Life at OPENLANE Black History Month Edition: Q&A with Michi Eaton, Regional HR Manager
This Black History Month, we’re proud to feature Michi Eaton, Regional HR Manager at OPENLANE. Learn about Michi’s journey at OPENLANE, her involvement in the BLK@OPENLANE employee resource group, and her family ties to the Civil Rights movement.
What has your journey at OPENLANE looked like?
I started with AutoVIN, OPENLANE’s vehicle inspections subsidiary, over nine years ago as an on-site HR generalist. Throughout my journey, and as business needs shifted, I’ve adapted to many changes along the way and focused on supporting my teams through it all. Currently, I support the OPENLANE US Marketplace Operations teams as a Regional HR Manager. I truly value the relationships I’ve built, and I’m excited to see what we’ll accomplish together.
What is something you are most proud of during your time with OPENLANE?
This past fall, I had an incredible opportunity to represent OPENLANE as a member of the Women of Color Automotive Network (WOCAN). I graduated from the inaugural WOCAN Leadership Academy powered by SOLERA. The six-month program was composed of a group of dynamic females who held various roles within their organizations across the auto industry. We fostered an open and authentic environment where together we developed an essential leadership tool box. This experience will undoubtedly assist me in navigating challenges and creating positive change in my professional and personal relationships.
What do you like the most about working at OPENLANE?
The people, hands down. I feel fortunate to work alongside such a talented and unique group of individuals, from my teammates, peers and leadership team. Every day brings new opportunities for learning and growth, and I truly appreciate that no two days are alike.
What is the best career advice you’ve ever heard?
I’ve heard a lot of great advice throughout my career as well as given quite a bit of advice, but my favorite is, “Do the work. Lead with your gifts and walk in your purpose. Trust yourself!”
What does Black History Month mean to you personally?
Black history isn’t confined to a single month for me; it’s woven into the fabric of my everyday life. I believe it’s crucial that we all do our part to remember the past, take ownership of the present, and actively shape the future.
What is your favorite part of Black History Month?
My favorite part about Black History Month is getting to share my family’s history with my children and grandchildren. I especially love to tell the story of my grandparents, who were well-respected business owners in Northeast Ohio. Their journey began with a courageous decision to relocate from Montgomery, Alabama, and build a new life for their young growing family. Through hard work and determination, they instilled in their children the values of kindness, respect and acceptance. My grandparents’ impact extended far beyond their family and they became the honorary godparents to many children in the Hough neighborhood. They were actively involved in the Civil Rights movement and even had the honor of welcoming Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. into their community as he visited to speak with local residents. Their legacy continues to inspire me.
Tell us about the work that BLK@OPENLANE does and the importance of this group to you.
BLK@OPENLANE, one of eight employee resource groups at OPENLANE, works very hard to create an environment of authenticity and inclusivity. Everyone is welcome to participate and contribute, and our team meetings are filled with meaningful discussions about the experiences of Black individuals in the workplace. Every voice is heard, valued, and respected. We focus on relevant topics and events for members and allies. The leaders consistently go above and beyond the call of duty to source and invite special guest speakers to share their unique stories and life experiences. We also incorporate fun activities like holiday events, Black History Month movie and book clubs, and so much more. It is truly a pleasure and an honor to be part of an organization like OPENLANE that believes in and supports diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging.
