By Ashley Reyes

Employees of SEMA member companies are invited to increase their involvement in the automotive aftermarket industry by volunteering as a SEMA council or network select committee member. Applications are open until April 18 at sema.org/volunteer.
Below are five reasons to consider applying.
1. Advance Your Market Segment
Select committee members spearhead programs, events and networking opportunities that benefit the members of their council or network. Tailored to various market segments, these resources educate, build and connect industry professionals and businesses, helping them succeed in the marketplace.
2. Expand Your Professional Network
Select committee members work alongside other volunteers who are industry leaders, business owners and subject-matter experts. By gaining access to this exclusive network, volunteers can expand their professional network and open doors to potential business collaborations and relationships.
3. Develop Leadership Skills
Select committee members plan, lead, and execute projects that advance the specialty-automotive aftermarket. These projects enable volunteers to build programs from scratch and spearhead various initiatives--all of which provide skills that look great on a resume.
4. Gain New Industry Knowledge
Select committee members attend monthly meetings and a select committee summit every other year. These events provide volunteers with a new perspective on the industry, giving them the opportunity to engage in conversations on where the industry is headed.
5. Establish Industry Recognition
Select committee members participate in speaking engagements, industry discussions and advocacy efforts that connect them with leaders in the automotive industry; this helps them expand their visibility as professionals and experts in their market segment.
Apply Today
Select committee applicants must be employed by a SEMA member company and be willing to serve a two-year term. Planning skills and aftermarket knowledge are helpful, but the most important trait required is a passion for giving back to the industry. Apply here.