GM executive to lead Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research

A seasoned auto industry executive with more than three decades of experience will lead one of the world’s foremost automotive research campuses into an exciting new era of research and collaboration.

Frederick M. Cartwright, who spent 30 years in the automotive industry with General Motors, has been appointed executive director of the award-winning Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research. His appointment is effective April 1.

Cartwright’s extensive experience includes design and development of advanced powertrains for commercial and military vehicles, management of GM’s hybrid bus program and numerous new business-development initiatives involving other auto manufacturers.

Among other executive positions, he previously was vice president for alliances and new business development for General Motors Europe in Rüsselsheim, Germany. Most recently he was director of new business initiatives based in Detroit.

In this role, he was responsible for development of new technology and product-based initiatives, including establishment of multiple alliances. He has a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology and a Master of Business Administration degree from Butler University.

Cartwright’s industry-centric experience will help steer CU-ICAR to a new chapter of growth and excellence, said John Kelly, Clemson University vice president for economic development. He will prove an exciting and valuable member of the team, he said.

“Since opening five years ago, CU-ICAR has become an international model for economic development,” Kelly said. “The campus has an enviable list of transport-related industry partners. With Fred at the helm, those relationships will only strengthen and more are sure to join.

“Fred’s appointment will not only further CU-ICAR’s mission, but help enhance the reputation of Upstate South Carolina as the go-to place for business,” Kelly said.

The campus has garnered more than $250 million in public and private investments and created more than 700 jobs. CU-ICAR boasts 19 campus partners and every year hosts hundreds of guests from around the world.

Cartwright said his focus will be to maintain momentum.

“CU-ICAR has a talented and dedicated team that has positioned the campus as a world leader in transportation research,” Cartwright said. “Its reputation for economic development and automotive research is known far beyond South Carolina’s Upstate.

“Its list of partners, from BMW Manufacturing Co. and Michelin North America Inc. to Sage Automotive Interiors and, most recently, EcoDual Inc., speak to the high regard CU-ICAR’s students, faculty and staff are held. I am eager to start work and excited to become part of such an energetic business community.”

Interim CU-ICAR director John Boyette said Cartwright will make Greenville his home and he quickly will become an asset to the community. The region enjoys a vibrant business climate, which is vital to its success, he said.

“Fred can draw on a wealth of experience from working relationships around the world,” Boyette said. “What he brings to the table will benefit us all.”