CADIA Accelerator Program Overview
Empowering Changemakers Through Two Impactful Courses
The CADIA Accelerator is a transformative professional development initiative tailored for the automotive industry, featuring two distinct tracks designed to advance inclusive leadership and organizational culture: the DEI Certification Program and the ERG Leader Academy. Both courses are offered periodically throughout the year and delivered in a dynamic virtual format.
DEI Certification Program:
A 12-week Course Developing a Foundation for Inclusive Leadership
The DEI Certification Program is a guided, high-impact learning experience that equips professionals across the automotive value chain with the skills, knowledge, and strategies needed to lead inclusively and drive sustainable culture change. Designed for those new to DEI work or seeking to formalize their expertise, the course blends practical application with foundational theory.
Participants will:
- Develop a strong understanding of DEI frameworks and foundational terminology
- Examine the impact of bias, privilege, and identity in the workplace
- Build inclusive communication and psychological safety skills
- Learn to craft and align DEI strategies with business objectives
- Explore metrics and data tools to evaluate and evolve DEI initiatives
- Engage in weekly interactive learning modules and peer collaboration
- Complete a capstone reflection demonstrating practical application
Course Highlights:
- Led by experienced DEI practitioners from the automotive industry
- Case studies tailored to real-world manufacturing and mobility environments
- Action planning and customizable templates to take back to your organization
- Certificate and digital badge awarded upon completion
Ideal For: Managers, team leaders, DEI champions, HR professionals, and anyone seeking to grow their capability in inclusive leadership.
Offered: Planned Kickoff for February 2026
Masterclasses:
- Inclusive Leadership in Action: Dive deep into real-world scenarios and strategies for implementing inclusive leadership practices.
- Advanced DEI Metrics: Learn how to leverage data and analytics to measure and enhance DEI initiatives effectively.
- Dates/timesTBA Fall 2025
ERG Leaders Academy:
A 10-week Training Experience for Automotive Industry Changemakers
The ERG Leader Academy supports those leading Employee Resource Groups in balancing full-time roles with the unique demands of ERG leadership.
Participants will:
- Learn to build a compelling ERG mission and vision
- Develop effective budget planning and resource allocation strategies
- Engage executives and stakeholders to gain support for ERG initiatives
- Plan and execute impactful events that drive engagement
- Utilize AI-enhanced tools for automation, communication, and engagement analysis
- Access plug-and-play templates and communications guides
Course Highlights:
- Weekly 60–75 minute interactive sessions
- Peer coaching, breakout discussions, and expert instruction
- A fully-developed ERG action plan
- Enhanced leadership competencies
- A professional network of peers
- A digital certificate and badge
Ideal for: ERG leaders, DEI champions, HR professionals, and team members responsible for ERGs within the automotive industry, individuals balancing full-time roles with ERG leadership responsibilities, aiming to enhance skills in strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and inclusive leadership.
Offered: Fall 2025
Masterclasses:
- Effective ERG Leadership: Explore best practices for leading successful ERGs and engaging executive sponsors.
- Event Planning and Execution: Gain insights into organizing impactful events that drive engagement and support ERG goals.
- Dates/times TBA Summer 2025
CADIA's Accelerator Program is a resounding success. Just ask our more than 150 graduates!
Testimonials
“The CADIA DEI Accelerator Program and Capstone Project with this amazing cohort reinforced my passion for this work and provided a strong foundation, which I can build upon to support my company’s inclusion, diversity, and sustainability efforts.”
Marilyn McGrone-Conley,
Honda
“It was a really great class. As an ERG leader that works as an Engineering Program Manager I often feel like I am underqualified. This class helped me to see that we are all still learning as the ideas and practices of DE&I are continually changing.”
Julie Williquette,
Vitesco Technologies
“This program was excellent. Really will take these tools and use them for the entirety of my career, regardless of role. Thank you!”
Rosa Samperi,
Holman Enterprises
"I really enjoyed the live sessions and the presenters. They all have excellent knowledge and experience in the D&I field. … I have struggled in the past with excuses like "I'm not an expert in D&E or I don't have formal education on the topic". Now I cannot say that anymore; I'm still not an expert but now I have tools and knowledge thanks to this cohort.”
Jessica Gallegos,
Vitesco Technologies USA
Accelerator Participants Show a 54% Increase in DEI Competency at the Conclusion of the Program
2025 data. Click below for a larger image.
These programs were founded on our belief that DEI champions are stronger together.
Program Benefits
A DEI Community of Practice
An instant and dynamic DEI professional network in the automotive industry.
Access to online collaboration spaces to continue conversations and share resources between sessions and after the program ends.
Practical DEI Knowledge
Structured live sessions to collectively process content through interactive activities, exercises and discussions.
Experienced facilitation by DEI professionals to ensure psychological safety and productive dialogue.
Professional Development
Real-time constructive feedback from peers and experienced DEI professionals.
Practical industry thought leadership and advice from seasoned DEI guest speakers.
The opportunity to work as a team to solve real DEI organizational challenges.