Automotive DEI

Automotive & DEI…Find Your Why, Find Your Industry Network

Diversity…Equity…Inclusion…Belonging. These terms have been used more and more in recent years, but why are they so important to the automotive industry? How does DEI fit in to companies where getting quality parts out the door on time is paramount to success… and survival?

The Center for Automotive Diversity, Inclusion and Advancement was founded because diverse talent had long been overlooked and undervalued in the auto industry. CADIA'S founder, Cheryl Thompson, started her career in the automotive industry literally washing dishes in the basement of the Ford WHQ building. Eventually she was recruited into a tool & die apprenticeship program and worked her way up to become a journeyman tool and die maker, an elected union official, and one of the very few women at the Ford Rouge Plant back in the day. She ended her long career at Ford as head of global Powertrain prototype.

Although she faced many challenges throughout her career, Cheryl had many mentors, advocates, and allies along the way. Not everyone is that lucky. There were – and still are – many Cheryls out there, talented individuals who do not have those same advocates, who struggle to fit in, find a path and see a future for themselves in this industry.

Without intentional effort to create a more diverse, inclusive, and equitable industry, we risk losing out on the talent that will help drive us forward. According to a recent Deloitte survey, 80% of respondents said that inclusion is important when choosing an employer. Companies who do not embrace diversity are risking even more – it has been shown repeatedly that that diverse workplaces are more creative, more innovative, and more profitable.

And THAT is why things like diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging are so important to the automobility industry. To thrive and survive we must find, recruit and retain the best and brightest talent. It is up to us to create an industry where everyone feels welcome, valued and safe, and where every individual has access to the same opportunities.

Whether you and you company are already engaged in DEI efforts or are just beginning your journey, there are ways for you to make a difference. A great way to start is to connect with others doing this type of work to share best practices, insights, and resources. Remember that each action helps move the industry forward.

To find DEI connections in the automotive industry, consider the following peer networks:

CADIA DEI Roundtable Series – a monthly roundtable for DEI professionals and those who manage aspects of DEI for their companies. The meetings consist of best practice sharing, education, and open conversation. https://www.automotivediversity.org/cadia-dei-roundtable/

CEO Coalition for Change – Automotive CEOs committed to taking action to make meaningful strides in diversity, equity and inclusion. The group's aim is to become a more inclusive industry, leverage diverse talent and better engage the workforce. Coalition members meet virtually on a monthly basis. https://www.automotivediversity.org/ceo-coalition-for-change/

MEMA DEI Council - MEMA'S Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Council is committed to leading efforts to promote and enhance diversity and inclusion in the vehicle supplier community and is open to all MERA, AASA, HDMA, and OESA members. https://www.mera.org/councils/diversity-equity-inclusioncouncil

Click here to learn more and see page 5 for tomorrow's DEI event.