Rivian, a trailblazer in the realm of motor vehicle manufacturing, is not just reshaping the future of mobility but also championing diversity and inclusion in an industry long dominated by traditional norms. As the automotive landscape evolves, Rivian stands out not only for its innovative vehicles but also for its commitment to fostering a culture of creativity and inclusivity. At the heart of Rivian’s success lies a diverse team of visionaries, including Julliana Cho, Lead Exterior Designer for R3, whose journey exemplifies the company’s dedication to breaking barriers and pushing boundaries.
Julliana Cho’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and unwavering determination. As one of the few female exterior designers in the automotive industry, she defied stereotypes and charted her own path to success. From a young age, Julliana’s interest in various creative fields laid the foundation for her eventual career in car design.
It was the allure of the design process, with its seamless integration of different creative disciplines, that captured her imagination and propelled her towards her dream job.
Throughout her career, Julliana’s journey has taken her across continents, from internships at prestigious companies like Porsche to full-time roles at BMW, Mercedes Benz, and Kia. Her experiences living and working in multiple countries have endowed her with a global perspective and a multicultural identity that enriches her approach to design. It was this rich tapestry of experiences that ultimately led Julliana to Rivian, where she found a company whose vision and philosophy resonated deeply with her own.
The past three years at Rivian have been nothing short of transformative for Julliana. Joining a team of passionate individuals, she found herself immersed in a culture of collaboration, innovation, and shared purpose. Together, they embarked on the formidable task of designing R3, Rivian’s latest offering, with a focus on simplicity, versatility, and joy.
The process was challenging, requiring the team to strike a delicate balance between maintaining Rivian’s iconic design language and infusing it with fresh new elements.
For Julliana and her colleagues, the unveiling of R3 marked a culmination of months of hard work and dedication. Driving the vehicle out on stage at Rivian’s launch event was a moment of immense pride and satisfaction, made all the more special by the overwhelmingly positive reception it received from the world. The feedback they received served as validation of their efforts and fueled their determination to push the boundaries of automotive design even further.
Outside of work, Julliana finds solace in nature, often indulging in off-roading, hiking, and exploring the scenic landscapes of California. Her love for classical piano serves as a testament to her multifaceted personality and her ability to find inspiration in the world around her.
As she reflects on her journey, Julliana offers words of encouragement to other women and girls aspiring to pursue careers in car design. She urges them not to be afraid to break into a male-dominated field and emphasizes the importance of their unique perspectives in driving innovation and excellence.
Rivian’s commitment to diversity and inclusion extends beyond its workforce to its broader mission of revolutionizing the automotive industry. By championing diversity in all its forms, Rivian not only cultivates a more inclusive work environment but also ensures that its products reflect the diverse needs and experiences of its customers.
As the company continues to push the boundaries of innovation and creativity, it remains steadfast in its belief that diversity is not just a strength but a fundamental driver of progress and success.
