Driving Innovation: Transforming the Next Era of Automotive Innovation

Are you ready to dive into the future of the automotive industry and explore the trends shaping tomorrow's mobility landscape? Join us for an electrifying talk that will ignite your curiosity and open your mind to the game-changing innovations driving the industry forward! 🚘💡
From groundbreaking advancements in technology to the rise of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) leading the charge, this session will uncover the fundamental forces behind the dynamic evolution of the automotive world. We'll explore the power of diversity—how embracing the broad spectrum of experiences, talents and perspectives of women, people of colour, neurodivergent individuals and more is key to unlocking untapped potential, fueling creativity, and driving business success.
In partnership with SmartTO, this engaging morning with Kay Layne will explore the cutting-edge world of automotive innovation. You'll discover the latest trends and gain actionable insights to build a more inclusive, equitable, and forward-thinking industry. Whether you're an entrepreneur, student, or aspiring professional, this talk will challenge you to think differently and inspire you to be a driving force in shaping Canada's thriving automotive future. Don't miss this opportunity to accelerate your knowledge and passion for the road ahead!

💡 Join us for the 5th instalment of the Centennial Innovates: Inclusive Excellence Breakfast Series, where we foster dialogue and learning on relevant topics related to EDI and applied research, innovation and entrepreneurship - this time focused on equitable innovation in the automotive industry!

This free in-person event is open to all students, staff, faculty, industry and community members, and held at the Centennial College Events Centre (Progress Campus), Fall/Winter Room. Enjoy a breakfast buffet, and an insightful morning with Kay.

Kay Layne founded Kayambi, a corporate training and consulting firm specializing in fostering executive success through an anti-oppression framework. She is also an experienced automotive journalist, and her work has been featured in various publications, television shows, and platforms. Before founding Kayambi, she built a career spanning over a decade in radio and television. Kay was a reporter, host, and producer for prominent outlets such as 680 News, Sun TV, CTV, Business News Network, and Rogers Television.

Smart Mobility Applied Research and Testing-Toronto (SmartTO) is one of seven regional technology development sites that are a part of the Ontario Vehicle Innovation Network (OVIN). SmartTO is Toronto’s newest transportation and mobility hub, led by York University in partnership with Centennial College. They empower startups and SMEs to develop, test and prototype advanced automotive technologies and smart mobility solutions through accessing our state of the-art equipment, innovative labs and research centres, world-renowned expertise, and concierge-style business advisory and technical services. They focus on Smart Materials and Light-weighting along with Smart Mobility, Connectivity and Reliability.

8:45 - 9:15 AM - Networking & Breakfast

9:15 - 9:30 AM - Opening and Welcome by Jonathan Hack, Dean, Centennial Innovates

9:30 - 10:15 AM - Keynote presentation by Kay Layne

10:15 - 10:25 AM - Refreshment break

10:25 - 11:15 AM - Keynote presentation by Kay Layne (continued)

11:15 - 11:25 AM - Presentation about SmartTO by Paulina Karwowska-Desaulniers, Executive Director, SmartTO

11:25-11:30AM - Closing by Jonathan Hack, Dean, Centennial Innovates

Don't miss out on this great opportunity to be inspired and to network and gain valuable insights from peers and colleagues. Whether you're a student, faculty member, staff, industry partner, community member or simply interested in the topic, this event welcomes you. Come learn and engage with others on fostering equity, diversity and inclusivity in the world of automotive applied research, entrepreneurship and innovation!

Host or Publisher Centennial Innovates