History & Georgia Tech

Georgia Tech graduates and professors have made a significant impact on the field of transportation design and engineering. The Georgia Tech Auto Show seeks to promote the public’s knowledge of this contribution through the guest speakers at the show and featuring them on this site. Our hats are off to those in the Georgia Tech community that have made noteworthy contributions to the field.

Michael J. “Micky” Bly

Micky Bly is executive director of Vehicle Engineering’s Global Electrical Systems, Hybrids, Electric Vehicles and Batteries for General Motors. Named to this position in October 2009, Bly oversees the company’s development of hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles, which includes the Chevrolet Volt’s vehicle integration and battery development.

Crissy Rodriguez

One of Ford Motor Company’s engineers in Crissy Rodriguez. She graduated from Georgia Tech’s mech eng program in 1995.

She remembers working on the family’s mini cooper but her real start in automotive industry came when she was president of the student chapter of the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers. Ford Motor Company was a sponsor of that group, and offered her a scholarship for her master’s degree. She has now worked on projects including the new Ford 500, and the Taurus. Read more about Crissy.

Joe Foster

Joe Foster drives Porsche racing cars in the ALMS and Grand Am series. Foster graduated with a masters degree in mechanical engineering from Georgia Tech. Joe also teaches driving safety and was recently written up for it.

Bryan Nesbitt

Bryan Nesbitt was a student at Georgia Tech for his freshman year in the Program of Industrial Design in the College of Architecture. He later transferred to Art Center College of Design in California before being hired by Daimler-Chrysler. He designed the PT Cruiser there. Bryan presently works for General Motors as the Executive Director of GM Design Europe overseeing the new shapes of car brands such as SAAB and Opel.

Mel Beardsley

Something about Mel Beardsley.