Ashwini Balasubramanian
Vice President of R&D, Transportation & Energy Business, 3M

Board member- OLSOM Inc

President – Automotive Women’s Alliance Foundation (AWAF a 501©3 org)

Ashwini Balasubramanian currently serves as Vice President of Research & Development for the Transportation & Energy Business Unit for 3M.

Prior to that she served as Head of Motorcycle Development (MD) Strategy & Operations at Harley-Davidson. She is known for her ability to deliver financial results for the organization with a clear strategic vision and an effective execution plan. Prior to this role, she spent 20 years working for companies like Bosch, Toyota, ZF & Martinrea. Automotive News named her a “Rising Star,” in 2019. University of Michigan Dearborn named her alumni of the year in 2025 for the College of Engineering.

Ashwini holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from SSM College of Engineering, India, and a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Michigan- Dearborn. She is a Certified Sustainability Excellence Associate from the International Society of Sustainability Professionals.

Ashwini also serves on the board of a Privately held company OLSOM Inc, which is focused on manufacturing automation.

Ashwini is also President of a non-profit, Automotive Women’s Alliance Foundation (AWAF 501©3) which focuses on advancing women in automotive through advocacy. Her strategic acumen and decisive leadership have been pivotal in defining AWAF's long-term trajectory while ensuring meticulous execution of short-term objectives. Responsible for overseeing all facets of operations, Ashwini adeptly navigates within the organization's bylaws, while also managing the financial health with a keen eye on profitability and sustainability.

Ashwini is also a debut author of Map Your Ascent: Embracing Change as Your Leadership Superpower, a compelling leadership book that distills her career experiences into practical insights on navigating transformation with confidence and purpose. Through this work, she empowers emerging and seasoned leaders alike to embrace change as a catalyst for growth, resilience, and elevated leadership impact.

She remains committed to shaping the future of transportation, energy, and leadership by championing innovation, cultivating bold thinkers, and empowering the next generation to lead with clarity, courage, and purpose.