MEMA, The Vehicle Suppliers Association Hosts Deputy Assistant Secretary Alex Krutz for Supplier Roundtable and Facility Tours

WASHINGTON, D.C. – MEMA, The Vehicle Suppliers Association, was honored to host Alex Krutz, deputy assistant secretary for manufacturing at the International Trade Administration within the U.S. Department of Commerce, at its Southfield office and conference center. 

Krutz joined MEMA board members, industry leaders, executives and experts for a series of discussions on the challenges and opportunities facing U.S. manufacturers. Following the meetings, he visited three vehicle supplier locations in the Detroit area, highlighting the industry’s leadership in research and development, supply chain excellence and advanced manufacturing. 

“MEMA welcomed the direct engagement of Deputy Assistant Secretary Krutz and his team,” said Bill Long, president and CEO of MEMA. “His generosity in affording this time to the supplier community reflected his deep commitment to the growth and expansion of manufacturing in the U.S. MEMA’s member companies had a unique opportunity to share their perspectives and discuss ideas for increasing U.S. manufacturing competitiveness and production.” 

The vehicle supplier industry represents the largest sector of manufacturing jobs in the United States, employing more than 932,000 individuals across the country. Suppliers also lead in advanced manufacturing, contributing to the growth of the mobility industry by creating new types of jobs and skill sets to meet the demands of modern vehicle technologies. 

“MEMA is grateful to DENSO, Lear Corporation and Magna for opening the doors to their research and development centers, innovation hubs and manufacturing plants to host Deputy Assistant Secretary Krutz,” said Paul McCarthy, president of MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers and MEMA chief executive-elect. “This was a valuable opportunity to share critical information about the supplier sector’s unique contributions to the national manufacturing base, and to demonstrate U.S. leadership in advanced technology.” 

About MEMA. The Vehicle Suppliers Association
MEMA, The Vehicle Suppliers Association, is the leading trade association in North America for vehicle suppliers, parts manufacturers, and remanufacturers. It has been the voice of the vehicle supplier industry since 1904. Its more than 1,000 members are Strong by Association.

Companies join MEMA via two membership groups: MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers and MEMA Original Equipment Suppliers. Automotive and commercial vehicle suppliers are the largest manufacturing sector in the United States and lead the way in new vehicle innovations.

Members conceive, design, and manufacture the OE systems and technologies that make up two-thirds of the value of every vehicle and supply the aftermarket with the parts that keep millions of vehicles on the road, fueling international commerce and meeting society’s transportation needs. MEMA members are committed to safety and sustainability.

MEMA has offices in Southfield, Mich.; Research Triangle Park, N.C.; and Washington, D.C. Learn more at MEMA.org.