Difference Makers

UM-Dearborn Difference Makers are at the forefront of their fields.
They’re improving the lives of others and making an impact on campus and in our local communities.

Maryann Wright
MaryAnn
Wright
Distinguished Alumnus of the Year
Class of
1984
College
College of Arts, Sciences, & Letters
College of Engineering & Computer Science

Difference Makers

UM-Dearborn Difference Makers are at the forefront of their fields. They’re improving the lives of others and making an impact on campus and in our local communities.

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MaryAnn's Story

MaryAnn Wright (’84 B.A., ’96 M.S.E.) is the owner of TechGoddess LLC, a consulting service firm for Tier 1 automotive suppliers. She earned the title as one of the “Leading 100 Women in the Automotive Industry” by Automotive News. Wright began her career at Ford Motor Company and became the first female plant engineering manager. She went on to serve as director, sustainable mobility technologies and hybrid vehicle programs. After becoming a leader at Ford, Wright became executive vice president engineering for Collins and Aikman Corporation. She was later recruited to Johnson Controls to serve as vice president and power solutions CEO. Wright has received numerous awards for her professional and community involvement including the “Top 50 Women to Watch” by the Wall Street Journal. Wright’s volunteerism includes involvement in STEM initiatives for kids, mentoring F.I.R.S.T. Robotics students, and animal welfare and advocacy through The Friends for Animals of Metro Detroit.