GVSU Auto Suppliers Symposium to focus on tariffs, talent, technology 

The effects of tariffs on the auto industry and how suppliers can prepare for the latest technology are among the topics that will be discussed at the 20th West Michigan Automotive Suppliers Symposium, hosted by Grand Valley State University's Van Andel Global Trade Center.

The event will bring together business owners, senior management and decision makers from all tiers of the industry, providing the most up-to-date automotive forecasts and trends.

The theme for this year's symposium is "Planning for the Future - Managing Today for Tomorrow." It will take place March 7 from 8 a.m.-noon in the DeVos Center, building D, on the Pew Grand Rapids Campus. 

Keynote speakers are Dave Jerovsek, president of GHSP North America, and Marc Smeyers, chief technology officer at GHSP.

Event speakers include:

• Dave Jerovsek, president of GHSP North America, has more than 30 years of electronics industry knowledge spanning across the automotive, industrial trucking, appliance and marine markets in Europe, North America and Asia.

• Marc Smeyers, chief technology officer at GHSP, oversees product development and technology integration. He has 20 years of experience leading automotive and aerospace product design and development in the North American, Asian and European markets.

• Mike Wall, executive director of automotive analysis at IHS Markit, has more than 20 years of experience in consulting, forecasting and evaluating trends and vehicle markets.

• Lisa Reisman, co-founder and executive director of MetalMiner, North America's largest metals market intelligence site. Reisman and her team have developed innovative resources in metal price forecasting and benchmarking.

• Phoebe O'Berski, human resource manager at Gentex Corporation, has overseen the implementation of cutting-edge recruiting and benefits software, and worked to adapt, grow and manage many areas of the team as Gentex has grown to more than 6,000 employees.

Plante Moran is the title sponsor of the event. Other sponsors include Warner, Norcross & Judd; IHS Markit; Chase Bank; Morrison Industrial Equipment; Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC); The Right Place; and BEHCO-MRM.

To register or for more information, visit www.vagtc.org or call (616) 331-6811.