b'GE T TING TO KNOW THE CEOTatsuya Takahashi, SCAEUS CEOQ: You began your career in the automotive industry. What wasPresidio, we aimed to offer solutions it about this business that excited you and motivated you to putthatcustomers had not encountered yourself into the drivers seat, so to speak? before through their existing part-A: I started in automotive in different functions, such as the tradingners. Our goal is to provide unique business of auto components and production equipment. Overengineering solutions that address the years, I have worked on bridging gaps, be it cultural, economic,their specific needs and challenges.technical, political, or organizational. The opportunity to eliminate or minimize these gaps and contribute to enriching lives and im- Q: What excites you the mostproving companies is what truly fascinates me and keeps me drivenabout SC Automotive Engineering to work for Sumitomo. U.S. going forward?A: The automotive industry is undergoing a major transformation, Q: What were the new challenges you faced when you took theand we are at the forefront of this revolution. The opportunity to reins as CEO of SCAEUS? leverage our network and experiences, and collaborate with other A: The new challenges revolved around adapting to the specificdepartments and industries excites me the most. The combina-needs and demands of the American customers and industry.tion of advanced automotive vehicles, efficient train commuting, While I had experience with Japans challenges and jobs, the U.S.eco-friendly solutions, and other mobility advancements give us a market presented different challenges, and as a startup company,path for the future that is very exciting.we had to navigate these challenges with a smaller team and take on greater responsibilities. Q: What does a typical day for the SCAEUS CEO look like?A: My day typically starts early, involves reading articles and exten-Q: Why was 2022 the right moment to launch SC Automotivesive communication with colleagues, both in the U.S. and globally, Engineering US? as well as staying in touch with partners and customers. We have A: We had success in Japan bridging customer challenges andagile meetings, troubleshooting sessions, and continuously seek providing solutions. With the goal of deploying our experiencesnew opportunities. Its a fast-paced environment that requires quick to the United States, we aimed to globalize these experiences anddecision-making and flexibility.leverage Sumitomo Corporations global network. This involved partnering with not only Japanese but also local American, global,Q: Lastly, what can you tell us about the long-awaited flying cars?and subsidiary companies to offer engineering solutions tailored toA: (Laughs) Flying cars do exist and everyone is getting ready, but the specific challenges faced by our customers, and the time wassafety and sustainability are top priorities, so we continue to develop right to make that leap. technology and explore other mobility solutions. Working on the challenges in society is also one of the most exciting parts of this Q: Why did SC Automotive Engineering U.S. focus on engineer- business. From that point of view, flying carsthat is, the tech for ing as its main endeavor? flying vehicles, autonomous buses and trucks, and robots are A: Our main tool is engineering, and our hypothesis was that evendefinitely on the way, and we are excited to be working with such in the largest market, there would be numerous gaps that we couldproblem solvers. The future holds great promise for the automotive address. Leveraging our experiences in Japan and the global industry and the connected world of mobility.network of Sumitomo Corporation, including subsidiaries like importance of exploring ideas from other industries; collaboration with sectors like aerospace, logistics, and real estate allows SCAEUS to bring fresh perspectives and innovation to the automotive landscape.SC Automotive Engineering US is revolutionizing the automotive industry by providing innovative solutions and driving sustainability. Through their commitment to engineering excellence, collaborative partnerships, and a global presence, SCAEUS is shaping a future that is safer, more efficient, and environmentally sustainable. As they continue to pioneer groundbreaking projects and embrace the challenges of an evolving industry, this new company is redefining the possibilities of mobility along the way, and Isaacs said the competi- by managing and integrating the expertise and project resources tion should be ready for what the company has in store. from both internal and external parties to create truly unique solutions SCAEUS brings project management to a whole new level, he said,that other Engineering Solution Providerssimply cannot.Sumitomo Corporation of Americas 9'