Stellantis, the parent company for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep_® and Ram, is celebrating its centennial this year and reflecting on the innovations, performance and heritage built by thousands of dedicated employees. Now they are looking to develop the next generation of automotive workers. 

“We’ve been at the forefront of innovation for over 100 years,” said Tim Fallon, senior vice president, North America manufacturing, Stellantis. “From inventing the minivan and creating the modern SUV, to our legendary HEMI® engine and our innovative Stow ‘n Go seating system, it’s our retirees who shaped our legacy and our current employees who will continue to drive our future.”

Tim Fallon

Senior Vice President, North America Manufacturing, Stellantis

While the company celebrates the past, it has its vision fixed squarely on the future. “We’re not building cars the way they did three generations ago,” Fallon noted. “We’re integrating AI, machine learning, and a significant amount of automation with the expertise and skills of our workforce. Innovation has made us a company where people want to work.”

James Parker, Jr.

Vice President, North American Parts Supply Chain, Stellantis

James Parker, Jr., vice president, North American parts supply chain at Stellantis, came to the automotive industry after serving in the military and working in law enforcement. He feels Stellantis has a uniquely supportive culture for its employees. “Before working at Stellantis, I always felt like I was a good leader, but the runway was always cluttered,” he explained. “When I came to Stellantis, it became clear. I felt like I could accomplish anything.”

Stacey Simonson-Rogowski

Vice President of Human Resources, North America Manufacturing, Stellantis

Leadership is committed to employee development. “Our managers have coffee chats and other interactions to learn about their employees — and, more importantly, their aspirations,” explained Stacey Simonson-Rogowski, vice president of human resources, North America manufacturing at Stellantis.

Whether it’s a quick skills refresher or a multi-year leadership journey, Stellantis supports employees in expanding their capabilities and deepening their understanding of manufacturing. “We have a program called the Manufacturing Leadership Development Program, which is a two-year program where participants complete six-month-long rotations in four different divisions,” Fallon said. “It really gives our people the opportunity to understand where they want to fit long term.”

On the parts and services side, the Mopar Career Automotive Program (CAP) partners with colleges and schools across the country to provide students who have a passion for cars to turn that into a career as an automotive service technician.

“Manufacturing is a great career choice,” Simonson-Rogowski said, “because you can take pride in knowing that you’ve been part of building vehicles that help people create memories, that are fun to drive and that you see in commercials during the big game.”

Whether you’re just starting your career or looking for a change, the opportunities are endless. Recently appointed CEO, Antonio Filosa, is a great example of career development – he started at the company as a paint shop quality supervisor working the night shift.  A career in manufacturing can be the destination or it can be a stop on your journey.  

To learn how you can be a part of the next century of innovation, visit Careers.Stellantis.com/MFG

A Q&A With Multi-Generational Stellantis Employee Jeff DeVries

Tell us about yourself (your background, education, and role with Stellantis).

Jeff DeVries: In 1977, I started at the Toledo Assembly Complex (TAC) where the Jeep_® Wrangler and Jeep Gladiator are assembled, following in the footsteps of my family dating back to my great-grandfather. I was laid off during the oil crisis in late 1970s, so I joined the army and was an infantry platoon sergeant for five years. Following that I came back to the plant and became a supervisor and graduated college. I left the company for a few years to work for a supplier abroad and then rejoined in 2016. 

Tell us about your family’s history with Stellantis.

JD: Jeep is in my family’s blood. My great-grandpa worked for Willy’s in Toledo, my grandpa joined when it was Willy’s Overland and then Kaiser. My grandma also worked here, sewing seat covers during World War II. Following the Korean War, my dad worked at TAC. My sister and brother-in-law retired from here and my nephew currently works second shift in the body shop.

What attracted you to this work? Why is Stellantis a great place to work?

JD: I knew I wanted to work here my entire life. My whole family has benefitted from working here. I have so much pride when I see a Wrangler or a Gladiator on the road. Stellantis has had its struggles recently, but I know we can get back to being the best car builders in the world. 

What opportunities for professional growth and career advancement have you had with Stellantis?

JD: There are so many opportunities not only at Stellantis, but in manufacturing. I’ve seen so many people advance in their careers, including myself. I had a great mentor who helped guide me from a production operator to a salary job. Human resources also does a great job making sure everyone is aware of the opportunities.