As the conversation around workplace diversity, equity and inclusion continues to evolve, one leader is working to ensure lasting progress in the auto industry. In today’s episode of Diversity in Automotive, Kathy Gilbert, head of DEI Strategy and Partnerships at CDK Global and founding board member of Women in Automotive, discusses the work she’s doing to transform the automotive industry.
Gilbert recently celebrated her 31st year in the automotive and technology industry and has been a vocal champion for diversity, equity and inclusion throughout her career. In her new role as Head of DEI Strategy and Partnerships, she’s expanding her impact by leading CDK Global’s DEI efforts from a global perspective. Her focus includes supporting the minority dealer community and women in the retail automotive space.
While the automotive industry has made significant strides in raising awareness around DEI, Gilbert emphasizes that there’s still work to be done. Recent political discourse has prompted many organizations to revisit and redefine what DEI means within their companies. Gilbert notes that most businesses aren’t abandoning their DEI efforts—they’re simply adjusting them to better align with today’s climate. She also points out that studies consistently show companies benefit when diverse talent and perspectives are included.
CDK Global exemplifies that mindset. In 2023, the company launched an executive DEI counsel to provide a clear vision, governance and integration of DEI initiatives across the organization. Gilbert began as the co-chair and now leads the counsel.
"You can't drive an inclusive organization if you don't have the right people speaking at all levels. It isn't just one group, it isn't just one person—it takes everybody."
The group includes directors and above from across all departments, ensuring broad representation. What truly sets it apart, Gilbert says, is the involvement of C-suite executives who dedicate their time and support to the counsel’s work.
Beyond CDK, Gilbert also serves as a founding board member for Women In Automotive (WIA), established in 2014. The idea for the organization came to fruition when she and her fellow co-founders noticed a distinct lack of female representation at industry conferences. WIA’s mission is to recruit, retain, develop, mentor and advocate for women in the automotive sector.
Now, WIA is exploring a partnership with the Women of Color Automotive Network (WOCAN), an advocacy group focused on supporting underrepresented women, particularly women of color.
To women considering a career in automotive, Gilbert encourages them to own and embrace their unique perspectives. Too often, she says, women and people of color enter rooms quietly, observing from the sidelines. She urges them instead to speak up, contribute and trust in the value of their experiences. The more inclusive the perspectives, the better the outcomes.
When it comes to implementing DEI, Gilbert stresses that organizations must go beyond “checking a box.” True progress, she says, begins with kindness and a commitment to fostering a culture where everyone feels they belong.
She urges leaders to evaluate how talent decisions are being made. Are candidates assessed based on merit? Are employees made to feel respected, safe and welcome to be their authentic selves?
Gilber is optimistic about what lies ahead. She sees promise in the next generation, who enter the workforce with fewer restrictions and a more open mindset—largely shaped by social media and digital connectivity. They bring fresh energy, speak their mind and have a strong desire to drive meaningful change.
What fuels Gilbert’s mission is her lived experience, not only as a woman, but as a minority. While she doesn’t shy away from entering difficult spaces, she remains committed to making them more inclusive for those who come next.
