Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Asha Earle. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Asha, thanks for joining us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

The most impactful and fulfilling project I’ve had the privilege to be a part of is my involvement with Driven By Us, a beacon of community and opportunity within the automotive and motorsports industry. This initiative is not just a project to me; it’s a personal mission, an inclusive hub where dreams are fueled, and careers are accelerated.

Driven By Us stands as a testament to the power of unity and collective voice in an industry that thrives on innovation and passion. It’s a space where enthusiasts, professionals, and newcomers alike can foster and grow connections. This organization is the embodiment of my deepest belief: that within each of us lies an unstoppable force, and when we lend our voices to one another, the possibilities are limitless.

My involvement as a founding member and Head of Partnerships for Driven By Us has been a journey of transformation—not just for the members we serve but for myself as well. We are creating a space that I desperately needed when I was young—a guiding light in the complex world of automotive and motorsports. From those initial sparks of ambition, we are cultivating an environment that champions inclusivity, learning, and unwavering support. Additionally, I’ve poured my vision and energy into crafting programs that not only educate but inspire.

The growth of Driven By Us mirrors the growth of its members. Witnessing individuals blossom from active participants to industry professionals is a huge accomplishment for us. Our collective success is a beacon of what can be achieved when we focus on the power of networking and community. To me, it is more than an organization—it’s a reflection of the unwavering optimism I hold for the future of the automotive and motorsports industry. It’s a living, thriving testament to the idea that when we are the mentors, the supporters, and the champions for one another, there’s no limit to the heights we can reach together. This is the essence of Driven by Us, and it’s why this project has been some of the most meaningful work I’ve ever undertaken.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

As an senior automotive engineer with eight years of experience, my career has been a deliberate path shaped by the complexities and advancements within the industry. My entry into this field was driven by a fascination with the mechanics and innovation that define automotive and motorsports engineering.

Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to receive guidance from esteemed mentors, whose expertise has been instrumental in my development. Their mentorship has been invaluable, providing me with the foundation to grow into my current role as a Senior Powertrain Engineer. In this capacity, my focus is on the development of future powertrain systems, particularly the transition to electrified drive systems (electric and hybrid)—a pivotal area in automotive engineering that addresses both performance and environmental considerations. This work focuses on creating powertrain solutions that are not only technologically advanced but also sustainable. The drive towards electrification is not just a response to market demand; it is a commitment to responsible engineering. What distinguishes my approach in this competitive landscape is a dedication to precision and a collaborative spirit. I approach challenges with the understanding that they are opportunities for innovation and leadership in a sector that is rapidly evolving.

One of the aspects of my career that I hold in high regard is the opportunity to mentor emerging talent. Echoing the mentorship I received, I am committed to fostering the growth of the next wave of engineers, ensuring the continuity of excellence and innovation in our field. The ethos of myself is centered on thoughtful innovation, the pursuit of technical excellence, and a forward-thinking mindset.

In essence, my work is about more than engineering—it’s about contributing to a legacy of sustainable mobility and driving the industry forward with intention and responsibility. This is the core of my professional and personal philosophy, with the conjugation of always trying to create impact with a smile and a welcoming spirit.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

In my worlds, creativity is often overlooked in favor of technical expertise. However, the creative journey is an integral part of innovation, especially when it comes to community building. Non-creatives may find it challenging to grasp the nuanced role that creativity plays in fostering a community and the culture that emerges from it.

The journey of a creative in the engineering field is not solely about devising solutions or crafting novel designs; it’s also about the art of cultivating a community where these ideas can flourish. The importance of community should never be overstated—it is the bedrock upon which the sharing of knowledge, mentorship, and collaboration is built. This community is not a byproduct of our industry; it is a deliberate creation of an living ecosystem that requires nurturing and intentionality.

Building a community is a systemic process, deeply embedded in the culture of the respective industry. It’s about more than just networking; it’s about creating a space where individuals feel connected, supported, and inspired. It’s about setting a tone of inclusivity and openness that encourages the free exchange of ideas. The communities we build are the incubators for innovation, where diverse thoughts and experiences converge to push the boundaries of what’s possible.

Non-creatives might not recognize the vision needed to see beyond the nuts and bolts of engineering, to understand that the structures we build are not just physical but social and intellectual. Community building is an art form that requires a deep understanding of human connections and the foresight to weave those connections into a cohesive and thriving culture.

The insight I’d offer is that creativity in engineering is not a solitary endeavor—it’s a collective symphony. Each member of the community contributes a unique note, and the harmony we create together is what drives progress. For those outside the creative process, understanding this can be enlightening. It reveals that the true power of our industry lies not just in the machines we build but in the human connections that make those machines meaningful.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

One of the most transformative lessons I’ve had to unlearn in my career is the necessity to assert my own career path, even in the face of resistance. This lesson came from a challenging chapter early in my career, a period that became a pillar for my professional identity.

I have always had a passion for powertrain development and the hands-on experience of testing vehicles, and I was eager to steer my career in this direction. I attempted to communicate this ambition to my superiors, thinking that this would be a collaborative discussion about my future within the company. However, my aspirations were met with unexpected, unprofessional pushback. Instead of finding support, I encountered a wall of resistance; my ideas were dismissed, and my readiness was questioned. My superior emphasized that my eagerness was premature and that I should follow a more traditional and gradual path. Basically, no you are not smart enough, just keep your head down and do the work we told you to do.

This conflict with management was a very hard-setting wake-up call. It wasn’t that I lacked the desire to voice my path; it was that when I did, it was met with a disheartening brick wall. Yet, it was this very struggle that became the catalyst for a pivotal transformation. The resistance forced me to reevaluate not only my approach but also the environment that I thought I could grow in. I realized that to build the career I envisioned for myself, I would need to advocate for myself and leave the space that I was clearly not growing in.

The confrontation with management, while uncomfortable, ultimately propelled me to pivot my career decisively towards the areas I was truly passionate about: powertrain development and vehicle testing. It taught me that while resistance can be disheartening, it can also be a powerful motivator for brutal change. I have learned never to expect anyone to advocate more for yourself, than yourself. That grit, will help you succeed above all else.

Contact Info:

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/asha-earle/
• Other: can publish on all platforms

Image Credits

3rd photo: Tonya Hampton (orange shirt)