Spotlights & Successes
Shaping the Future of Next-generation Electrical Standards
.jpg?sfvrsn=1140a32a_2 "Photo - Berenice Barrón- Ford Motor Company (1)")
Berenice Barrón has always embraced the idea that collaboration leads to innovation, and that’s an important part of what inspired her to begin volunteering with AIAG.
As an electrical distribution systems supplier technical assistance manager at Ford Motor Company, Barrón spent the past five years on the STA team. In 2022 she joined the team responsible for wiring harness commodity and was faced with the challenge of operating without a consistent standard for OEMs to follow.
That was when she saw the opportunity to collaborate with AIAG, seeking to establish standards not just focused on expectations for wiring harness suppliers on-site but also prioritizing the quality of their products.
“I was motivated by the versatility of the team being created, recognizing the growing need for standards that would benefit not only my company but the automotive industry as a whole,” she says. “With the rapid evolution of electrical applications in the automotive industry, it felt like a pivotal moment to get involved and help shape the future.”
Barrón is particularly proud of her involvement in the CQI-35 project, which she sees as a major step forward for the industry. Together they established foundational manufacturing standards that ensure high-quality wiring harnesses while strengthening collaboration across OEMs and suppliers.
“It truly breaks the mold for how wiring harnesses have been evaluated historically, setting a new standard for the industry,” she says. “This isn’t just a win for my team or the OEMs involved — it’s a victory for the entire automotive sector.”
Beyond the technical impact, volunteering has also provided Barrón with meaningful personal and professional development. Engaging with peers across the industry has expanded her perspective and reinforced the importance of collective problem-solving.
“I’ve been especially impressed by how AIAG coordinates the efforts of everyone involved, ensuring we work together productively — even when it’s a challenge to manage so many voices,” she says. “Their commitment to supporting and working alongside us has been encouraging and energizing.”
Barrón has also found her fellow volunteers’ dedication and positive attitudes to be inspiring — traits she clearly shares.
"Volunteering with AIAG opens your eyes to perspectives you might not have expected and pushes you beyond your comfort zone,” she says. “The opportunity for personal and professional growth is tremendous, and if you’re considering volunteering, I encourage you to seize it.”
