Ed Welburn's Auto Gallery: After 44 Years, GM's 1st Black Designer Set To Retire Soon

Welburn is in his corporate office.

Welburn discussing a clay model with one of his colleagues.

Welburn with other designers sculpting the Buick Rivera in the late 80s.

Welburn introducing the Buick Riviera Concept Coupe in Shanghai in 2007.

Welburn with other GM executives opening the Korea design center in 2014.

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The 1958 Cadillac Cyclone at the Philadelphia Auto Show inspired Welburn to pursue automotive design.

Ed Welburn, GM's first black designer, who is set to retire on July 1 has been celebrated inside and outside the industry for his extraordinary achievements. He has led GM Design since 2003, and globally since 2005, the first African American from any automaker to do so.

“GM Design is among the most respected and sought-after organizations in the industry because of Ed’s leadership. He nurtured a creative, inclusive and customer-focused culture among our designers that has strengthened our global brands,” said Mary Barra, GM chairman and CEO.

Under Welburn’s leadership, GM built a network of 10 GM design centers in seven countries. His team of more than 2,500 creative men and women – based in the U.S., Germany, South Korea, China, Australia, Brazil and India – collaborate on the design development of every GM concept and production car, truck and crossover globally.