influencers of my career choices were my 7th grade Detroit Public School Math teacher, Mr. Oliver, and my undergraduate degree thesis advisor and my early career manager, Michael Steele. Both recognized my potential (even when I did not recognize it) and guided me to engineering and innovation.
Want to be an Engineer? Trust your interest to guide your career choice. If you yearn to learn more about a subject, then it is likely a good indication you will be successful working in that area. Push yourself to pursue new experiences. It can be the path to accelerate your learning.
Hobbies When I have free time, I love singing inspirational songs. I love reading inspirational fiction stories with happy endings. I love working with youth for the purpose of encouraging them.