The SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) honored winners of the council's prestigious industry awards during the HRIA Reception, that took place at the 2023 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nevada. The award winners are:
- Industry Recognition Award – Jonathan Goolsby, Goolsby Customs
- Hall of Fame Award – Rick Love, Vintage Air
- Business of the Year Award – Automotive Racing Productions (ARP)
- Immediate Past Chair Award – Danny Agosta, Steele Rubber Products
Jonathan Goolsby, of Goolsby Customs, was honored with the HRIA Industry Recognition Award that recognizes an outstanding individual who has made exceptional contributions to the hot rod industry over the past 10 years. Goolsby has become a fixture in the hot rod community, not only for his hard work in building some of the most impressive machines around, but for giving as much as he has received from fellow builders and shops.
Rick Love, of Vintage Air, received the HRIA Hall of Fame Award, which recognizes an outstanding individual in the hot rod industry whose creativity, dignity, industriousness and accomplishments on a national basis have enhanced the status of the industry, while significantly contributing to its growth. Love has volunteered for every position of HRIA leadership, up to Chair, and continues to give back numerous years later.
Automotive Racing Productions (ARP) received the HRIA Business of the Year Award, which recognizes a company who has made exceptional contributions to the hot rod industry. Like many great businesses, ARP started in a backyard garage and has now grown to seven operations totaling 200,000 sq-ft. From quality, high performance OEM replacement to exotic specialty hardware, ARP covers the entire fastener market and supports the industry through participation and sponsorship of events (including the prestigious AMBR and Slonaker Awards).
Danny Agosta, of Steele Rubber Products, was highlighted with Immediate Past Chair Award recognition for his outstanding contributions and volunteerism to the HRIA.
The HRIA Evolution of Hot Rodding Award was presented to ZRods Customs' 1967 C10. This award recognizes a vehicle that pushes the boundaries of tradition and embodies evolving trends in the hot rod industry.
The Design & Innovation Award was presented to J-Rod & Customs' 1978 Jeep Cherokee. This award recognizes a vehicle that exemplifies the meaning of an exceptional hot rod.
Nominations for HRIA Awards will open mid-2024 at www.sema.org/cn-awards.