Steve Hilfinger, a partner at Foley Lardner and MichAuto’s Advocacy Co-chair for the last eight years, recently announced his retirement at the end of March. Hilfinger’s career spans 30 years representing automotive suppliers and manufacturers. He spent a period of time in state government as Chief Regulatory Officer for the State of Michigan and Chief Operating Officer of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. From these experiences, Hilfinger brought a keen understanding of the industry and economic development combined with a strong sense of civic responsibility and love of Michigan.
His MichAuto colleagues and fellow Advocacy Committee members had the following to say about Hilfinger’s remarkable service:
“Steve’s contributions over the years to our advocacy efforts have been hugely impactful in helping elevate the MichAuto brand and shape meaningful policies in the state. We will miss Steve’s expert perspective, wise guidance, surprisingly hip taste in music, and hysterical sense of humor.”
Glenn Stevens Jr., MichAuto’s Executive Director
“Steve brought a decorated background in Michigan state government to the MichAuto Advocacy Committee, including a level of expertise from his legal career working with automotive companies. I appreciated his dedication to the organization and input at all committee meetings and events we attended. I sincerely appreciate Steve’s comradery and friendship these past few years and wish him nothing but the best in all his adventures ahead.”
John Kerr, DENSO Corporation’s Senior Manager of Government Affairs and Hilfinger’s Co-chair on the MichAuto Advocacy Committee
“Steve was one of the first people I met when I started with MichAuto, and he immediately and warmly welcomed me. He has been tremendously generous – in time, effort, and advice – ever since. The effectiveness and stability of our Advocacy Committee was enhanced and strengthened because of Steve’s leadership, which I am extraordinarily grateful for.”
Paul Corbett, MichAuto’s Director of Government and Community Affairs.
Following the departure of Steve Hilfinger as MichAuto Advocacy Co-chair upon his retirement, Ford Motor Company’s Angela Ayers ohas been named the new Co-chair, joining current Co-chair John Kerr, DENSO Corporation’s Senior Manager of Government Affairs.
Her MichAuto colleagues had the following to say about Ayer’s new role:
“Angela brings an incredible skill set thanks to several years working in state government and timely leadership and guidance through her role at Ford Motor Company. Angela has been a consistent and valuable presence at all MichAuto events and committee meetings. I look forward to working with her as Co-chair of the MichAuto Advocacy Committee.”
John Kerr, DENSO Corporation’s Senior Manager of Government Affairs and Hilfinger’s Co-chair on the MichAuto Advocacy Committee
“As evidenced by her recognition as the 2024 MichAuto Volunteer of the Year , Angela has already made significant contributions to our committee and the vital work it does to ensure Michigan remains the world leader in automotive innovation. The MichAuto team looks forward to her taking on this important leadership role.”
Paul Corbett, MichAuto’s Director of Government and Community Affairs.