Ridha Al-Wishah has built a career defined by leadership, service, and a steadfast commitment to helping others succeed. An accomplished engineer at Ford Motor Company, Ridha serves as a Senior EDS Engineer, supporting the electrical architecture of vehicle programs while collaborating with teams and suppliers across the globe to drive product excellence. Throughout his professional journey, he has remained focused not only on achieving success in his field, but also on creating opportunities for others to reach their full potential.
PODCAST:
Aug. 18, 2026 ~ Discover how a commitment to service, mentorship, and lifelong learning has shaped Ridha Al-Wishah’s journey as a Senior EDS Engineer at Ford Motor Company. In this Rising Stars conversation, Ridha shares insights on leading through community impact, empowering the next generation of students, and balancing professional success with meaningful volunteerism. He also reflects on the transformative power of mentorship, his involvement with the Detroit Economic Club and Career Readiness Academy, and his vision for a stronger, more resilient Detroit driven by opportunity, innovation, and inclusive growth.
CONTINUED: A graduate of the University of Michigan Ross School of Business, where he earned recognition as his cohort’s Outstanding Leadership Award recipient, Ridha distinguished himself through academic excellence, leadership development, and a deep commitment to building inclusive communities. During his time at Ross, he led diversity and inclusion initiatives, competed successfully in leadership and ESG case competitions, and earned opportunities to represent both his university and employer on prominent stages. These experiences strengthened his belief that meaningful leadership is measured by the impact one has on others.
Since joining the Detroit Economic Club, Ridha has become actively involved through the Career Readiness Academy and volunteer initiatives, mentoring students and helping prepare future leaders for success. One of his most meaningful experiences came when a student he mentored asked him for a letter of recommendation to a highly competitive business program. By sharing guidance, encouragement, and practical advice throughout the application process, Ridha helped the student navigate a path he once traveled himself. Seeing that student earn acceptance reinforced his passion for mentorship and his belief that even small acts of support can create life-changing opportunities.
His dedication to service extends well beyond the Detroit Economic Club. For more than two decades, Ridha has volunteered with buildOn Detroit, including helping construct a school in Mali and participating in community improvement and senior assistance projects across Southeast Michigan. He also volunteers with ACCESS and Zaman International, supporting immigrant families and community members through food drives, clothing drives, and logistical assistance. In addition, he serves on the University of Michigan Ross School of Business DEI Committee, helping students engage in meaningful conversations about leadership, equity, and opportunity.
As he continues to grow both professionally and personally, Ridha is exploring opportunities to expand his impact even further, including developing initiatives that support positive outcomes for students across Metro Detroit. Ridha Al-Wishah is a deserving recipient of recognition as a 2026 Detroit Economic Club Rising Star.
