Auto Emerging Leaders Summit – AELS
About
The Auto Emerging Leaders Summit – AELS is a premier national initiative dedicated to identifying, developing, and empowering the next generation of leaders in the automotive industry. By bringing together young professionals, rising executives, industry innovators, and thought leaders, AELS fosters collaboration, mentorship, and strategic action to prepare future leaders for success in a rapidly evolving automotive landscape. Through national programs, AELS provides the tools, insights, and networks necessary to equip emerging talent with the skills and knowledge required to drive innovation, leadership, and business excellence in the automotive sector.
Mission
To cultivate the next generation of automotive industry leaders by equipping emerging professionals with leadership skills, business acumen, and strategic insights necessary for long-term career success.
Vision
To create a future where emerging leaders in the automotive industry drive innovation, foster inclusive leadership, and contribute to a thriving, dynamic, and sustainable auto sector.
Training & Workshops
AELS offers specialized programs designed to equip young professionals, mid-level managers, and aspiring executives with the leadership and business skills needed to succeed in the automotive industry:
- Leadership Development for Rising Auto Executives – Preparing young professionals to take on leadership roles in dealerships, manufacturing, and mobility sectors.
- Strategic Thinking & Decision-Making in Auto Industry – Teaching emerging leaders how to analyze challenges, anticipate trends, and make informed decisions.
- Innovation & Technology in the Future of Mobility – Exploring electric vehicles (EVs), autonomous driving, and AI’s role in automotive advancements.
- Financial Acumen & Business Strategy for Emerging Leaders – Equipping professionals with the skills to drive profitability and operational success.
- Diversity, Equity & Inclusion in Auto Leadership – Creating an inclusive culture that fosters diverse talent in automotive leadership.
- Entrepreneurship & Startups in the Automotive Space – Understanding how to launch and scale a business in the automotive ecosystem.
- Personal Branding & Executive Presence – Building confidence, communication skills, and leadership presence for career advancement.
- The Future of Retail & Dealership Leadership – Developing customer experience, digital transformation, and sales strategies for success.
- The Role of AI & Data in Automotive Leadership – Leveraging artificial intelligence and analytics to drive business performance.
- Mentorship & Career Development in the Auto Industry – Establishing relationships with industry mentors to accelerate career growth.
- Workforce Development & Talent Retention Strategies – Learning how to attract and retain top talent in a competitive industry.
- Sustainable Leadership & ESG in Automotive Business – Integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices into leadership strategies.
These programs empower young professionals to build their careers, strengthen their leadership capabilities, and contribute to a thriving automotive industry.
Recognition
AELS honors outstanding young professionals, mentors, and organizations committed to fostering emerging talent and leadership within the automotive industry through prestigious awards:
- Emerging Automotive Leader Award – Recognizing young professionals making a significant impact in the auto industry.
- Rising Star in Automotive Business Award – Celebrating individuals demonstrating exceptional leadership potential in their field.
- Innovation & Future Mobility Award – Honoring those pioneering advancements in emerging automotive technologies.
- Mentor of the Year Award – Recognizing industry leaders who have significantly contributed to the development of young professionals.
- Diversity & Inclusion Champion Award – Celebrating efforts to create an inclusive pipeline of future automotive leaders.
These awards highlight the dedication and achievements of rising professionals and organizations shaping the future of the automotive sector.
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Schedule
The Auto Emerging Leaders Summit Annual Event features inspiring keynotes, interactive workshops, expert-led panels, and networking opportunities, culminating in an awards gala celebrating excellence in emerging automotive leadership.
2025: August 18-22, 2025
Day 1 (August 18):
10:00 AM – Leadership Development for Rising Auto Executives
3:00 PM – Strategic Thinking & Decision-Making in Auto Industry
Keynote: “Building the Future of Auto Leadership: Leading with Innovation & Vision”
Day 2 (August 19):
10:00 AM – Innovation & Technology in the Future of Mobility
3:00 PM – Financial Acumen & Business Strategy for Emerging Leaders
Workshop: “Developing the Skills of a High-Impact Automotive Leader”
Day 3 (August 20):
10:00 AM – Diversity, Equity & Inclusion in Auto Leadership
3:00 PM – Entrepreneurship & Startups in the Automotive Space
Panel: “Empowering the Next Generation: Lessons from Automotive CEOs”
Day 4 (August 21):
10:00 AM – The Future of Retail & Dealership Leadership
3:00 PM – The Role of AI & Data in Automotive Leadership
Networking Event: “Connecting Emerging Leaders & Industry Experts”
Day 5 (August 22):
Awards Gala – Recognizing Excellence in Emerging Auto Leadership
2026: August 17-21, 2026
Day 1: Keynote – “The Automotive Leaders of Tomorrow: Preparing for Industry Change”
Day 2: Workshop – “Personal Branding & Executive Presence for Rising Leaders”
Day 3: Panel – “Sustainable Leadership & ESG in Automotive Business”
Day 4: Networking Event – “Developing Career Growth Pathways for Young Professionals”
Day 5: Awards Ceremony – Honoring Future Leaders in the Auto Industry
2027: August 16-20, 2027
Day 1: Keynote – “Auto Industry 2030: The Role of Young Leaders in Transforming Mobility”
Day 2: Workshop – “Workforce Development & Talent Retention Strategies”
Day 3: Panel – “Leadership in the Era of AI & Smart Vehicles”
Day 4: Networking Event – “Mentorship & Career Acceleration for Young Auto Professionals”
Day 5: Awards Gala – Celebrating the Next Generation of Automotive Leaders