Ambassador Program

Recognising excellence in open innovation

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"

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:

A strong passion for open source software in the middleware domain.
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.

Who can become an ambassador?

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

What’s the term length?

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

How are ambassadors selected?

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

What’s expected of an ambassador?

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

What benefits do ambassadors receive?

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

Is there a cap on the number of ambassadors?

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

Can I nominate someone else?

Yes! Community nominations are welcome and encouraged.

Is there a budget for ambassador activities?

Recognising excellence in open innovation