Doug Patton is senior vice president of DENSO International America, Inc.'s Engineering Group, overseeing operation of development facilities, production engineering, testing and technical services, engineering administration and the company's product engineering. He is responsible for climate control; engine management systems and components; engine electrical; safety products; cluster, navigation and body electronics and small motor engineering.  

Previously with Caterpillar, Inc. for nine years as a release engineer and later a senior market analyst, Patton started with DENSO in 1986, managing heavy duty electrical sales and developing strategy to penetrate the on-highway truck market. In 1988, he became a senior manager for the General Motors account, maintaining business.

Promoted to director in 1993, Patton became a member of DENSO's Top Management Committee charged with guiding overall operations of the company, and chairman of the company's Human Development Committee to direct human resources activities. In addition to managing business development for new business segments, Patton oversaw BMW North American business and directed DaimlerChrysler sales activity in both the U.S. and Europe.   

In December 1999, Patton became vice president of Customer Development, assuming responsibility for Sales Planning, Ford Business and HeavyDuty/Off Highway Business and Service Center. In August 2000, he became vice president of Engineering, responsible for operations of the powertrain, safety and engine electrical engineering groups.

Patton received his Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering in 1976 and his Master of Business Administration degree in 1984, both from Bradley University in Peoria, Ill. Patton is a member of the Board of Directors for the Engineering Society of Detroit. He is also a member of the Society of Automotive Engineers, where he participates as a member of the society's Technical Standards Board and the Foundation Banquet Leadership Committee.   Additionally, Patton serves as a member of the Automotive Industry Action Group's Quality Steering Committee, the Detroit Economic Club, Lawrence Technological University's College of Engineering Advisory Board, and on the Executive Leadership Team of the North American International Powertrain Conference.