By Ashley Reyes
The SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) has named Kirstin Backes, sales and marketing director, trucks at COBB Tuning, as the council's newest spotlight volunteer. Get to know Backes in her interview with SEMA News below.
SEMA News: What inspired you to pursue a career in restyling/manufacturing?
Kirstin Backes: Modifying cars and trucks has occupied my every waking thought since I was 19. I won't tell you how many years that's been, but I will tell you that attempts to build a career in anything less passion-driven were very short-lived. This is the only industry for me. I get to talk about cars and trucks with other people who love cars and trucks, for work. It's the best.
SN: Why did you decide to volunteer for PRO?
KB: I love the projects they're doing to work on the issues that face restylers, and restyler-focused manufacturers. I think there's a ton to learn from both groups, and I'm looking forward to getting to know the people who work in a dealership-focused headspace every day.
SN: What advice do you have for someone pursuing a career in the automotive aftermarket?
KB: Go for it. Know that you'll sometimes be paid in passion bucks, but that's okay--it's well worth it to do something you love every day. Even more than that, volunteer with a council or network, especially if you're new to the industry. Volunteering pays exclusively in passion bucks, but the people you meet and the relationships you'll forge are invaluable.
SN: What is your dream vehicle?
KB: For years, I would've told you a Toyota Tundra. I achieved that dream over a year ago, and use it for camping and wheeling far away from people as often as possible. That said, you'll find me with it at the Home Depot parking lot on a lot of weekends, too.
Looks like it's time for a new dream!
SN: What is the best advice you have ever received?
KB: At my first SEMA Show, John Menzler encouraged me to volunteer with FLN [Future Leaders Network] back in 2010 (of course, back then it was YEN [Young Executives Network]). He changed the course of my life and the course of my career. I had no idea I was talking to a legend in the business. Sadly, he passed before I could say thank you. Here's to you, Menzler!
SN: What keeps you in the industry?
KB: I tried leaving; made more money, had a great boss and worked for a stable company. Where's the excitement in that? I was bored to tears. Never again.
SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday?
KB: Working on a gut renovation at my house, taking on the trails and camping or working at an event for COBB.
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.