Eaton has named Christine “Chris” Barman, an industry veteran with decades of automotive technology expertise, as its new chief technology officer for the Industrial Sector.
In this new role, Barman is responsible for leading Eaton’s Industrial Sector technology strategy and providing overall direction and guidance for engineering and technology enhancement initiatives within the Industrial Sector; which includes the Vehicle, eMobility, Aerospace and Hydraulics businesses.
“Eaton is a global, world-class technology company that is on the leading-edge of improving quality of life and the environment through the use of power management technologies and services,” Barman said. “I feel privileged to be a part of that mission, and I am excited to help shape the future alongside Eaton’s capable and diverse teams around the globe.”
Barman joins Eaton with more than 23 years of experience managing component, system and vehicle-level design and development. She spent more than 22 years with Fiat Chrysler Automobiles in a variety of roles. As vice president of NAFTA Electrical and Electronics Engineering, she was responsible for the engineering team, heading up the design and development of electrical components and systems for new vehicle programs, as well as new technologies such as driver assistance, autonomy, infotainment and connectivity. Most recently, Barman served as the principal for New Shore LLC, where she provided strategic advice on emerging technologies and development strategies.
“Chris’ experience as a team-oriented and results-driven executive make her an ideal fit for this role,” said Uday Yadav, president and chief operating officer, Eaton’s Industrial Sector. “We’re happy to welcome her to the team, and we’re confident that her technological leadership will enable us to continue delivering on the needs of our customers around the world.”
Barman holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Michigan, a Master of Science in mechanical engineering from Oakland University and a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from Purdue University. She is currently a board member of Inforum and the Michigan Science Center, as well as a member of the Purdue University Mechanical Engineering Advisory Council. She has been recognized in numerous publications as one of the leading women in the North American automotive industry.
