By Ashley Reyes
The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Eva Tran, marketing director at LIQUI MOLY, as the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member.
Get to know Tran in her interview with SEMA News below.
SEMA News: How many years have you been with your current company and what do you enjoy most about working there?
Eva Tran: I have been with LIQUI MOLY for more than six years, working in various positions that have given me a comprehensive understanding of the company's operations. What I enjoy most is the opportunity to continuously expand my knowledge and skills in different areas of the business. This diverse experience has allowed me to develop a holistic perspective, contribute to different teams and understand how all the pieces fit together. I also value the dynamic and collaborative environment at LIQUI MOLY, where every challenge is met with creativity and teamwork.
SN: What is the most challenging part of your business or job?
ET: The most challenging part of my job is also the most rewarding and exciting. When I joined LIQUI MOLY, the company was in its early stages, which gave me the unique opportunity to help build and shape our team, processes and workflows from the ground up. Contributing to the company's growth was both a significant challenge and an incredibly fulfilling experience. The responsibility of creating new systems to support our expansion required adaptability and strategic thinking but seeing the impact of my efforts and how far we've come has made it all worth it.
SN: How many years have you been in the industry and what was your first industry job?
ET: I have been in the automotive industry for six and a half years, starting with my current role at LIQUI MOLY. While this is my first official industry job, I grew up in an automotive family in Germany, which fostered my passion and interest in this field from an early age. That background gave me a solid foundation and a deep love for the industry long before I officially began my career.
SN: What three qualities got you to where you are today?
ET: Three qualities that have been instrumental in getting me to where I am today are adaptability, perseverance and collaboration.
Adaptability has allowed me to navigate the ever-changing demands of the automotive industry and the growth within LIQUI MOLY. By embracing change and learning new skills, I've been able to contribute effectively across various roles.
Perseverance has kept me focused on long-term goals, even when faced with challenges. Building new processes, workflows and teams can be daunting, but staying committed has led to rewarding results.
Collaboration has been key to fostering strong working relationships and creating a positive, productive team environment. By working closely with colleagues and embracing different perspectives, we've been able to achieve great things together.
These qualities have helped me grow both personally and professionally, allowing me to take on more leadership and make a lasting impact.
SN: Being a woman in the industry, what have been your biggest challenges and accomplishments?
ET: Being a woman in the automotive industry, one of the biggest challenges has been overcoming preconceived notions and stereotypes. Early on, I often encountered skepticism about my abilities, which made it necessary to prove myself repeatedly. However, this challenge also fueled my determination to succeed and excel in every role.
One specific accomplishment I'm particularly proud of was building a team and creating new processes at LIQUI MOLY when the company was in its early stages. Leading this initiative, while navigating industry challenges as a woman, gave me the opportunity to demonstrate my leadership and strategic skills. Seeing the tangible growth of the company, which I directly contributed to, was incredibly rewarding.
This experience not only helped me break barriers but also proved that diversity of thought and leadership brings innovation and growth. I'm proud of the strides I've made and how far the team and I have come, and I hope to inspire more women to pursue leadership roles in this industry.
SN: Who are your role models or mentors in the industry?
ET: While I don't have a single, specific role model, I draw inspiration from multiple women in the industry who are making an impact. Over the years, I've been fortunate to meet many amazing women who have encouraged me to give my best and continue growing. One standout experience was attending a SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) event earlier this year. The opportunity to network and connect with so many talented women was incredibly empowering. I returned from that event feeling inspired and refreshed, with new insights and motivation to keep building my own network and strive for greater achievements. Learning from each other and seeing the success of women in the spotlight motivates me to push boundaries and pursue my goals.
SN: What is the best career advice you have received?
ET: The best career advice I've received is to 'Own Your Voice and Expertise,' especially in a male-dominated industry. This advice has been transformative for me both professionally and personally, empowering me to confidently speak up, share my ideas, and advocate for myself and my team. While it can be challenging, as assertive women are sometimes unfairly labeled as 'difficult,' it's crucial to speak up when something is wrong or unfair. I've learned that setting boundaries and standing firm in my convictions not only helps ensure fairness but also earns long-term respect. This approach has helped me navigate tough situations with confidence and integrity.
SN: Have you always wanted to work in the automotive industry? What keeps you here?
ET: I didn't originally plan to work in the automotive industry; I stumbled into it by chance. However, after several years, I can confidently say that I love it. One of the things that keeps me here is the unique opportunity to work for a German company and connect with other German companies and their employees at industry events. What excites me most about the industry is the challenge it presents as a woman. I enjoy proving some of the doubters wrong and contributing to a change that will make it easier for the next generation of women. My goal is to help pave the way for more women to have a seat at the table, and I believe we're making great progress toward that vision.
SN: Who was the most influential person on your career goals?
ET: The most influential person in my career has been my manager, Sebastian Zelger, CEO of LIQUI MOLY USA. He has always been in my corner—supporting, encouraging, and believing in me. His trust in my abilities has helped me grow both personally and professionally. I'm also deeply impressed by how he has led the company's growth since taking on his role. His journey, moving from Germany to the United States. as a young CEO, and overcoming the doubts of others, has been truly inspiring. Sebastian continuously demonstrates how much can be achieved with the right mindset, resilience, and dedication. His example has been a driving force in shaping my own goals and ambitions.
Fill out a #SheIsSEMA spotlight form to submit a self-nomination or nominate a colleague and highlight how you or she is contributing to the specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are automatically eligible to be considered for SBN's #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year award, featured on SBN's social media, SEMA News and recognized on the sema.org/she-is-sema website.