Dr. Lei Qiao Honored Among Top Women in Automotive
PHILADELPHIA, May 20, 2025 – Axalta Coating Systems (AXTA), a prominent figure in the global coatings market, has proudly announced that Dr. Lei Qiao, Vice President of Technology in Mobility, has been recognized as one of the 100 Leading Women in the North American auto industry by Automotive News. This prestigious accolade celebrates exceptional female leaders who significantly influence the automotive sector.
Currently, Dr. Qiao spearheads the Mobility technology team at Axalta’s Global Innovation Center, located in Philadelphia. This center is recognized as one of the largest R&D facilities focused on coatings in the area. In her role, she is responsible for steering all technology growth initiatives within Axalta’s Mobility business unit, ensuring that innovation is at the heart of their operations. Prior to her current position, Dr. Qiao led the Research and Development team and was instrumental in overseeing the regional Mobility technology team in China. Her academic credentials include a Ph.D. in Materials Science from the University of Pennsylvania and an Executive MBA from Washington University in St. Louis.
“From Shanghai to Philadelphia, Lei has played an integral role in driving innovation across the enterprise,” noted Dr. Robert Roop, Axalta’s Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer. “Her unique ability to merge technical expertise with a strategic commercial mindset has enabled Axalta to consistently deliver innovative and functional products that meet our customers’ evolving challenges.”
This recognition as one of the 100 Leading Women in the North American Auto Industry for 2025 stems from a rigorous nomination and selection process, drawing numerous entries from across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The diverse group of honorees includes engineers, mobility leaders, manufacturing and marketing executives, financiers, dealer principals, and designers.
Axalta: A Global Leader in Coatings
Axalta is recognized as a leader in the coatings industry, delivering innovative, vibrant, and sustainable coating solutions tailored to a wide array of applications. Their offerings extend across light vehicles, commercial vehicles, refinish sectors, electric motors, and industrial applications. These advanced coatings are deliberately formulated to prevent corrosion, boost productivity, and enhance durability, ensuring they meet the various needs of customers worldwide.
With over 150 years of experience in the coatings arena, Axalta takes pride in its ability to serve over 100,000 clients in more than 140 countries daily, providing them with the highest quality coatings, application systems, and technology. The dedication of Axalta’s global team is evident as they strive to continuously innovate and develop solutions that resonate with their customer needs.
Innovation and Sustainability at Axalta
Axalta is committed to leading the charge in sustainable practices. The company prioritizes creating eco-friendly coatings that not only deliver performance but also align with global sustainability goals. This mindful approach represents not only Axalta’s dedication to the environment but also its responsibility as a global corporate entity.
Dr. Qiao's Vision for the Future
Dr. Qiao's vision aligns closely with Axalta’s objectives to push the boundaries of innovation in the coatings sector. Her leadership and expertise have been instrumental in shaping the trajectory of new product developments, especially focusing on the mobility sector which is rapidly evolving. Her forward-thinking approach emphasizes the importance of adapting to technological advancements while ensuring that Axalta remains at the forefront of the industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Dr. Lei Qiao?
Dr. Lei Qiao is the Vice President of Technology in Mobility at Axalta Coating Systems and has been honored among the 100 Leading Women in the North American auto industry.
What does Axalta specialize in?
Axalta specializes in providing innovative and sustainable coatings solutions for various applications such as vehicles, industrial needs, and architectural purposes.
Why was Dr. Qiao recognized by Automotive News?
Dr. Qiao was recognized for her exceptional leadership and significant impact on the automotive industry through her role in driving innovation at Axalta.
What is Axalta's commitment to sustainability?
Axalta is dedicated to sustainability by creating eco-friendly coatings and developing practices that minimize environmental impact.
How does Dr. Qiao contribute to Axalta's success?
Dr. Qiao contributes to Axalta's success by leading technological advancements in product development and ensuring that the company stays ahead of market demands.
