Name
Andria Bauman
Age
33
Company/Organization
Whirlpool Corporation
What Does Your Company/Organization Do?
Whirlpool’s mission is to be the best kitchen and laundry company, constantly striving to improve life at home. As a leader within the KitchenAid Small Appliance business unit, I’m proud to embody that mission every day—guiding a passionate team of engineers dedicated to innovation, quality, and enhancing the everyday experiences of our consumers.
Education
BS Mechanical Engineering, Michigan Technological University MS Mechanical Engineering, Purdue University MBA, Kellogg School of Management Northwestern University
Accomplishments
I am an alumna of Whirlpool ‘s Engineering Rotational Leadership Development Program and have built my career in engineering, product strategy, and global leadership. I have served as a global people leader, managing diverse teams committed to delivering for our consumers across regions. I served as a key partner in guiding our organization through transformative periods with a focus on technical capabilities, innovation, and strategic growth. In my current role as a product architecture leader within the KitchenAid Small Appliance business unit, I drive cross-functional alignment and long-term vision for a globally recognized brand. Beyond my core responsibilities, I am passionate about fostering inclusive workplaces—leading Inclusion and Diversity initiatives, mentoring rising talent, actively contributing as a member of the Society of Women Engineers, and supporting the next generation of STEM talent as a Christine Strain Memorial Scholarship selection committee member. Each of these experiences reflects my commitment to technical excellence, thoughtful leadership, and building a more equitable future in the workplace and beyond. Above all these professional accomplishments – my greatest accomplishment is being a mother to Holly (age 5) and Caleb (age 2.5) and wife to Greg Bauman.
What else do you hope to accomplish by the age of 40?
By the age of 40, I aim to continue growing as a strategic leader, delivering for our consumer and driving impactful global business results. In addition, I hope to serve on a non-profit board to give back to our community in an intentional way. Finally partner with my kid’s coaches and teachers to instill passion and teamwork in the next generation – all while balancing the joys and challenges of being a busy mom to two amazing pre-teens.
Current City
Stevensville, Michigan
Place You Were Born
Buffalo, Wyoming
What was your first job?
If we’re going way back, my first job was picking strawberries at a small family farm. We were paid by the amount we picked, so the earlier I arrived and the harder I worked, the more I earned. It taught me the value of showing up, putting in the effort, and taking pride in a job well done—lessons that have stayed with me ever since and continue to shape how I approach work today.
What’s the best advice you ever got?
Lean into your strengths. Embracing what makes us individually strong creates a collective force that’s far more powerful, resilient, and capable of driving real change.
Who inspires you most?
My parents. They modeled resilience, hard work, and faith. They were generous with their time and their gifts. Their support and quiet strength continue to guide me, both personally and professionally, and I strive every day to reflect the values they instilled in me.
That one thing about you we’d be most surprised to learn.
You may be surprised to learn that I grew up in Wyoming. It was quite the transition as a middle schooler to move from the arid, mountainous landscape of the West to the dense forests of the Midwest. I spent the rest of my adolescence on the northern edge of Lake Michigan in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula before moving to Houghton, Michigan for college at Michigan Technological University. My small town roots is where my value for community stems from and why living here in Southwest Michigan has been so fulfilling.
What do you love to do in your downtime?
When I have downtime you will find me outside, whether that is skiing in the winter or getting out on the lake in the summer.
What book are you reading now?
When Women Lead by Julia Boorstin
Volunteer activity you love the most.
I enjoy engaging with others on a common goal whether that is for a Habitat for Humanity build, a local park cleanup, or coaching youth volleyball.
What motivates you to give back to your community?
I reflect on all those that poured into me. I want to pass that forward and create opportunities for others.
What Superpower would you most love to have?
If I could have any superpower, it would be the ability to have limitless energy—no matter how packed the schedule, how little sleep I got, or how many tabs I have open in my brain. From early meetings to late-night toddler bed time negotiations (and everything in between), boundless energy would be the ultimate superpower for showing up fully—for my team, my family, and myself.
What would you like to leave behind as your legacy once you are gone?
I want my legacy to reflect not only the product and business impact I’ve driven, but also the deep passion I have for inspiring others to dream big, break barriers, and achieve what once felt unimaginable. If I can help others find confidence in their strengths and leave organizations and communities stronger than I found them, that’s a legacy I’d be proud of.
What does the honor of being named to the 40 Under 40 most mean to you?
Being selected as a Moody on the Market 40 Under 40 honoree is an incredible honor, especially knowing the caliber of individuals who have received this recognition before me. Over the years, I’ve looked up to many of the past recipients — leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, and community builders who have each made a lasting impact. To now be included among them is both humbling and deeply meaningful. This award reaffirms my commitment to continuing the work — not just in my professional role, but in how I serve and support the people around me. I’m grateful, honored, and excited to keep contributing alongside so many other incredible leaders in our area.
