At Toyota, science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) professionals turn bold ideas into the innovations that shape the future of mobility.

Engineers, scientists, software developers, data analysts and skilled technicians are tackling some of the industry’s biggest challenges — from electrification and advanced battery technology to vehicle safety, connectivity and next-generation manufacturing.

By combining technical expertise with creativity, curiosity and relentless problem-solving, some transform complex challenges into practical solutions that help Toyota serve customers, strengthen communities and move mobility forward.

Stacy Berry, a senior manager at Production Engineering and Manufacturing Center (PEMC) in Kentucky knows a thing or two about blending creativity and practicality. She’s been with the company for over 20 years and works daily to help ensure Toyota vehicles can meet the standards that drivers expect.

“My team works with vehicle designers to make sure the vehicle can be processed through the paint shops at all the North American manufacturing centers,” she says. “The team takes the new vehicle structure, designs and prototypes, then confirms and supports fabrication for changes to lifters, carriers, paint jigs and bumper jigs.”

Innovation Everywhere 

STEM innovation at Toyota extends beyond research and development; it is also central to how vehicles are designed, built, tested and improved. Across the company, some employees use data, automation, robotics, materials science and continuous improvement principles to help make processes more efficient, sustainable and reliable.

This collaborative approach gives STEM professionals opportunities to work across disciplines, test new ideas, and solve real-world challenges together.

Morgan Newmark, a senior engineer at Toyota who’s worked in the Quality Policy and Audit (QPA) group within the Toyota Quality Division for five years, knows this firsthand.

“A typical day for me usually consists of planning, preparing for or completing audits, as well as revising or writing new quality standards and requirements,” she says. “I also work on different projects like assisting our plants and working with different groups to ensure they’re compliant with various requirements.”

Newmark who’s always liked math and science growing up adds, “Our team is really about helping the company improve and succeed. I know audits can sound intimidating, but we’re not there to point fingers. We’re there to support teams and make sure everyone has what they need to do their best work. We’re all working toward the same goal!”

Moving STEM Forward

As the mobility industry evolves, STEM careers remain essential in building a more connected, sustainable and human-centered future.

Preparing for that future begins early: STEM programs and education can spark curiosity, build confidence and equip young people with the skills to help create the solutions of tomorrow.

By investing in STEM learning from the classroom through the workplace, Toyota helps cultivate the talent and ideas needed to shape what comes next.

Senior engineer, Leeann Sartain, has worked with the Materials Quality Chemicals (MQC) group for four years and has been at Toyota for two decades, makes it her mission to help those following in her footsteps.

“It’s rewarding to see those you’ve mentored flourish and grow, knowing you’ve helped them,” she says. “I enjoy helping others succeed at work.”

Berry agrees and enjoys encouraging the next generation of STEM professionals.

“I love mentoring co-ops,” she says. “It’s rewarding for me to help these young engineers develop their problem-solving, project management, communication and presentation skills. I always advise them to rotate into other areas of interest while co-oping so they can focus in on what they’d really like to do for their career.”