Head of National Minority Auto Dealers Group Speaks With FSU Students About the Future of the Auto Industry
Dec 10, 2021 12:00 PM
Damon Lester, president of the National Association of Minority Automobile Dealers, recently visited with Frostburg State University students in the College of Business (marketing, finance, accounting) and College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (computer science, physics, chemistry, biology) to discuss electric vehicles and the future of the automotive industry. Lester was joined in his presentation by John Seaton, area general manager of Nissan Northeast Region.
During his presentation, Lester, owner/CEO of the Nissan of Bowie, discussed electric automobiles, auto careers, how the robust auto manufacturing sector is vital to a healthy U.S. economy and the auto industry’s highest ranking in engineering employment density.
Lester also spoke about connected cars and work that is under way, including autonomous, or self-driving, vehicles. Dr. Jamil Abdo, chair of the FSU Department of Physics and Engineering, and FSU students are currently conducting research on light detection and ranging (LiDAR) performance assessment for autonomous vehicles.
While on campus, Lester was presented with a Certificate of Appreciation by FSU President Ronald Nowaczyk in recognition of his innovative leadership in supporting FSU to advance clean energy and initiating the use of electric vehicles.
After meeting with students, Lester had a luncheon meeting with Nowaczyk; Seaton; Dr. Michael Mathias, FSU interim provost; Dr. Boyce C. Williams, dean of the College of Education; Dr. Sudhir Singh, dean of the College of Business; Dr. Kim Hixson, dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences; Al Delia, vice president for Regional Development at FSU; Jennifer Walsh, executive director of The Greater Cumberland Committee; and Abdo.
“This was a wonderful opportunity for our students to hear from an industry leader about available career opportunities as the automotive industry moves toward the future,” said Williams.