CAR welcomes trio of new hires

ANN ARBOR, Mich.—The Center for Automotive Research has added a trio of new hires to its ranks.

On Jan. 10, CAR welcomed new hires Steve Polakowski, Ann Schlenker and Tyler Harp, who will serve as vice president of business development, director of government research programs and an industry analyst, respectively.

"I'm excited to have Steve, Ann, and Tyler join the CAR team," Alan Amici, CAR CEO and president, said in a statement. "Steve's vast experience in automotive engineering and customer-focused engineering services make him ideal for our business development role. Ann has been recognized in the industry for her contributions to product development, regulatory affairs and vehicle research at one of the premier U.S. laboratories. Tyler brings research experience and a strong background in physics and economics to the CAR team."

Polakowski brings more than 35 years of automotive industry experience to his new role, having most recently served as president of ESG Automotive Inc. (now Cognizant Mobility), an engineering services provider. His career also includes experience at Magna International, where he focused on advanced interiors/exteriors, electrical systems, and embedded product development.

"I'm thrilled to be joining the CAR team," Polakowski said in a news release. "Throughout my career, I have considered CAR a reputable and guiding voice in the industry. Being part of this group amid all the market and technology dynamics and recent leadership team additions is an exciting opportunity."

Schlenker comes to CAR from Argonne National Laboratory where she was the director of the Center for Transportation Research. Her research portfolio, CAR said, "delivered low-carbon solutions for transportation at the component, vehicle and transportation system levels."

"The transformation in the transportation and mobility industries to low-carbon solutions requires vast resources, engagement and passion," Schlenker said. "I am excited to work at CAR and join colleagues on this rewarding journey."

Schlenker, who also has more than 30 years of experience with Chrysler Engineering in product development space where she held a number of executive positions, was awarded the Lifetime Distinguished Achievement Award from the Department of Energy Vehicle Technology Office in 2021.

Harp joins CAR having most recently served as a market analyst for Allegis Global Solutions, providing labor market research and analysis for both U.S. and global markets in support of numerous clients.