David Fernandes, of Mazda Toyota Manufacturing, is the inaugural recipient of the William E. Gaskin Ally Award, presented by the Women in Manufacturing Summit. The award recognizes individuals who have produced tangible results with positive impacts in diversity.
Fernandes has more than 25 years with Toyota, most recently as senior vice president of Mazda Toyota Manufacturing in Huntsville. Prior to his current role, he has served as president at Toyota Mississippi and Toyota Motor Manufacturing Alabama.
“To be recognized for my own accomplishments is certainly gratifying, but to be recognized for how I’ve contributed to the successes of those around me is a truly humbling and rewarding experience,” said Fernandes. “Throughout my career, I have witnessed the strength, resiliency and compassion that women bring to a team — and I have never backed down from advocating for someone who deserved their seat at the table. It is truly an honor to be part of this very first group of allies receiving this award.”
Fernandes joined Toyota in 1998 as a group leader at the manufacturing plant in West Virginia. He has worked at six different manufacturing plants, as well as a global assignment in South Africa.