Automotive innovation through open collaboration: momentum builds around open source software as a key driver of efficiency and success Registration is now open for the Eclipse SDV HackFest at HS Esslingen Join OCX from 21-23 April 2026 in Brussels, Belgium
Join the community
Join the community

Recognising excellence in open innovation

Ambassador program

The SDV Ambassador Program recognises community leaders who promote open collaboration, mentor new contributors, and represent SDV at events.

Grow the community. Represent the future. Become an SDV Ambassador.

The Eclipse SDV Ambassador Program empowers passionate community leaders who are helping shape the future of software-defined vehicles. Ambassadors are the bridge between global open source innovation and local ecosystems — speaking at events, mentoring newcomers, organising activities, and helping others find their place in the SDV community. Whether you’re leading from the stage or supporting contributors behind the scenes, SDV Ambassadors are a vital part of our growth and success. The program is now live, and our first cohort of ambassadors is already active!

Meet the ambassadors

Markus Rettstatt

Markus Rettstatt is Vice President Software Defined Car at Mercedes-Benz Tech Innovation (MBTI), the largest software hub of the Mercedes-Benz Group in Germany. He leads the automotive software development stream, shaping the future of in-vehicle software. In addition to his core responsibilities, Markus actively promotes collaboration on non-differentiating software assets in the open source ecosystem. He represents Mercedes-Benz in both the Eclipse SDV Working Group and the VDA Working Group.

Martin Schleicher

Martin Schleicher is an independent consultant focusing on Software Strategy, Business Models and Ecosystem development with more than 25 years of experience in Automotive. From 2021 to 2025 he was "Head of Software Strategy" in Continental Automotive. Before, he held various management roles in Elektrobit, including responsibility for company strategy, product and portfolio management, and partnerships. Martin has been contributing to industry associations, such as AUTOSAR, SOAFEE, and Eclipse SDV. He is a frequent speaker at conferences and member of automotive conference advisory boards.​

Filipe Prezado​

"ChatGPT seems to "think(*)" I'm an experienced software architect with a strong background in software engineering, architecture, and technical program management. Currently at Reycom AG, I'm focused on building platform components and toolchains for the field of software-defined machines (SDM). Before that, I spent over 25 years at Microsoft, working on the Software Defined Vehicle engineering team and representing Microsoft in the Eclipse SDV Working Group. I'm a passionate advocate for open source software, community-driven innovation and growth and actively contributing to Eclipse SDV initiatives. I'm also affiliated with 42 Porto, where we train the next generation of automotive and mobility software engineers leveraging Eclipse SDV projects. When I'm not at work ChatGPT finds me deeply engaged in cutting-edge technologies, particularly in the realms of edge computing, robotics and AI, and their applications to smart farming and agriculture. (*) can be a case of hallucination"

DK Jung

DK Jung is the Vice President and Senior Fellow of the Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV) Technology Division at LG Electronics’ CTO Organization. A seasoned industry veteran with over 20+ years of expertise, he has been at the forefront of the automotive revolution, leading the development of advanced infotainment, telematics, and vehicle software platforms. His leadership is defined by a mastery of system architecture and large-scale software integration, which are critical to the evolution of next-generation mobility. Beyond his corporate role, DK is a globally recognized advocate for open-source collaboration, serving on the Eclipse SDV, SOAFEE Boards and korea OSS initiatives. As the lead for Korea’s OSS-based SDV platform initiatives, he contributes to the development and standardization of domestic open-source software technologies supporting the SDV ecosystem.

What do our Ambassadors do?

Mentor and support new contributors

Help grow the community through local engagement

Collaborate with EF staff and other ambassadors

Promote SDV projects and initiatives globally

Supporting with outreach to academic institutions

Collaborate with EF staff and other ambassadors

Represent the Eclipse SDV community at major industry events, e.g. by providing booth space at trade fairs and/or holding presentations on the behalf of the SDV community

Represent Eclipse SDV at events, online, and in their region

Who should apply?

We’re seeking highly engaged individuals who have already demonstrated their commitment to our working group. Ideal candidates will have:

  1. A strong passion for open source software in the middleware domain.
  2. A proven track record of actively supporting our working group by:
  • Inviting us to speak at conferences.
  • Hosting our events.
  • Serving as project leads.
  • Contributing to our committees.

To ensure close collaboration with the SDV Eclipse Foundation team, we will select a maximum of three ambassadors per year. The ambassador role is for a limited term of a couple of years.

We welcome new ambassadors each year.
If you’re actively engaged in the Eclipse SDV community and want to represent the initiative in your region, you can apply or nominate someone via our nomination form.

Frequently asked questions

Have more questions? We’re happy to answer them — don’t hesitate to reach out.

What is the Eclipse SDV ambassador program?

A recognition and support program for SDV community leaders who drive visibility, mentorship, and regional outreach.

Anyone actively involved in the Eclipse SDV community who meets the selection criteria — whether through events, working groups, mentorship, or public speaking.

One year, with the option to renew based on contributions and mutual interest.

Through a combination of self-nominations or community nominations, reviewed by a selection committee made up of EF staff and current ambassadors.

Represent the community, attend key events, mentor others, and share SDV activities publicly. Each ambassador fulfills 2–3 core responsibilities annually.

Recognition, a ticket to OCX, digital credentials, branded swag, and access to exclusive support and opportunities.

Yes, during this phase, we have selected three ambassadors.

Yes! Community nominations are welcome and encouraged.

While this is a volunteer role, the program provides swag, event access, and staff support — but not direct financial compensation.

Nominate or apply to be an Eclipse SDV Ambassador

Heading to OCA 2026 in Brussels?

image (8)

Open Community for Automotive returns April 21–23, 2026. Join Open Community for Automotive and connect with your community for three days of open source collaboration, innovation, and networking.

Register today!