Macomb Community College

Benigno "Ben" Cruz serves as Director of the Center for Advanced Automotive Technology (CAAT) at Macomb Community College, where he leads initiatives focused on automotive product development, testing, validation, and workforce development. In this role, Ben works closely with industry, education, and community partners to strengthen Michigan's talent pipeline and support the evolving needs of the advanced mobility and automotive sectors.

Prior to joining Macomb Community College, Ben built a distinguished career with General Motors, where he served as an Engineering Group Manager and held a variety of engineering leadership roles. His extensive experience in automotive engineering, powertrain systems, product development, and vehicle validation has provided him with deep technical expertise and a strong understanding of the industry's transformation toward advanced mobility technologies.

Throughout his career, Ben has been committed to bridging the gap between education and industry, helping prepare the next generation of engineers, technicians, and mobility professionals for high-demand careers in the automotive sector.

As a member of the MAGMA Governing Board, Ben contributes valuable expertise in automotive technology, workforce development, and industry-academic collaboration to advance Michigan's leadership in mobility innovation and economic growth.

Nelson Kelly, Ph.D. is Assistant Director of the Center for Advanced Automotive Technology (CAAT) at Macomb Community College, where he works with educators, industry leaders, and government partners to develop the workforce skills needed for the next generation of vehicles. His work focuses on preparing automotive technicians and technology professionals to understand and support increasingly complex vehicle systems, including electrified powertrains, connected and automated vehicles, and advanced materials.

A passionate educator and mentor, Dr. Kelly has served as an adjunct faculty member in Macomb Community College's Electric Vehicle Development Program since its inception, helping develop curriculum and teach courses focused on electric propulsion systems, advanced energy storage, motors and controls, and vehicle data acquisition. His commitment to STEM education was recognized with a National STEM Consortium Teaching Award for developing and launching new electric vehicle technology courses.

Prior to joining Macomb Community College, Dr. Kelly spent more than 14 years at General Motors as a research scientist and staff researcher, leading groundbreaking work in vehicle emissions, hydrogen fuel systems, renewable energy integration, fuel cell technologies, and battery electric vehicle charging systems. His research produced numerous patents, publications, and innovative technologies, including advanced solar-powered hydrogen fueling systems and direct solar charging solutions for electric vehicles.

Dr. Kelly holds a Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry from Penn State University and a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Miami University. As a member of the MAGMA Governing Board, he brings extensive expertise in automotive technology, alternative energy systems, STEM education, and workforce development to help strengthen Michigan's leadership in advanced mobility and transportation innovation.

Bio generated with AI from LinkedIn profile information and reviewed by WIN staff.