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MSU, Buttigieg Discuss Automotive Innovation at Detroit Auto Show

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  Published in Automotive and Transportation on Saturday, January 17th 2026 at 15:49 GMT by WILX-TV

DETROIT, Mich. - In a signal of intensified collaboration between academia, government, and industry, Michigan State University (MSU) President Kevin Guskiewicz and U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg convened a pivotal discussion at the Detroit Auto Show today, Saturday, January 17th, 2026. The event, centered on the rapidly evolving landscape of mobility, workforce development, and the critical role of universities in driving automotive innovation, underscored a shared commitment to navigating the challenges and capitalizing on the opportunities that lie ahead.

The automotive industry is currently undergoing a period of unprecedented transformation, driven by the simultaneous acceleration of electric vehicle adoption, the development of autonomous driving systems, and a shift towards connected and shared mobility models. This disruption demands more than incremental adjustments; it necessitates a fundamental rethinking of skills, infrastructure, and the very nature of transportation. Recognizing this, the discussion between Guskiewicz and Buttigieg wasn't merely a symbolic gesture but a practical exploration of how MSU, and universities more broadly, can be instrumental in shaping this future.

Secretary Buttigieg, whose department oversees a vast network of transportation infrastructure and policy initiatives, emphasized the crucial role universities play in fostering the talent pipeline needed to support the industry's transition. He pointed to the increasing complexity of vehicle technologies, highlighting the need for engineers, technicians, and researchers equipped with advanced skills in areas like battery technology, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and advanced manufacturing. "The innovations that will define the next generation of transportation are being incubated in places like Michigan State," Buttigieg stated, emphasizing the importance of investing in higher education and research.

MSU President Guskiewicz echoed this sentiment, articulating the university's commitment to aligning its programs and research with the industry's evolving needs. He outlined ongoing initiatives within MSU aimed at developing specialized training programs for technicians in EV maintenance and repair, creating interdisciplinary research clusters focused on autonomous vehicle safety and efficacy, and expanding partnerships with automotive companies to provide students with real-world experience. Specific examples included expansions to the MSU Mobility Research Center and collaborations with companies like General Motors and Ford, focusing on sustainable battery production and advanced sensor technology.

Beyond the immediate need for skilled labor, the discussion also touched upon the broader implications of these technological shifts. The rise of autonomous vehicles, for instance, poses significant questions about urban planning, accessibility for underserved communities, and the impact on traditional transportation jobs. Guskiewicz highlighted MSU's commitment to conducting research on these societal impacts and developing policy recommendations to ensure a just and equitable transition. The university is actively exploring how autonomous delivery systems can improve access to essential services in rural areas and how automated driving technology can enhance safety for vulnerable road users.

The Q&A session following the formal remarks provided a valuable opportunity for attendees - including automotive executives, students, and local policymakers - to engage directly with Guskiewicz and Buttigieg. Questions ranged from the timeline for full autonomous vehicle adoption to the challenges of securing supply chains for critical battery materials. A recurring theme in the audience questions was the need for greater public-private partnerships to accelerate innovation and address the infrastructure challenges associated with electric vehicle charging and connected vehicle technology.

The Detroit Auto Show itself serves as a fitting backdrop for this conversation. Historically a showcase for the latest automotive designs and technologies, the show has evolved into a platform for exploring the future of mobility. With the convergence of government leadership, academic expertise, and industry stakeholders, today's discussion provided a clear roadmap for how Michigan, and the nation, can lead the way in shaping the automotive landscape of the future.