By Haleigh DeForest and Stephen Harber, Talent Marketing
Tony Cochiaro blends financial precision with heart. From tracking every penny to put himself through college to managing site budgets and coordinating major community drives, Tony brings sharp attention to detail and a deep care for people into everything he does.
Now thriving in GM’s TRACK (Technical Rotation and Career Knowledge) program, he’s proving that growth isn’t just about numbers: it’s about impact. For early career talent ready to lead with purpose, TRACK is the springboard for success.
How did you get on the right TRACK at GM?
I found out about the internship through my roommate, who interned in the engineering department. After his internship, he told me how much he loved the experience – and how much value he got out of being mentored.
That intrigued me, so I applied for a Finance internship at GM specializing in retail incentives. I got it after a couple interviews.
How did you like your finance internship?
I absolutely loved it. I worked remotely in the finance organization with Sales, Service and Marketing. I built up my network in the company.
On my last day, they gave me a return offer for TRACK. I immediately accepted it, of course.
Tony takes time out to tour GM’s Tech Center in Warren, MI.
What rotations have you completed in the TRACK program so far?
During my first rotation, I supported Facilities operations. I helped oversee the budget that goes into maintaining GM sites and facilities, like the Warren Tech Center in Michigan.
I’m in my second rotation right now, working with Global Purchasing and Supply Chain at the Warren Tech Center where I'm in global consolidation.
How did your internship help prepare you for the TRACK program?
I met so many people, leaders and peers throughout the internship. I felt comfortable knowing that if I came back, I'd already know at least 40 colleagues on day one.
On top of the visibility, that project also empowered me by giving me the autonomy to just run with it.
Developing those skills as an intern – like working on a project that will have a broader impact – has helped me succeed in TRACK.
Why are you excited to work in the auto industry?
How complex it is. GM makes revenue in countless ways. And there's always something new to learn.
Let’s talk about your degree.
I got a degree in finance at Michigan State University. I always knew I wanted to work in the corporate finance world because I paid for my own college. I kept track of every penny in and every penny out.
And I enjoyed doing that. So, I thought, managing finances for a major global corporation would be fun to pursue as a career path. And here I am.
Do you have a favorite GM brand or vehicle?
I love the Chevy Blazer. It’s just a nice, everyday car that I can’t wait to get my hands on.
What are your goals for the next few years at GM?
One day, I would love to be in a people leader position.
My dad owns a restaurant in Chicago called Cochiaro’s Pizza, which I managed in high school. Then I had jobs at Michigan State where I managed the small finance departments within the University.
Again, I enjoy doing stuff like that. So my hope is within the next 10 years I can keep doing that here at GM as well.
Tony relives his glory days of working as a manager at Cochiaro’s Pizza, the restaurant his family has owned since 1993, located just outside of Chicago, IL.
How was your transition from college life to the corporate world?
It was rough at first. I was used to spending time with my friends 24/7 and not waking up super early for classes. Then, one day I just started working at a 9-5 job. Life looks completely different than three months ago.
That said, I do think GM helps make that transition smoother. In the TRACK program, I have a cohort of people that experience this together. We hang out a lot outside of work too.
Have you taken on any type of Stretch Assignments in TRACK?
I'm currently working on projects related to tariffs, which is very interesting work.
Outside of that, I'm participating in what we call “extracurricular activity”. I'm the community coordinator with Finance TRACK. I help set up fundraising events within the finance department.
Do you have any favorite events you’ve helped organize?
Last December, I was involved in an Adopt-A-Family event. We asked two big finance departments to donate gifts for families in need around the Christmas season.
The results? We got about 140 gifts in total and raised a significant amount of money. It was such a joy to coordinate this event and help out families who really needed it during the holidays.
That's amazing. What's the biggest challenge you face in your position and how do you work through it?
That would be during my first rotation. I back filled someone who retired – while the rest of the department retired at the same time! Obviously, they took most of their knowledge base with them.
I leaned on my leaders who were very supportive. They were in the same boat I was, so they were really understanding.
Having that support was instrumental in gathering information on how to keep this team afloat and help build the future of the organization.
Do you have any mentors you’d like to give props to?
Scott Koskinen and Dan Furlani were my two advisors that I've been paired up with in the TRACK program. They’ve both helped me a lot in my career.
Tony spins his wheels for a photo opportunity at GM’s Tech Center in Warren, MI.
What do you do for fun outside of work?
I’m big on community. I stay heavily involved with my church. I’m the general manager of The Stumps, one of the 10 teams in a local Shedball league (AKA mini-hoop basketball) in Lansing. We sign players to real contracts, make real trades, and compete for a trophy. I also play a lot of golf and enjoy spending time with my friends as much as possible.
Why is GM a great place to start your career?
GM’s culture thrives because the leaders here genuinely believe in the TRACK program. They’re invested in our growth and want to see us succeed. I’ve met so many executives who are not only involved, but personally supportive. It’s made all the difference in my experience here.
Which GM Employee Behavior resonates with you and why?
“Speak Fearlessly.”
Before GM, I had to advocate for myself by paying for school out of my own pocket and find the right jobs. I spoke up because no one else was going to do it for me. That mindset brought me here. Now at GM, I still speak up. Whether it's in meetings or challenging old ways of thinking, I know my voice helps push us closer to our mission of zero crashes, zero congestion, and zero emissions.
What lessons have you learned at GM that helped build a good foundation for your career?
Stay curious. That’s the biggest thing I’ve learned at GM.
A lot of people stay in their silos, but I’ve always asked, “What’s that person working on? How does it connect to the larger goal?” This curiosity has helped me build a deeper understanding of the business and how everything fits together. It’s made me more effective, not to mention way more engaged.
What’s your advice for those who want to join TRACK?
Ask questions. Seriously. That’s how you uncover better ways to do things.
Just because something’s always been done a certain way doesn’t mean it’s the best way. TRACK is the perfect time to think critically, challenge old habits, and bring fresh ideas to the table.
Ready to start your future at GM? Visit our Early Careers page for more opportunities.
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