The 5 Most Influential Women in the Automotive Industry
The automotive industry has long been considered a male-dominated field, but times are changing. Today, we celebrate the remarkable achievements of 5 trailblazing women who have shattered glass ceilings and left a permanent mark on the automotive world. Not only have these women revolutionized the industry, but they have also become beacons of inspiration for aspiring professionals everywhere. Join us as we pay tribute to their pioneering spirits, incredible accomplishments, and unwavering determination.
From Bertha Benz, the first woman to drive an automobile over a long distance, to modern-day automotive pioneers like Mary Barra, the CEO of General Motors, influential women have transformed the industry. They have not only excelled in driving technological advancements but also made significant strides in design, engineering, racing, and advocacy. These women faced challenges ranging from gender biases to limited opportunities, yet they persevered with unwavering determination.
To honor the exceptional achievements and groundbreaking contributions of these remarkable women in paving the way for diversity within the automotive industry, their names are listed without any hierarchical order. Each of them has equally proven their ability in pioneering the advancement of women in automotive.
5 Influential Women in the Automotive Industry
Mary Barra - The Visionary Transformer
Mary Barra, the CEO of General Motors, stands as an emblem of visionary leadership and transformative thinking. With over 30 years of experience at General Motors, Barra has demonstrated her deep understanding of the industry and her ability to navigate complex challenges. Under her guidance, General Motors has embraced cutting-edge technology, including electric vehicles and self-driving cars, paving the way for a greener and more connected future.
Barra's forward-thinking approach has not only reshaped General Motors as a company but has also inspired others in the industry to prioritize innovation and sustainability. She has advocated initiatives such as GM’s Ultium EV platform, that's transforming the automotive industry and paving the road to a world of zero crashes, zero emissions, and zero congestion1 . Barra has positioned General Motors as a leader in electric vehicle technology, driving the industry's transition towards a more sustainable future.
Linda Jackson - The Global Game-Changer
Linda Jackson, the former CEO of Citroen and now CEO of Peugeot, made history with Citroen as one of the first female CEOs of a major car manufacturer. Her remarkable leadership skills and keen business insight propelled Citroën to new heights, expanding its global presence and repositioning the brand as a symbol of sleek design and engineering excellence. In 2022, Peugeot celebrated a significant achievement as it captured the esteemed Women's World Car of the Year award. This recognition holds immense value for the company, as it resonates with Peugeot's commitment to catering to their female customers. CEO Jackson passionately declares, “Winning any award is ultra-important for us. But given that 50% of our customers are female, and I think there should be more female representation when we design cars and when we talk about cars, then it’s absolutely great to have won this award, which is of course led by female journalists across the world2.”
Jackson's inspirational journey serves as a testament to the limitless potential of women in the automotive industry. Through her strategic vision, she revitalized Citroen's lineup, introducing innovative models such as the C3 and C5 Aircross, which captured the hearts of consumers worldwide. Under her leadership, Citroën experienced a resurgence, becoming a driving force in the highly competitive automotive market.
Bertha Benz - The Pioneer of Long-Distance Travel
Bertha Benz, the wife of automotive inventor Karl Benz, was just 39 when she made automotive history through her daring and groundbreaking journey. In 1888, Bertha embarked on a long-distance drive with her two sons, demonstrating the feasibility and practicality of the Benz Patent-Motorwagen. After more than twelve hours of driving and over 100 kilometers on mostly unpaved roads, the three actually arrived in Pforzheim3. Her courageous act not only showcased the potential of automobiles as reliable modes of transportation but also played a significant role in promoting the acceptance of these vehicles by the public.
Benz holds a remarkable distinction as one of the pioneers in women's automotive history. She not only defied norms but also accomplished the extraordinary feat of becoming one of the first women to not only drive an automobile, but to do so cross-country. Her groundbreaking achievement shattered barriers and paved the way for future generations of women in the automotive world. Benz's courageous spirit and determination serve as a powerful inspiration, reminding us of the progress we have made and the limitless possibilities that lie ahead for women.
Raj Robinson - The Engineering Extraordinaire
Raj Robinson is the Commercial Strategy Manager at Bentley Motors. She was named as an “Inspiring Automotive Women” by the Automotive 30% Club for her dedication, passion, and hard work at Bentley, supporting gender representation and balance4. Her hard work not only fueled her own success but has also championed the cause of female representation and balance. As a mentor at Bentley, she graciously shares her expertise, empowering and motivating her colleagues to reach their full potential. Her support for the Girls Into Bentley program exemplifies her belief that through perseverance, commitment, determination, and personal growth, meaningful change is attainable.
Robinson's unwavering commitment as an advocate and ally for diversity and more women in the automotive industry makes her an inspirational figure and a true role model, fearlessly challenging the status quo and driving transformative and inclusive change within the industry.
Denise Johnson - The Supply Chain Powerhouse
Denise Johnson, a group president at Caterpillar Inc., is responsible for Caterpillar’s Resource Industries (RI) segment, which includes the Integrated Components and Solutions Division, RI Operations and Products Division, Strategic Procurement & Planning Division, and the RI Sales, Services and Technology Division5. She has demonstrated exceptional leadership in the heavy automotive supply chain sector. Her strategic vision and ability to navigate complex logistical challenges have been instrumental in optimizing Caterpillar's global operations.
Inspiring the Next Generation
As we celebrate the achievements of women in automotive, it is important to support the next generation of female talent. By fostering mentorship programs, scholarships, and educational opportunities, we can empower young women to pursue their passions in this exciting industry. Together, we can create a future where women have an equal and influential role in shaping the automotive landscape.
At Lincoln Tech, our commitment to empowering women in the automotive industry is steadfast. By providing comprehensive automotive training programs, partnership opportunities, scholarships, and invaluable educational resources, we hope to inspire future female leaders. Together, we are breaking barriers, shattering glass ceilings, and driving diversity in an industry that thrives on innovation and passion.
1 “Mary Barra: General Motors.” General Motors: Pushing the Limits of Transportation & Technology, www.gm.com/company/leadership.detail.html/Pages/bios/global/en/corporate-officers/Mary-Barra Accessed 23 Jan. 2024.
2 Peugeot. “New Peugeot 308 | Linda Jackson Reacts to WWCOTY 2022.” YouTube, YouTube, 25 May 2022, www.youtube.com/watch?v=4q7MIaWK0fw
3 Group, Mercedes-Benz. “Bertha Benz: Mercedes-Benz Group.” Mercedes, https://group.mercedes-benz.com/company/tradition/founders-pioneers/bertha-benz.html Accessed 29 Jan. 2024.
4 “Bentley Newsroom on Instagram.” Instagram, https://www.instagram.com/bentleynewsroom/p/C2cIxNOtGZo/ Accessed 29 Jan. 2024.
5 “Denise C. Johnson. Company Officer Bio found at https://www.caterpillar.com/en/company/governance/officers/denise-johnson.html, Accessed April 8, 2024.