With 21 years of commercial vehicle experience successfully implementing major financial, quality, system, and manufacturing related initiatives, AIAG is pleased to welcome PACCAR’s Tom Simmons as the newest member of our Quality Steering Committee (QSC)!
Throughout his career to date, Tom has held various positions of responsibility – including service and design engineering, dedicated Six Sigma Black for continuous improvement, program manager, supplier quality manager, and advanced supplier development manager – and is currently serving as PACCAR’s assistant director of supplier quality.
Continue reading to learn more about Tom, including his views on why we come together at AIAG for events and volunteering, what advice he’d offer those just starting out in the industry, and more!
Why do you think it’s important to come together at AIAG and participate in events or volunteer for other activities?
AIAG allows for a network of standards that support commonality among industry members. PACCAR has been a proud member of AIAG for years and has not only provided input to the industry but has also learned from others, all of which has allowed for continued growth as an organization.
How do you keep up on what’s new and happening in the industry?
The industry continues to evolve as new technology and participants change how business is done. In order to keep up with this change, I gather information from multiple sources including websites, webinars, and organizational training offered by others within the industry.
Based on your years of automotive experience, what current or emerging trends do you think are most urgent for the industry to prepare for?
As the automotive industry trends toward more and more electronics, alternative fuels, and aerodynamic improvements, I think we are just now learning how to manage quality and the interactions between these types of technologies. The development cycle continues to speed up and customer expectations are higher, creating a higher demand on ‘first time right’ quality.
What advice would you offer to those who are just starting out in the automotive industry?
I would suggest learning as much as possible from individuals who worked in the industry before you. There is a wealth of information inside and outside of your organization. Make connections both professionally and personally with those you work with, and for – and with those who work for you – as you advance in your career.
