Benetia Davis-Williams’s journey from Detroit to becoming a lead vehicle systems engineer at Cadillac is a remarkable story of passion, persistence, and empowerment. As one of the few Black women in her field, Davis-Williams is not only excelling in automotive engineering but is also actively working to inspire the next generation of Black girls to consider STEM careers.
A Love for Cars That Started Early
Growing up in Detroit, a city renowned for its automotive legacy, Davis-Williams’s love for cars was nurtured from a young age. While many girls around her were playing with dolls or having tea parties, she was fascinated by vehicles. “I live and breathe cars. My family loves cars, so I love cars,” she says. Her first car, a 1972 coupe DeVille, was more than just a set of wheels—it was a symbol of her deep connection to the automotive world.
Her journey toward a career in automotive engineering started during high school when she took part in a co-op program with Cadillac. She worked on chrome plating for bumpers, an experience that sparked her interest in the technical side of car manufacturing. It was then that she realized her true calling was in engineering. “I like to tinker, and I like to make things,” she recalls. This experience led her to pursue a degree at the General Motors Institute (GMI), where she further honed her skills and set the stage for her future career at Cadillac.
Breaking Through Barriers in the Automotive Industry
Davis-Williams’s rise through the ranks at Cadillac is a testament to her hard work and expertise. Starting as a test engineer, she quickly took on roles with more responsibility. She worked on Cadillac vehicles, ensuring that everything from headlamps to windshields met the highest standards of quality. Her meticulous attention to detail and problem-solving skills earned her a reputation as a valuable team member.
Today, Davis-Williams is the lead vehicle systems engineer at Cadillac, where she oversees the exterior and structural components of vehicles. She is especially proud of her work on the 2025 Cadillac OPTIQ, where she led the design and validation of the car’s body structure. “I got the whole outside of the vehicle. That’s all me, except for tires and wheels,” she proudly shares. Her role requires a balance of creativity and precision, working closely with designers and engineers to ensure that the final product meets both aesthetic and safety standards.
Leading with Confidence in a Male-Dominated Industry
As a Black woman in the predominantly male automotive industry, Davis-Williams knows that confidence and leadership are essential. In meetings, she often finds herself as the only woman or person of color in the room. “A lot of times, when you’re dealing with people in a male-dominated space, they automatically go to the man instead of talking to you,” she says. “It gets a little annoying, but for me, I just make sure they understand I’m the person that’s in charge.”
Her assertiveness is a key part of her leadership style. She makes sure to introduce herself and explain her role so that others know to come to her for answers. This proactive approach has earned her respect and made her a trailblazer in her field.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Black Girls in STEM
Davis-Williams is not only focused on advancing her career but also on giving back to her community. Understanding that Black and Brown women are underrepresented in both the automotive and STEM industries, she is committed to educating and empowering young girls to pursue careers in these fields. In her free time, she speaks at schools and participates in programs designed to introduce youth, especially young Black girls, to the possibilities of STEM careers.
At General Motors, Davis-Williams is involved in affinity groups that work to promote diversity in the workplace and beyond. One such group focuses on educating Detroit’s youth about careers in engineering and technology. “I want to make sure that the girls coming up see that STEM is for them too,” she says. Her efforts are aimed at creating a future where Black women are not only present in engineering but also leading the way.
A Powerful Message for Future Generations
For Davis-Williams, working in STEM is about more than just a career—it’s a way to make a tangible impact on the world. “Everyone can apply engineering to their everyday life,” she explains. By showing young girls that engineering is not only a male-dominated field but also one where women of color can thrive, she is helping to break down barriers and create a more inclusive future.
Her story serves as an inspiration to Black girls everywhere, proving that with hard work, determination, and a passion for what you love, anything is possible. As she continues to lead and innovate in the automotive industry, Davis-Williams is leaving a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
