An AIAG member throughout both his collegiate and professional career to date, Honda North America’s Tony Mariucci believes that active engagement with AIAG helps drive positive change in our supply chain. Now, as the latest addition to AIAG’s Quality Steering Committee, Tony looks forward to continuing his involvement by participating in initiatives that support organizations at all levels with common standards and guidelines to reduce complexities in the automotive supply chain and its products.
For more insights from Tony – including how he stays current on industry news and advice for those just starting out in the industry – check out the following Q&A!
Why do you think it’s important to come together at AIAG and participate in events or volunteer for other activities?
I agree with the foundational beliefs that AIAG was built upon. Reducing complexity in the automotive supply chain helps companies at all levels and tiers. This cannot happen if people and organizations are not willing to participate in events or volunteer for activities with AIAG.
Being an active and engaged member is a way to drive change and have a voice in the future development of standards and activities throughout the industry.
How do you keep up on what’s new and happening in the industry?
In general, I read articles from Automotive News and various internet sources. I also keep up with information, services and publications provided by AIAG and the IATF, but one of my favorite activities is attending the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
I have been attending for almost 20 years, with the exception of 2020, which was cancelled due to the pandemic. I consider myself a very hands-on person. I enjoy comparing specs, inspecting the fit and finish of vehicles, and trying to experience what the vehicle has to offer. There is no better venue to do this than at the NAIAS with the majority of OEMs in a single location.
Based on your years of automotive experience, what current or emerging trends do you think are most urgent for the industry to prepare for?
The industry has been reacting to increasing complexity in both the global automotive supply chain and its products for years. As supply chains become increasingly global, reacting to events in different parts of the world has become critical to ensure on-time part delivery. As products become more complex, so does the analysis of problems and customer concerns. With this increased complexity, the need for common standards and practices is also becoming increasingly important. I look forward to collaborating with AIAG on initiatives that can help our industry as a whole gain efficiencies in these areas.
What advice would you offer to those who are just starting out in the automotive industry?
Currently there are a lot of opportunities in the industry. The classic way of doing business is being challenged, and people are, in turn, being asked to challenge the current way of doing things. With this, fresh new ideas are welcome and people that are just starting in the industry can help. I would advise them to bring new ideas and be innovators to help move the industry forward.