Deanna Kowalski
Deanna Kowalski is an accomplished design leader with more than 26 years of experience in automotive interior design, specializing in translating global fashion and material trends into production-ready vehicle applications. As Design Manager at Seiren NA, she oversees the development of innovative interior materials and finishes, working extensively with polyurethanes, PVCs, textiles, and leather. Her work is defined by the ability to bridge inspiration from the garment industry, home goods, and runway trends into durable, high-performance automotive solutions that meet both aesthetic and engineering standards.
Throughout her career, Deanna has contributed to interior programs for nearly every major automotive OEM, including Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Honda, Ford Motor Company, Chrysler, General Motors, Tesla, Inc., and emerging innovators such as Zoox. For the past decade, she has held leadership roles, guiding design teams and forecasting trends to deliver forward-thinking interior concepts. She finds the greatest professional fulfillment in seeing her designs realized in production vehicles—whether through a distinctive fabric texture, perforation pattern, stitching detail, or surface finish many of which can be seen on the road today.
Deanna’s journey began with a hands-on foundation in model making, where she developed advanced prototyping skills using shop tools—an uncommon path that set her apart early in her career. She went on to earn her Bachelor’s degree in Industrial and Product Design from the University of Cincinnati, completing a rigorous co-op program that provided real-world experience with organizations such as Harman Kardon JBL and a consulting firm in Columbus, Ohio. Beyond her corporate work, she is also an accomplished designer seamstress, running a side business creating custom garments ranging from skating costumes and fitness wear featured on ESPN to wedding dresses and specialty projects. Known for her exceptional craftsmanship and ability to translate visual concepts into precise 3D execution, Deanna brings both artistry and technical expertise to every aspect of her work.
• University of Cincinnati - BS, Industrial and Product Design
• Volunteers at local school providing sewing help and organizational support
• Organized charity function for local crew team from June to February
• Created approximately 30 costumes for local school's Nutcracker production
What do you attribute your success to?
She attributes her success to the journey that it took to get to where she is today, as she started out right out of college with a major in Industrial design program. She loves designing and seeing her cars with her designs be driven and loved by others, and in her spare time she also volunteers at local schools sewing and helping out where she can to make a difference. She also has done seamstress work for dancers and skaters that have aired on espn. She also makes wedding dresses in her spare time as well.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is that I can build a successful and fulfilling career in a male-dominated industry as a woman. That perspective shaped my confidence early on and reinforced the importance of trusting my abilities, continuously developing my skills, and showing up with both competence and resilience. It taught me not to limit myself based on expectations or industry norms, but instead to focus on delivering high-quality work, contributing meaningfully to my team, and leading with both creativity and professionalism.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to recognize that your talents, perspective, and creativity are valuable and absolutely belong in this field, regardless of whether it is male-dominated. Stay confident in your abilities, continue to refine your craft, and don’t hesitate to take up space or share your ideas. Success comes from consistency, curiosity, and a strong work ethic, not from fitting a traditional mold. By embracing your strengths and remaining resilient, you can build a meaningful and impactful career while helping shape a more inclusive and innovative industry for the future.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is balancing the demands of a fast-paced, highly competitive industry with the desire to make a meaningful impact both professionally and personally. It can be difficult to find enough time to fully deliver at work while also staying engaged in my community and pursuing creative outlets outside of my primary role. At the same time, I see this as an opportunity to be intentional with how I manage my time and energy prioritizing what matters most while continuing to grow as both a professional and an individual. Maintaining that balance, along with making time for personal wellness and creative work in my studio, ultimately allows me to stay inspired, focused, and effective in everything I do.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are a strong work ethic, making a meaningful impact, and genuinely enjoying what I do. I believe in putting in the effort and staying committed to delivering high-quality results, while also ensuring that my work contributes to something greater. Having spent my entire career in this field, it’s important to me that I continue to find purpose and fulfillment in what I do every day. That sense of enjoyment, combined with dedication and the ability to make a difference, is what keeps me motivated and passionate about my work.
Locations
Seiren Co., Ltd.
Bloomfield, MI 48302