Vanessa Li grew up in Hong Kong and moved to the U.S. as an international student to pursue her passion for engineering. She obtained a degree in metallurgical engineering from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and an MBA from Indiana University Bloomington. After working at various steel companies, she joined Novelis Aluminum, where she currently serves as a research and development program manager, specializing in advanced product and process technology.
Within her company, Vanessa is a steering committee member for the BREATHE (Black Representatives Effectively Advocating Toward Human Equity) ERG. She has previously led mentorship programs, work-life integration initiatives, and various outreach events for local college and K-12 students.
Beyond her professional role, Vanessa volunteers with organizations such as ENGINEERGIRL, Pretty Hearts Foundation, Girl Scouts, and the Women in Manufacturing Education Foundation (WIMEF). She served as the SWE Member Engagement Committee Past-Chair and currently as a WIMEF Board Director.
Vanessa’s dedication to advocating for young women in STEM has earned her numerous accolades, including induction into the Women in Manufacturing Hall of Fame and the SWE Emerging Leader Award and Terre Haute 12 under 40 Award.