Isabelle McKenzie of BorgWarner Honored as One of North America's Top 100 Women in Automotive

Isabelle McKenzie: A Leader in the North American Auto Industry

In a notable recognition, Isabelle McKenzie, the Vice President and General Manager of Drivetrain and Morse Systems at BorgWarner, has been named one of the 100 Leading Women in the North American Auto Industry by the prestigious Automotive News. This acknowledgment highlights the influence and leadership of women in a sector traditionally dominated by men.

A Star on the Rise

McKenzie’s journey in the automotive field spans over 30 years, and her extensive experience shines through her roles at several prominent firms, including Siemens Automotive, Continental, and now BorgWarner. Since joining BorgWarner in 2014, she has escalated through the ranks, holding various Vice President and General Manager positions. Her ascent culminated in her current role, effective from July 2024, where she oversees the global Drivetrain and Morse Systems business.

Her academic background includes a bachelor's degree in physics from the National Institute of Applied Sciences in Toulouse, and she is not just a corporate leader but also a contributor to the community, serving as an ambassador for United Way for Southeastern Michigan.

Celebrating Excellence

The 2025 Automotive News list showcases an impressive assembly of female talents, including engineers, mobility leaders, and C-suite executives. This year’s selections emerge from a rigorous nomination and evaluation process, during which McKenzie distinguished herself among hundreds of entries across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Mary Beth Vander Schaaf, the senior director of editorial operations at Automotive News, stated, “Our selection committee made many difficult decisions – it gets tougher every time.” This sentiment reflects the growing pool of powerful female executives in the industry.

The gala celebration for this distinguished group took place at The Henry in Dearborn, Michigan, further emphasizing the importance of recognizing these women’s contributions to the automotive sector. McKenzie’s recognition is not only a personal achievement but also a beacon of hope for aspiring professionals looking to break through the glass ceiling in the automotive world.

A Commitment to Innovation

BorgWarner itself is dedicated to creating sustainable mobility innovations with a focus on a cleaner and safer future. With over 130 years of experience, the company has transformed the automotive landscape and continues to be a leader in implementing cutting-edge technology.

As McKenzie embarks on this new chapter in her career at BorgWarner, her participation in steering the company towards growth and innovation within the industry is eagerly anticipated. Her position within BorgWarner and recognition by Automotive News delivers a powerful message about the crucial roles women are playing in shaping the future of automotive technology.

Looking Ahead

The growing recognition of women in automotive leadership roles, as exemplified by McKenzie, is a trend worth noting. Since the inception of the Leading Women initiative by Automotive News in 2000, there has been a substantial increase in the number of women stepping into influential positions. This year's list alone features 24 presidents and CEOs, showcasing an evolution of leadership demographics in the industry.

As the automotive landscape shifts towards electric and innovative transportation solutions, the contributions of leaders like Isabelle McKenzie will undoubtedly drive forward the industry's evolution, ensuring a diverse and inclusive environment that fuels progress.

In conclusion, Isabelle McKenzie stands not only as a testament to personal achievement but also as a symbol of the evolving roles of women in the auto industry, inspiring the next generation of leaders who will continue to innovate and excel in this dynamic field.