Celebrating the Women Powering Innovation: Meet the Minds Behind the all-new Nissan LEAF
This International Women in Engineering Day, Nissan proudly celebrates the brilliant women who are driving innovation and shaping the future of mobility. Their impact shines brightest in our latest all-electric sensation: the all-new Nissan LEAF.
This model isn't just an EV; it's a symbol of progress and possibility, brought to life by those who are redefining what's possible in automotive design and engineering.
Today, we are meeting a selection of women from across our region who were key to bringing the new LEAF to life. Read all about their experiences working on the model below, as well as their own personal advice for younger women looking to follow in their footsteps!
How long have you been working at Nissan and what was your role on the new LEAF?
Alexa Conner (Project Management Engineer): I have been at Nissan for 3 and a half years and have been working on the new LEAF project since my first day. As part of Project Management Team, I have helped to coordinate and share information between stakeholders, and I have been a key link between NTCE, Nissan Global and Sunderland Plant, including supporting VC-Lot builds in GPEC Japan, which was an amazing experience.
Shilpa Matthew (Design Release Controller): I have worked for 14 years at Nissan and worked as a design controller on the new LEAF.
Katrina Gani (Customer Experience Quality): I have been at Nissan for 13 years. As part of Sales and Services Quality Validation team, my role on the new LEAF will be dealership Gemba visits pre launch. This is a method that checks real conditions & readiness for the new model launch. I evaluate dealer knowledge, identify gaps and address these with the relevant team and markets for action.
Ana Jiménez Hernández (Business Development Graduate): I am currently part of the Business Development department at the Nissan Avila plant, where I have been working for 10 months thanks to the Graduate programme offered by the company.
What is the one aspect of the new LEAF that you are most proud of?
AC: This is the very first project I have worked on at Nissan. It's a very important car for the business and I feel proud to have worked on the project from an early stage, to help to bring it to production.
SM: I love the new LEAF's strong configurations, sleek design and improved performance compared to its predecessor.
KG: I've not worked on the product, so I can not take any credit or proudness per se! However I do feel the dimming roof really has the WOW factor.
AJH: I am particularly proud to have coordinated part of the industrialisation process for the aftermarket bumper parts. Knowing that my work has been part of such an important project, which represents the brand's commitment to sustainability and innovation, is very motivating. It is gratifying to see how your efforts contribute in a tangible way to a vehicle that drives electric mobility.
How has your experience as a woman in this field changed during your time at Nissan?
AC: I have 20 years' experience working in engineering across several industries, and at Nissan I have always felt well-respected and supported. I am also encouraged by the visibility of other women in senior positions at Nissan. At other companies, I have found that this is not always the case.
SM: I have particularly enjoyed witnessing the growth of an increasingly diverse workforce across our workplace, which is driving increased innovation and sustainability in vehicle release and management.
KG: Thinking about my department, which has grown so much over my time at Nissan, there are significantly more women and women in leadership now. Years ago it was unusual to work with another woman in the same team, today the team I work in is 60% women which is such a progression and something I am so happy to see!
AJH: During my time at Nissan, I have seen that the company is increasingly committed to diversity and inclusion. From day one I have felt valued and have had the opportunity to participate in relevant projects, surrounded by professionals who trust in my abilities. Although it is still a traditionally male sector, more and more spaces are opening up for women to contribute our ideas, develop professionally and grow within the industry.
What would be your advice to other women looking to enter this field?
AC: My advice would be to feel confident, as there will be times that you are the only woman in the room! But this has never been a barrier for me to pursue my interests and ambitions and it shouldn't be for you.
SM: I would say the biggest motivators for women looking to join the automotive industry is the career progression opportunities open to you, and the chance to involve yourself in challenging and interesting assignments, where we can make a difference!
KG: Engineering is an environment where you can evolve your skills in many directions. Every individual has unique qualities they can bring to a company. So many innovative and exciting opportunities are ahead of you and across many disciplines, so don't be afraid to get involved!
AJH: Believe in yourself and in what you can contribute. This industry needs diverse and prepared profiles, and there so are many opportunities for us. The key is to get good training, be curious, have initiative and not be afraid to take on new challenges. It is also important to surround yourself with people who inspire you and push you to keep learning.