Detroit Auto Show 2025 - Day 2 - Kettering University

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It's day two of the Detroit Auto Show, and Jan is back at Kettering University's AutoMobili-D exhibit, diving into conversations with the people shaping the future of mobility.

Dr. Jacqueline El-Sayed, CEO of SAE International, set the stage with her thoughts on why hands-on learning is the best way to prepare engineering students for the challenges of the real world. 

Next, legal expert Jennifer Dukarski talks about the challenges and opportunities of AI in automotive. From national security concerns to ethical data use, her insights show why careful regulation and testing are essential. 

Dr. Huseyin Hiziroglu, a seasoned professor at Kettering, brings decades of expertise to the conversation as he dives deep into the challenges of energy storage and why solving these roadblocks is critical to advancing EV adoption.

In a fun twist, Kettering student Ian Gibson stepped in as guest host to interview Jose Flores, CEO of Ancor Automotive. Jose shared how he turned a decades-old company into a modern tech player, earning the trust of seasoned employees and embracing digital transformation.

Later, Alisyn Malek, co-founder of May Mobility, talks about her Changing Lanes program, which bridges Michigan's automotive and startup ecosystems. Her vision of empowering experienced professionals to explore new opportunities is reshaping career paths in the industry.

Matt Fortescue, Kettering’s Director of Enrollment, talks about what makes Kettering unique. From hands-on co-op programs to small class sizes, he explains how Kettering sets students up for success in ways that larger institutions often can't.

Ted Serbinski takes a different approach, focusing on the next generation of innovators. With his work in tech education, he ensures kids learn not just how to use technology but how to wield it for success, equipping them for a digital future.

Finally, Kettering senior David Glover shares his journey into AI and how the university's support has helped him take the following steps toward making an impact in the industry.

Your Host

Jan Griffiths is the architect of cultural change in the automotive industry. As the President & Founder of Gravitas Detroit, Jan brings a wealth of expertise and a passion for transforming company cultures. Additionally, she is the host of the Automotive Leaders Podcast, where she shares insightful conversations with industry visionaries. Jan is also the author of AutoCulture 2.0, a groundbreaking book that challenges the traditional leadership model prevalent in the automotive world. With her extensive experience and commitment to fostering positive change, Jan is at the forefront of revolutionizing the automotive landscape. Reach out to her at Jan@gravitasdetroit.com

Co-host

Ian Gibson is an undergraduate student at Kettering University, pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering with a minor in Sustainability. As a Global Product Engineering Design Co-op at General Motors, he combines rigorous academic studies with hands-on, paid industry experience through Kettering's immersive Co-op program.

Featured guests:

Name: Jacqueline El-Sayed

Title: CEO, SAE International

Discussed: [01:27] With a career shaped by experiential learning and leadership, Dr. El-Sayed shares how her journey from Kettering to CEO of SAE International prepared her to drive innovation and quality across the mobility industry.

Name: Jennifer Dukarski

Title: Emerging Technology, Automotive, and Media Attorney at Butzel

Discussed: [04:45] AI’s potential in automotive innovation comes with critical challenges, from safety regulations to ethical considerations, and Jennifer shares how industry standards, diverse testing, and proactive compliance shape a safer, smarter future for mobility.

Name: Dr. Huseyin Hiziroglu

Title: Professor of Electrical Engineering, Kettering University

Discussed: [11:39] The future of mobility hinges on solving energy storage challenges, says Dr. Hiziroglu, as he discusses the evolution of EVs, the potential of hydrogen, and the breakthroughs driving progress.

Name: Alisyn Malek

Title: Founder and CEO, Middle Third

Discussed: [20:45] Alisyn shares how her Changing Lanes program bridges the gap between Michigan’s automotive and startup ecosystems, offering career coaching, networking, and opportunities for seasoned professionals to dive into the startup world.

Name: Jose L. Flores

Title: CEO, Ancor Automotive

Discussed: [24:20] Taking over as CEO of a 40-year-old company, Jose shares how he earned the trust of a seasoned team, pivoted to digital solutions, and offered advice to aspiring leaders on building passion and resilience.

Name: Matt Fortescue

Title: Director of Enrollment, Kettering University

Discussed: [28:34] Matt shares how Kettering University’s small class sizes, hands-on co-op programs, and dedicated support systems create a unique and supportive learning experience for students.

Name: Ted Serbinski

Title: Founder & Managing Partner, Stanson & Co

Discussed: [32:53] Ted shares how his journey from building Detroit’s startup ecosystem to creating tech solutions for schools is driven by a mission to prepare the next generation for a digital future.

Name: David Glover Jr

Title: Computer Science student at Kettering University

Discussed: [37:55] A passion for AI, meaningful connections, and unwavering support from Kettering University have helped David turn opportunities into career momentum in the automotive industry.

Mentioned in this episode:

• The Detroit Auto Show
• Mobility Global Forum
• Electromagnetic Field Theory Fundamentals and Electric Machinery and Transformers by Huseyin R. Hiziroglu and Bhag Singh Guru
• The Changing Lanes program
• Changing Lanes Fireside Chat with Founders: Building and Scaling Startups in Auburn Hills
• Hackathon
• Bulldog for a Day