McCurdy named president of auto manufacturing alliance

The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers on December 19 announced that Dave McCurdy will become the new alliance president beginning February 12, 2007. 

“We are grateful to have someone of Dave’s experience, stature and knowledge of Washington issues lead our association at such an important time in history,” said Jim Press, president of Toyota Motor North America and chairman of the alliance. “Dave is a proven bipartisan leader who has demonstrated his ability to build consensus and cooperation on key policy issues.  We look forward to working with him."

McCurdy is currently president and CEO of the Electronic Industries Alliance and a former Democratic Congressman from Oklahoma. He will replace Fred Webber, who is retiring after serving as alliance president and CEO since 2004.

“I’m excited to be working in an industry with so much innovation, advanced technology and that plays an integral part of our society,” said McCurdy. “I look forward to addressing the challenges and opportunities facing this great industry.”

McCurdy has served as president of the Arlington-based EIA since 1998. As president, he helped promote the market development and competitiveness of the U.S. high-tech industry through domestic and international policy efforts for EIA’s nearly 1,300 member companies.  During his distinguished career, McCurdy has served as chairman and CEO of McCurdy Group L.L.C. of Washington, consulting and investment practice. He served 14 years in the U.S. House of Representatives from the fourth district of Oklahoma from 1981 to 1995. 

While in Congress, he served as chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, chairman of the Military Installation and facilities Subcommittee of the House Armed Services Committee and chairman of the Transportation, Aviation and Materials Subcommittee of the Science and Space Committee.

“I’m proud of this industry’s achievements and its commitment toward fuel efficiency, safety and advanced technology,” said Webber. “I’m delighted to have had the opportunity to work with the leaders of this important industry.”

The alliance is a trade association of nine car and light truck manufacturers including BMW Group, DaimlerChrysler, Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Mazda, Mitsubishi Motors, Porsche, Toyota and Volkswagen.

The National Association of Manufacturers welcomed the appointment of McCurdy as president.

 

“Congressman McCurdy is a wonderful choice to lead the alliance,” said NAM president John Engler. “His congressional leadership and extensive experience with economic and business issues will be a significant asset for the manufacturing community. As a well-respected lawmaker in the House and as a past president of the Electronic Industries Alliance, McCurdy also brings significant insider knowledge and expertise to his position. The NAM looks forward to working with him on important policy issues, and helping to further the cause of manufacturing in America."