Akio Toyoda, Chairman of Toyota Motor Corporation, was honored with the 2025 Industry Leadership Award by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) Foundation. The recognition took place during the 27th Annual SAE Foundation Celebration in Pontiac, Michigan. This event highlights the achievements and contributions of industry leaders who motivate future innovators.
Toyoda has played a key role in Toyota’s global leadership in mobility, having guided the company through significant technological changes as President and CEO from 2009 to 2023. His leadership continues to influence Toyota’s dedication to innovation, sustainability, and workforce development.
To mark this occasion, Toyota Motor North America is donating $1 million to support SAE’s A World in Motion (AWIM) program. This initiative introduces students to STEM education and essential skills for future careers in mobility. The program aligns with the Toyota USA Foundation’s Driving Possibilities initiative aimed at Pre-K to 12th grade schools across the U.S., focusing on STEM interest, career readiness, and community engagement.
The collaboration between AWIM and Driving Possibilities will provide STEM programming to nearly 24,000 students and training for approximately 700 teachers within existing Driving Possibilities communities.
“Mr. Toyoda’s passion for driving excellence extends beyond the automotive industry; his commitment to education and Toyota’s investment in STEM programs like AWIM will leave a lasting impact on students and future engineers,” said Jamie Ferguson, executive director of SAE Foundation & STEM Learning.
Toyota has been integral to North America’s cultural fabric for nearly seven decades, promoting sustainable mobility through its brands. It employs about 64,000 people across North America involved in designing and assembling vehicles at its manufacturing plants. By spring 2025, its North Carolina plant will begin producing automotive batteries for electrified vehicles.
For further details about Toyota’s initiatives, visit www.ToyotaNewsroom.com.
