By Laryssa Hulcio and Stephen Harber, Talent Marketing
Engineer. Author. Mentor. Mom. Model.
Elisha Brown wears a lot of titles, and somehow she makes time for each and every one of them. As a Senior Quality Engineer for Software and Services at GM, she’s not just keeping up with cutting-edge innovation — she’s helping shape it, all while uplifting those around her.
We sat down with Elisha to talk about her path to engineering, how she balances it all, and the legacy she's creating at GM and beyond.
Q: How did your road to GM begin?
A: I started off in manufacturing shortly after high school, working at American Axle & Manufacturing (AAM). Even back then, I was laser-focused on engineering. My high school yearbook even said, “I'm going to be a senior engineer and I’m a girl!” That was always my vision.
I earned my bachelor's degree from Wayne State University while working full-time, then immediately started a course that helped open doors into the industry. Landing at GM was a dream come true. Truly a blessing. Since then, I’ve completed a master's in engineering technology. Now, I’m in the most fulfilling role of my career.
Q: What inspired you to join GM specifically?
A: I’ve always loved fixing things – it’s something I got from the men in my family. My grandfather worked at GM in Hamtramck, MI, before it was converted to American Axle & Manufacturing (AAM). My dad was a skilled tradesman there too. I wanted to follow in their footsteps, but in my own way, as an engineer. So I kept chasing that dream until it became a reality.
Q: What excites you most about working in the automotive tech industry?
A: The pace of innovation. This industry is always evolving: from new software platforms to groundbreaking technology. There’s never a dull moment. You can literally see the future taking shape in the work you do.
It’s incredibly rewarding to know that the projects I contribute to help shape how people drive, how they experience mobility, and what safety and performance look like in a modern vehicle.
Q: What has been your most significant achievement at GM so far?
A: Stepping into my current role as a Senior Quality Engineer. I’ve had the opportunity to support high-tech initiatives and help uphold the software quality that GM customers expect and deserve.
It's a big responsibility, but I take pride in contributing to the success of the company, and in knowing that what we deliver truly matters to drivers around the world.
Elisha, pictured center, takes a photo with her happy family on a sunny afternoon at Belle Isle in Detroit, Michigan, 2023.
Q: What are your goals for the next few years at GM?
A: I want to keep growing – both professionally and personally. I’ve been focused on developing deeper expertise in software specifications and quality assurance, and I want to keep building on that foundation.
I also recently got involved with the GM Influencer program, which has been an exciting opportunity to help share our story on social media and show people what working at GM is all about. It’s another way I get to represent not just the company, but also people who come from where I come from.
Outside of work, I love encouraging others – whether that’s collaborating with coworkers, being there for friends and family, or helping others believe in what’s possible. That’s a big part of who I am, and I hope to keep doing that in bigger ways as my career evolves.
Q: How do you balance work and personal life, especially in such a demanding role?
A: I wake up every day and try to stay grounded. I check in with myself, stay focused on what matters spiritually, and just take it one day at a time.
I’ve been married for 25 years and have three children, so managing family and work is a daily balancing act. But I love what I do, and I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve been given — so I try to make the most of every day.
On top of engineering, I’m also a personal development coach, a published author, and I even do commercial modeling on the side.
I love life, I love staying busy, and I love helping others see what's possible.
Q: Speaking of your commercial modeling background, were you recently featured in a Chevy commercial?
A: Yes! In summer 2025, I starred in a promo for Chevy Certified Tire Service. My oldest son appeared in the ad too. It was fun to include my family in the promotion, further aligning them with the GM brand. At the moment, it’s one of the most popular videos on Chevy’s YouTube channel with over nine million views!
Q: How would you describe your leadership approach?
A: I believe in building people up. Everyone wants to feel valued, seen, and respected. Whether I’m leading a project build or working alongside others, I try to foster an environment where people feel supported.
That might mean passing along positive feedback, recognizing someone’s contributions, or simply making sure everyone feels like they belong. I believe leadership is about listening, uplifting, and showing respect to everyone around you.
Q: What’s your favorite GM Employee Behavior and why?
"Innovate and embrace change."
The symbol chosen for it, my all-time favorite, was immediately highlighted. I’ve always felt that butterflies represent the transformation we undergo before the beauty of taking flight into our true purpose. In today’s fast-moving world, innovation is crucial to staying ahead, it’s essential for success in continuing evolution in a competitive market.
Q: What are the biggest challenges you face in your position? How do you overcome them?
A: One of the biggest challenges is simply keeping pace with how fast technology is moving. We're often working with new systems and platforms before the rest of the world even sees them — so we have to constantly learn, adapt, and problem-solve.
That’s the fun part for me. I enjoy the challenge of figuring things out, collaborating with others, and pushing through when things get hard. There was a time when a teammate was out during a conference, and I had to step in on a complex issue. I was able to resolve it quickly. It felt great to be trusted in that way.
Pictured from left to right: Elisha poses for another fabulous glamor shot, and celebrates her 25th wedding anniversary with her husband.
Q: How does GM stay ahead when it comes to technology and innovation?
A: GM has always been about innovation. From electric vehicles to advanced software, the company continues to invest in what's next, and in the people building it.
We’re not just creating cars; we’re creating smarter, safer, and more connected ways to move. That kind of purpose-driven innovation is what keeps GM at the forefront of the industry.
Q: What role do you see GM playing in the future of mobility?
A: I see GM leading the way in how the world moves – whether that’s through electric vehicles, self-driving technology, or connected software systems.
The investments we’re making, especially in affordable EVs and battery tech, are changing the game. It's an exciting time to be part of this transformation, and I’m proud to help shape the future of transportation.
Q: Outside of work, you’ve also launched a few passion projects. Want to share more about those?
A: Sure! I started journaling during the pandemic. I started writing out what I was seeing and feeling during such a surreal time. That became my first book, The Journal of Miracles, which also turned into a kind of coaching ministry focused on healing, confidence, and freedom.
My husband is a talented musician and preacher, so we’ve also created some projects together that bring inspiration to others. I lead a free session on Sunday nights where I talk to people about living with purpose and overcoming personal challenges.
Whether it’s through writing, coaching, or my work at GM, I want to help others see their own potential and believe that they can build something amazing, no matter where they’re starting from.
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