The Man Behind Our Mission

When Jose Wyszogrod stepped into the role of General Manager at Fastport, he wasn’t looking for a title, he was looking for a challenge. After decades designing some of Honda’s most iconic vehicles, he saw Fastport as an exciting opportunity to build something entirely new: a startup with the backing of Honda, driven by innovation, and led by people with the ambition to challenge convention and redefine what’s possible.

 Leadership through Design Thinking and Visionary Guidance

Jose joined Honda in 1997 as a young designer at the R&D Studio in Torrance, CA. What followed over the course of 28 years was a remarkable journey through nearly every facet of product development: designing, managing, and ultimately leading as Chief Designer and Senior Manager at American Honda R&D where he left a lasting mark on the automotive landscape. He also spent several years expanding his global lens and enjoying an international career at Honda Motor in Japan. Having contributed to some of Honda’s most beloved vehicles, his design portfolio includes the creation of the iconic Honda Element, and successful generations of the CR-V, Odyssey, Passport, and several show cars. His work has focused heavily on human-centered and design-led innovation, shaping both strategy and execution, an approach used in Fastport today.

But beyond the product and design successes, it’s Jose’s commitment to innovation, teaching, and leadership that has defined his impact. A passionate educator, he has taught and mentored the next generation of innovators and designers at Art Center College of Design, Stanford University, USC Iovine & Young Academy, and UCLA Anderson. And as General Manager, he’s assembled an incredible team with a builder's mindset. His approach to leadership is informed by decades of product work and a deep belief in people. He moves fast but always makes space for thoughtful discussion. He pushes for bold ideas but never loses sight of the real-world impact.

Beyond the Workday

Outside of the office, Jose turns to long-distance swimming to recharge. Whether it’s pushing through an open water challenge in Hawaii or lapping a pool on a sunny day, swimming gives him the mental clarity and endurance needed to lead through uncertainty.

             “Swimming teaches me to stay calm under pressure, pace for the long game, and never lose sight of the goal – just like leading a startup.”

At his core, Jose is a swimmer, builder, and an optimist. He wakes up each day driven by the opportunity to build something meaningful. And as Fastport continues to grow, it is clear that Jose is not just leading a business, he is shaping a vision of leadership that blends purpose, creativity, and courage.