Thurston Adams

About Thurston Adams

Many of my childhood memories are related to the automotive industry. After working my way up from \'floor sweeper\' to \'stock boy\' to \'delivery driver\' I eventually became CEO of my family\'s auto parts company. This journey taught me many invaluable lessons, such as coworkers are the best teachers and always listen to your customers. And when you’re in charge, no job is too small, and no obstacle is too large. Importantly, always give your best.With an innate understanding of the automotive industry, a few years ago I foresaw the industry transition from steel and wheels to software and silicon. This led me learn about data science and eventually co-found an automotive tech start-up called xMotion Technologies, which develops connected vehicle technology. With the help of Formula 1 engineers and a couple PhDs, I developed an innovative method that applies AI & ML techniques to organize on-board vehicle data (telematics) with off-board data such as vehicle specifications and maintenance calendars. The product, xMotion SMRT RUL algorithms is now being utilized in next-generation automotive platforms across the world.As I see it, we need to fix the way we fix cars.This includes fixing our supply chain. Since it’s essentially a bunch of supertankers crossing oceans, being cross-docked, and commercially freighted around the country. All before the part is installed. After the pandemic lead times have been further strained due to things like port closures and dock strikes. That’s counterintuitive to anyone that understands lean principles and market dynamics.For that reason, I joined a global Tier 1 manufacturer, American Axle Manufacturing. This is a company I\'ve known about my entire life, and always had the utmost respect for. AAM is leading the field in driveline R&D for electrification, hybrid, and ICE vehicles. Therefore, I\'m excited to see what we\'ll build together in the years ahead.My entrepreneurial spirit and my passion for the automotive Aftermarket are traits I\'ve had since childhood. Now, as a seasoned automotive executive I channel that energy. This allows me to naturally enjoy the work I do, and accomplish the arduous goals I set.My career path hasn\'t been a straight-line, and I\'m thankful for that. It’s allowed me to meet some pretty incredible people along the way. I\'m grateful for the professional relationships I\'ve built as well as the new ones I will form. If you would like to connect, please do so, and feel free to contact me. I look forward to learning about your story as well.

Experience

1. Head of Aftermarket

   AAM - American Axle & Manufacturing

   Oct 2022 — Present · Scottsdale, AZ, US

   As Head of Aftermarket at American Axle I am responsible for ensuring the successful execution of AAM Aftermarket strategy, including short-and-long range objectives. This includes overseeing the existing portfolio of AAM\'s Aftermarket products, as well as launching new programs for the Aftermarket driveline division.

Education

• University of Washington

  Bachelors, Finance

  2001 — 2005

• New York University

  Msc, Finance

  2006 — 2008

• The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)

  Associates, History of Economic Theory

  2003 — 2003

Skills

• Strategy
• Valuation
• Financial Analysis
• Finance
• Investments
• Management
• Financial Modeling
• Mergers & Acquisitions
• Negotiation
• Portfolio Management