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MICHauto | 2025 MichAuto on the Island Recap

MichAuto Takes Mackinac Island

MichAuto spent the past week at the Detroit Regional Chamber’s 2025 Mackinac Policy Conference, which began with the annual MichAuto on the Island convening, meant to connect top executives from Michigan’s signature industry to discuss the industry’s most pressing issues.

View highlights from MichAuto on the Island and the Mackinac Policy Conference below.

MichAuto Gathers Top Industry CEOs for Annual Forum

During the exclusive CEO sessions that kicked off MichAuto on the Island, MichAuto gathered the industry’s top leaders to discuss the actions the automotive industry needs to take to remain globally competitive and how to adapt to the structural changes occurring within the industry.

A Conversation with Bill Ford and
Alexandra Ford English

Bill Ford and his daughter, Alexandra Ford English, discussed the challenges facing the automotive industry, including tariffs and the shift toward EVs. Both Bill and Alexandra emphasized the importance of customer-centric innovation and adaptability in upholding American manufacturing.

Leading Michigan’s Signature Industry

Industry leaders in the automotive industry convened to address vital challenges impacting Michigan’s signature industry. The discussions centered on strategies to enhance the state’s competitive edge in an increasingly global marketplace, including innovative approaches to expanding the EV market, exploring the implications of recent tariffs on auto manufacturing, and identifying emerging trends that could influence future growth. 

Keynote Address: Pete Hoekstra

U.S. Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra highlighted the Trump administration’s rapid rollout of a spending plan aimed at boosting energy independence and trade safety, which he believes will lead to unprecedented economic growth in North America. He remains optimistic about resolving trade issues with Canada, suggesting that a thriving U.S. and Canadian economy can create significant opportunities for the automotive industry.

The Equation for Tech Talent

The first session during Wednesday’s executive roundtable encompassed a dynamic group of industry leaders tackling one of Michigan’s most pressing issues: the challenge of attracting and retaining talent in the automotive industry. The discussion emphasized the need for a shift in perspective, recognizing that technology is not just confined to specific areas but is becoming integral to the entire industry.

Navigating the Current Moment

The second session during the executive roundtable included a diverse group of industry experts who shared real-world examples and valuable insights on how to maintain vision and drive innovation even in the face of uncertainty. They also explored the qualities a leader should emulate while navigating stressful times.

 

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