Automakers get the most attention, but Ann Wilson made sure the supply base wasn't overlooked by federal officials as they considered sweeping changes on trade and emissions policy.

She spearheaded the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association's effort to minimize disruptive North American Free Trade Agreement changes and avoid tariffs on steel and aluminum, Chinese imports, autos and auto parts. When the White House went ahead with certain tariffs, she helped member companies figure out how to file for individual exemptions.

Wilson, 62, also has led the association's opposition to the proposed rollback of nationwide fuel economy standards by telling the administration that suppliers have invested heavily in emission-reduction technologies and that changing mandates midstream would cause financial harm.

Her lobbying efforts included drafting responses to agencies, meeting with administration and congressional officials, doing media interviews, building coalitions and engaging in letter-writing campaigns to policymakers about stable trade and clean-car policies.