The recent positive earnings report from Ford (F 6.10%) is yet another confirmation that the American auto industry is humming, growing, and offering a ray of hope to materials companies like Alcoa (AA) that have struggled for extended periods. When coupled with ongoing demand in China, Alcoa looks to have a brighter future than it could have claimed for years. With General Motors set to release earnings in early May, the time may be right to take a chance on Alcoa.

In the video below, Fool.com contributor Doug Ehrman discusses how the auto industry and global demand are benefiting the company, and looks at how investors can position themselves to capitalize of this brighter outlook.