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The Detroit Auto Show is coming to an end, but the conversations from day one at the Kettering University booth continue to inspire. Join host Jan Griffiths as she sits down with industry leaders and innovators shaping the future of automotive through fresh ideas, education, and collaboration.

First up, Dan Stewart from Automation Alley explains how bridging academia, government, and industry is sparking real progress in digital manufacturing. Enza Sleva from Kettering explains how their co-op program sets students up for success from day one.

Hajj Flemings talks about how AI is helping unlock creativity, while Ida Byrd-Hill shares her mission to make STEM education accessible to everyone. Scott Tobin breaks down the evolution of software-defined vehicles and what it means for the industry.

Dr. Ping Ren talks about additive manufacturing and its role in speeding up innovation in automotive design. Tarek Abdel-Baset explains why hydrogen could play a key role in sustainable transportation, and Dr. Diane Peters reveals how autonomous vehicles are transforming mobility for people with disabilities.

To close the day, Suzanne Petrusch passionately shares Kettering’s mission to fuel the industry with driven, problem-solving leaders ready to tackle the industry’s biggest challenges.

From tech innovation to education and bold ideas for the future, day one had plenty of great conversations. Ready for more? Check out day two here for more amazing conversations from the Detroit Auto Show!

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

Featured guests:

Name: Dan Stewart

Title: Relationship Manager, Automation Alley

Discussed: [03:20] Bringing together academia, industry, and government, Dan explains how they’re helping small manufacturers embrace digital tools and thrive in Michigan’s automotive ecosystem.

Name: Enza Sleva

Title: Director of Career Development and Cooperative Experience, Kettering University

Discussed: [06:03] Kettering's unique co-op model, as explained by Enza, equips students with years of real-world experience, helping them hit the ground running in the fast-paced automotive industry.

Name: Hajj Flemings

Title: CEO & Founder, Rebrand Cities

Discussed: [12:21] AI isn’t here to replace us—it’s here to help us thrive. Hajj shares how embracing technology can unlock human creativity, transform leadership, and prepare us for the future of work.

Name: Ida Byrd-Hill

Title: CEO & Founder, Automation Workz

Discussed: [17:11] Ida shares how her programs open doors to STEM careers by providing tech certifications and opportunities for students outside the traditional university path.

Name: Scott Tobin

Title: CEO, Envorso

Discussed: [19:29] From managing millions of lines of code to over-the-air updates, Scott explains how the shift to software-defined vehicles is transforming the auto industry and the skills needed to keep up.

Name: Ping Ren

Title: Assistant Professor of Industrial Engineering, Kettering University

Discussed: [24:14] Dr. Ping Ren explains how additive manufacturing is transforming automotive design, enabling lightweight, complex products and faster prototyping to meet the industry’s need for speed and innovation.

Name: Jonathan Smith

Title: Senior Chief Deputy Director, Labor and Economic Opportunity

Discussed: [28:41] Jonathan shares Michigan’s efforts to align its rich automotive legacy with modern challenges to ensure young talent stays inspired, connected, and ready to solve big problems.

Name: Tarek Abdel-Baset

Title: Hydrogen Storage Systems Chief Engineer, FORVIA

Discussed: [33:10] Hydrogen is shaping the future of heavy-duty vehicles with faster refueling, lighter payloads, and seamless infrastructure—Tarek Abdel-Baset dives into how it complements EVs in the journey toward sustainable mobility.

Name: Diane Peters

Title: Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering, Kettering University

Discussed: [39:38] Diane discusses her research on autonomous vehicles and how they can provide safe, tailored solutions to improve mobility and independence for people with epilepsy and other disabilities.

Name: Suzanne Petrusch

Title: Interim Vice President, Enrollment and Co-operative Services, Kettering University

Discussed: [44:47] Suzanne shares how Kettering University’s unique blend of academics and co-op experiences equips driven, curious students to become problem solvers ready to tackle the challenges of today and tomorrow.

Mentioned in this episode:

Episode 157: S8E1 The One After I Do