SHPE - Spring 2009 - (Page 19)

in Mexico has devised a plan to steer through the economic crisis, so her priority is to ensure that it receives everything necessary in order to succeed. Also, her appointment as an engineer underscores the integral role that technology will have in the industry’s reformation. As Lieblein spoke to SHPE magazine from the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan, she referred to some of the newest technologies GM was unveiling, namely those related to vehicle electrification. “When you’re in times such as these, there is also great opportunity,” she explained. “Things that you didn’t think you could achieve before somehow become doable when you’re in crisis. I’m excited and very proud to be part of that leadership team that is working on turning our company around and then helping restructure the whole industry.” Stretch Ahead to the Road Before You Lieblein’s rise to the executive ranks required more than dedication and hard work. Throughout her 30-year career with GM, she regularly accepted assignments that took her well out of her comfort zone, professionally and at times geographically. While she acknowledges that women generally tend to shy away from such opportunities, she added, “That’s how leadership gets a view of your capability, by putting you in those positions that are different and unique and that you haven’t done before.” Early in her career, Lieblein learned to overcome the steep learning curve that accompanied leadership responsibilities. “As an engineer, you have this whole technical base and you’re out there solving problems,” she explained. “To switch gears from that to become a leader of people required a whole different skill set that I needed to develop.” Later, when a promotion took her from her area of expertise in manufacturing to become a director for validation/test, she once again saw an opportunity to grow. “I had never worked on the product before,” she explained. “So getting the experience, the confidence and everything I needed to succeed in that area was a real challenge.” With each new position, Lieblein surrounded herself with mentors who would show her the ropes and help her build credibility among coworkers who were predominantly male. In a similar way, Lieblein www.SHPE.org ❘ Spring 2009 considers it her responsibility to help pave the way for the next generation of women. “Believe in yourself, know that you can do anything that you set your mind to,” she advises. “Love what you do because it’s so much easier to perform well in a job that you love. Lastly, develop a network of mentors. Seek input from a variety of people in different jobs and at different levels in the organization.” As Lieblein sets out on another new course, an open road of possibilities lies before her. True, Mexico is quite a distance from her previous assignment at GM Headquarters in Detroit, yet being there is the opportunity of a lifetime. On one hand, it’s a chance to further hone her leadership abilities. In another sense, it also rewards her for successfully navigating along a challenging career track. “It’s nice to get a global opportunity,” she said, “but not have to be on the other side of the world to have it.” ■ power to be your best find > different minds, better ideas, the best solutions find > PSEG “Diversity isn’t just black & white…it’s also green” and the Public Service Enterprise Group (PSEG) is dedicated to protecting our environment. With growing concerns over how our nation will meet the increasing demands for energy while helping to combat climate change -- PSEG is working to develop ways in which technology and renewable energy sources like solar power can help us address these concerns. At PSEG you’ll have the chance to share your unique viewpoint and help us create safer, more efficient delivery systems for electricity, gas, fossil fuels and nuclear power. Which means that you can make a difference while sharing the innovative ideas that make you, you. We have opportunities in the following areas: Accounting/Finance, Administrative Support, Engineering, Human Resources, Information Technology, Legal, Nuclear, Operations/Service, Transmission & Distribution. Find your place with us. Find the power to be your best. Find PSEG. Visit our Web site at www.pseg.com 19 http://www.pseg.com http://www.pseg.com http://www.SHPE.org

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of SHPE - Spring 2009

SHPE - Spring 2009 Contents President’s Letter A Letter from the CEO Calendar Browser Diana Gomez, SHPE: The People's President Grace Lieblein, GM: A Driving Force in Mexico Dr. Elsa Murano, Texas A&M: Education with Impact Regions Connect and Explore Common Base 'Learn by Doing' A Grad Degree, for Free? Programs & Services Think, Pair, Share: Partnering to Increase STEM Awareness Inner Circle Employer Profiles STAR Awards: Call for Nominations Regional Roundup

SHPE - Spring 2009

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