By Ashley Reyes
Evan Cook is the SEMA Professional Restylers Organization’s (PRO) newest spotlight volunteer. Cook is the COO at Trim Illusion—an aftermarket company that specializes in overlay automotive accessories.
Get to know Cook in his interview with SEMA below.
SEMA: What inspired you to pursue a career in restyling/manufacturing?
Evan Cook: Honestly, this was a career I sort of fell into. I always was interested in cars but didn’t necessarily think I would make a career out of it. Like many others, coming out of high school I struggled to find my career path and decide what I wanted to do. I realized in this industry there were so many different career paths you could take. Whether it be in sales, operations, technology, logistics, engineering, design, photography/videography, this career gave me the opportunity to find my niche while continuing my education.
SEMA: Why did you decide to volunteer for PRO?
EC: I decided to volunteer for PRO to gain knowledge and insight from some of the leaders in our industry. Being a part of PRO has put me closer to our customers and has personally given me so much insight on the challenges our customers face. It has also given my company the ability work side by side with our customers, other manufacturers and distributors to improve the automotive aftermarket industry.
SEMA: What advice do you have for someone pursuing a career in the automotive aftermarket?
EC: Work hard and you will not be disappointed! I found that if you work hard and put yourself in the best position to succeed, this industry can be very rewarding. While sometimes it can be challenging, being a part of the automotive aftermarket industry gives you the opportunity to learn from and build lasting relationships with a lot of great people, attend different networking events and shows in different places and be a part of the best industry in the world.
SEMA: What is your dream vehicle? Where would we find you in it on any weekend?
EC: I would say my dream car is a Shelby GT500. You would find me pulled over for speeding, ha! No, I would take this car for a nice cruise on beautiful Skyline Drive.
SEMA: What is the best advice you have ever received?
EC: “Work Hard.” First and best advice I’ve ever received. Never fails in work or life.
SEMA: What keeps you in the industry?
EC: It’s a great industry to work in. I constantly get to challenge myself every day and it never becomes mundane. This is an ever-evolving industry if you get complacent you fall behind. Our team is constantly exploring new opportunities, new ideas and working on initiatives that have a direct impact on our company.
SEMA: Where can you be found on a Saturday?
EC: Hanging out with my family, watching sports or playing some golf!
Fill out a PRO member spotlight form to highlight how you or your company are contributing to the automotive restyling industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on PRO’s social media, SEMA News and future PRO-member updates.