Empowered to Lead: How Kim M. Found Growth and Purpose at Cummins Inc.

From a young age, Kim M. had a natural curiosity for problem-solving and a passion for innovation. Growing up in Reynosa, Mexico, she was always drawn to the challenge of finding creative solutions. This drive led her to pursue a degree in Manufacturing and Industrial Engineering at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. Eager to expand her horizons, she actively participated in student organizations that offered leadership opportunities and valuable connections with industry professionals, setting the stage for her future career.

Kim’s first taste of the corporate world came as a Supply Chain Intern at a local manufacturing company, where she gained hands-on experience with end-to-end supply chain operations. However, it was a scholarship opportunity that changed the trajectory of her career. “A colleague introduced me to the Great Minds in STEM conference, where I was honored to receive a scholarship sponsored by Cummins,” she recalls. This led to an internship as a Metrology Intern in Fuel Systems at Cummins, where she deepened her technical knowledge and fell in love with the company’s culture and values.

After completing her degree, Kim had multiple job offers but ultimately chose Cummins, joining as a Supply Quality Engineer in Shoreview, MN. “Walking into the break room on my first day and hearing five different languages spoken at once made me realize how truly diverse and inclusive this company is,” she says. “That, combined with Cummins’ investment in its employees, made me confident in my decision.”

Now, as a Customer Quality Group Leader in the Power Generation Business, she leads a team that tackles pre-service issues customers experience once a product is shipped. The fast-paced nature of her work keeps her engaged and challenged. “We work closely with the commissioning team and field technicians, ensuring any issues are addressed quickly,” she explains. “One of the most rewarding parts of my job is identifying root causes of problems and implementing corrective actions at our manufacturing sites to improve product reliability.”

Kim’s day starts early at the site, where she meets with her team to assess ongoing quality trends and opportunities. From analyzing data and reporting performance metrics to collaborating with design engineers and operations teams, her role requires a mix of technical expertise and strategic problem-solving. “I also meet with customers biweekly to provide updates on the enhancements we’ve made,” she adds. “It’s incredibly fulfilling to know that my work directly strengthens customer trust and contributes to continuous improvement.”

Since joining Cummins in 2019, Kim has continuously pursued growth opportunities. She has explored various roles within supply chain and quality, recently transitioning to the Customer Quality Team in Fridley, MN. She also completed a master’s degree in supply chain management at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville—fully funded by Cummins. “The company’s commitment to employee development is one of the reasons I chose to stay,” she shares. “I’ve had amazing mentors who encouraged me to pursue certifications, leadership programs and continuous learning.”

This spirit of continuous growth extends beyond her professional development. Kim is particularly passionate about diversity and inclusion, a value deeply embedded in Cummins’ culture. "Cummins truly understands the importance of diverse talent," she says. "Programs like the McKinsey Hispanic Leadership and Coaching program and Employee Resource Groups have helped me build connections and refine my leadership skills."

Outside of work, Kim finds energy and balance in endurance sports. She enjoys running, biking and playing pickleball—activities that challenge her both physically and mentally. “Running pushes me to be a better version of myself,” she says. “Last year, I trained for and completed two half-marathons.”

Her passion for cycling also led her to participate in a 500-mile charity ride for Multiple Sclerosis, alongside a group of Cummins employees. “It was an unforgettable experience,” she recalls. “Being able to combine my love for cycling with a meaningful cause made it even more special.”
Looking ahead, Kim envisions a future where she continues to grow as a leader in quality or supply chain management. “I want to keep improving my skills and expanding my knowledge while helping to build quality into our products,” she says. “I thrive in an environment where challenges are part of the day-to-day, and I love working on solutions that have a tangible impact on our customers.”

For those considering a career at Cummins, Kim’s advice is clear: “This is a company that empowers you to take ownership of your career. Cummins not only invests in your professional development but also genuinely cares about its people.”

Kim’s journey is a testament to how passion, perseverance and the right opportunities can pave the way for a fulfilling career. At Cummins, she’s not just solving technical challenges—she’s driving progress in an ever-evolving world.