Stellantis Executive Feuell Honored as Automotive Industry Trailblazer
Event summary
- The Chicago Auto Show's 'What Drives Her' program recognized four women in the automotive industry on February 6, 2026.
- Chris Feuell, Chrysler brand CEO and head of Alfa Romeo brand at Stellantis, received the 'Industry Trailblazer' award.
- Alyssa Farkas, assistant general manager at Arnie Bauer Buick GMC Cadillac, was recognized as 'Best Retailer' for leading a successful EV initiative.
- Jessica Jermakian of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety presented on vehicle safety trends at the event.
- The program aims to highlight women's contributions and empower them within the automotive sector.
The big picture
The 'What Drives Her' program underscores the increasing emphasis on diversity and inclusion within the automotive industry, a sector historically dominated by men. Recognizing female leaders and celebrating their contributions is becoming a strategic imperative for automakers and dealerships seeking to attract talent, engage consumers, and navigate the ongoing shift towards electric vehicles. The program's growth suggests a broader cultural shift towards valuing diverse perspectives and experiences in a traditionally conservative industry.
What we're watching
- Leadership Shifts
- Feuell's recognition highlights Stellantis' focus on female leadership, but her absence from the award ceremony raises questions about her current engagement and potential future role within the company.
- EV Adoption
- Farkas's success with the ComEd EV program demonstrates the potential for dealerships to leverage partnerships for EV sales, but the sustainability of these programs will depend on continued government incentives and consumer demand.
- Media Influence
- The continued prominence of 'What Drives Her' and the recognition of automotive journalists like Elana Scherr suggests the evolving role of media in shaping consumer perceptions and industry narratives.
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