ME Tech Fellow, Manufacturing Execution Systems-Architect ME Vehicle Systems, General Motors

Aaron K. Dunlap is a ME Tech Fellow and Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) Architect for ME Vehicle Systems at General Motors, where he plays a key role in advancing digital manufacturing across complex automotive production environments. With deep expertise in MES architecture, vehicle systems integration, and smart factory transformation, Aaron focuses on enabling scalable, data-driven manufacturing operations that improve efficiency, quality, and traceability.

At General Motors, Aaron is instrumental in designing and implementing next-generation MES frameworks that support the company’s transition toward software-defined vehicles and highly automated production systems. His work bridges IT and OT, ensuring seamless connectivity between enterprise systems and shop floor operations while driving innovation in AI-driven manufacturing and real-time decision-making.

Known for his systems-thinking approach and technical leadership, Aaron brings a strong perspective on how advanced manufacturing technologies—including AI, digital twins, and industrial data platforms—can be leveraged to modernize automotive production and deliver resilient, future-ready operations.

Product Manager – Vehicle Synthetic Data, General Motors

Vijay Sanikal is a Product Manager for Vehicle Synthetic Data at General Motors, where he leads the development of advanced data solutions to support next-generation vehicle engineering and manufacturing. With a strong background in AI, machine learning, and data-driven product strategy, Vijay focuses on leveraging synthetic data to accelerate innovation in autonomous systems, validation processes, and intelligent manufacturing.

At General Motors, Vijay is driving the adoption of synthetic data pipelines that enhance model training, simulation accuracy, and edge-case testing for complex vehicle systems. His work enables scalable, cost-efficient development of AI-powered features while reducing reliance on real-world data collection and improving safety and performance outcomes. By integrating synthetic data into the broader digital engineering ecosystem, he is helping GM advance toward more agile and software-defined vehicle development.

Known for his ability to translate emerging AI technologies into practical, high-impact solutions, Vijay brings a forward-looking perspective on how synthetic data, simulation, and machine learning can transform automotive manufacturing and vehicle lifecycle management.

Manufacturing Engineering Manager, Borg Warner

Trent Randles is a Manufacturing Engineering Manager at BorgWarner, a global leader in clean and efficient mobility solutions. With extensive experience in manufacturing engineering, process optimization, and advanced production systems, Trent specializes in driving operational excellence across high-volume automotive component manufacturing environments.

At BorgWarner, Trent leads engineering initiatives focused on improving production efficiency, quality, and scalability, supporting the company’s transition toward electrified and hybrid vehicle technologies. His work involves implementing advanced manufacturing processes, automation strategies, and data-driven continuous improvement programs that enhance throughput while maintaining rigorous performance standards.

Known for his hands-on leadership and problem-solving approach, Trent brings a practical perspective on how digitalization, smart manufacturing, and engineering innovation can be applied to modernize production systems and support the evolving demands of the automotive industry.

DELMIA Strategic Business Development Director, Dassault Systèmes

Michael Bradford is the DELMIA Strategic Business Development Director at Dassault Systèmes, where he drives global strategy and growth for DELMIA’s digital manufacturing and operations solutions. With over two decades of experience in manufacturing technology, enterprise software, and industrial transformation, Michael brings deep expertise in helping organizations modernize production through virtual twin experiences and data-driven decision-making.

At Dassault Systèmes, Michael is focused on advancing the adoption of DELMIA solutions to enable end-to-end visibility across the manufacturing value chain—from process planning and simulation to execution and optimization. His work supports automotive and industrial companies in leveraging digital twins, AI, and advanced analytics to improve agility, efficiency, and resilience in increasingly complex production environments.

Known for his strategic vision and ability to align technology with business outcomes, Michael is helping shape how manufacturers transition to connected, intelligent operations. His leadership continues to position DELMIA as a key enabler of next-generation, AI-powered manufacturing within the evolving Industry 4.0 landscape.

Senior Engineer – Chassis Engineering, Hankook Tire America Corp

Madhu Rao is a Senior Engineer in Chassis Engineering at Hankook Tire America Corp., where she focuses on advancing tire and vehicle dynamics performance for modern automotive platforms. With a strong background in chassis systems, vehicle integration, and performance validation, Madhu brings deep technical expertise in optimizing ride, handling, and durability across a range of vehicle applications.

At Hankook Tire America Corp., Madhu plays a key role in developing and validating tire solutions that meet the evolving demands of electrification, safety, and performance. Her work involves close collaboration with OEMs to ensure seamless integration between tires and vehicle chassis systems, leveraging simulation, testing, and data analysis to enhance overall vehicle behavior and efficiency.

Known for her analytical approach and engineering precision, Madhu brings valuable insight into how advanced materials, simulation technologies, and data-driven engineering are shaping the future of chassis development and intelligent automotive systems.

Smart Manufacturing & Industry 4.0 Consultant & Advisor, Wayne State University College of Engineering

Raj Sohmshetty is a Smart Manufacturing and Industry 4.0 Consultant and Advisor at the Wayne State University College of Engineering, where he works at the intersection of academia and industry to advance digital transformation in manufacturing. With extensive experience in industrial automation, connected systems, and smart factory strategy, Raj brings deep expertise in helping organizations adopt Industry 4.0 technologies to drive efficiency, innovation, and workforce development.

At Wayne State University, Raj collaborates with industry partners, researchers, and students to develop and implement advanced manufacturing solutions that integrate AI, IIoT, and data analytics into real-world production environments. His work supports the development of next-generation talent while enabling manufacturers to modernize operations through scalable, technology-driven approaches.

Known for his ability to bridge technical innovation with practical application, Raj provides strategic guidance on how manufacturers can successfully navigate digital transformation. His insights focus on building resilient, data-centric operations that leverage emerging technologies to enhance productivity, quality, and competitiveness in the evolving automotive landscape.

Senior Program Coordinator, Fraunhofer USA Inc.

Marcel Schäfer is a Senior Program Coordinator at Fraunhofer USA Inc., where he supports the development and execution of advanced research programs focused on industrial innovation and digital manufacturing. With a strong background in applied research coordination, technology transfer, and cross-functional collaboration, Marcel plays a key role in bridging cutting-edge research with real-world industrial applications.

At Fraunhofer USA, Marcel works closely with industry partners, academic institutions, and engineering teams to deliver projects that advance smart manufacturing, automation, and data-driven production systems. His efforts help translate emerging technologies—such as AI, advanced analytics, and digital twins—into scalable solutions that improve operational performance and accelerate innovation in manufacturing environments.

Known for his structured approach and ability to manage complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives, Marcel brings a global perspective on how applied research can drive industrial transformation. His work contributes to shaping next-generation manufacturing ecosystems that are more connected, efficient, and resilient.

Director, Industry Digital Strategy, Microsoft

Edward Lesnau is the Director of Industry Digital Strategy at Microsoft, where he leads initiatives focused on accelerating digital transformation across the manufacturing and industrial sectors. With extensive experience in enterprise technology, cloud platforms, and data-driven strategy, Edward specializes in helping organizations harness the power of AI, IoT, and advanced analytics to modernize operations and unlock new business value.

At Microsoft, Edward works with global manufacturers to design and implement scalable digital solutions built on the Microsoft Cloud, enabling greater visibility, agility, and resilience across the value chain. His work supports the adoption of smart factory capabilities, connected ecosystems, and AI-driven decision-making that enhance productivity and operational performance in increasingly complex production environments.

Known for his strategic mindset and ability to align technology innovation with business outcomes, Edward brings a forward-looking perspective on how cloud computing and AI are reshaping the future of manufacturing. His leadership continues to help organizations transition toward intelligent, data-centric operations in the era of Industry 4.0.

Senior Engineering Manager of Systems Engineering, Embedded Platform and MBSE, Ford Motor Company

Dr. Ahsan Qamar is a Senior Engineering Manager of Systems Engineering, Embedded Platform and Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) at Ford Motor Company, where he leads the development of advanced engineering frameworks for next-generation vehicle platforms. With deep expertise in systems engineering, embedded systems, and digital engineering methodologies, Ahsan focuses on enabling scalable, model-based approaches to support increasingly complex automotive architectures.

At Ford Motor Company, Ahsan is driving the adoption of MBSE practices to improve system design, integration, and validation across software-defined vehicle platforms. His work supports the transition toward more connected, autonomous, and electrified vehicles by leveraging digital models, simulation, and data-driven engineering processes to enhance efficiency, traceability, and product quality.

Known for his strong technical leadership and academic rigor, Ahsan brings a forward-thinking perspective on how MBSE, digital twins, and embedded platforms can transform automotive engineering and manufacturing. His contributions are helping shape the future of intelligent vehicle development within an increasingly software-centric industry.

Adv Feas. Controls Engineer, Ford Motor Company

Maria Rossana Ruiz is an Advanced Feasibility Controls Engineer at Ford Motor Company, where she focuses on developing and evaluating next-generation control systems for advanced vehicle technologies. With a strong background in control engineering, system modeling, and vehicle integration, Maria specializes in translating early-stage concepts into feasible, high-performance solutions for modern automotive platforms.

At Ford Motor Company, Maria works on assessing and validating innovative control strategies that support electrification, autonomy, and intelligent vehicle systems. Her role involves leveraging simulation, modeling, and data analysis to ensure new technologies meet performance, safety, and scalability requirements before production implementation. Through her work, she contributes to accelerating the development of software-defined and highly automated vehicles.

Known for her analytical mindset and forward-looking approach, Maria brings valuable insight into how advanced controls, simulation, and digital engineering are shaping the future of automotive innovation. Her expertise supports the evolution of smarter, more efficient, and connected vehicle systems.

Cloud AI Data Engineer & Strategy, Ford Motor Company

Arsalan Hafiz is a Cloud AI Data Engineer and Strategy specialist at Ford Motor Company, where he focuses on advancing data-driven innovation across automotive engineering and manufacturing. With a strong background in cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and data engineering, Arsalan specializes in building scalable data platforms and AI solutions that enable smarter, more connected operations.

At Ford Motor Company, Arsalan works on developing and implementing cloud-based architectures that support advanced analytics, machine learning, and real-time decision-making across the enterprise. His work enables the integration of large-scale data pipelines with AI models to enhance manufacturing efficiency, predictive maintenance, and product development processes. By aligning data strategy with business objectives, he helps accelerate Ford’s transition toward intelligent, software-defined vehicles and digital manufacturing ecosystems.

Known for his ability to bridge technical execution with strategic vision, Arsalan brings a forward-thinking perspective on how cloud, AI, and data engineering can transform the automotive industry. His expertise supports the creation of resilient, scalable systems that drive innovation and operational excellence in the era of Industry 4.0.

Data Scientist, Ford Motor Company

Gbenga Ladapo is a Data Scientist at Ford Motor Company, where he focuses on applying advanced analytics and machine learning to drive innovation across automotive engineering and manufacturing. With a strong background in data science, statistical modeling, and AI, Gbenga specializes in transforming complex datasets into actionable insights that improve operational efficiency and product performance.

At Ford Motor Company, Gbenga works on developing data-driven solutions that support predictive maintenance, quality optimization, and intelligent manufacturing processes. His work enables the integration of AI models into production and engineering workflows, helping to enhance decision-making and accelerate the development of next-generation, software-defined vehicles.

Known for his analytical expertise and problem-solving approach, Gbenga brings a forward-looking perspective on how data science and AI can unlock new value across the automotive value chain. His contributions support the evolution of smarter, more efficient, and highly connected manufacturing and mobility systems.

Executive Vice President Global Automotive Industry Group, Capgemini

Praveen Cherian is the Executive Vice President of the Global Automotive Industry Group at Capgemini, where he leads strategic initiatives to help automotive organizations navigate large-scale digital transformation. With extensive experience in enterprise technology, consulting, and global automotive operations, Praveen brings deep expertise in driving innovation across connected, autonomous, electrified, and software-defined vehicle ecosystems.

At Capgemini, Praveen is responsible for shaping and delivering end-to-end solutions that integrate cloud, AI, and data-driven technologies into automotive engineering, manufacturing, and supply chain operations. His leadership supports global OEMs and suppliers in modernizing their business models, improving operational agility, and accelerating time-to-market in an increasingly competitive and rapidly evolving industry.

Known for his strategic vision and customer-centric approach, Praveen is helping position Capgemini as a key partner in the transformation of the automotive sector. His insights focus on how digital technologies and intelligent operations can unlock new value streams and drive sustainable growth across the global mobility landscape.

Director, Smart Manufacturing Innovation Center, Purdue University

Ragu Athinarayanan is the Director of the Smart Manufacturing Innovation Center at Purdue University, where he leads initiatives focused on advancing next-generation manufacturing technologies and workforce development. With extensive experience in smart manufacturing, industrial IoT, and digital transformation, Ragu brings deep expertise in bridging academic research with real-world industrial applications.

At Purdue University, Ragu oversees programs that integrate AI, data analytics, and connected systems into manufacturing environments, enabling organizations to adopt scalable Industry 4.0 solutions. His work involves close collaboration with industry partners to develop innovative approaches to production optimization, predictive maintenance, and digital workforce enablement.

Known for his collaborative leadership and forward-looking perspective, Ragu is helping shape the future of intelligent manufacturing through applied research and education. His contributions are driving the adoption of data-driven, resilient, and highly automated production systems across the evolving automotive and industrial landscape.

Sr Director, Operational Technology Solution Engineer Specialists, Fortinet

Carlos-Raul Sanchez is a technologist with 32 years of experience in network, telecommunications, and critical infrastructure security. Carlos specializes in simplifying complex business problems with a pragmatic application of technology. With master’s degrees in computer science, business administration, and a wide range of experience ranging from US Air Force, DOD contractor, and O&G IT security, he is known for securing critical infrastructure worldwide. He spent 15 years leading teams securing oil fields in the United States and offshore assets in the Gulf of Mexico, Western Africa, Brazil, and South China Sea. Now with Fortinet, he is the senior director of operational technology, providing solutions and education to companies seeking to improve their critical infrastructure security posture.

Director & Industrial Solution Lead / Smart Factory / Digital Manufacturing, Hitachi America Ltd

Wei Yuan is Director and Industrial Solution Lead for Smart Factory and Digital Manufacturing at Hitachi America Ltd, where he leads the development and deployment of advanced industrial solutions for connected manufacturing environments. With extensive experience in digital manufacturing, industrial IoT, and enterprise transformation, Wei specializes in helping organizations modernize operations through data-driven and intelligent systems.

At Hitachi America Ltd, Wei drives initiatives that integrate smart factory technologies, AI, and advanced analytics into manufacturing processes, enabling real-time visibility, predictive insights, and optimized production performance. His work supports industrial clients in building scalable digital ecosystems that enhance efficiency, quality, and operational resilience across complex global operations.

Known for his strategic approach and deep technical expertise, Wei brings a global perspective on how digital manufacturing and Industry 4.0 technologies can be successfully implemented. His leadership continues to help organizations unlock the full potential of connected, intelligent factories in an increasingly competitive and rapidly evolving industrial landscape.

WW Strategy & BD Leader – Manufacturing, Supply Chain & Sustainability, AWS Automotive & Manufacturing

Karthik Krishnamurthy is the Worldwide Strategy and Business Development Leader for Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Sustainability within Automotive & Manufacturing at Amazon Web Services, where he drives global initiatives to help organizations accelerate digital transformation. With extensive experience in enterprise technology, cloud strategy, and industrial innovation, Kris brings deep expertise in enabling manufacturers to modernize operations through scalable, data-driven solutions.

At Amazon Web Services, Kris leads strategic programs that integrate cloud computing, AI, and advanced analytics into manufacturing and supply chain ecosystems, supporting improved visibility, resilience, and sustainability. His work helps automotive and industrial companies adopt smart factory capabilities, optimize end-to-end operations, and reduce environmental impact through intelligent, connected platforms.

Known for his strategic vision and customer-focused approach, Kris is helping shape how manufacturers leverage cloud technologies to transform their business models. His leadership continues to position AWS as a key enabler of next-generation, AI-powered manufacturing and sustainable supply chain innovation on a global scale.

Co-founder & CEO, Industrial AI

Jose Dos Santos is the Co-founder and CEO of Industrial AI, where he leads the development of advanced artificial intelligence solutions designed to transform manufacturing and industrial operations. With a strong background in AI, data analytics, and industrial systems, Jose brings deep expertise in applying cutting-edge technologies to solve complex challenges in production environments.

At Industrial AI, Jose is driving the creation of intelligent platforms that leverage machine learning, computer vision, and real-time data to optimize manufacturing performance, improve quality, and reduce downtime. His work focuses on enabling manufacturers to transition from reactive to predictive and autonomous operations, unlocking new levels of efficiency and scalability.

Known for his entrepreneurial mindset and technology-driven vision, Jose is helping shape the future of AI-powered manufacturing. His leadership is positioning Industrial AI as a key innovator in the rapidly evolving Industry 4.0 landscape, where data and intelligence are central to competitive advantage.