How to get a job in the mobility industry: attend the Future Automotive Career Expo at AutoMobili-D


This feature is courtesy of Driven, the story of how the Detroit region is leading the world in next-generation mobility.
Mobility-curious job seekers and students just embarking on career exploration in the mobility industry should make time to attend the Future Automotive Career Expo on Thursday, Jan. 17 at Cobo Center.

A collaborative between the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and the Talent and Economic Development Department of Michigan (TED), the Future Automotive Career Expo (FACE) will be held during AutoMobili-D, a mobility-centric showcase event held in 150,000 square feet of space at Cobo Center the week prior to the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS).

Gathered in one space are resources and information that interested students and job seekers need to begin a potential career in automobility, says Erica Quealy, communications director with TED.

“The automotive industry is now so high-tech focused. We are working to gear people up for these careers by bringing together employers and industry experts so job seekers can learn and see first hand the career opportunities available,” says Quealy.

Information technology, cybersecurity, engineering, design, infrastructure, coding, software development, advanced manufacturing, and robotics are just a few of the career paths available to those pursuing a career in automobility.

Young professionals working in the mobility sector will be on hand to talk about their experiences applying their talents in the workforce, and attendees will have access to AutoMobili-D, where they can speak with startups, OEMs, public sector organizations, and colleges and universities to get a full understanding of the future of automobility.

Panel discussions are among the highlights of FACE 2019.

“There are some amazing displays by companies from all over the world that bring products to engage with,” says Alicia Boyd, marketing and events manager with TED. “When we think mobility, it’s sometimes hard to conceptualize, but here you’ll be able to really get into the new age innovations and vehicles, even drones.”

FACE is open to all levels of job seekers, and attendees can learn about the wide spectrum of openings that will need to be filled now and in the future of automobility. “Last year, quite a few employers said they were glad to meet engineers, and what they were also looking for is individuals representing the skilled trades and manufacturing. So we are engaging a wide spectrum of the automotive industry at this event,” says Boyd.

FACE takes place on Thursday, Jan. 17 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. It is free and open to the public, but online registration is encouraged. Participants can register and view a list of participating organizations at https://naias.com/automobili-d/face/.

Here are some highlights from FACE:
  • Short pitches from startups about their talent needs.
  • Mock interviews, with critiques by talent development professionals.
  • Discussions about talent development through FIRST Robotics participation.
  • Presentation about work-based learning experiences.
  • Discussion on lifelong learning and how to transfer skills to a career in mobility.
  • Young professionals talk about why they moved to Michigan to begin their STEM careers.
  • Panel discussion about trends in mobility talent development.
  • Advice about using social media in your job search.
  • Fireside chat about entrepreneurship in Michigan.
  • Professional photographers will provide headshots.
  • Advice for developing a strong resume.
  • Opportunities to speak with human relations professionals at mobility-related companies.
  • Information from colleges and universities about education and training for all levels of mobility careers.

Visit Driven and learn how the Detroit region is leading the world in next-generation mobility.
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