Permanent link for GVSU to host 25th symposium for area automotive suppliers on February 26, 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 26, 2024

Contact: GVSU University Communications
[email protected]
(616) 331-2221

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Navigating industry difficulties and challenges will be the main topic of the 25th Michigan Automotive Suppliers Symposium, hosted by Grand Valley State University’s Van Andel Global Trade Center.

The symposium, with the theme of “Momentum Matters,” will be held at the DeVos Center, Loosemore Auditorium, on the Pew Grand Rapids Campus on Thursday, March 7, from 8:00 a.m.-noon.

"The annual symposium offers the chance to hear crucial insights as businesses realign with the constantly changing fast-paced automotive sector,” said Sonja Johnson, executive director, of the Van Andel Global Trade Center. “Listen to industry experts and how they are maintaining momentum as they navigate challenges in the requirements to meet government standards, and customer needs while juggling a complex supply chain and how recent issues such as labor strikes have impacted the auto industry.”

Speakers include two GVSU alumni. Alejandra Lorenzo, who works for Stellantis North America as a supplier diversity program manager, graduated in 2014. Lorenzo is an expert in supplier diversity, risk management, project management, pre-production and international launches. Lorenzo will give the keynote presentation, “Supplier Diversity: Direct and Tangible Benefits to Create a Stronger, More Resilient Supply Chain.”

GVSU graduate Mike Wall will present “The Road Ahead: Navigating the Winding Roads of the Auto Industry,” as an industry outlook. Wall earned a bachelor’s degree in finance and now has over 20 years of expertise. As executive director of automotive analysis at S&P Global Mobility, Wall will provide an in-depth analysis of vehicle markets and technology trends.

Other sessions include a fireside chat with Munro & Associates; and a Tier 1 Supplier Panel with representatives from Pridgeon and Clay, Inc.; ADAC Automotive; Lacks Enterprises; and Warner Norcross + Judd LLP.

Each year since 1999 the Van Andel Global Trade Center has hosted more than 25 international business events in Michigan and worked with a broad variety of community partners & corporate sponsors to provide the international business community with the business training and international resources it needs to succeed on the global stage.

For more information on this event, visit the Van Andel Global Trade Center website.

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Categories: Automotive
Posted on Permanent link for GVSU to host 25th symposium for area automotive suppliers on February 26, 2024.