This trailblazing leader has carved a stellar career in the automotive manufacturing industry, combining technical expertise and innovative approaches to revolutionize processes. Priyanka Das’s contributions were recognized in 2025 when she was awarded the prestigious “Elite Woman Innovator in Robotics and Manufacturing Excellence” by CToday Awards. Her ability to lead complex projects, reduce cycle times, and drive collaboration across teams has positioned her as a standout leader in robotics and manufacturing.

Career Journey: Transforming Automotive Manufacturing
Priyanka’s passion for robotics and engineering began during her master’s in Electrical Energy at the University of Cincinnati, where she developed a localization algorithm for ground robots in GPS-denied environments. After graduating, she joined Tesla as an Associate Controls Engineer, where she worked on the inverter, battery pack, and cell manufacturing lines for Tesla cars. Currently, as a Manufacturing Controls Engineer at Ford Motor Company, Priyanka leads the launch of two powertrain transmission programs for gear manufacturing for the Ford F-150 Lightning, Nautilus, and Edge cars. Her role involves orchestrating engineering meetings with Tier I suppliers, conducting control program reviews, and resolving challenges related to feasibility, timing, cost, and workload. Priyanka’s leadership ensures seamless operations and alignment of manufacturing processes with Ford’s strategic objectives.

Pioneering the Future of Manufacturing

Priyanka is at the forefront of transformative changes in the automotive industry, envisioning a future where Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) revolutionize manufacturing processes to enhance efficiency, safety, and sustainability. She highlights several key trends that are set to redefine the industry. Predictive maintenance systems powered by AI will minimize downtime and extend machinery lifespan, while hyper-automation will enable robots equipped with ML capabilities to perform complex tasks with greater accuracy, reducing errors. Collaborative robots, or cobots, will work dynamically alongside humans, fostering improved productivity. AI-driven vision systems will provide unprecedented precision in defect detection, enhancing quality control processes. The industry will also see advancements in mass customization, as AI automates vehicle design based on customer preferences, and the rise of digital twins, virtual replicas that streamline prototyping and testing. Furthermore, dynamic supply chains powered by real-time AI insights will allow manufacturers to respond quickly to disruptions, and innovations in battery technology will support the development of more efficient and durable solutions for electric vehicles. As Priyanka aptly observes, “The integration of AI and ML will not just shape manufacturing processes but redefine the future of mobility itself.”

Advocating for Women in STEM

Priyanka is deeply committed to giving back to society, volunteering for various initiatives, and advocating for women in STEM. She believes diversity and inclusion are critical for driving innovation in traditionally male-dominated fields. Receiving the title of “Elite Woman Innovator in Robotics and Manufacturing Excellence” is both an honor and a responsibility. It symbolizes the importance of breaking barriers and inspiring the next generation of engineers.

Advice to Aspiring Professionals

Priyanka encourages aspiring engineers to stay curious and continuously expand their knowledge in cutting-edge fields like AI, machine learning, and industrial IoT. She emphasizes the importance of engaging in hands-on projects, joining robotics clubs, or participating in hackathons to bridge the gap between theoretical concepts and real-world applications. Priyanka advises embracing challenges and viewing setbacks as valuable learning opportunities while remaining confident in one’s unique perspective and abilities. As she passionately states, “Curiosity and a love for problem-solving are key. Robotics blends creativity with engineering, offering endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. Stay committed—it’s a thrilling journey!”