Celebrating Innovation: The 8th Annual 'What Drives Her' Awards at Chicago Auto Show

The 8th Annual 'What Drives Her' Awards at the Chicago Auto Show

The Chicago Auto Show is gearing up for an exciting moment as it hosts its eighth annual "What Drives Her" networking event and awards ceremony on February 6, 2025. This event, organized in collaboration with A Girls Guide to Cars and Women in Automotive, aims to spotlight and honor the remarkable contributions of women within the automotive industry. These women are making significant impacts, driving innovation, and championing change from within the sector.

Purpose of 'What Drives Her'

This initiative brings together influential female figures in the automotive world to recognize their achievements. It focuses not only on groundbreaking women working in the industry but also on advocates who are dedicated to fostering change and empowerment among their peers.

The event will kick off with a stimulating panel discussion titled "What Drives Her…To the Off-Road Trail," moderated by Scotty Reiss, the founder of A Girls Guide to Cars. The panel features essential voices in the automotive realm, including Kelsey Gerken from Ford Motor Company and Bridget Kramer of Jeep, who will explore the expanding domain of off-roading and encourage more women to embrace this thrilling experience.

Jennifer Morand, General Manager of the Chicago Auto Show, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "Hosting the What Drives Her event has become an indispensable part of our show. It highlights the incredible women whose influence is reshaping the automotive landscape and igniting innovation."

Recognizing Industry Leaders

Following the panel discussion, the esteemed What Drives Her Awards will be bestowed upon outstanding women and allies in the industry. Nominees originate from various sectors, including auto manufacturing, media, and vehicle retail, with a panel of distinguished female automotive journalists serving as judges.

Award Categories and Finalists

1. Trailblazer Award - This award recognizes women employed by automakers or suppliers demonstrating notable empowerment of others through leadership.
- Finalists: Claudine Marquez (Hyundai Motor America), Audrey Moore (Stellantis), Trisha Morrow (General Motors).

2. Best In Craft Automotive Media Award - This category acknowledges journalists or content creators dedicated to elevating women and facilitating inclusive automotive narratives.
- Finalists: Emme Hall, Elana Scherr (Car and Driver), Nicole Wakelin (CarBuzz).

3. Automotive Ally Award - This award honors individuals who consistently advocate for and mentor others in the automotive field.
- Finalists: Dean Case (communications consultant), Joel Feder, Kimatni Rawlins (Automotive Rhythms Communications).

4. Best Retailer Award - This award will recognize a dedicated individual employed by a Chicago-area dealership, showcasing commitment in any aspect of dealership operations.
- Finalists: Kelly Donku, Valerie Nazimek, Angel Pieniazek, Maggie Webb.

5. Lifetime of Inspiration Award - This special recognition will be awarded to Roz Varon for her extraordinary career reporting from the Chicago Auto Show floor, honoring her longstanding dedication to the industry.

The presentations occur during the Media Preview at the Chicago Auto Show, a pivotal moment not just for the honorees but for everyone committed to advancing women’s representation in the automotive space. Attendees are encouraged to use the event hashtag #WhatDrivesHer for social media posts, promoting their shared celebration of female empowerment and groundbreaking achievements.

Conclusion

The Chicago Auto Show, known as North America's longest-running auto exposition, has been a platform for showcasing innovation since 1901. The 2025 public show will be held from February 8-17 at McCormick Place, drawing thousands from across the country. For more insights into the 2025 Chicago Auto Show and the What Drives Her event, please visit ChicagoAutoShow.com. This year's gathering is more than just a showcase; it celebrates a movement, inspiring a new generation of automotive leaders.