By SEMA News Editors
The Manufacturing Institute recognizes women in manufacturing, aiming to close the gender gap in the industry and inspire future generations. Its 10th annual Step Ahead Awards ceremony is seen here. Photo courtesy of Manufacturing Institute.
The Manufacturing Institute--the workforce development and education affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers--will honor two SEMA members among its recipients of the 2025 Women MAKE Awards. Tiffanie Hartenstein, of Oracle Lighting, and Alex Parker, of Redline Detection, will be honored on April 24 in Washington, D.C., joining a class of some of the most impressive and inspiring women in the manufacturing industry today.
Women MAKE Award honorees have accomplished success within their companies and have proven to be leaders in the manufacturing industry as a whole.
"We're delighted to see Tiffanie and Alex receive this prestigious honor," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "Their leadership, passion and relentless drive to pursue excellence in everything that they do is admirable among the aftermarket community and has driven the industry forward in extraordinary ways."
Tiffanie Hartenstein is CEO and co-founder of Oracle Lighting, directly managing the organization's day-to-day operations. Since 1999, Oracle Lighting has developed custom lighting solutions for a wide variety of vehicles and applications. For more than 15 years, Hartenstein and her talented team have grown Oracle Lighting in both size and revenue. They have helped Oracle Lighting make nine consecutive appearances on the Inc magazine Inc. 500/5000 list, which highlights the nation's fastest growing small businesses. In 2021, Oracle Lighting received SEMA's Manufacturer of the Year Award and was recognized as the number one fastest-growing company in the greater New Orleans metro area. Hartenstein also serves as chair-elect for the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN).
"I feel powerful when I have the opportunity to mentor others," Hartenstein said. "Sharing my experiences, helping others overcome challenges, and celebrating their successes reminds me of the strength we all have to uplift and inspire each other. It's when I feel most aligned with my purpose as a leader."
Alex Parker is president of Redline Detection, which designs and manufactures tools for the automotive aftermarket and automakers in 160 countries. Under Parker's leadership, Redline Detection has evolved from a mechanical manufacturer to a leader in the field in software-based battery diagnostic technology for e-mobility, developing technology that facilitates the safe adoption of EVs. Redline Detection's headquarters facility brings together engineering, design and manufacturing units. Parker has been a judge on SEMA Launch Pad on The History Channel and part of the Petersen Automotive Museum's business incubator, sponsored by Rolex and Porsche, advocating for independent businesses, hands-on internships and STEM education in the automotive industry. Redline Detection was the SEMA 2020 Manufacturer of the Year.
"I am empowered when I see leaders like Mary Barra forging progress with such determination, innovation and vision," said Parker. "I aspire to lead with that kind of vision, fueled by both deep technical knowledge and heart."
For more information, visit themanufacturinginstitute.org.