By Ashley Reyes
Volunteering on a SEMA council or network select committee can be rewarding for professionals looking to increase their involvement and impact in the automotive aftermarket industry.
SEMA News recently interviewed Mark Bowler, CEO at Bowler Transmissions; Dallas Johannas, merchandiser at RPUI; and Kelleigh Shankel, chief technology officer at Battle Motors about their volunteer experience and giving back to the causes they care most about.
Read their insights below, and if you are interested in volunteering on one of SEMA's nine council and network select committees, apply by April 18 at www.sema.org/volunteer.
SEMA News: Can you share a memorable success story from your time volunteering with the Association?
Mark Bowler: It was great to be part of the Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) and help bring industry attention to the builders and leaders in our market segment. One of the best opportunities I had was introducing the HRIA Design and Innovation Award and Evolution of Hot Rodding Award, to give back to the builders by recognizing their iconic builds at the SEMA Show.
The best part of my time with HRIA was having the opportunity to lead the Feature Vehicle Program, which brings 10 of the industry's trendsetting cars to the SEMA Show to spotlight our HRIA member builders and products.
Dallas Johannes: By volunteering on Future Leaders Network (FLN) task forces and subcommittees, I've been able to see the growth of multiple programs that create value for SEMA members. I've seen the Professional Development Program (PDP) grow into an annual leadership training program that has benefited young industry professionals from a variety of backgrounds and different sectors of our unique and specialized industry.
Kelleigh Shankel: One of the most meaningful parts of volunteering with the association has been the direct role I've played in helping protect our businesses and the broader automotive aftermarket from harmful legislation. Over the past few years, SEMA has taken real action to protect our space, and being part of that process--meeting directly with legislators, lending perspective, offering feedback, and helping shape the response--made it feel like I wasn't just watching change happen, I was actively contributing to it.
SN: How has volunteering with SEMA contributed to your personal or professional growth?
Bowler: It helped me build a better network of like-minded passionate people in our industry to learn from and build a solid relationship. One example that stands out is the personal connection that I have formed with Rick Love. He and I have become close personal friends, and he has now become a business mentor, which has helped me through many challenges of growing our company and has pushed me to be a better leader and business-minded individual.
Johannes: I've had the opportunity to speak at different networking events, during the FLN general membership meetings, and even become the chair of the FLN Lunch and Learn program where I host discussions with industry professionals. Those opportunities have allowed me to feel much more comfortable talking in front of larger groups of people.
Shankel: It's pushed me to think more strategically, stay ahead of industry trends, and engage in dynamic conversations that go far beyond the walls of my own company. But more than that, it's been the single biggest contributor to building my personal network. The relationships I've formed through the committees and events have opened doors to incredible collaborations, partnerships, and professional opportunities I never would've come across otherwise.
SN: Would you recommend volunteering on a select committee to others and why?
Bowler: Yes, I would highly encourage other business owners to volunteer. I feel it is a great opportunity to support the industry, build a network of great people, and help gain a better understanding of SEMA and what they truly do for our industry.
Johannes: I highly recommend volunteering on a select committee. Select committees are the voice for the general members of their respective councils and networks within SEMA and have the chance to really drive change by creating programs, putting on events, and driving initiatives that benefit the automotive aftermarket.
Shankel: 100%, yes, absolutely. It's one of the few opportunities where you can both give back and grow at the same time. You get to shape the direction of the industry while learning from other people who are just as committed. If you're someone who wants to have a voice in where we're headed and build meaningful relationships along the way, it's a no-brainer.
Applications to volunteer on a SEMA council and network select committee close Friday, April 18. Learn more and apply at sema.org/volunteer.