The Michigan Automotive Suppliers Symposium is the must-attend annual event for business owners, senior management, and decision-makers across all tiers of the automotive industry. This premier gathering of industry leaders is designed to address the challenges and opportunities shaping the automotive world today and in the future.

Under the theme, Shifting Gears – Thriving in a New Automotive Era, this year’s symposium focuses on equipping suppliers with the insights and strategies needed to navigate an industry undergoing transformative change. From electrification and supply chain evolution to talent acquisition and sustainability, the automotive landscape is evolving faster than ever, and this event is your key to staying ahead.

Whether you are looking to expand your network, benchmark your strategies, or gain a clearer understanding of the future of automotive supply, the Michigan Automotive Suppliers Symposium offers a unique opportunity to accelerate your success.

Join us as we shift gears and drive toward a thriving future in this new automotive era!

Robert Young

Group Vice President, Purchasing Supplier Development
Toyota Motor North America

Robert Young is the group vice president of Purchasing Supplier Development at Toyota Motor North America (TMNA). Based at Toyota’s Research & Development headquarters in York Township, Michigan, Young is responsible for overseeing all vehicle parts and materials, indirect manufacturing procurement and supplier development, and preparation for TMNA Research & Development.

Young joined Toyota in 1995 and has served in a series of roles in the Purchasing division, including several buying and department general manager roles.

Currently serving on the Board of the Michigan Minority Supplier Development Council (MMSDC), Young is also a member of the Executive Committee of Ann Arbor SPARK.

He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Indiana University.

Mark Barrott

Partner - Automotive/Mobility Practice Leader
Plante Moran

Mark leads Plante Moran’s Strategy and Automotive consulting practices. He has over 30 years of experience in management consulting, advising clients in the automotive, heavy truck, technology, manufacturing and energy industries, including OEMs and suppliers, such as GM, Ford, Visteon, Marelli, Cooper Standard, ZF, Metalsa and many others.

Jake Hall

The Manufacturing Millenial

Jake Hall known as the Manufacturing Millennial is an advocate manufacturing, automation, and skilled trades by helping revolutionize the way people and companies present through social media. With over 100,000 Followers and 150,000,000+ views on his content, he ignites conversations about the latest in manufacturing and automation to excite the current and future workforce on innovation.

Mike Wall

Executive Director of Automotive Analysis 
S&P Global Mobility  

Mike brings more than two decades of financial analysis, forecasting, consulting, and manufacturing experience to S&P Global Mobility, with a primary focus on assisting automakers, suppliers, and financial firms in their evaluation and understanding of the auto industry, as well as in-depth analysis of vehicle markets and technology trends.

Stay Tuned for Panelist Announcements!

Sponsorship opportunities for the 2025 Michigan Automotive Suppliers Symposium are available.
Contact the Center at [email protected] to learn more!