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Celebrating Women’s History Month

 

Join us as we honor some of the most influential women who are revolutionizing the automotive industry – and inspiring the next generation.

 

 

HEAR HER ROAR:

 

Like the roar of an engine, a woman’s voice is powerful. To celebrate Women’s History month, we’re hearing from the many celebrated female voices that have helped shape Kia Motors America.

 

Angeles Van Ryzin is a Sr. Powertrain Engineer at our Technical Center. As a Latina woman, trailblazing her path to success in an industry dominated by men wasn’t easy, but it was simple: Be the best engineer she could be. After working in the aerospace and medical device industry, she landed her career-transforming role as an engineer where she helped build the revolutionary Kia Telluride, among many others.  

 

For younger women starting out in their career, she says “it’s not all about the job, it’s about the people you work with. My team is a really great team. Work hard and keep at it – nothing easy is rewarding.” As she continues to help build revolutionary vehicles she says she is “excited to see what’s coming for the future of women in the industry.”

 

 

 

 

HEAR HER ROAR:

 

As we continue to celebrate Women’s History Month, we’re turning the spotlight on Kathy Gleason, the 1st-ever female Regional Director at Kia Motors America.

 

From day one Kathy was not only determined to be the best, but also to help blaze a path for others, urging all women to “Be willing to make the tough decisions about what you want for your career. Take risks, do your best, and know that it will work out – you can do anything!”

 

That can-do attitude was inspired by her mother who received her Associates, Bachelors, Masters, and Ph.D. while raising a family of 16. It was instilled in Kathy early on that women are truly limitless, and with 27 years in the auto industry, she wants all women to never be afraid to take the wheel.

 

Kathy encourages other women to, “Be diligent about driving your career and personal aspirations – there are so many different channels to choose from. You might not know exactly what you want to do, but make sure you know what you don’t want to do. Set goals and have a path in mind.” “Take ownership of your career, be your own champion, and find others that will help champion you.”

 

 

 

 

HEAR HER ROAR:

 

All month we’ve been celebrating Women’s History Month and powerful female voices. Today we honor Amber Martin, second-generation Kia dealer.

 

Amber grew up around cars, literally. Her father started one of the largest minority-owned dealership groups in the country. After his untimely passing, Amber was placed at the helm of the business at 23. Armed with degrees in comm and business, she was determined to bridge her skills, and not only honor her father’s legacy, but carve a path of her own. “Marketing in this industry can be cookie-cutter, but there’ll always be a place for your own creativity and innovative thought.”

 

For women, she advises, “Learn all facets of the business and find someone to be your champion.”

 

Above all, Amber wants women to persevere in their goals, “Give yourself permission to have a career track different from everyone else’s. Lead with your strengths and honor your journey.” She wants young women to trust you can make your own path; you just have to believe.

 

 

 

 

 

 

HEAR HER ROAR:

 

As we end Women’s History Month, we say thank you to the women of Kia and will continue to honor female voices throughout the year. Today, we highlight Latesa Bailey, Lawyer & Department Head of Human Resources.

 

Admitted “Air Force Brat” Latesa spent her young life all over the world. That experience paired with her dedication to education drove her to the heights of the industry, and with it, a deep commitment to mentorship. She believes, “Everyone at some point in their career had someone open a door for them and can then give back and open doors for others.”

 

And that’s exactly what she’s done. Overseeing a team of 20, she puts her mantra to work daily. To her “It doesn’t matter what you want to do. Set your mind to it and know you can accomplish it.” She also wants all women to “Be open and flexible but be resilient. Even though you may be on a certain career path, you’ll face both challenges and opportunities along the way.” Women are strong, capable, and belong at every table.