You started your journey in military tech before moving to the mobility industry. How was that experience?

I began my career at a defense startup in Virginia after earning my master's in computer science. As the first technical hire, I was tasked with building advanced piloting systems for military combat vehicles. This role involved developing complex cockpit-like systems that tracked enemy fire, friendly platoons, and ground robots. I built the core product, grew the software team, and led product and engineering efforts.

My transition to the automotive industry felt natural. Both fields involve complex human-system interactions, which fascinate me. At Delphi Labs, I collaborated with engineering teams at Motional and external partners like Lyft, working on innovative solutions for Level 4 and 5 autonomous driving and CES robotaxi projects. Our work gained recognition from Forbes, Reuters, and Wired, which was exciting!

What challenges did you overcome during your career, and how did you succeed?

As a woman of color in the defense industry, I faced several challenges. Working on military bases, I encountered skepticism and had to build trust with Army personnel. This required proving the value of our work and standing firm in my role. I learned to advocate for myself, recognizing that diversity of experiences benefits the product, the company, and myself.

Early in my career, I introduced a concept of getting feedback from actual users on their real-world experience with our products. This approach opened up new insights that our engineering team hadn't considered, validating the importance of diverse perspectives in driving innovation.

How has your experience been with Aptiv's Women's Network?

I'm an avid consumer of Aptiv's Women's Network content. The network addresses practical questions about career development, such as how to communicate with supervisors, negotiate effectively, and navigate promotions and internal mobility.

What I love most is the candid and applicable nature of these conversations. Hearing leaders share their personal career journeys in-depth is enlightening for all of us, regardless of our career stage.

What advice would you give to young women looking to join the industry?

My advice is to persevere and then thrive. While the journey can be challenging, it's crucial to stay resilient and embrace growth. Be intentional about finding a team that values and empowers you. Seek opportunities to learn, develop multidimensional skills, and build a strong network within your company.

Remember that career paths are often nonlinear. Taking breaks or pursuing side projects can lead to fresh perspectives and renewed passion.

At Aptiv, we support women through various initiatives, including technical networks, training, and mentorship programs. Our work is both exciting and impactful, offering numerous opportunities for career development. Approach your journey with enthusiasm and perseverance, and you'll find yourself thriving in this industry.