Goal Setting for Long-Term Success

Insights from Industry Leaders

What does it take to thrive in a male-dominated industry? For Emily DeStefano, VP of Business Operations at SNG | Moss | Rimmer Group, it’s a combination of resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to her values. her journey serves as an inspiration to women leaders in automotive who want to make their mark and break barriers in the industry.

In this candid interview, Emily shares her leadership journey, the values that guide her, and her advice for setting ambitious, long-term goals while staying true to yourself.

"I fell into the industry" - Finding Purpose Unexpectedly

When asked what brought her into the automotive industry, Emily laughs. “Truthfully, I fell into the industry,” she admits. “Ten years ago, I was just looking for a job near my hometown of Philadelphia. I accepted a role at Dorman Products, thinking it would be a stepping stone.

But her temporary plan became something much more. “I ended up loving the company, the work, the industry, and the people. After a few years, I felt committed to automotive, energized by the work, and saw an opportunity to make a difference in a space that desperately needs more diversity.

Her advice to others? Stay curious!

“Sometimes, the best career paths are the ones you didn’t plan. What unexpected opportunities in your career could lead to something incredible?”

Values as a Compass: The Six Pillars

Emily’s approach to leadership and life is rooted in her six core pillars:

Word Hard
Work Out
Be Kind
Have Fun
Don’t Get Messed With
and… Family Over Everything

“These pillars guide my decisions,” she explains.

For readers trying to align personal values with professional aspirations, Emily suggests starting with clarity. “Write done what matters most to you. Keep those values visible – on your desk, in your planner, or even on your phone wallpaper. What are your core values, and how are they shaping your decisions today?

"You can't just talk about your values - you have to live them. That doesn't mean I get it right all the time, but I certainly try."

Adapting in a Changing Industry

The automotive industry is contstantly evolving, and Emily believes flexibility is key to staying ahead. “To succeed in a changing environment, you need to be open-minded – open to new ideas, new people, and new opportunities,” she shares. “If you’re willing to go along for the ride, the world really opens up.”

"Technology is transforming the way we work and the products we create. if you want to lead, you have to keep learning and evolving.

With the rise of electric vehicles, AI integration, and the push for sustainability, the automotive industry is transforming rapidly. Emily believes future leaders must stay curious and continuously adapt to remain relevant. “Career goals don’t have to be set in stone. They can evolve as you grow and learn more about yourself.”

Tracking Progress: Data and Reflection

A self-proclaimed numbers enthusiast, Emily loves using data to measure her progress. “I literally track KPIs on paper for the things I am trying to achieve, whether it is a personal goal or project at work,” she says. “Acknowledging progress is so important. It creates positive energy and keeps momentum going.”

She also takes a reflective approach. “I regularly ask myself questions like, ‘Do I feel good – physically and mentally? Am I having fun? Am I doing things I believe in?’ These check-ins keep me grounded.”

Lessons from the MBA Journey

One of Emily’s proudest achievements is earning her MBA from UCLA while working full-time. It wasn’t easy. “I’m not naturally inclined toward school, so I had to prepare myself mentally and physically,” she reveals. “I hired a tutor before starting, limited all distractions like TV and alcohol, and poured all my energy into work and school.”

The process was grueling, but Emily views it as transformative.

“There were moments when I doubted whether I could handle the pressure of balancing work and school,” she admits. “But I leaned on my values and reminded myself why I started. Those tough moments taught me resilience and gave me confidence I never thought I’d have.”

The Role of Mentorship and Community

Relationships have been pivotal to Emily’s success. “I’ve never approached relationships thinking, ‘What can you do for me?’ I gravitate toward people who inspire me, work hard, and want to have fun,” she explains. “Surround yourself with people who challenge you and support your growth.”

At Women In Automotive, we provide resources, mentorship opportunities, and events to help you forge those meaningful relationships that drive success.

Emily’s emphasis on authentic connections is a perfect reminder of the power of community.

Next Steps: Your Path to Long-Term Success

Emily DeStefano’s journey is a powerful reminder that success isn’t about having it all figured out. It’s about staying curious, living by your values, and adapting to the world around you.

Emily’s advice:

"If it’s hard, keep going. Do it anyway" - Emily DeStefano

Don’t wait to take your next bold step. Join Women In Automotive today and connect with a thriving community that’s ready to support your journey:

Write down your top three long-term career goals and steps to achieve them.
Identify one new skill to learn in the next six months to stay ahead of industry trends.
Join Women In Automotive to connect with others who share your drive and passion.

💬 Your future is waiting. The bold steps you take today can define your tomorrow. What’s your next move?