Strengthen Your Company Through Community
No matter what niche you're in—rods, restoration, racing, restyling, trucks or wheels and tires—there’s a SEMA council or professional network that's right for your company. SEMA councils and networks offer members a variety of market-specific programs and activities designed to provide educational and networking opportunities while promoting their particular industry segment.
 |
| Visit SBN's website. |
Connect With and Inspire Female Students at the SEMA Show—Women Only
The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) will host the fifth-annual Gear-up Girl event October 31, from 3:30 p.m.–5:00 p.m., in the Las Vegas Convention Center North Hall room N264. This event is critical to the future of the automotive aftermarket industry. It brings together female students who hold career aspirations within the industry with influential female industry leaders. If you are an SBN member and want to enjoy inspiring the next-generation workforce over snacks and beverages, this is a must-attend event during the 2016 SEMA Show.
Register for Gear-up Girl and check out all of SBN’s events happening at the SEMA Show.
 |
| Visit ARMO's website. |
 ARMO will once again share a booth with the Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA), where six feature vehicles will be on display. |
Catch up with the Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) at these events happening at the 2016 SEMA Show.
ARMO Reception
The Automotive Restoration Market Organization is hosting its annual industry awards reception at the 2016 SEMA Show, where the council will recognize top companies and individuals in the automotive restoration industry for their outstanding accomplishments. In addition to the awards ceremony, the reception provides the perfect atmosphere for networking with fellow restoration professionals. Enjoy food and beverages while mingling with industry friends and members of the select committee.
The reception will be held Tuesday, November 1, from 5:15 p.m.–7:30 p.m., in the Westgate Conference Rooms 7–14.
ARMO/HRIA Booth #23395
ARMO will once again share a booth with the Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) as the two councils share similar initiatives and have membership crossover. Select committee members will be stationed at the booth throughout the Show to discuss the benefits of ARMO membership and opportunities to volunteer and get involved. Six feature vehicles will be on display in the combined booth—three representing the restoration segment and three representing the hot-rod segment.
Stop by booth #23395 to network with restoration professionals and learn about the latest council initiatives.
ARMO General Membership Meeting
The Automotive Restoration Market Organization is holding a general membership meeting at the 2016 SEMA Show. All ARMO members attending the Show are encouraged to attend the meeting to learn about the latest council initiative and discuss industry-specific ideas and concerns.
In addition to council updates, ARMO select committee member Brian Rowland of TAP Worldwide will lead an engaging discussion on “Data & eCommerce in the Restoration Market.” With extensive experience in this area, Rowland will show attendees why data and ecommerce go hand in hand.
The meeting will take place Wednesday, November 2, from 7:15 a.m.–9:00 a.m., in the Westgate Conference rooms 4–6.
Restoration Builders Panel: Powered by ARMO
At this discussion panel, well-known restoration builders will share their experiences in restoring vehicles, give business tips and discuss the latest restoration trends. Bring questions, as there will be a Q&A at the end!
This educational session will take place Wednesday, November 2, from 3:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m., in room N258
Register for these ARMO events.
 |
| Visit ETTN's website |
 Robert Simons |
Robert Simons Will Provide Insights on 3D Printing Technologies to SEMA Members During SEMA ETTN Quick Talks Session
By Kent Bradley
As one of four industry experts presenting at the SEMA Emerging Trends and Technology Network (ETTN) inaugural Quick Talks – Experts Talk Vehicle Technology at the 2016 SEMA Show, Robert Simons, Edelbrock vice president of research and development, will discuss 3D printing as a manufacturing technology that turns digital 3D models into solid objects by building them up in layers.
In his presentation, Simons will chronicle how 3D printing technology has evolved into a next-generation manufacturing process that has the potential to allow the local, on-demand final production of products thereof. Initially used for rapid prototyping, it is now possible to 3D print in a wide range of materials that include thermoplastics, thermoplastic composites, pure metals, metal alloys and ceramics.
Simons has been with Edelbrock for eight years, initially serving as the engineering manager for the supercharger program, and later taking over responsibility for all research and development activities. In this role, he is responsible for managing a team of more than 20 mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, technicians and support staff. He oversees all design, development, calibration and testing. He was awarded two utility patents for the Edelbrock E-Force supercharger and the EFI Fuel Sump, and has two more utility patents currently pending with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). In addition, Simons is in charge of all emissions-certification activities, including the pending LSI certification of an all-new, off-road, V8 engine platform.
Simons’ presentation, “3D Printing Technologies,” will take place Thursday, November 3, at 9:00 a.m., in room N258 in the Upper North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center. His session will be one of four 15-minute Quick Talk sessions scheduled for the 2016 SEMA Show.
 |
| Visit HRIA's website |
 HRIA will host its annual industry awards reception at the 2016 SEMA Show. The event is highly anticipated by hot-rod professionals, and is the second-most attended event at the Show. |
The Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) is looking forward to connecting with hot-rod professionals at the 2016 SEMA Show at its events and booth located in Central Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center.
HRIA Reception
HRIA will host its annual industry awards reception at the 2016 SEMA Show. The event is highly anticipated by hot-rod professionals, and is the second-most attended event at the Show. Join the council for a cocktail hour followed by a banquet-style dinner, catch up with old friends and network with industry professionals. Rick Love of Vintage Air will moderate the awards ceremony. Top companies and individuals in the hot-rod segment will be recognized and awarded for their outstanding contributions to the industry.
Check out the six feature vehicle hot rods and HRIA Builder’s Challenge Pinewood cars that will be on display throughout the event. These one-of-a-kind miniature hot rods will be auctioned off to benefit SEMA Cares children’s charities. Sponsored tables are also available for purchase, benefitting the SEMA Scholarship Fund. To sponsor a table, contact Director of Councils Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.
The reception will be held Wednesday, November 2, from 5:15 p.m.–8:30 p.m., in the Westgate Paradise Center.
HRIA Booth #23395 Central Hall
The Hot Rod Industry Alliance will once again share a booth with the Automotive Restoration Market Association (ARMO) at the 2016 SEMA Show. The two councils share common initiatives and have membership crossover. Select committee members will be stationed at the booth throughout the Show to discuss the benefits of HRIA membership and opportunities to get involved and volunteer.
In the heart of Hot Rod Alley, the HRIA booth has been commonly referred to as “Central Park” because the booth creates an inviting atmosphere for hot-rod industry professionals to meet and network. Six feature vehicles will be on display in the shared booth—three representing the restoration market and three representing the hot-rod market. The Builder’s Challenge pinewood cars will also be on display in the booth and will be auctioned off at the HRIA reception.
Hot Rod Builder’s Panel: Powered by HRIA
Are TV builds a reality? What does it take to be a successful vehicle builder? How do you differentiate yourself? How do you grow your reputation as a top-tier builder? What are the pitfalls? With whom do you partner? Get answers to these questions and more from some of the industry’s most respected builders in this panel discussion moderated by Rick Love of Vintage Air. This educational session will take place Thursday, November 3, from 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., in room N258
Register for these HRIA events.
 |
| Visit TORA's website. |
 A fun tradition that has turned into a much-anticipated competitive event at the TORA reception is the pinewood drag races, in which attendees can rent pinewood trucks to race. |
The Truck and Off-Road Alliance is hosting networking and educational events at the SEMA Show designed to connect and advance light truck professionals.
TORA Booth #34183 and Happy Hour
The Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) will have a booth (#34183 in Upper South Hall) at the 2016 SEMA Show where TORA members and aspiring members will gather to network and learn more about the council’s initiatives. Two must-see feature vehicles will be on display.
TORA is hosting a happy hour in its booth at the close of the first day of the 2016 SEMA Show. Be sure to stop by the centrally located booth for a drink and to network with truck and Jeep industry professionals. Members of the select committee will be there to answer any questions about council initiatives and the many benefits that an TORA membership can bring your company.
Happy hour will be held Tuesday, November 1, from 4:00 p.m.–5:30 p.m., in the TORA Booth #34183 in Upper South Hall.
TORA Reception
The Truck and Off-Road Alliance will host a reception at the 2016 SEMA Show. TORA members and fellow industry professionals will gather for a fun evening of networking while enjoying beverages and hors d'oeuvres. The council will honor outstanding TORA companies and individuals for their contributions to the light-truck segment with their annual awards ceremony.
A fun tradition that has turned into a much-anticipated competitive event at the TORA reception is the pinewood drag races, in which attendees can rent pinewood trucks to race. Pinewood trucks will also be on display at the reception for purchase. All race and purchase proceeds go toward SEMA Cares children’s charities.
The reception will take place Wednesday, November 2, from 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., in the Westgate Conference Rooms 7–14.
Off-Road, Truck and Jeep Builder’s Panel: Powered by TORA
In this new panel discussion aimed at truck and Jeep builders, attendees will hear from a panel of well-known vehicle builders discussing their experience building trucks and what it takes to be a successful builder. Bring questions, as the panel will open the discussion for a Q&A session.
This educational event will take place Thursday, November 3, from 3:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m., located in LVCC Upper North Hall room N252.
Register to attend these TORA events.
 |
| Visit MPMC’s website. |
MPMC is calling for Hall of Fame Nominations
The Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) honors individuals whose lifetime achievements have significantly impacted the motorsports industry by awarding them with the council’s most prestigious award—MPMC Hall of Fame. Created in 2010, the MPMC Hall of Fame permanently acknowledges current and or former MPMC members for their contributions to motorsports, the council and the automotive aftermarket industry. Nominations are now being accepted for the 2016 inductees.
The 2016 inductees will be celebrated at the MPMC Hall of Fame Reception, taking place at the PRI Show in Indianapolis.
Current MPMC Hall of Fame:
2010: Amy Faulk, Scooter Brothers, Jeep Worthan, John Menzler
2011: Chuck Blum, Todd Gartshore, Rick Rollins, Nate Shelton
2012: Jim Cozzie, Keith Dorton, Ron Funfar, Chris Thomson
2013: Earl Gaerte, Dennis Overholser, Bob Ritzman
2014: Steve Lewis, Jim McFarland, Joe Moriarity
2015: Ron Johnson, Dick Berggren
If you know a colleague, mentor or industry friend who belongs on that list, nominate them today!
For questions regarding the MPMC and the Hall of Fame, please contact Jim Skelly at 909-978-6690 or jimsk@sema.org.
 |
| Visit MRN's website. |
 The Manufacturers Rep Network (MRN) will visit first-time exhibitors in the Performance Pavilion and Westgate to share their expertise on successfully handling and following-up on SEMA Show leads. |
Rep Match Gives You Leads
The Manufacturers Rep Network (MRN) will visit first-time exhibitors in the Performance Pavilion and Westgate to share their expertise on successfully handling and following-up on SEMA Show leads. Taking place immediately prior to the start of the Show on Friday, November 4, from 8:00 a.m.–9:00 a.m., they will also pass out bagels and Red Bull to exhibitors for a morning boost. Additionally, the MRN will share insights on the benefits of working with independent sales reps and their latest manufacturer benefit—the RepMatch program.
 |
| Visit PRO's website. |
 PRO is hosting a happy hour in its booth, which will be a great opportunity to take a mid-week break and mingle with motivated restyling buyers and exhibitors. |
The Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) has a busy week of events planned at the SEMA Show designed to connect and educate restyling professionals attending the Show.
PRO Booth #12579 and Happy Hour
The Professional Restylers Organization will have a booth (#12579 in North Hall) at the 2016 SEMA Show that will serve as a destination point for PRO members to learn about the latest council initiatives and network. PRO is hosting a happy hour in its booth, which will be a great opportunity to take a mid-week break and mingle with motivated restyling buyers and exhibitors. Get to know the PRO select committee, and meet the dozens of PRO members who will be on hand to share what the council has to offer and to discuss opportunities to get more involved.
Happy Hour will take place in the PRO booth #12579 in North Hall, Wednesday, November 2, from 4:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.
PRO Reception
The Professional Restylers Organization will host its annual industry awards reception at the 2016 SEMA Show. Enjoy something to eat and drink while catching up with old friends and mingling with the council leadership at the premier networking opportunity for restyling professionals at the Show. The council will also hold an awards ceremony to honor influential leaders in the restyling industry.
The reception will be held Tuesday, November 1, from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., on the pool deck of the Westgate Hotel.
PRO General Membership Meeting
The Professional Restylers Organization will hold a general membership meeting at the 2016 SEMA Show. All PRO members attending the Show and restyling companies that would like to learn more about the council are encouraged to participate in the meeting. Council leadership will present on the council’s current initiatives and will also open the discussion to the general membership to hear their thoughts and ideas.
The PRO General Membership Meeting will take place Thursday, November 3, from 7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m., in LVCC room N234.
Capturing Accessory Sales at Auto Dealerships, Powered by PRO
Vehicle accessorization is big business, generating $36 billion annually in direct retail sales. Studies show that 70% of accessories are sold to new-vehicle buyers within 30 days of vehicle purchase. But dealers only capture 13% of those accessory sales. That leaves a lot of money on the table.
How do you keep that business at your dealership? Put pizazz in the showroom that shoppers can’t resist. Easy styling solutions to boost inventory turns and pump up profits. Listen and learn as industry experts share their knowledge and insights into how accessorizing can help grow your business and your bottom line.
This educational session will take place Tuesday, November 1, from 10:15 a.m.–11:00 a.m., in room N252.
Building a Profitable and Professional Dealer-Direct Sales Team, Powered by PRO
Through the PRO Sales Training Manual, revised and reintroduced in 2015, the council continues to provide tools to improve business practices and procedures. PRO’s most recent initiative, the development of the SEMA Salesperson Competency Certificate, is based on the sales manual. By measuring a salesperson’s knowledge, the certificate builds a more professional industry, enhances the industry’s image and conveys a company’s—and an individual’s—commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction. This session shows what it takes to create successful dealer outreach and builds an understanding of the certificate program, thereby delivering practical tips and ideas attendees can put to use immediately in their company.
This educational session will take place Wednesday, November 2, from 2:15 p.m.–3:15 p.m., in room N256.
Planning for the Future: New Vehicle Technologies, Powered by PRO
Connected and automated vehicle technologies, advanced driver-assist systems (ADAS) and other mobility options will significantly improve safety. The aftermarket industry is playing an increasingly important role in retrofitting and installing many of these systems and technologies on the 250-million vehicles already on U.S. roads. Listen and learn as a panel of experts discusses how advanced-vehicle technology is transforming the automotive and aftermarket industries, and explores the challenges and opportunities posed by evolving vehicle technologies and mobility options.
This educational session will take place Thursday, November 3, from 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., in room N256.
10 Steps to Operating a Successful Restyling Shop: Powered by PRO
In this session, three leading restylers with more than 60 years of combined industry experience will share their ideas and strategies—and invite audience participation—on essential discussion topics. Key among them: recruiting and managing technicians, managing and training sales staff, running a retail versus wholesale operation, promoting a company’s image, heightening the level of professionalism in the industry, managing the bottom line, advertising, promotions, finding the ideal work environment and being involved in SEMA and PRO.
This educational session will take place Friday, November 4, from 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m., in room N254.
Register to attend these PRO events.
 Mingle with the select committee and learn about opportunities to get more involved at the Wheel and Tire Council reception. |
WTC Reception
WTC General Membership Meeting
The Wheel and Tire Council is hosting a General Membership Meeting at the SEMA Show. All WTC members and companies that specialize in manufacturing, distributing and selling wheels and tires are encouraged to come. Learn about the latest council initiatives and resources that the WTC provides through membership. Mix and mingle with the select committee and SEMA staff, and learn how you can become more involved in the industry.
The meeting will take place Monday, October 31, from 1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m., at the Renaissance, Paramount Room.
 The YEN reception is a great networking opportunity in which select committee members will be on hand to discuss opportunities to get more involved in the network’s initiatives. |
The Young Executives Network is holding a general membership meeting and networking opportunity the day before the opening of the 2016 SEMA Show. This is a great opportunity to catch up with fellow YENsters and hear updates on the latest network initiatives from the select committee. If you are not a member, this event serves as the perfect opportunity to mingle with the network leadership, learn about the benefits of YEN membership and sign up at no cost.
SEMA Launch Pad
The fourth annual SEMA Launch Pad Presented by YEN is a competition for young entrepreneurs, in which industry executives pitching their new products and budding businesses to a panel of automotive industry icons acting as the judges at the 2016 SEMA Show. The competition started with nearly 80 applicants. The top-10 finalists were selected by a Facebook voting process and will pitch their businesses at this live event. Watch and learn how these young entrepreneurs started their companies and launched their products in the marketplace as they compete for the chance to win the grand prize.
The live event will take place Wednesday, November 2, from 11:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m., in LVCC room N258.