Vice Chairman and Chief Technology Officer Tom Stephens of General Motors has announced his retirement effective April 1st, marking the end of a remarkable 43-year career with the company. His departure leaves a significant void in GM's leadership, as Stephens has been instrumental in driving technological advancements and fostering innovation within the organization.
Tom Stephens began his journey with General Motors in 1969 as an hourly employee at the Chevrolet Engineering Center in Warren, Michigan. He joined the company through a student co-op program at the University of Michigan, and over the years, he climbed the corporate ladder through various engineering and leadership roles.
Stephens' leadership extended across multiple divisions, including the Cadillac Motor Car Division and the Buick-Oldsmobile-Cadillac Division, before he ultimately led the GM Powertrain Division.
Stephens' tenure as Chief Technology Officer was marked by significant technological advancements. Under his leadership, GM developed game-changing technologies that have been integrated into their vehicles, enhancing performance, efficiency, and sustainability.
Stephens also played a pivotal role in the globalization of powertrain engineering, leveraging global centers of expertise to accelerate engine development. His efforts in utilizing computational tools and standardizing GM's engineering and product development processes significantly improved the quality and efficiency of GM vehicles.
Tom Stephens' contributions to the automotive industry have not gone unnoticed. In 2007, he was elected to the National Academy of Engineering for his work in powertrain engineering. He has also been a member of the Engineering Advisory Council for the University of Michigan School of Engineering.
"Tom Stephens is an engineering icon within our company and within our industry," said GM Chairman and CEO Dan Akerson. "We have all benefited greatly from his passion, wisdom, and commitment to product excellence. His talent and contributions to GM are deeply appreciated, and his expertise will be missed."
Although Stephens is retiring from his role at GM, he will continue to contribute to the field of engineering and technology. He will serve on the board of directors for the FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics Foundation and the board of trustees for the Detroit Science Center. His ongoing involvement with the University of Michigan's Engineering Advisory Council ensures that his influence will continue to inspire future generations of engineers.
Tom Stephens' retirement marks the end of an era for General Motors. His legacy of innovation, leadership, and commitment to excellence has left an indelible mark on the company and the automotive industry as a whole. As GM looks to the future, the foundation laid by Stephens will undoubtedly continue to drive the company forward.
In his retirement, Stephens will remain a prominent figure in the engineering community, serving as a role model and mentor for future generations. His contributions to GM and the broader field of automotive engineering will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.
Cutting Off Access for Oral Bacteria May Be Key to Preventing Tooth Decay
The journal of Microbiology recently published a study containing results which suggest that we may now have the keys to preventing gum disease and tooth loss. The study says that if we can strip some oral bacteria from being able to access the other pathogenic oral bacteria then we may be able to use them to help prevent decay and loss.
New Oversight Means New Rules for Credit Collectors
Recently a major consumer finance watchdog released reports that the government has plans to regulate previously unregulated financial firms. Now these debt collectors and credit reporting agencies are preparing themselves for the worst.
Green Beer? Try Green Teeth
This Saint Patrick’s Day thousands of people across the U.S. will be going out to celebrate with lots of delicious green foods like green cakes, green cupcakes, green chocolate, green eggs and ham, and even the popular Saint Patty’s Day hit green beer. But all this green food has one thing in common: green food coloring. In small doses green food coloring can be a fun way to brighten up your food or play along for Saint Patrick’s Day, but after eating green food coloring all day a person’s teeth will quickly start to show that green dye.
