DE&I Transformation: Insights from a CEO's Remarkable Rise

Watch the full video on YouTube - click here

In this insightful podcast episode, Cheryl Thompson, CEO of the Center for Automotive Diversity, Inclusion, and Advancement (CADIA), joins host Jan Griffiths to discuss the critical topic of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) in the automotive industry. Cheryl shares her inspiring journey, from washing dishes in the basement of Ford Motor Company to becoming a CEO, highlighting the possibilities for personal growth and professional excellence.

The conversation also touches on Cheryl's role at American Axle & Manufacturing and her efforts to champion DE&I within the organization. Demystifying DE&I, Cheryl emphasizes that it's about creating workplaces where everyone feels valued, respected, and has equitable opportunities. She introduces the concept of the "fear zone," a barrier to meaningful DE&I progress, and addresses common pushbacks and resistance faced in DE&I initiatives.

Cheryl outlines the critical elements of an effective DE&I strategy, including leadership commitment, systemic change, and creating inclusive cultures. She also shares CADIA's mission to double the number of diverse leaders in the automotive industry by 2030 and highlights the tangible bottom-line impact that diversity and inclusion can have. The episode concludes with Cheryl offering valuable advice to leaders in the automotive industry: the importance of self-awareness and fostering an inclusive environment.

Themes discussed in this episode:

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Personal and professional growth
Crafting an Effective DE&I Strategy
Challenges and Pushbacks in DE&I
Balancing Psychological Safety and Accountability
Significance of self-awareness

Featured Guest: Cheryl Thompson

What she does: Cheryl Thompson is CEO and Founder of the Center for Automotive Diversity, Inclusion, and Advancement. (CADIA) Cheryl possesses a wealth of experience in the automotive sector, having held key roles at prominent companies such as Ford and American Axle.

On leadership: “I think that leaders, particularly leaders who have been around for a while, think that they know everything, they think they've got it all figured out. And nobody has it all figured out.”

Mentioned in this episode: