Five Questions with Kimberly Cockrell

Kimberly Cockrell leads the human resource function at Toyota Motor North America, where she oversees benefits, talent development and other elements that contribute to successful team member engagement.

What's your favorite thing about working at Toyota?

The people I work with and our culture of getting better and better, which we also call kaizen, the process of continuous improvement.

What does D+I mean to you?

To me, D+I means intentionally creating spaces and opportunities where people can be seen authentically, heard and invited to share who they are uniquely created to be. The words that resonate most with me when I define D+I are “belonging" and “relationships.”

Over the last year, what are some ways you’ve seen Toyota further its commitment to employee inclusion, belonging and wellbeing?

Toyota HR has put tremendous focus on wellbeing over the past few years, adding even more programs and initiatives to support the mental, physical and financial health of our team members and their families. 

What advice do you have for aspiring leaders, particularly women, who are looking to make a greater impact at work?

I always say, know your inherent value, know what you are uniquely gifted to do. Build authentic relationships at all levels across diverse groups, people and departments. Do the work, meaning do your job with excellence. Speak up, take risks and say yes to opportunities—especially those that push you out of your comfort zone. If you're uncomfortable, you're most likely growing, and that will build your character and leadership skills. 



How do you think we can attract and recruit more women in careers in manufacturing, especially given the growing need for STEM and other high-tech skills?

Visibility is important. Sharing the stories of women in our manufacturing, technology and engineering functions can help attract more women into these roles. The adage that “you need to see it to know you can be it” applies here. Mentoring in our communities and with our partners, supporting initiatives like Driving Possibilities, representing Toyota in industry, state, local and federal organizations and agencies all help demonstrate what is possible for women in mobility, manufacturing and STEM roles at Toyota.