Honoring GM’s Contributions to WWII on Rosie the Riveter Day
For more than a century, General Motors (GM) has harnessed its engineering expertise and production capabilities to support the American military, from converting manufacturing operations to produce trucks and tanks during wartime to modern military vehicle innovations through GM Defense. Throughout history, GM’s commitment to national defense has been evident in its ability to pivot operations in times of crisis, none more notable than during World War II.
In recognition of the pivotal role women played in the war effort, the U.S. Senate designated March 21 as Rosie the Riveter Day in 2017. This day honors the dedication, resilience, and sacrifices of American women who stepped into industrial roles traditionally held by men who had left for military service. The iconic image of Rosie the Riveter became a symbol of empowerment, representing the millions of women who contributed to the war effort through factory and industrial work. These women proved that they were more than capable of handling roles that had previously been closed to them, paving the way for future generations of women in manufacturing and engineering.
This past week, GM participated in a ceremony in Lansing, Michigan, to commemorate Rosie the Riveter Day. The event highlighted the indispensable role women played in GM factories in Lansing and across the United States during World War II. In Michigan alone, more than 200,000 women entered the workforce to help build bombers, tanks, and munitions. Their determination and resilience continue to inspire future generations, seen today in workshops, factories, and STEM education programs that encourage young women to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and manufacturing.
During World War II, GM made monumental contributions to the war effort by engineering and manufacturing vehicles, components, and weaponry, particularly in its home state of Michigan. Nearly all GM plants were converted to support military production, with 17 of the 18 Chevrolet plants shifting operations to produce wartime goods. GM’s production was so extensive that the company described it as “an avalanche of weapons,” setting a goal of producing 10% of all war material manufactured in metal during the war. This extraordinary output underscored GM’s importance as a key player in the Allied victory.
The Milford Proving Ground, GM’s premier vehicle testing facility, played a critical role in developing and testing U.S. Army tanks and other military transport vehicles during the war. Engineers and technicians at the facility worked tirelessly to ensure the reliability and effectiveness of military vehicles before they were deployed on the battlefield.
One of the most significant contributions to the war effort came from GM’s Cadillac division, which began employing women in factory roles in April 1942. By 1944, nearly 41% of Cadillac’s workforce was composed of women, demonstrating the essential role they played in maintaining and increasing production levels during the war. These women, many of whom had never worked in manufacturing before, quickly adapted and excelled in their roles, proving their skill and efficiency in producing military vehicles and components.
GM’s former Oldsmobile division, founded in Lansing in 1897, also made significant contributions to the war effort. The division produced 48 million rounds of military ammunition, 140,000 aircraft machine guns, 350,000 high-precision aircraft engine machine parts, and 175 million pounds of forgings for military trucks, tanks, guns, and aircraft. This immense production output underscored GM’s capability and commitment to supplying the military with critical resources needed for victory.
The impact of Rosie the Riveter and the women who answered the call to serve in manufacturing remains an enduring legacy. Hundreds gathered at the Capital Region International Airport in Lansing on Friday to celebrate Michigan’s third annual Rosie the Riveter Day. This event was not only a tribute to the women who worked in wartime production but also an acknowledgment of their lasting contributions to manufacturing and gender equality in the workforce.
GM maintains a significant presence in Lansing, with nearly 5,000 active employees working at two assembly plants, two stamping plants, and a redistribution center. Over the past decade, GM has invested $2 billion in Lansing, reinforcing its commitment to the region and to the legacy of innovation and production that was cemented during World War II.
At the Rosie the Riveter Day celebration, Darci Marcum, who leads manufacturing quality engineering and product quality improvement for GM North America, delivered remarks emphasizing the company’s ongoing pride in its wartime contributions and the role of women in manufacturing.
“General Motors’ contributions to World War II – much of which was done right here in Lansing – continue to be a point of pride for our company today,” she said. “It’s great to see the Rosies here with us today – thank you for your incredible and lasting contributions. You paved the path for so many women to find meaningful work in manufacturing. It’s an honor.”
The event served as a poignant reminder of the importance of recognizing and celebrating the contributions of women in manufacturing, both past and present. The resilience and determination displayed by the women who stepped into these roles during World War II laid the foundation for greater opportunities for women in the workforce today. Their legacy continues to inspire new generations of engineers, technicians, and factory workers who are shaping the future of manufacturing and innovation.
As GM continues to push forward with advancements in automotive and military technology, the lessons of World War II remain ingrained in the company’s DNA. The ability to adapt, innovate, and rise to meet challenges defines GM’s legacy, a legacy that was strengthened by the contributions of the Rosie the Riveters of the past. By honoring their efforts and sacrifices, GM reaffirms its commitment to supporting the workforce of the future and upholding the values that helped drive America to victory during one of the most critical times in history.
