Roland Richardson is a dynamic and seasoned technology leader, coach, and community development advocate with over three decades of experience driving innovation and collaboration across the automotive and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) industries. Based in Detroit, Michigan, Roland brings an exceptional combination of technical expertise, people-centered leadership, and a deep commitment to empowering others—both within engineering teams and in the broader community.
With a career spanning 37 years, Roland’s journey began at Chrysler, where he spent 31 years advancing from hands-on engineering roles to leadership in powertrain system development and engineering team building. His contributions ranged from Engine System Development to Transmission and Driveline Control Systems, consistently serving as a bridge between technical execution and team cohesion. Known for his ability to unify cross-functional teams and foster collaboration, Roland helped drive innovation by aligning diverse perspectives and emphasizing each individual’s strengths.
From 2018 to 2023, Roland served as Manager of Analysis and Validation at Qualcomm, leading all ADAS and autonomous driving software validation efforts for the U.S. market. In this role, he was responsible for ensuring the safety, functionality, and reliability of cutting-edge vehicle technologies—guiding his teams through rigorous analysis while maintaining a sharp focus on team development and personal connection. His success stemmed not just from his technical acumen, but from his passion for people—motivating engineers, building trust, and nurturing a culture of respect and excellence.
What sets Roland apart is his holistic leadership approach. With a Master’s degree in Engineering Management and Marketing from the University of Detroit Mercy and a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Wayne State University, he blends business strategy, engineering insight, and mentorship with equal ease. He has a unique ability to connect deeply with people, leverage differences as strengths, and create teams that thrive not only in delivering results, but in how they work together.
Roland continues to be a trusted mentor and facilitator—guiding aspiring engineers, advocating for inclusive development in Detroit, and using his vast experience to uplift others. Whether he’s advancing ADAS software validation or leading a team-building workshop, Roland’s impact resonates far beyond the technical. He builds communities the same way he builds engineering teams: with persistence, empathy, and a powerful belief in the potential of people working together.
Character
Roland leads with integrity, empathy, and persistence, consistently showing up for his teams and community with a people-first mindset that values trust, respect, and collaboration.
Knowledge
With over three decades of engineering experience in powertrain systems and ADAS software validation, Roland combines deep technical expertise with a strong foundation in engineering management and marketing.
Strategic
He brings a unique ability to align diverse teams around a common purpose, leveraging both technical insights and emotional intelligence to drive innovation, efficiency, and long-term success.
Communication
Roland connects with individuals at every level, fostering open dialogue, listening with intention, and creating spaces where people feel heard, valued, and empowered to contribute.
