With more than 26 years of dedicated experience in the automotive industry, Marcos Basile Teixeira brings a unique global perspective and multidisciplinary expertise to the AIAG Quality Steering Committee (QSC).
As Corporate Quality Director for North America at Freudenberg-NOK Sealing Technologies, Marcos leads their Quality Management Team and collaborates with site managers to drive excellence across the organization — including managing quality KPIs across 19 manufacturing locations in the region and championing audits to ensure ongoing adherence to critical standards.
Beyond his deep expertise in automotive quality, Marcos offers a culturally diverse approach shaped by international experience, having worked across continents in Brazil, Germany, Japan, Italy, France, Mexico, Canada, and the United States.
As AIAG welcomes Marcos to the QSC, we look forward to his unique insights on everything from new and emerging technologies to the evolution of the product development cycle — among other challenges and opportunities for today’s quality professionals.
Hear from Marcos directly in the following Q&A, where he shares his thoughts on participating at AIAG, navigating constant change in the automotive 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 serves as a vital platform where OEMs, suppliers, and stakeholders collaborate to shape industry standards, drive innovation, and enhance operational excellence. Engaging in AIAG events and working groups provides firsthand insights into evolving global regulations, compliance expectations, and best practices that define the future of automotive quality and sustainability. Beyond the technical benefits, it’s also a great opportunity to build lasting relationships with industry peers and foster collaboration.
How do you keep up on what’s new in the automotive industry?
That’s not an easy task since our industry is rapidly evolving. I concentrate my effort on monitoring advancements in EV powertrains, digital manufacturing, and AI-driven quality control by subscribing to leading automotive publications, attending webinars, and engaging in discussions with industry peers. I also participate in AIAG events, industry conferences, and working groups, which normally offer a lot of valuable information. Furthermore, my role within Freudenberg-NOK Sealing Technologies grants access to extensive research, market studies, and emerging technologies — an invaluable resource for understanding where the industry is headed.
What current or emerging automotive trends do you think are most urgent to prepare for?
There are many, but I would definitively start with AI-driven predictive analytics, automated defect detection, and connected factory solutions, since these are the technologies that are redefining how we measure and assure quality in the automotive field. Additionally, electrification and sustainability remain at the forefront, with zero-emission vehicles, battery innovation, and circular economy principles driving long-term transformation.
What advice would you offer those just starting out in automotive?
Choosing to start your career in an industry that is undergoing disruptive transformation can be somewhat frightening, but it is surely exciting at the same time. Be ready for constant change, continuous learning, and a lot of hard work! Try to network and get involved with the industry groups (such as AIAG) as much as possible, taking advantage of these platforms for engagement and mentorship. Above all, prioritize developing cross-functional expertise by gaining exposure to engineering, manufacturing, supply chain, and quality disciplines — broadening your perspective and sharpening your problem-solving skills.
