Angelica Velez, MBA
Angelica Velez, MBA, is a seasoned leader in warranty management and quality assurance, serving as the Senior Quality Warranty Manager at Gentex Corporation in Zeeland, Michigan. With over two decades of experience, she has developed deep expertise in warranty processes, reverse logistics, and customer care across diverse industries including automotive, fire protection, medical, and aerospace. Known for her analytical rigor and strategic insight, Angelica excels at improving operational efficiency, reducing non-conformance costs, and ensuring exceptional customer experiences worldwide.
Beyond her professional achievements, Angelica is passionate about fostering an inclusive and empowering workplace. As the Executive Sponsor of the Women@Gentex Business Resource Group, she actively mentors and advocates for women, promoting professional growth, networking opportunities, and community-building initiatives. Her commitment to leadership development and advocacy extends beyond her organization, as she contributes to industry councils and participates in events designed to equip individuals with the skills to make data-driven business decisions.
Angelica is also dedicated to giving back to her community. She serves as Board President for ESCAPE Ministries, volunteers as a youth sports coach, and inspires young people through mentorship programs focused on leadership and personal development. Her approach to leadership combines operational excellence with a genuine commitment to empowering others, making her a respected professional, mentor, and community advocate.
• Foundation: Create & Capture Value as You Negotiate
• Digital Marketing Certification
• Digital Marketing Simternship
• Executive Leadership
• Mentorship
• Dare to Lead Trained
• Grand Valley State University - MBA
• Escape Ministries
• Women@Gentex
• Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA)
• Escape Ministries
• Junior Achievement USA
• Resilience: Advocates for Ending Violence
• Tough Mudder Inc
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the dedication and passion I have for this field, where I have proudly served for the past 24 years, including 22 years in my current role. I also owe much to a mentor who recognized my potential and encouraged me to return to school as a single mom who had previously left high school to raise my children. He helped me find the right opportunity, knowing that earning my degree would allow me to excel beyond expectations.
I embraced that challenge, completing an Executive Master’s degree and considering a PhD next. My journey reflects my belief that with determination, guidance, and hard work, it is possible to achieve great things regardless of where you start in life. I hope my story inspires others to pursue their own paths to success.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is that it’s never too late to pursue higher education. This advice reminded me that no matter your stage in life or the challenges you face, investing in your education can open doors, expand your opportunities, and empower you to achieve your goals.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is that you can achieve anything you set your mind to. This field offers tremendous potential and is incredibly rewarding, providing opportunities to make a meaningful impact while growing both personally and professionally.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges—and opportunities—in my field right now is continuing to grow and advance professionally. For me, that includes pursuing further education and leveraging that knowledge to take on greater responsibilities and move up within my organization. Staying committed to learning and development is key to both personal and industry-wide progress.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are hard work, dedication, and balance. I strive to give my best professionally while also making meaningful time for my family—my two boys and my husband. Spending time outdoors, especially on the boat, is one of my favorite ways to recharge and connect with them.