From Bioinformatics to Automotive Innovation: Teresina Herb’s Journey

This Rising Talent story is made possible thanks to ETAS GmbH, a valued corporate member of the Women Automotive Network. By sharing journeys like Teresina’s, ETAS is helping us spotlight the voices that inspire progress and empower the next generation of leaders in automotive.

Together with our corporate members, we’re building a global community where diversity and innovation thrive. >>Discover how your organisation can be part of it<<

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Curiosity and a love of learning have guided Teresina Herb’s journey from computer science and neuroscience to the fast-evolving world of automotive technology. Today, as Product Field Architect for offboard security solutions at ETAS GmbH, she is shaping the future of connected services, championing both innovation and inclusion along the way.

In our Rising Talent feature, Teresina shares how mentors opened doors throughout her career, the value of building strong professional networks, and why leading by example is key to fostering inclusive practices in the automotive industry.

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• Can you tell us a little about you, your background and how you got started in the automotive industry? 

With a background in computer science and a specialization in bioinformatics and neuroscience, I first encountered the automotive industry during my pre-master studies. After graduation, I began my career in consulting for vehicle manufacturers, which eventually led me to pursue a PhD in computer science, focusing on architectures for connected services. Following several years in research, I transitioned into product development roles at Bosch and later at ETAS, continuing my journey at the intersection of technology and mobility. 

• What is your current role, and what are your primary responsibilities within your organisation? 

As Product Field Architect for offboard security solutions at ETAS, I lead the development of our SaaS security portfolio. My role involves actively shaping the strategic direction of our offerings and managing the existing portfolio with a strong focus on customer needs, economic viability, and long-term sustainability. 

• How have mentors and sponsors played a role in your career, and how do you recommend finding and cultivating these relationships?

Mentors and sponsors have played a pivotal role throughout my career. They’ve encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone, take on new challenges, and build confidence. Beyond that, they’ve opened doors by sharing their networks and creating opportunities I might not have accessed otherwise.

Finding mentors can be supported through various internal and external networks and organizations. But cultivating these relationships requires initiative, being proactive, setting goals, and engaging meaningfully. And just as I’ve benefited from mentorship, I believe in giving back by mentoring others. You can learn so much from your mentees—they offer fresh perspectives and help you grow as a leader.

• How do you continue to grow and develop yourself professionally? 

I’ve always had a deep curiosity and passion for learning new things. Throughout my career, peers and mentors have been a constant source of inspiration, providing valuable outside perspectives on myself and on new opportunities. Working for many years in agile environments, I’ve internalized its core values: continuously reflecting, learning from retrospectives, and using those insights to guide my next steps.

• What initiatives or programs within your company have been particularly effective in supporting women?

One of the most impactful initiatives within our company has been the support for women in building strong professional networks. A great example is the Bosch International Business Women Campus, which brings together women in leadership roles from across Bosch globally, fostering connection, collaboration, and shared learning. Additionally, mentoring programs such as women@Bosch and women@ETAS play a vital role in supporting career development, offering guidance, encouragement, and inspiration to women at various stages of their professional journey.

• How do you inspire your peers to embrace diversity and drive inclusive practices?

Fortunately, in my immediate working environment, the value of diversity and inclusion is already well understood and embraced—it’s seen as a key driver of collaboration, a positive work atmosphere, and strong results. However, I believe this mindset should never be taken for granted. That’s why I strive to act as a role model, especially for other women, encouraging them to lead by example and foster inclusive practices across teams and projects.

• Favourite business or leadership book? 

I’m currently reading Leading in Ambiguity by Katrin Elster and Tamara Christensen.

• What’s a quote that has inspired you? 

"If you want to build a ship, don't drum up people together to collect wood and don't assign them tasks and work, but rather teach them to yearn for the endless immensity of the sea," Antoine de Saint-Exupéry.

Teresina’s story is a powerful reminder that growth comes from curiosity, courage, and the willingness to step into new challenges. As she continues to shape the future of automotive security and champion inclusive practices, she embodies the very spirit of our Rising Talent series: leaders who are not only building their careers but also paving the way for others to thrive.