The SEMA Young Executives Network (YEN) is teaming up with the world-renown Dale Carnegie Training to offer young aspiring professionals in the automotive aftermarket the opportunity to advance their leadership skills and improve business performance. Through the YEN program, TORA members are invited to apply to participate in a special two-day in-person training at half the regular fee. Participants will pay just $800, which will include the cost of the training (regularly $1,600), as well as hotel accommodations and food during the entire two days.

“YEN is committed to helping young professionals advance in the industry, and the Dale Carnegie Training is a valuable resource in this effort,” said YEN Chair Nick Caloroso. “I personally had the opportunity to take the Dale Carnegie Training and can attest to its quality and value.” Caloroso was fortunate in that his employer, Driven Lighting Group, supported his participation in the Dale Carnegie Program. However, other aspiring young professionals may not be as fortunate. That’s why YEN is helping to bring the training to SEMA members and offering the program at a significant cost savings.

“It’s important to invest in training, and the Dale Carnegie Program is among the best that is available,” said Brian Reese, CEO of T Sportline. “We’re pleased that Nick was able to take part in the program. He’s always been a terrific leader and team member, but the Dale Carnegie program has given him greater skills and knowledge to become an even better leader. He’s learned strategies and tactics that many seasoned professionals have yet to learn.”

The program, which will take place in March 2022 in Diamond Bar, California, will teach participants to:

  • Communicate professionally and confidently in business situations
  • Engage others by building rapport, asking pertinent questions, and listening
  • Build relationships and deal effectively with people in a multitude of scenarios
  • Gain cooperation and influence people, including direct reports, laterally and upward
  • Use emotional controls to sustain success

The program is limited to 25 YEN members, but any professional under the age of the age of 40 can apply for a YEN membership.

TORA member companies interested in having an employee submit an application can contact Denise Waddingham, YEN Council Director, at deniselw@sema.org