By Ashley Reyes
The SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) has named Hannah Neal, vice president of Automotion Customs, as the council's newest spotlight volunteer. Get to know Neal in her interview with SEMA News below.
SEMA News: What inspired you to pursue a career in restyling?
Hannah Neal: My father has been in the industry for 20-plus years. I grew up watching him run around dealership lots installing leather and overhead DVD systems. He eventually opened his first brick-and-mortar location, and we quickly outgrew that building. Two moves and a lot of business growth later, I decided to go to college and pursue a degree in business management and join the company!
SN: Why did you decide to volunteer for PRO?
HN: I decided to volunteer for PRO after I attended the PRO reception at the SEMA Show and then saw the PRO Cup Challenge the next day. I always felt like SEMA was just for the people who wanted to build $100,000-plus cars and trucks, and I didn't see where my company would fit in. After finding PRO, I knew it was exactly where our company belonged, and I knew I would dedicate my time to finding other companies across the country to join PRO.
SN: What advice do you have for someone pursuing a career in the automotive aftermarket?
HN: Go for it! This industry is one of the best industries on the planet. There is a sense of community, while still fostering healthy competition. It is such a fun and custom industry, and I wouldn't leave it for the world.
SN: What is your dream vehicle?
HN: Dream vehicle? I would probably say a Bentley of some sort, but I wouldn't turn down any kind of sports car! I would probably be running around a mountain or possibly find myself in a high-speed chase going down the interstate.
SN: What is the best advice you have ever received?
HN: Hard work beats talent when talent doesn't work hard. Every day I wake up and dedicate myself to working hard and learning new things.
SN: What keeps you in the industry?
HN: The people, the excitement and the opportunity to grow every single day.
SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday?
HN: You can find me hanging out with friends and family, traveling, playing a round of golf or selling things on Facebook Marketplace.
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.