Michael Davenport has been named the new executive director of the Auto/Steel Partnership (A/SP).
The A/SP is a partnership of North American automotive companies, manufacturers, major sheet steel producers and tier suppliers who collaborate on research, innovation, technical development, validation and education to reduce mass and increase safety and durability in vehicles. Davenport succeeds John Catterall who recently became the vice president of the automotive program for AISI representing steel producer members at the A/SP.
In his new role, Davenport will facilitate technical research projects to ensure steel remains in the forefront and the best solution for efficient weight reduction, fuel economy, vehicle range, environmental stewardship and added value to the auto industry. This includes developing and executing a strategic project portfolio for all A/SP activities focusing on the partnership between automakers, seven steel companies and tier suppliers. Davenport has extensive experience in Body-In-White (BIW), closures, sealing, exteriors and vehicle assembly. Most recently, he worked as director of application engineering at U.S. Steel Corporation where he was responsible for developing, directing and leading the product applications department teams that are the single point of contact with automakers and Tier 1 engineering organizations. Prior to his role at U.S. Steel, Davenport had nearly 20 years of advancing responsibilities at FCA (formerly Chrysler Corporation) with positions in product development, management and technical leadership.
Published in the April 2020 Edition