The Brother That Helped Save Chrysler cont'd
J: What are your current vehicle projects? Are there any projects forthcoming with your sister division, Mercedes?
RG : I was recently promoted to vice president of the Jeep, truck and component studios, meaning I work with the design teams that create those vehicles as well as the components (radios, vents, AC) that are in those and others. I can't discuss future products in any of those areas for competitive reasons, but I can say it's very exciting to work in areas that have been so critical historically with our company's success. Jeep is an icon; the Ram Trucks, Durangos and Nitro are part of a change in how trucks are used and perceived. It's a very exciting time. As to Mercedes, we do throw ideas back and forth but we are very aware that brands must stay separated and pure. My primary work is always the Chrysler group - Jeep, Dodge and Chrysler (products).
J: Is there anything in particular that helps to influence you when you're in the design studio: culture, music, video games, politics or sports?
RG: To a designer, you are a sponge of influence. You absorb everything from buildings to furniture to fashion to products. I'm a huge reader of all types of magazines and you look at the ads, the products and use that (whether you do it knowing you are doing it or not!) to apply it to your work. We are constantly learning and constantly improving.
J: Like Tiger Woods has done for golf, you have exposed minorities to another field in the automotive industry. With that said, what would you suggest to minorities that are interested in designing vehicles for a major automaker?
RG: Honestly, my advice first is that there are no such things as barriers. I thought there would be when I first started but there really aren't. If anything, your color makes you that much more noticeable. It can be to your advantage in some way. And of course, identifying the right design school. There are four or five design schools across the U.S. that has an automotive or transportation design program. Chrysler group recruits from several of these schools each year.
J: When people of color realize that you were responsible for shaping the design of the 300, can you think of any memorable comment or reaction you would like to share with our readers?
RG: Wow, I've had several great moments where I've had to pinch myself. However, one of those first moments was when I met Matt Frazier, a young high school student from New Jersey . Matt and his parents arranged to meet me during a break while I was working on another project in New York . On the streets of New York , he showed me his portfolio; we talked about car designs and his future. It was awesome to see this young brother so serious and excited about car design. It reminded me so much of myself at that age. At the same time, it was very humbling and overwhelming to be in that moment because his eyes looked up to me like a hero. It was unforgettable! more>
