Chicago Auto Show Highlights Female Leadership in Automotive

Event summary

  • The ninth annual 'What Drives Her' event will be held on February 6, 2026, during the Chicago Auto Show's Media Preview.
  • The event focuses on recognizing and connecting influential women in the automotive industry across manufacturing, retail, media, and related sectors.
  • Finalists for the 'Trailblazer Award' include Christine Feuell (Stellantis), Tisha Johnson (Slate), and Trisha Morrow (General Motors).
  • Jessica Jermankian of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety will present on vehicle safety trends.

The big picture

The 'What Drives Her' initiative reflects a broader industry effort to address gender imbalances in leadership roles and promote diversity within the automotive sector. While the automotive industry faces ongoing challenges related to electrification and autonomous driving, fostering a more inclusive workforce may be critical for attracting talent and driving innovation. The event's continued existence and expansion suggest a sustained commitment to this goal, though the actual impact on industry demographics remains to be seen.

What we're watching

Leadership Shifts
The prominence of Stellantis' Feuell among the Trailblazer Award finalists suggests a continued focus on leadership development within the automaker.
Safety Concerns
Jermankian’s presentation on vehicle safety, coupled with the panel discussion, indicates ongoing scrutiny and potential challenges in passenger safety technology.
Brand Alignment
How the Chicago Auto Show leverages 'What Drives Her' to attract a broader consumer base and enhance its brand image will be a key indicator of its long-term success.

Related topics

Automotive