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| Visit ARMO's website. | |
 Dennis Roberts |
Get to Know Dennis Roberts, ARMO Chair-Elect
By Amanda Gubbins
Dennis Roberts has been a lifelong musclecar enthusiast. “I was first introduced to musclecars in 1970 by my older sister’s friend who had a ’70 Trans AM. I bought my first car in 1974 at the age of 16. It was a ’67 GTO—the gas shortage made for cheap musclecars!”
Roberts continued to stay involved in the musclecar movement through the years as a racer and parts and vehicle locator. He accepted a position as a technical resource for the restoration of GM cars and ultimately became the vice president of Year One—a musclecar parts warehouse. Two-and-a-half years ago, Roberts became vice president of Distinctive Industries—a mass producer of restoration interiors for musclecar-era vehicles.
Roberts was first introduced to the Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) in 1997, a time when the “clunker laws” were a hot topic among enthusiasts. “I believe if you want to harvest a crop, you have to get your hands dirty,” Roberts says of his motivation to get involved. “I’m passionate about ARMO first and foremost because of my love of cars. A vehicle is really a work of art for its time.”
As Chair-elect, he hopes to continue leading the council in offering quality educational opportunities for council members, as well as initiatives to boost youth engagement in the hobby. Collector Car Appreciation Day, held July 12, continues to grow as one of these educational tools, raising awareness about the hobby around the country. ARMO’s Take a Kid to a Car Show program also works actively to bring new generations into the hobby.
Another goal of Roberts’ is to broaden ARMO’s outreach to enthusiasts. “As I see it, it’s a challenge to expand the market. Restoration is an expensive hobby and most of the enthusiasts are males of higher income levels. We want to bring it down to others who like to race or drive as a hobby,” he says.
For those who are already members of ARMO, Roberts suggests finding a place to volunteer within the council. “We’re looking for participation. There’s always the hope to get more members involved.”
For more information about ARMO, contact Council Director Jim Skelly at 909-978-6690 or jimsk@sema.org.
 Restoration industry veterans Shawn Green, Roger Neihaus, Dave Mihalko Sr. and Steve Ames share some good times at the 2013 ARMO Industry Mixer at Spring Carlisle. The Hot Products tent provided the perfect atmosphere for colleagues to catch up after the winter months. |
ARMO Hot Products Showcase Posted Online
Photos from the 2013 ARMO Hot Products Showcase have been posted on the ARMO website. Thanks again to all the ARMO companies that participated in this year’s event.
The ARMO Hot Products Showcase (formerly the “New” Products Showcase) took place April 25–27, 2013, in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. The annual event puts ARMO-member restoration products in front of 100,000+ restoration enthusiasts during the Spring Carlisle event.
Be sure to follow ARMO on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/armo and use the links in the top right-hand corner.
ARMO Column in SEMA Member News
Read ARMO's column featured in the July/August issue of SEMA Member News.
For more information about ARMO, contact Jim Skelly.
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| Visit ETTN's website |
How Increasing Amounts of Ethanol at the Pump Can Affect You 
This carburetor is an example of corrosion caused by E10 fuel. Photo credit: Tom Shaw. 
Annual ethanol targets are scheduled to continually rise until we reach 36 billion gallons in 2022.
By Sean Crawford – JE Pistons
If you haven’t noticed by now, most gasoline sold in the United States now contains ethanol. In fact, more than 90% of all gasoline contains up to 10% ethanol. The Environment Protection Agency (EPA) has mandated that ethanol usage in fuel increase from nine billion gallons per year in 2008 to just less than 14 billion gallons in 2013. The mandate is part of the Energy Policy Act of 2005, which was expanded by the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007. The principle behind the laws was well-intentioned but potentially misplaced—increasing our usage of renewable energy while reducing our dependence on foreign oil.
Year after year, the annual ethanol targets are scheduled to continually rise until we reach 36 billion gallons in 2022. Most of our consumption today is accomplished through the current E10 fuel (90% gasoline, 10% ethanol) commonly found at the pump. Alternatives, such as E85 (85% ethanol, 15% gasoline) for “flex-fuel” vehicles exist as well, but are harder to find in most areas and therefore do not make up the majority of the ethanol usage. It is important to note that gas pump labels for E10 and below are subject to state law. Since a number of states, such as California, don’t require a label, motorists may not be aware that they are putting ethanol in their tank.
Ethanol, as a fuel, has its share of advantages. For example, it can be produced from domestically grown corn or other biofuels that is raised by our own farmers. It can also carry a higher octane rating, assuming it has not been contaminated by absorbing water. For the modern performance enthusiast, E85 has become a popular low-budget race fuel for everything from supercharged modern muscle to turbocharged import vehicles. Some enthusiasts can even be found carrying spare plastic fuel tanks in the back of their vehicles to extend their range between visiting the limited stations that carry E85 fuel. It would seem that a market like ours, with such an emphasis on performance, would welcome ethanol with open arms.
The reality is that there are all types of vehicles and equipment that require pure gasoline. Many were designed long before chemicals, such as ethanol, had been considered during the design and validation processes. Critical components, such as engine seals, gaskets, fuel lines and most internal components, were once tortured on engine dynamometers, scorched in hot weather tests and designed assuming nothing less than 100% gasoline would be cycled through the engine during normal operation. As you can imagine, introducing a new fuel into service can bring a new share of unexpected problems. To start, ethanol is hydroscopic, which means it attracts moisture, which leads to increased levels of water in the fuel system. The current E10 blend has the ability to absorb 0.5% volume before reaching a point where water will actually accumulate outside of the fuel mixture (called phase separation). For a 15-gallon fuel tank, that is about 1.2 cups of water that can be introduced into the fuel and supporting systems. This water formation can lead to metal corrosion and the deterioration of plastics and rubber.
The corrosion issue is most detrimental in carbureted vehicles, which include hot rods, musclecars and a large number of production vehicles. Many of the critical components of a carburetor, such as the main body and float bowls, are die cast from aluminum or zinc. When these materials are exposed to ethanol or the water often contained within ethanol, they create a corrosive combination that can lead to carburetor malfunction and potential failure. In addition, the extra moisture that is introduced into the fuel can lead to buildup or “sludge” that can clog the precision internals of a carburetor responsible for proper fuel delivery. Outside of carburetors, the materials that are commonly used to manufacture gaskets, seals and fuel lines are not consistently manufactured with ethanol-resistant fluorinated polymers. After prolonged exposure to ethanol, these materials can deteriorate, clog fuel filters and result in dangerous fuel leaks.
Today, the EPA and ethanol producers are pushing to allow a 50% increase in ethanol content in gasoline by introducing E15 to more markets. The reason is simple—to meet the federal law’s ever-growing demand for renewable fuels—a demand that cannot be met by E10.
SEMA’s Government Affairs Office is working hard to protect unsuspecting motorists and companies that produce their vehicles and equipment. SEMA is asking that E15 be banned at this time and that the federal law’s renewable fuel mandates be adjusted to reasonable numbers that can be achieved in a free marketplace. Without such a change, E20 and E30 will be the next fuels being pumped into gas tanks.
Need more information? Visit the SEMA Government Affairs homepage to stay up to date. This is one trend that shouldn’t be ignored.
Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? ETTN Is!
Be sure to follow ETTN on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/ettn and use the links in the top right-hand corner.
ETTN Column in SEMA Member News
Read ETTN's column featured in the July/August issue of SEMA Member News.
For more information about ETTN, contact Bryan Harrison.
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| Visit HRIA's website |
Hot Rod Council to Present Education Day at 2014 Detroit Autorama 
HRIA Education Day will consist of 24 sessions, each led by a hot-rod parts manufacturer educating attendees about product features, benefits and installation guidelines.
By Della Domingo
The annual SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Education Day will be held, for the first time, in conjunction with the Detroit Autorama—the 60-year-old custom car show taking place in March 2014 at Cobo Hall in Detroit. The program will consist of 24 sessions, each led by a hot-rod parts manufacturer educating attendees about product features, benefits and installation guidelines.
“For more than 10 years, HRIA Education Day has proven to be a key event for helping manufacturers share detailed, and sometimes technical, information about their products with their customers,” said Jim Skelly, SEMA director of councils. “Holding the Education Day program at the Detroit Autorama will allow HRIA members to expand and reach a new audience.”
HRIA previously held its Education Day program at the Hotrod & Restoration Trade Show in Indianapolis. The move to the Detroit Autorama will enable manufacturers to reach a new, expanded audience. Autorama, which is well known for having the world’s most coveted hot rods, prestigious awards competitions, as well as top celebrities and student programs, attracts more than 150,000 individuals annually. Education Day will take place Thursday, March 6, 2014 (the day before Autorama officially opens), and is open to all hot-rod shops and businesses, as well as to all Autorama attendees.
“As one the nation’s premier indoor custom car show, the Detroit Autorama attracts thousands of businesses and enthusiasts who are passionate and deeply vested in new hot-rod products,” said Peter A. Toundas, president of Championship Auto Shows Inc.—promoter of the event. “The HRIA Education Day program will add a valuable element to the event, giving attendees an opportunity to connect directly with manufacturers, which would be difficult for them to do on their own.”
The list of participating manufacturers and schedule for HRIA Education Day will be available in August. All sessions will be one hour long.
 An upcoming general management membership meeting will give HRIA members the chance to connect with each other, meet the Select Committee and learn more about what’s happening in the industry. |
HRIA Hosts Two General Membership Meetings in July
By Amanda Gubbins
The Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) will hold one more general membership meeting in July. This event gives HRIA members the chance to connect with each other, meet the Select Committee and learn more about what’s happening in the industry. We hope you will join us:
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
3:30 p.m.–5:00 p.m.
NSRA National Street Rod Nationals
Louisville, Kentucky, Fairgrounds
Visit www.nsra-usa.com for more information.
Be sure to send in your RSVP so that we will enough materials for everyone. Also, feel free to bring guests from your organization along. If you have any questions about the meetings, contact Council Coordinator Gina Ledesma at ginal@sema.org or 909-978-6692.
Be sure to follow HRIA on all of your favorite social networking sites.
To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/hria and use the links in the top right-hand corner.
HRIA Column in SEMA Member News
Read HRIA's column featured in the July/August issue of SEMA Member News.
For more information about HRIA, contact Jim Skelly.
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| Visit TORA's website. |
 Andrew Schroeder |
Get to Know Andrew Schroeder—Your TORA Chair-Elect
By Amanda Gubbins
Andrew Schroeder became the Light Truck Industry Alliance (TORA) chair-elect, July 1. Schroeder started working part-time at Ben Murphy & Associates, a national rep agency, about 15 years ago. He had very limited knowledge of the business in the beginning, but he learned and took on more responsibility as he assisted in many different departments. Eight years ago, Schroeder moved into his current position of vice president.
“I feel that learning the business from the ground up was the best way to understand all facets, and I feel that was a large factor in the success of my career,” he said.
Schroeder has participated in both the Manufacturer’s Representative Network (MRN) and Young Executives Network (YEN) in the past. “I have always felt that being involved allows you to give back and be part of the future of the industry,” Schroeder explains.
About three years ago, Schroeder attended one of TORA’s Long-Range Planning meetings. It was through this experience that he first began to understand the purpose of the council and how it is involved in the industry. Once he became a member at large, Schroeder plugged in by joining the communication task force and assisting with TORA’s social media channels.
Schroeder credits the community aspect of the council as a strong influence on his decision to volunteer. “I wanted to become more involved with SEMA activities. Talking with the members of the TORA Select Committee and seeing their passion and motivation to help the industry really drove me to become more involved with the alliance,” he says.
Being a very active council, there are a variety of ways that members can lend a hand. “TORA is constantly working on different projects throughout the year, whether it’s the New Products Showcase, networking events, charitable fundraising or collecting technical information for our members to use,” says Schroeder. He emphasizes that it is easy to find the project that is right for you. “If you are interested in becoming involved, we are always looking for help. Just contact the council leadership.”
For more information about TORA, visit http://sema.org/TORA or contact Clayton Drescher, senior manager, councils, at 909-978-6696 or claytond@sema.org.
 Affordable and effective online product training is now available through the SEMA Product Training Center on SEI’s website. The online training is designed to enhance and expand existing training programs, making product information available to virtually anyone with an Internet connection. |
TORA Product Training a Reality
The Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) and the SEMA Education Institute (SEI) recently launched an innovative, online product training program—the SEMA Product Training Center. A joint effort between TORA and SEI, this new program allows manufacturers to efficiently and effectively provide product training to hundreds or even thousands of resellers throughout the industry for what they might spend to reach only a handful using traditional means. At the same time, it provides resellers with an effective, efficient and consistent method of educating their sales staff. Sign up and participation is open to all resellers, free of charge.The SEMA Product Training Center is designed to be easy to use and includes simple enrollment. For more information or to sign up for a training module, visit the SEMA Product Training Center.
Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? TORA Is!
Be sure to follow TORA on all of your favorite social networking sites.
To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/TORA and use the links in the top right-hand corner.
TORA Column in SEMA Member News
Read TORA's column featured in the July/August issue of SEMA Member News.
For more information about TORA, contact Clayton Drescher.
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| Visit MPMC's website. |
 PRI Show attendees will be able to have face-to-face interaction with MPMC manufacturers at the inaugural MPMC Education Day at the 2013 PRI Show in Indianapolis, Wednesday December 4, 2013. |
MPMC to Present “MPMC Education Day” at 2013 PRI Show
MPMC and PRI will present “MPMC Education Day” at the 2013 PRI Show, Wednesday, December 4, 2013. The event takes place at the Indianapolis Convention Center the day before the PRI Trade Show floor opens.
Patterned after the already successful HRIA Education Day, 15 MPMC-member companies will present one-hour product training presentations to PRI Trade Show attendees. Three seminars will each run concurrently over five, one-hour time slots beginning at 9:00 a.m.
“The HRIA Education Day is wildly successful,” said MPMC Chairman Vic Wood of Hedman. “The PRI Show seemed a perfect venue to try the same template for MPMC companies. We originally were planning to implement it in 2014, but after presenting the idea to John Kilroy and his PRI team, the decision was made to go for it this year. We’ll start with just the 15 companies this year, and see how it goes. But I see no reason why this shouldn’t expand to 30 or 40 companies one day, as soon as attendees realize the opportunity it presents.”
To emphasize the popularity of this program, the 15 registrations were received within one hour of registration opening, and a total 27 registrations were received within two hours. Congratulations to the following MPMC companies who were selected via a first-come, first-served online registration April 30:
- COMP Cams
- Flaming River
- Flowmaster
- Hedman Hedders
- Jiffy-Tite
- Joe Gibbs Driven
- Lunati
- MAHLE
- MSD Performance
- Painless Performance Products
- Phoenix Race Tire
- Quarter Master
- Ron Francis Wiring
- Trend Performance/Diamond Racing
- Turbosmart USA
Session times and seminar titles will be presented in the coming weeks. For more information, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.
MPMC Business Guidelines Manual
Written, produced and designed specifically for performance product manufacturers, the manual addresses the many challenges such companies face. Definitions, resources, options and examples also are included in the various sections of the manual. Each section is written in simple details, making it quick and easy to read. Sample documents and verbiage are also included to help members decide which practices will be best for their individual businesses.
Chapters and topics include:
- Bar codes
- Catalogs and price sheets
- Cooperative advertising programs
- Counterfeiting
- Debt collections
- Electronic Data Interchange
- Freight policies
- International business
- Manufacturer's reps
- Minimum Advertised Pricing (MAP)
- Packaging
- Insurance
- Terms and Conditions
Not yet an MPMC member? Download an application or contact Jim Skelly at JimSk@sema.org or 909-978-6690 for more information.
Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? MPMC Is!
Be sure to follow MPMC on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/mpmc and use the links in the top right-hand corner.
Take a Friend to a Race Fan Page
The MPMC Motorsports Awareness campaign, highlighted by the Take a Friend to a Race program, now has its very own Fanpage on Facebook. If you’re not a fan yet, you should be!
MPMC Column in SEMA Member News
Read MPMC's column featured in the July/August issue of SEMA Member News.
For information about MPMC, contact Jim Skelly.
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| Visit MRN's website. |
Enhance Your Knowledge of SEMA Data Co-op's Product Data Management System
The Manufacturers Representative Network (MRN) and the SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) have announced the launch of a new certificate program exclusively for MRN members. Vic Bennett, an MRN Select Committee member, believes this is a valuable benefit for reps. “The SDC’s resources are critical because the goal is to make sure the user gets what they need. We can only do that with correct data,” he explains.
The web-based educational series will help manufacturer's representatives learn more about what the SDC offers through courses designed to build confidence in talking to customers about the SDC’s product data management system.
Participants will have three weeks to complete each of the four sessions and the corresponding quizzes. Those who successfully complete the series will be awarded a certificate of completion, custom lapel pin and be recognized by SEMA and the MRN as SDC ambassadors.
Part one—an overview of the SDC to provide the foundation for the following three courses—is now available to MRN members. This session covers the mission and goals of the SDC, along with key terms reps will need to know when discussing the SDC with customers.
MRN members will soon receive an e-mail from the SEMA Mindflash account with a link to start the first course, including the quiz. In Bennett’s words, “This is your opportunity to be on the front end of something that will make a difference in the business of your suppliers and receivers.”
For questions about the certification program, please contact SDC Director of Membership Jim Graven at JimG@semadatacoop.org or 888-958-6698, ext. 4.
To learn more about the MRN, visit their website or contact Bryan Harrison, senior manager of councils, at BryanH@sema.org or 909-978-6691.
What Does It Mean to Be a Sales Professional?SEMA’s Manufacturers' Rep Network (MRN) hosts a discussion group on Linkedin for professional reps and sales agents. Recently, MRN asked the question, “In one word, what does it mean to be a sales professional?”
The list as submitted by members of the Linkedin group includes:
- Credibility
- Relationships
- Trust
- Service
- Commitment
- Ethics
- Produce
- Knowledge
- Relevance
- Value
Join the conversation; join MRN at www.sema.org/li-mrc. For more details on how to get involved or to learn how professional reps and agents can help your business, contact Zane Clark at 909-978-6696.
Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? MRN is!
Be sure to follow MRN on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/mrn and use the links in the top right-hand corner.
MRN Column in SEMA Member NewsRead MRN's column featured in the July/August issue of SEMA Member News.
For information about MRN, contact Bryan Harrison.
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| Visit PRO's website. |
PRO Council Establishes Online Portal for Technical Service Bulletins
SEMA's Professional Restylers Organization (PRO)—dedicated to addressing the challenges facing the restyling segment of the specialty-equipment market—has created an online portal to facilitate submissions of OEM letters or service bulletins.
By SEMA Editors
The Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) has created an online portal to facilitate submissions of OEM letters or service bulletins. These submissions will be reviewed by SEMA staff with the intent of gaining a greater understanding of any ramifications these policies may pose for member businesses. SEMA is committed to maintaining a productive dialogue with its OEM partners.
“SEMA’s PRO council brings together the restyling industry and works hard to strengthen it,” said Mike Bacon, chairman of the PRO OEM Relations Committee. “The OEM Relations Committee will work to support SEMA’s effort in building a beneficial dialogue between this industry and the OEMs.”
To submit a letter or bulletin, please use the form available at OEM Bulletins. If you have any questions, please contact Bill Wolf, SEMA’s senior director of OE relations at 909-978-6739.
Be sure to follow PRO on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/pro and use the links in the top right-hand corner.
PRO Column in SEMA Member News
Read PRO's column featured in the July/August issue of SEMA Member News.
For information about PRO, contact Clayton Drescher or call 909/978-6696.
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| Visit SBN's website. |
 The Speed Networking Breakfast is the quickest and easiest way to meet peers, prospects and vendor associates to expand your current network of contacts |
By Bryan Harrison
The Speed Networking Breakfast, powered by the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) is the annual premier event at the SEMA Show and has achieved sold-out status four years in a row. It is open to all SEMA members and is the quickest and easiest way to meet peers, prospects and vendor associates to expand your current network of contacts, which could be instrumental in the growth of your business or career. Attendees will walk away with more than one dozen new contacts.
Don’t miss this opportunity to meet movers and shakers and make new contacts in short, four-minute intervals. Mark your calendar and purchase your tickets as attendance is limited to only 250 people.
Details: Thursday, November 7, from 7:00 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Las Vegas Hotel, Ballroom A
Price: SEMA Members: $35, Non-members: $45 until October 18. After October 18, pricing increases to $49 for SEMA members and $69 for non-members.
Rose Kawasaki
SBN Adopts a New Mission Statement
By Amanda GubbinsRose Kawasaki is pleased to announce the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) new mission statement: “The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network’s mission is to provide networking, education and recognition opportunities for professional women in the specialty-equipment industry, which will enhance their careers and positively impact the growth of the entire automotive aftermarket.”
Kawasaki will become SBN chair, July 1. She hopes to concentrate on member outreach and education during her term. “In order to heighten the awareness of our network, we need to find ways to creatively let others know that we are available. The social portals of Facebook and LinkedIn are important. We also want to help connect by geographical areas,” she said. This goal is important to Kawasaki because she has seen firsthand the benefits of making connections with other female colleagues and engaging students enrolled in automotive programs.
Kawasaki did not take a typical journey to the automotive aftermarket. She began her career in the fashion industry, holding positions in sales and management. Overseeing a large staff of women in multiple locations helped her gain an understanding about the dynamics of working with women—a perspective that proved valuable when she was elected to the SBN Select Committee.
Kawasaki’s husband Wade has a long history in the automotive industry. When he noticed a trend of foreign customers wanting U.S. performance parts, he developed a business plan. In 1987, the couple started an export management company out of their home. Exports International began as a side business, making overseas contacts, processing orders, invoicing and delivering freight to the airport in the evenings. The business quickly grew and soon the couple’s Southern California home was full of automotive and marine products.
“One afternoon a truck pulled up in front of our home, the driver knocked on our door and told us he thought he had the wrong address because he was there to deliver a couple pallets of gaskets. That was the moment when we decided it was time to look for a location for our business,” Kawasaki laughed.
Kawasaki joined Exports International full-time in January 1988 and is now the company's vice president. She was first elected to the SBN Select Committee in 2008. Because the industry is predominately male, it was refreshing for her to hear SEMA offered something for women. She believes many women have a thirst for knowledge and want to advance their professional network. Through SBN, women are able to build a strong sense of camaraderie with others who have similar interests and challenges.
“It’s a great avenue to increase awareness, recognize women working within the industry and to have an opportunity to share experiences,” she says. “Joining the SBN is simple; we’re just a click away on www.sema.org/sbn, and our arms are open to welcome you.”
For more information about joining the SBN, please contact Bryan Harrison, senior manager of councils, at BryanH@sema.org or 909-978-9991.
 SBN's winning 20th Anniversary celebration logo was designed by Emily Covi. |
SBN Announces Winning Design for 20th Anniversary Logo
By Amanda Gubbins
The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) has announced the winning logo for its 20th Anniversary celebration. Earlier this year, SBN hosted a contest giving individuals the opportunity to showcase their talent. Three designs were selected as finalists and then voted on by the general public via Facebook. Nearly 200 individuals voted, ultimately choosing Emily Covi’s shield design as the winner.
When she was a young girl, Covi’s father encouraged her to explore the things she loved and find out how to make a living from them. Design was always a hobby of Covi’s, but after earning a degree in Spanish from the University of Georgia, she knew she wanted to devote more time to it.
“As I grew, I found that my two great passions in life were art and automobiles,” Covi said. She found a way to marry the two, tirelessly dedicating herself to finding projects that involved automobiles and motorsports. She is now a full-time freelancer in the Atlanta area.
Being an automobile enthusiast, Covi is also a follower of SEMA’s and SBN’s social networking pages on Facebook and LinkedIn. When she saw the Facebook post announcing the logo design contest, she jumped at the opportunity. Covi saw it as more than just a contest, but also an important mission. “As a woman in the automotive world, I have seen how important we are in the automotive market, and how our contributions can impact all aspects of automobilia and motorsports,” she says.
The elements Covi chose to incorporate into her design say a lot about her experience in the industry. The icon of a shield, often a symbol of strength and fearlessness, was in the forefront of Covi’s mind as she worked on different concepts for the project. “As women in the automotive community, we often find ourselves in the position of having to know twice as much to get half the respect. We must dig deep and carve our place amongst our male counterparts,” she says.
Covi sees the SBN as a resource to unite women in the automotive community, allowing them to gain a stronger presence.
You will see Covi’s logo on many promotional items for SBN in the coming months. Her prize package also included a one-year SEMA membership, tickets to the 2013 SEMA Show and SBN’s Speed Networking Breakfast and Café SEMA events, and last but not least, an official SBN T-shirt.
SBN’s 20th Anniversary reception will take place during The 2013 SEMA Show. Members are invited to join the celebration Wednesday, November 6, 2013, from 6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m. in the Oasis Lounge at the Las Vegas Hotel. The event will feature networking opportunities and awards presentations as network members celebrate the past, present and future, and honor many of the automotive industry’s most influential women.
For more information about joining SBN, visit the website or contact Bryan Harrison, senior manager of councils, at 909-978-6691.
SBN Members Map Updated
Fellow SBNer Susan Carpenter has been working hard in updating the SBN members map, including adding new members and member location changes. This map serves a great purpose. It allows SBN to find fellow members in our area so we can make connections year round. So check out the SBN members map and get to networking!
Join the discussion on MySEMA!
Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? SBN is!
Be sure to follow SBN on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/sbn and use the links in the top right-hand corner.
SBN Column in SEMA Member News
Read SBN's column featured in the July/August issue of SEMA Member News.
For information about SBN, contact Bryan Harrison.
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| Visit WTC's website |
 SEMA’s Wheel & Tire Council (WTC) and CU-ICAR are partnering to develop a comprehensive examination of technology that directly affects vehicle dynamics specific to wheel and tire systems. |
SEMA's Vehicle Technology department has been working with the Clemson University International Center for Automotive Research (CU-ICAR) on advanced-vehicle technology and a performance aftermarket education program for several years.
SEMA’s Wheel & Tire Council (WTC) and CU-ICAR are partnering to develop a comprehensive examination of technology that directly affects vehicle dynamics specific to wheel and tire systems. Phase one of this partnership will take place when WTC leadership visits Clemson this June to meet with professors and graduate students to outline the scope of the project. During the 2013 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, details of this ground-breaking partnership will be announced live in SEMA’s Vehicle Technology Center.
The goal of the SEMA/CU-ICAR partnership offers two significant benefits. First and perhaps most importantly, the relationship with CU-ICAR provides a look into the automotive future in a way that no individual SEMA company could hope to achieve. This is a benefit that is difficult to quantify but is crucial to the continued growth and future of the performance aftermarket, given the rapid pace of technology changes in the automotive industry. Secondly, the relationship with CU-ICAR offers the opportunity for SEMA members to access world-class physical and human resources to help develop affordable solutions to address immediate problems and emerging challenges facing SEMA-member companies.
WTC members and interested guests are invited to join us at Clemson University ICAR for an industry discussion, Tuesday, June 11, 2013. As a part of the festivities, you have the chance to participate in an inside tour of CU-ICAR. There will also be plenty of opportunities for you to network with your fellow members.
We hope you’ll join us for this exciting event. Be sure to send your RSVP by Tuesday, May 28, 2013. Feel free to bring a guest who may be interested in learning more about what WTC has to offer.
Tuesday, June 11, 2013 Schedule:
- Presentation/Tour of CU-ICAR: 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
- Networking Lunch: 12:00 p.m.–1:00 p.m.
- Industry Discussion: 1:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.
- Networking Mixer: 5:00 p.m.–6:30 p.m.
For more information, contact Gina Ledesma, council coordinator, at 909-978-6692 or ginal@sema.org.
Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? WTC is!Be sure to follow WTC on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/wtc and use the links in the top right-hand corner.
WTC Column in SEMA Member News
Read WTC's column featured in the July/August issue of SEMA Member News.
For information about WTC and how to join, contact Clayton Drescher or call or 909/978-6696.
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| Visit YEN's website | |
 Dan Kahn |
Introducing YEN Chair Dan Kahn
By Amanda Gubbins
Dan Kahn became the chairman of the Young Executives Network (YEN) July 1. “I’ve been a member for probably a decade but became actively involved about three years ago,” he says.
Kahn has been involved in the automotive aftermarket his entire adult life, working his way through high school at a speed shop before discovering a passion for communications and journalism, which he studied in college. Kahn found ways to incorporate these skills in the automotive industry, writing and editing automotive publications throughout college and landing a job at Petersen Publishing immediately out of school. When the Internet took off, Kahn made the transition to digital media and eventually moved into public relations and marketing in the automotive industry.
Five years ago, Kahn started Kahn Media—a firm that helps brands in the aftermarket communicate directly with consumers by assisting with marketing, public relations and social media strategy. “It’s a rewarding challenge—we get to work with legendary brands and promote incredible products on the traditional side of the industry while helping them find the cutting edge of communication,” he says.
Kahn first started to plug into YEN when he was featured in a “Member of the Month” article. After meeting some of the network leadership and seeing the kinds of things they were doing, Kahn was appointed to an open seat on the Select Committee. “I got involved on the communication side and really had a good time. Being new to the Select Committee, I was fortunate to have worked with Lee McGuire (immediate past chair). She really understands the ins and outs of the network and showed me how to get the most out of my volunteer experience,” Kahn says.
From Kahn’s perspective, YEN is important because it helps bridge the gap between generations to keep the industry strong. For some, there is uncertainty about the next generation of employees and leaders and a fear about where the industry is headed. YEN offers an environment where the next generation of industry leaders can learn from a diverse group of people.
“My goal for the next two years is to help the industry see young executives as the next wave of business leaders. We will continue to provide great programs and a platform for young executives,” says Kahn.
A couple of YEN programs that highlight this goal are Launch Pad—an opportunity for individuals to pitch their business ideas and gain feedback from experienced entrepreneurs, and the Member Activation Program—a chance to explore new possibilities by partnering with other councils and spending time with their Select Committees.
Learn more about the programs YEN offers, or contact Bryan Harrison, senior manager of councils, at 909-978-6691 or bryanh@sema.org.
 YEN's first-ever “SEMA Launch Pad” contest offers executive-level innovators under the age of 40 an industry platform to showcase their business plan for marketing a new automotive product or service. |
YEN Launches the Next Young Automotive Entrepreneur
By Bryan HarrisonThe SEMA Young Executives Network (YEN) celebrates young entrepreneurs by announcing the first-ever “SEMA Launch Pad” contest. This new competition offers executive-level innovators under the age of 40 an industry platform to showcase their business plan for marketing a new automotive product or service.
Through this competition, five finalists will have their business plans peer-reviewed by industry leaders at the 2013 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. The grand-prize winner will receive a package of advertising tools to help take their business to the next level. The participant’s company will win an array of prizes, including a 10x10-ft. booth at the 2014 SEMA Show, an ad in Hot Rod or 4 Wheel & Off Road magazine, a Family Events sponsorship package and more. Even if you don’t win the grand prize, you and your company may be promoted to thousands of industry professionals curious to learn more about your innovative product or service.
Details:
- The company’s leading executive (company president, CEO or owner) is the participant on behalf of the company. As a YEN member (under age 40), you, the executive, will complete the online application and submit a three-minute video detailing your company’s innovative product or service.
- Your brief video will be reviewed by the YEN Task Force, from which the top 10 candidates will be selected.
- The 10 candidates will be reduced to five, according to which ones receive the most “like” votes via a YEN Facebook page campaign this summer.
- The five candidates will be invited to participate in a live peer review presentation at the 2013 SEMA Show.
- The SEMA Show judges will select the winning YEN executive.
Key deadlines:
- Three-minute video and application due by June 11, 2013.
- Top 10 candidates’ submissions posted on the YEN Facebook page. Facebook voting campaign runs from July 29, 2013, to September 5, 2013. The five candidates with the most “like” votes proceed to the contest finals.
- Top five candidates make a live, 10-minute presentation to the panel of judges at the SEMA Show.
Basic Requirements:
- Participants must be a YEN member (under 40 years old on November 8, 2013) and a legal resident of the United States. Not a YEN member? Become one now.
- YEN member’s company must be a SEMA member. Not a SEMA member? Become one now.
- YEN member’s company must qualify to exhibit at the 2013 SEMA Show (but does not have to exhibit).
- The automotive product or service competing in the SEMA Launch Pad contest must be functioning and currently for sale. No concepts accepted.
- The top five YEN participants will travel to the SEMA Show at their own expense to compete in the live event. The YEN participant must make the presentation before the SEMA Show judges (no substitutes).
- All taxes on prizes are the sole responsibility of the prize-winning company. Tax liability is based on the value of the prizes.
- By participating in the contest, the YEN participant certifies that he/she has ownership rights to the trademarks, service marks, copyrights, patents and any other intellectual property rights or proprietary information of the company and product/service being marketed, or authorization from the owner of such rights.
It’s time to launch the next Young Automotive Entrepreneur. For more information and to fill out the application, visit www.sema.org/launch-pad. If you have questions, please contact Bryan Harrison, SEMA's senior manager of councils, at BryanH@sema.org.
YEN Member of the Month Spotlight
Did you know that YEN has a Member of the Month Spotlight on the SEMA website and that anyone can be nominated? To view previous selections or to make a nomination, visit www.sema.org/yen.
Are you on Facebook, LinkedIn or Twitter? YEN is!
Be sure to follow YEN on all of your favorite social networking sites. To find these sites, go to www.sema.org/yen and use the links in the top right-hand corner.
YEN Column in SEMA Member News
Read YEN's column featured in the July/August issue of SEMA Member News.
For information about YEN, contact Bryan Harrison.
Join the SEMA Council Family
SEMA hosts 10 distinct councils and committees that represent focused niches within the specialty-equipment industry. These groups are comprised of elected volunteers (Select Committee) who guide and direct council activities while representing the membership at large. Although each council acts independently and represents a different segment, they are all focused on the betterment of the industry as a whole.
The value councils provide SEMA and the industry is beyond refute. It is inspiring to witness a diverse collection of company representatives, many of which are direct competitors, come together and develop educational, training, youth awareness and networking events that are, at the core, designed to give back and promote business. An equally important council function is to ensure that SEMA sustains a pulse on the industry and maintains a presence with its members.
The question is often asked, “Why should my company join a council?” The answer is simple. SEMA councils open the doors and provide you exposure to industry leaders, decision makers, trendsetters and a community of like-minded individuals who share your passion and desire to see business succeed and prosper. Once the doors are open, it is your responsibility to take advantage of the benefits by becoming actively involved.
Learn more today.