MichAuto Investors Gather Virtually for Two Weeks of Meetings with Legislators
September 17, 2020
From Sept. 8-18, MichAuto brought together executives from 12 automotive companies to meet with 28 legislators for 2020 Capitol Conversations: Automotive Impact virtual sessions. Throughout the two weeks of digital meetings, automotive leaders had the opportunity to discuss issues that are critically impacting their companies’ growth, worker safety, and the overall economic health of the industry amid the COVID-19 global pandemic.
Reminiscent of MichAuto’s annual Automobility Day at the Capitol, the 2020 Capitol Conversations aimed to foster collaboration between industry leaders and the state government. While MichAuto was unable to bring investors to Lansing this year, it has never been more important for legislators to have a deep understanding of the impact the industry has on their district and their constituents.
“Bringing together legislators and the voice of the industry is critically important as we navigate the challenges of the pandemic and position Michigan to be a global leader in automobility,” said Glenn Stevens Jr., executive director of MichAuto and vice president of automotive and mobility initiatives for the Detroit Regional Chamber.
Discussions during the two weeks focused on the impact of COVID-19 on Michigan’s automotive industry, with emphasis on steps companies have taken to protect the health of their workers, the impact on the talent pipeline and the ability to get employees back to work, the importance of avoiding another industry-wide shut down, and increased liability issues.
“These small group conversations were very effective in openly discussing our new challenges during a pandemic, and the talent and technology opportunities that will enable our industry’s growth,” said Stevens.