Ford opens Atlanta Research And Innovation Center to accelerate digital transformation

The Ford Atlanta Research and Innovation Center (FARIC) is being opened by the Ford Motor Company to advance a digital transformation within the company, in terms of software-led connected vehicles, artificial intelligence and university research.

FARIC is part of a network of Ford research and development facilities in Tel Aviv, Israel, and Palo Alto, California, each dedicated to the research and development of automated, connected and electrified transportation. In its new Atlanta, USA, location, Ford aims to develop a pipeline of software experts from a variety of backgrounds.

The new 24,000ft2 FARIC facility is located on Atlanta’s Upper West Side (889 Howell Mill Road NW), and benefits from an open and accessible floor plan for individual work or to foster team collaboration. Within FARIC there are focus spaces, sit/stand desks and phone booth-style workstations. Furthermore, FARIC features conference rooms and even a garage space for physical problem solving.

“Ford is transitioning from a traditional automotive company to a digital products and services company driven by software innovation,” said Jim Buczkowski, executive director for Ford Research, Advanced Engineering. “There’s a high demand for tech talent across industries, and we have an opportunity to create non-traditional career pathways to attract and develop the expertise needed to stay competitive.”

“Atlanta continues to attract and grow tech companies and startups; and we continue to attract a desirable talent base — particularly for Black tech talent. We look forward to this partnership with the Ford Atlanta Research and Innovation Center, which has the potential to help us grow an even more robust and diverse pipeline,” said Atlanta’s Mayor Andre Dickens.

“We have learned so much over the last few years about flexible workspace and its power to inspire employees,” said Jennifer Kolstad, global design and brand director, Ford. “We’ve created an environment at FARIC that allows individuals and teams to choose what kind of environment is most efficient in the moment.”