Last Thursday was a special day at Ford Motor Company with hundreds of kids joining Mom and Dad at work for “Bring Your Child to Work Day.” The kids got to see where their parents work, and we got a chance to celebrate our Ford family – hopefully inspiring the next generation of car-lovers and Ford talent.
As part of the celebration, I had the honor of being interviewed by one of the brightest members of that extended family, Joshua, and he asked some incredible questions, from what is the best part of my job, to what my favorite car is, and even my thoughts on the potential for flying cars. And while Joshua loves Lamborghinis, I feel confident we made a new Mustang fan.
I was so impressed by Joshua and every kid I met – by their curiosity, and how smart they are. If they’re the future of our company, we’re in good hands!
One of the kids asked me what advice I have for someone who wants to be a CEO one day. And I told her: Follow your passion. That’s what I did. And it’s what led me to Ford.
I’ve loved cars for as long as I can remember. My parents called me “Jimmy Car-Car,” and my passion for cars has defined my life and driven me throughout my career – from rebuilding car engines at 14, to what I do today. While our industry has changed dramatically, I feel more passionate than ever.
When I first joined Ford in 2007 – long before I became CEO – it felt like I was finally home.
That’s what “Bring Your Child to Work Day” is about at Ford. We hope the youngest members of the Ford family feel a passion for what we do every day. We want them to see what their parents do, feel a sense of pride, and think, “I want to do that, too.”
So, last Thursday was a great day here at Ford. I hope the memories that were created will lead the next generation of Ford talent home. Just like it did for me. And who knows, maybe one of those bright young kids might even be the future CEO of Ford.