Crystal Windham appointed Director of GM North American Passenger Car Design

Crystal L. Windham has been appointed Director of General Motors North American Passenger Car Design as of November 1, 2008. In her new position, Windham will head the interior design for the following architectures in GM North America: Global Midsize Car, Global Compact Car, and Global Small Car.

Windham began her career at GM North America Design in 1994 and has held assignments across brand studios, including an International Assignment at GM Europe Design from 1997-1998.

"A mentor guided me towards automotive design. Without guidance and support from family and co-workers, I wouldn't be where I am today. I truly love my job - it's creative, expressive - but it is not easy. Enjoying what you do, however, makes it all worthwhile. I hope other young women will look to what I have done and be inspired to consider automotive design," she said.

In 2002, Windham was appointed to Design Manager, Interiors and worked on several award-winning vehicles, including the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu and 2007 Saturn Aura. Following that assignment, Windham moved to the position of Design Manager, Advanced Exteriors for full-size trucks and in May 2007, she was appointed as Design Manager, Exteriors. Her career has come full circle as she has now returned to the interior studios.

"As an interior designer, I create solutions and appealing spaces for customers," Windham said. "As a leader it's my job to foster creativity and ensure that creativity is represented in the final product. Our design vision, intent and integrity led us to create the best interiors in GM's history. I am excited to show our newest interiors the world."

Windham has a Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design from the Center for Creative Studies and a Master's degree in Business Administration from the University of Detroit - Mercy.

Related Article:
Interview: Ed Welburn, Vice President of Global Design, GM 

By