By Ashley Reyes
 Kristen Stone |
The SEMA Young Executive’s Network (YEN) has named Kirstin Stone of Derive Systems as the network’s latest Spotlight Member. As the current YEN chair, Stone’s leadership has played a vital role in expanding the network, as well as in the growth of other young professionals in the specialty-equipment aftermarket. Learn what keeps her involved in the industry in her Q&A with SEMA.
SEMA: What is the best advice you have ever received?
Kristen Stone: Jump in head first, especially when it comes to volunteering in the industry. If you wait until you're “ready,” you’ll always be a step behind.
SEMA: What keeps you in the industry?
KS: The love for all things horsepower.
SEMA: Where can you be found on a Saturday?
KS: Working on a project, or driving one.
SEMA: How do you prepare for an important meeting?
KS: Well caffeinated, with a notepad in hand.
SEMA: If you could go to lunch with one industry leader, living or dead, who it would be?
KS: John Menzler—he unknowingly inspired me when I was brand new in the industry, and I wish I could pick his brain at this point in my career.