A respected automotive professional, Elizabeth (Lisa) Manwell has a long history with two Michigan motor giants: General Motors and Ford Motor Company. Over nearly three decades, she has led initiatives for both companies in product development, technology planning, manufacturing, global analysis and modeling. Currently, Manwell serves as vehicle planning lead for Ford’s large SUV programs.
Manwell earned her bachelor’s from the University of Michigan in interdisciplinary engineering and obtained a second bachelor’s and an MBA from the University of Toledo. In 2005, the University of Toledo’s College of Business named Manwell its Young Alumni of the Year. She has also secured nine patents in machine learning and artificial intelligence, received a Society of Women Engineers Patent Recognition Award and was selected as one of GM’s 50 “pride builders” to help shape the company’s culture following bankruptcy.
A proud Monroe County 4-H alumna, Manwell spent 12 years as a 4-H member, where she developed the leadership skills that later helped to guide her career. She represented Michigan at the National 4-H Conference, served on the state 4-H leadership committee, led youth leadership workshops at the former Kettunen Center and helped found the Monroe County Teen Ambassadors 4-H Club, which remains active today.
After completing her 4-H youth years, Manwell stepped right back in as an adult volunteer. For the past 37 years, she has dedicated her time to take on roles including club leader, fair superintendent, awards committee member, scholarship interviewer, State Awards judge and 4-H Shooting Sports Program instructor. Manwell has helped to mentor numerous 4-H members, while raising three of her own.
Beyond 4-H, Manwell has served on the Canton Township Board of Review, including several years as chair. She has also spent countless hours mentoring colleagues as a member of Ford’s Career Development Advisory Team, which supports employee advancement and development.
