For Women in History Month, commemorating and encouraging the study, observance and celebration of the vital role of women in […]
For Women in History Month, commemorating and encouraging the study, observance and celebration of the vital role of women in American history, we asked our Navya US women a few questions from how they got into the autonomous technology industry to who their biggest role model is. Read the interviews with Heather, Sarah, Lisa, and Karin.
Sarah Yager
Q: What is your role at Navya?
A: Senior Business Development Manager / Analyst
Q: What drew you to the autonomous vehicle industry?
A: I had worked in the transportation industry for years and prior to moving to Navya I began working in alternative transportation – specifically carshare. This opened my eyes to a whole new concept of what the future of transportation looks like, and I wanted to be a part of that. With that in mind, moving to Navya was a natural transition.
Q: What is the most challenging part of your job? Most rewarding?
A: I have always been more into the communication side of things so the complexities of AV technology combined with the speed at which it is evolving can be challenging to learn and keep up with. However, it is that challenge that I love most. Helping to educate, share, and be a part of the future of transportation is exciting and very satisfying.
Q: Is there a woman in your life that was a big influence on your career and why?
A: I have been extremely lucky in my life to be surrounded by some amazing women that have supported, encouraged, and influenced me along the way. My mom and my big sister have had the most impact. They are both strong, smart, independent women that are forever my biggest cheerleaders. They have taught me the importance of hard work, never giving up, and believing in yourself even under the most difficult circumstances. With them in my corner, I cannot fail.
Heather Hoskins
Q: What is your role at Navya?
A: Operations Coordinator
Q: What drew you to the autonomous vehicle industry?
A: I was drawn to this industry sort of by chance. I learned of a position within Navya, that happened to fall right into my niche and strengths. Once I interviewed for the position, I immediately was drawn to the exciting possibilities that Navya and the AV industry has to offer. Being a part of something new and innovative that can change the future of our transportation system, makes me truly excited about coming to work every day.
Q: What is the most challenging part of your job? Most rewarding?
A: Our technology is a new concept for many around world and there is often a misconception that everything will be flawless once the shuttle is deployed. It is my job to ensure that all Operational issues are handled in the appropriate manner, and the most difficult aspect of that is educating our customers on what the process entails during troubleshooting and finding a solution. With that said, the absolute most rewarding part of my job is knowing I was a part of resolving the issues at hand, so that our customers can continue daily Operations without interruption. Seeing a shuttle in Operation and servicing our customer’s needs is very gratifying.
Q: Is there a woman in your life that was a big influence on your career and why?
I have had several influential women in my life, but without a doubt my Mom has had the most impact. She taught me never to say the words “I can’t” because anything is possible with hard work and dedication. Even in the most challenging circumstances, she has led by example and shown me the importance of perseverance and that is something I have always carried throughout my career. She has always been my biggest supporter in every aspect in my life.
Lisa Kuehl
Q: What is your role at Navya?
A: Marketing Manager–North America
Q: What drew you to the autonomous vehicle industry?
A: I am new to this industry and the job posting stood out as an exciting industry on the forefront of technology, and even the beginning of the future. I wanted to be a part of it.
Q: What is the most challenging part of your job? Most rewarding?
A: Learning something new is always a challenge but one I take seriously. I am reading everything I can on the industry, the technology, the markets and how the Navya solution is a fit. It is a challenge to know which industries/companies out there are truly serious about starting an autonomous vehicle project. The most rewarding part of my job so far is to see cities and companies who want to be that early adopter and get started in electric autonomous people and goods transport before anyone else. It is great to see the changes taking place from infrastructure to partnerships.
Q: Is there a woman in your life that was a big influence on your career and why?
A: My Mother was by far my biggest influence. She was an extremely strong woman who taught me to be strong and confident in everything I do. In addition, she was very compassionate towards both people and animals and I have that compassion also. Having strength and compassion, I can get through anything and do it while helping others.
Karin Viola
Q: What is your role at Navya?
A: Administrative Operations Manager
Q: What drew you to the autonomous vehicle industry?
A: From a career perspective, I have always gravitated towards industries that are emerging, impactful and with a huge growth potential. I enjoy working within a global, start-up and entrepreneurial environment, so when the opportunity presented itself at Navya, it was the perfect fit. Working within the AV industry is ever-changing, never boring and presents so many opportunities to impact the future of transportation.
Q: What is the most challenging part of your job? Most rewarding?
A: My role within Navya is managing various back-end processes, including HR, office management, accounting and a few other responsibilities mixed in; a true wearer of many hats. It certainly keeps me busy with lots of things to juggle, however, that is what a start-up environment is all about. One of the rewarding parts of my job is when we grow our team and onboard new employees who are so excited about the technology, bring so many great ideas and are so enthused to join the Navya team…the excitement is contagious and makes us all want to reach for the sky.
Q: Is there a woman in your life that was a big influence on your career and why?
A: My Mom has always been and remains my inspiration and influencer when it comes not only to my career, but my life in general. Having immigrated to the U.S. at 20 years old, my Mom truly exemplifies what hard work, determination, resilience, and a positive attitude can do, and instilled those characteristics in me growing up. Even during those times when life truly challenges you, my Mom would say you just need to “dig deep” to find the strength within to make it happen. My Mom is always there for me to lean on, but instilled confidence and independence in me where leaning is not required…an entrepreneur in her own right.
