eflections from the 2025 Women Automotive Network Detroit Summit
On June 3the Women Automotive Network hosted its second Detroit Summit in Novi, Michigan. With over 500 in-person attendees and more than 200 virtual participants, representing in total more than 14 countries, the event brought together a vibrant community of leaders, allies, and innovators to explore the future of mobility, leadership, and resilience in an era of constant disruption.
I was honored to return to the stage this year to share insights on the topic: “Understanding Global Industry Trends and How to Remain Competitive.” Drawing from the 2025 AlixPartners Disruption Index, I highlighted that—for the first time in the six-year history of the Index—the automotive industry was ranked as the most-disrupted sector. This conclusion was based on a survey of 3,200 CEOs and other senior executives across 11 countries and 10 industries.
What’s striking is that disruption is up verses our survey of a year earlier across the entire automotive value chain: automakers, suppliers, dealers, aftermarket players, service providers, and even shared-mobility companies–who were once considered disruptors themselves.
Adding to the complexity, evolving tariff policies are introducing significant uncertainty and financial risk— in the U.S. alone, approximately $250 billion in vehicles and $140 billion in auto parts are now exposed to shifting tariff regulations.
Yet, disruption also brings opportunity. As I pointed out at the event in metro Detroit, also according to the 2025 AlixPartners Disruption Index 75% of executives industry-wide see auto-industry growth potential in materials innovation, 72% see it in connected-technology infrastructure, and another 72% see it in software-defined vehicles.
In lieu of a typical Q&A at the end of my speech, I was also privileged to host on stage by two remarkable leaders who shared their perspectives on disruption, tariffs, and staying competitive:
Beyond the panels and presentations, the recent summit was a celebration of connection inside the auto industry. It was a space to catch up with fellow industry aficionados, exchange ideas, and support one another—personally and professionally.
Despite the many disruptions the auto industry faces today, we lovers of this great industry continue to grow stronger, more resilient, and more committed to shaping the future of mobility. And all that was certainly on display in metro Detroit recently.
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