KC SmartPort’s 2025 Annual Industry Briefing gathered 650 industry leaders to share insights into transformations underway in the automotive sector — from electrification and advanced manufacturing to rapidly evolving supply chains, shifting trade policies and rising foreign investment.

Industry Leaders Share Vision for the Future of Mobility

Christopher Smith, chief government affairs officer for Ford Motor Company, delivered the keynote address, offering attendees a look at how Ford is building the future of mobility — emphasizing forward-looking investments in electrification and its commitment to American manufacturing.  

“The automotive industry is at an inflection point: rapid changes in electrification and global trade are fundamentally transforming the way we do business,” said Smith. “Ford is meeting the moment by making forward-looking investments in emerging technologies, and our commitment to building the next generation of automobiles in America is central to our long-term success.” 

Featured speakers also included Andy Hrasky, vice president of operations for Magna International, and Dan Lee, principal of automotive and strategy practice for Plante Moran.

Hrasky highlighted Magna’s agility in automotive innovation and sustainability, emphasizing Kansas City’s skilled workforce as a key competitive advantage as the company deepens its investment in the region. Lee, delving into shifting consumer demands and North American investment trends, discussed the critical role of battery supply chains — highlighting Panasonic Energy’s $4 billion EV battery plant in the KC region as a key driver of future competitiveness.

KC’s Momentum in Automotive on Full Display

With a Gross Regional Product (GRP) of $5 billion, the KC region continues to cement its role as a major North American hub for automotive manufacturing. The region is home to 112 auto industry suppliers, including production powerhouses for Ford and General Motors, and employs nearly 23,000 workers in transportation manufacturing — 60% higher than the national average.

Chris Gutierrez, president of KC SmartPort, emphasized the KC region’s long-standing leadership in the auto sector and how it’s positioned to lead the next era of mobility.

“Kansas City has been a driving force in the automotive industry for decades, and today, that leadership is accelerating into new territory. KC is not just building vehicles — we’re building the future,” said Gutierrez. “As global trends reshape the supply chain and drive new investment, our region is responding with innovation, talent and world-class manufacturing strength. From legacy automakers to new suppliers, the road ahead runs straight through Kansas City.”