The Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association (APMA) and AUTO21 Network of Centres of Excellence held their annual joint conference June 7-10 in Windsor, Ontario. The conference touched on the economic outlook for Canada’s automotive sector, as well as offering networking opportunities, speakers, and a special program for highly qualified people (HQP) within AUTO21.

NSERC President and NCE Steering Committee Chair Dr. Suzanne Fortier presented a keynote discussion at the HQP conference with a look at the importance of inspiring new generations of students to pursue careers in science and engineering.. Her presentation underlined the fact that while innovation stems from the training of HQP in the sector, it is also vital to improve their innovation track record, mobilizing knowledge and applying it for the benefit of Canada.

Dr. Fortier’s touched on Canada’s global positioning for developing HQP in the natural sciences and engineering, and the vital role HQP play in solving the many challenges facing Canadian society.

AUTO21 Scientific Director and CEO Dr. Peter Frise described Dr. Fortier’s presentation as “engaging and inspiring, drawing in both the industry and student audience” with what one attendee called her “enthusiasm and vision”. With over 200 HQP in attendance at the conference, her presentation was especially relevant.

Each year, the joint APMA-AUTO21 conference brings together Canadian automakers, parts suppliers, researchers and government representatives to examine the status of the industry in Canada and abroad, and features a number of industry speakers providing insight and focus on upcoming automotive trends, emerging technologies and the role R&D plays in future success.

Click here to visit AUTO21’s website

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