By Kristopher Porter
All SEMA council and network members and industry professionals are encouraged to attend the following events to network, advance their industry knowledge and learn about the latest initiatives:
 |
Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO)
ARMO Reception
Gather with members of the Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO), Tuesday, October 30, for an evening of camaraderie and celebration. Billed as the premier event in the automotive restoration industry, the annual ARMO Awards Reception will kick off at 5:15 p.m. at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, Conference Rooms 7–14. All ARMO members are invited to attend and enjoy dinner, beverages and networking. During the awards presentation, the council will recognize the contributions of individuals and companies in the restoration segment, with awards presented to the winners of the 2018 ARMO Person of the Year and the ARMO Business of the Year. The new-product award winners from the ARMO Hot Products Showcase will also be recognized. Mark your calendar for this must-attend event. Register now.
ARMO/HRIA Booth #23395
ARMO will once again share a booth with the Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA). Because ARMO and HRIA have crossover in membership, the shared space works well for cross-collaboration between council members. Select committee members will be at the booth throughout the Show to discuss the benefits of an 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 any time during Show hours to network with restoration professionals and learn about the latest council initiatives.
ARMO General Membership Meeting
ARMO is holding a general membership meeting at the 2018 SEMA Show. All ARMO members at the Show are encouraged to attend the meeting to learn about the latest council initiatives and discuss industry specific ideas and concerns. The meeting will take place Wednesday, October 31, from 8:00 a.m.–9:00 a.m., in the Westgate Conference rooms 4–6. Breakfast will be served beginning at 7:30 a.m. Register now.
Restoration Builders Panel: Powered by ARMO
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? Who do you partner with? Get answers to these questions and more from some of the industry’s most respected builders.
Meet the panelists:
- EJ Fitzgerald, Cool Hand Customs
- Tim Strange, Strange Motion
- Jesse Henke, J&H Restorations
- Jordan Henke, J&H Restorations
- Lenny Schaeffer, Redemption Rod & Custom
This educational seminar will take place Wednesday, October 31, from 11:15 a.m.–12:15 p.m., in room N258. Register now.
 |
Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN)
New Technologies, New Opportunities: Vehicle Technology Roundtable, Powered by ETTN
Advanced vehicle technologies are changing how cars are designed, developed, customized, sold, serviced, shared and owned. We are witnessing one of the most fundamental shifts in the history of the automotive industry. New vehicle technologies from ADAS to autonomy are driving this shift, and it’s being shaped by demographic, regulatory, social and environmental pressures. Cars and trucks will grow smarter and cooler with connected vehicle systems, high-efficiency engines, vehicle electrification and increased safety performance. This forum will bring together SEMA council and network experts to discuss how members can compete in today’s rapidly evolving market segments and leverage new aftermarket growth opportunities for connected, assisted and automated vehicles outlined in the SEMA Advanced Vehicle Technology Opportunities Report. This event will take place Monday, October 29, from 1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m., in LVCC room N258. Register now.
Racing and Performance Forum: Keeping Technology at the Forefront, Powered by ETTN
Racing technologies and performance products are critical to the continued relevance and innovation within the SEMA community for both traditional members and next-generation performance businesses, enthusiasts and fans. Racing and high-performance cars are central to the future of vehicle electrification and bringing advanced motorsports technologies to the street. SEMA manufacturers need to pay attention to performance developments in electric and hybrid powertrains, as well as drive-by-wire and brake-by-wire systems. Members attending this forum will hear directly from a full grid of frontline leaders and experts on the latest technologies and innovations being used in racing and adapted to production, as well as the direction, relevance and importance of motorsports and technology to the future of the performance industry. This event will take place Tuesday, October 30, from 1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m., in LVCC room N258. Register now.
Advanced Driver Assist Systems: Customizing With Confidence, Presented by ETTN
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are active safety technologies developed to automate vehicle systems for safer driving. Electronic Stability Control (ESC) was one of the first ADAS technologies deployed and regulated. Leading SEMA companies customize with confidence and ensure compliance by knowing how ADAS and advanced vehicle technologies are impacting their products, installations and businesses. This event will take place Wednesday, October 31, from 1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m., in LVCC room N258. Register now.
ETTN Vehicle Tech Lunch & Learn
The Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) will host a luncheon immediately prior to its seminar entitled, “Advanced Vehicle Technology: Practice, Policy and Challenges.” The ETTN Vehicle Tech Lunch & Learn, geared toward automotive technical, engineering and design professionals, will feature food, beverages, presentations and opportunities to discuss the latest automotive technology. In an awards ceremony, leading professionals will be recognized and celebrated with the network’s three annual awards that are presented to those who embody the core values of ETTN. Select committee members and SEMA staff will be on hand to talk about the networks’s initiatives, resources available to members and opportunities to get more involved. This event will take place Thursday, November 1, from 11:45 a.m.–1:00 p.m., in LVCC room N261. Register now.
Advanced Vehicle Technology: Practice, Policy and Challenges, Powered by ETTN
Advanced vehicle technologies are changing how cars are designed, developed, customized, sold, serviced, shared and owned. SEMA manufacturers, distributors and installers are facing increasing challenges today and in the coming years as vehicles become more complex due to assisted, connected and automated driving technologies, as well as demographic, regulatory, social and environmental pressures. Horsepower and hardware are being matched with computing power and software. New market segments are being created in safety, performance, vehicle emissions, electronics, connected and automated driving. This panel session will focus on the practices, challenges, policies and product liability considerations you need to know to grow and prosper in the evolving performance aftermarket. This event will take place Thursday, November 1, from 1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m., in LVCC room N258. Register now.
 |
Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA)
ARMO/HRIA Booth #23395
Catch HRIA members and select committee members in the HRIA booth #23395, located in Hot Rod Alley in Central Hall. HRIA and the Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) have historically shared one large booth space, allowing cross collaboration between the two councils. The booth is commonly referred to as “Central Park” because it is always buzzing and has nice sitting areas to meet other industry and council members. Within the booth are six display vehicles, three from the restoration segment and three from the hot-rod segment. Two of the booth display vehicles will start the Show covered until the reveal on Tuesday at 11:00 a.m. Don’t miss the unveiling of these vehicles!
HRIA Reception
Join the Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) as members get together for a lively evening of networking, appetizers, beverages and celebration of individuals and companies that have contributed to the progress of the hot-rod industry. The much-anticipated event is slated for Wednesday, October 31, from 5:15 p.m.–8:30 p.m., at the Westgate Paradise Center. Mix and mingle with industry friends in a relaxed environment. Grab a drink, a plate of snacks and settle in at a table to watch the show. After the colors are presented by the color guard and the national anthem is sung, John McLeod will emcee the event as industry leaders are awarded and recognized for their outstanding achievements. Companies may also purchase reserved tables for the best seats in the house. All proceeds from table reservations benefit the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund. But act fast; tables sell out quickly. To reserve a table, email Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org. Register now.
Hot Rod Builder Panel, Powered by HRIA
On Thursday, November 1, 11:00 a.m.– 12:00 p.m., in LVCC N258, join an interactive panel discussion with well-established hot-rod builders and shop owners. Led by Rick Love of Vintage Air, the builders will go through their best practices in customer-relations, business operations and building tips, tricks and stories. Register now.
 |
Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA)
Truck Market Happy Hour, Presented by TORA
Join council members, select committee members and SEMA staff for a happy hour on the Show floor in the TORA Booth #34185. The event will kick off just before the close of the first day of the Show, Tuesday, October 30. Surrounded by the hottest truck builds in the world, attendees will enjoy free beverages and conversation with fellow truck and off-road industry associates. There is always much excitement and buzz surrounding the SEMA Show; what better way to wind down from the first day than swapping stories with industry friends and making new connections? This event will take place Tuesday, October 30, from 4:00 p.m.–5:30 p.m., in the TORA Booth #34185. Register now.
TORA Reception
Calling all light-truck accessory professionals! You’re invited to attend the annual TORA Reception, hosted by the Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA). The fun-filled event is set to take place Wednesday, October 31, at 5:00 p.m., in front of the South Hall in the SCORE off-road area adjacent to Mike’s Sky Ranch. Unwind after a busy day at the Show. Enjoy beverages and appetizers under the stars, while networking with industry colleagues and friends. Join in honoring leading companies and individuals during the awards presentation. The iconic Pinewood Drag Races will once again take place this year. Sponsor a vehicle by donating to SEMA Cares children’s charities, and cheer as your pinewood car competes. A raffle for door prizes will also be held, with all proceeds donated to the charities. Register now.
TORA Booth #34185
The TORA booth at the 2018 SEMA Show will be in the Upper South Hall of the LVCC, centrally located among its member companies. The space serves as a place for industry members to connect, network and take a break from walking the Show. Select committee members will be in the booth to talk about the benefits of an TORA membership and the resources that are available to member companies. The booth will have a vehicle on display from the TORA Feature Vehicle Program. Be sure to check out the modifications and customization that went into creating the one-of-a-kind vehicle. The council will have a total of six feature vehicles displayed throughout the Show.
 |
Manufacturers Representative Network (MRN)
Manufacturers’ Rep Roundup and Awards Program
Manufacturers’ reps at the 2018 SEMA Show are invited to attend a networking event, Thursday, November 1, from 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., in SEMA Central, located in the Grand Lobby of the LVCC. This event is a great opportunity to network with one another and learn a bit about the industry while enjoying appetizers and beverages. Nathan Kunzman, chair of the Manufacturers Representative Network (MRN), will provide an update on the network’s latest initiatives and discuss the state of the industry. Before the event is over, MRN will recognize and celebrate leading professionals and companies during the awards portion. MRN members, select committee members and SEMA staff will be onsite to discuss membership and the resources and benefits available through the MRN. Register now.
 |
Professional Restylers Organization (PRO)
PRO Reception
Soak up the Vegas vibe at the liveliest party in town: the PRO Industry Awards Reception, Tuesday, October 30, from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., at the Westgate Resort & Casino pool deck. Mix and mingle with industry icons, leaders and friends as the Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) celebrates its 30th anniversary in high style. Enjoy live music, hot hors d’oeuvres, beverages and conversation in a relaxing moonlight setting. Celebrate the growth and progress of the restyling industry during the awards reception as PRO tips its hat to top performers in four categories: Restyler of the Year, Manufacturer of the Year, Nat Danas Person of the Year and the Jim Borré Lifetime Achievement recipient. All members are invited to attend the PRO networking event of the year. Register now.
Take Your Company’s Sales to the Next Level, Powered by PRO
Want your restyling or truck-accessory center to stand head and shoulders above the crowd? In today’s competitive environment, it’s essential to stay ahead of the competition. Listen and learn as industry veterans share insider tips and tactics to sharpen sales skills and build a more successful business. Gain insights into restyling trends and the best ways to market profitable accessory packages to a dealership or retail clientele. Take your shop’s sales to the next level—discover how earning a sales professional credential can help your company out maneuver the competition. The meeting will take place Wednesday, October 31, in LVCC N253 from 10:15 a.m.–11:15 a.m. Register now.
PRO Happy Hour
PRO will host a happy hour in its booth #13113, Wednesday, October 31, from 4:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m. Join PRO members and fellow restylers to wind down from a long day on the Show floor with free beverages and engaging conversation. Discuss different topics relating to the industry, including the emerging market of retrofitting safety features into vehicles, and what you can do for your business to prosper. Learn more about the benefits of a PRO membership and connect with select committee members who can help you get plugged in. The council offers many volunteer opportunities that lend a way to give back to the industry. Register now.
PRO General Membership Meeting
Join PRO for breakfast and a general membership meeting, Thursday, November 1. This event will serve as a great opportunity to hear council updates directly from PRO leadership and learn about the benefits and resources available to PRO members. Meeting attendees will openly discuss the state of the industry, voice concerns about roadblocks their company is facing and learn how the council can work toward solutions. The meeting will take place in LVCC room N232. Join PRO for breakfast starting at 7:30 a.m., and the meeting will kick off at 8:00 a.m. Register now.
PRO Booth #13113
PRO will have a booth located among its members in the North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center during the 2018 SEMA Show. Throughout the week, Show attendees will find PRO members, members of the council’s select committee and SEMA staff in the booth, networking and chatting about the latest trends in restyling. Stop by any time during Show hours to learn more about PRO and the benefits of membership for your company.
 |
SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN)
Gear-up Girl, Powered by SBN
Calling female professionals: The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) will again host the Gear-up Girl networking event at this year’s SEMA Show. Started in 2011, as part of the SEMA Show Student Program, Gear-up Girl is designed to connect female students with industry-leading female professionals. Join us for this dynamic mixer that brings together generations of female professionals. This event will take place Monday, October 29, from 3:30 p.m.–5:00 p.m., in LVCC room N264. Register now.
Body Politics—The Nonverbal Differences between Men and Women, Powered by SBN
In this program, attendees will learn about the power differential—the effect of gender-based listening modes, subtle differences in everything from smiles and eye contact to space and touching, and the new rules of business etiquette for old standards, such as handshakes and greetings and pats on the back. “Body Politics” is an eye-opening, ear-widening, “Aha!” experience. This session will take place Tuesday, October 30, from 3:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m., in LVCC N253. Register now.
Good Enough Now: Women at Work, Powered by SBN
In a sea of mixed messages, we find ourselves lost between impossible expectations, frustrating people and little room for creativity and humility. We need to hold space for reclaiming self-responsibility, trying and connecting so we can do the best we can with what we have instead of striving for perfection or just opting out under pressure. This session will take place Wednesday, October 31, from 2:15 p.m.–3:15 p.m., in LVCC N254. Register now.
SBN Reception
SBN invites all women of the industry to attend an evening of celebration and networking. The annual SBN Reception will be held Wednesday, October 31, from 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, Ballroom D. And there’s no better way to close out the second day of the Show than by mingling with fellow women of the industry while enjoying finger foods and beverages. SBN select committee members will circulate throughout the evening, networking with current members and other women interested in learning more about SBN. The committee members are great resources for any questions about the network and can explain how and why to get more involved. Register now.
 |
WTC General Membership Meeting
Join WTC for beverages and a general membership meeting, Monday, October 29, from 2:00 p.m.–3:30 p.m., in Aces Restaurant in the Lower South West Lobby. This event will serve as a great opportunity to hear council updates directly from WTC leadership and learn about the benefits and resources available to WTC members. Meeting attendees will openly discuss the state of the industry, voice concerns about roadblocks their company is facing and learn how the council can work toward solutions. Register now.
WTC Reception
Join the Wheel & Tire Council (WTC) and hundreds of wheel and tire industry members for an evening of celebration and networking in a relaxed atmosphere by the Renaissance Hotel pool, Tuesday, October 30, from 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. Enjoy connecting with industry professionals and catching up with friends over food and beverages as WTC marks 20 years of serving the wheel and tire segment. Talk about what’s happening in the industry, exchange special moments and must-see attractions from this year’s SEMA Show. Join in honoring a wheel and tire industry pioneer who will be inducted into the WTC Hall of Fame during the awards presentation. Learn how you can get involved in WTC. Register now.
Legal & Regulatory: Navigating the World of Import Tariffs, Powered by WTC
The Trump Administration has imposed and threatened to impose significant tariffs to address intellectual property theft and perceived global trade imbalances. The U.S. tariffs, along with retaliatory actions being taken by other countries, are causing significant turmoil within the auto industry, as companies seek to grapple with unexpected price hikes and supply-chain disruptions. This seminar will review the status of tariffs on steel/aluminum, Chinese products and imported auto parts, along with renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Accord (NAFTA). The speakers will provide an analysis of current international trade negotiations and efforts to combat the tariffs. This event will take place Wednesday, October 31, from 2:15 p.m.–3:15 p.m., in LVCC room N256. Register now.
Coffee and Conversation Presented by WTC
Come out and enjoy bagels and coffee with WTC, Thursday, November 1, from 8:00 a.m.–9:00 a.m., just inside of the west entrance to the Global Tire Expo, located inside Lower South 1. Get your day started with energy and engaging conversations on the latest wheel and tire trends. Learn about updates to council initiatives and resources that are available to member companies. Select committee members and SEMA staff will be on hand to discuss how individuals can become more involved in the industry through the WTC. Register now.
 |
Young Executives Network (YEN)
SEMA Launch Pad the Next Great Business: Entrepreneurs Pitch Their Ideas
The SEMA Launch Pad is the premier automotive entrepreneur business competition, and the finals are being held at the 2018 SEMA Show! The event will be held on Monday, October 29, from 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m., in the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino Theater—one day before the SEMA Show officially opens. After more than 75 qualified applicants, the contest has been narrowed down to the top 10 contestants, who will participate in this live event. Each contestant has a new automotive product or service that they will pitch to a panel of iconic industry judges who will decide the ultimate winner of the 2018 program. Designed to take their businesses and products to the next level, the grand-prize includes opportunities for marketing and exposure through industry media outlets, a turnkey SEMA Show booth for 2019, access to business tools and resources and so much more. Register now.
YEN General Membership Meeting and Mixer
YEN is holding a general membership meeting and networking opportunity the day before the opening of the 2018 SEMA Show. This is 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 meet fellow young professionals, mingle with the network leadership and learn about the benefits of a YEN membership and join at no cost. This event will take place Monday, October 29, from 5:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m., in LVCC N263C. Register now.
YEN Reception
The Young Executives Network (YEN) is again hosting its popular annual awards reception. The event is an outstanding networking opportunity and highly anticipated among the industry’s young professionals. Enjoy connecting with them over food, drinks and conversation, Tuesday, October 30, from 5:00 p.m.–7:30 p.m., at the Westgate Paradise Center. YEN select committee members will be on hand to talk about opportunities to get more involved in the network’s initiatives. The event also will honor top young professionals for their outstanding accomplishments within the industry. During the reception, YEN will name one leading professional as Young Executive of the Year and celebrate an individual who actively supports young people in the industry with the YEN Vanguard Award. This is one event you don’t want to miss. Register now.