By Ashley Reyes
The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Shelby Chrisman, buyer at Fabtech Motorsports, as the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member.
Get to know Chrisman in her interview with SEMA News below.
SEMA News: How many years have you been with your current company and what do you enjoy most about working there?
Shelby Chrisman: I am coming up on four years with Fabtech Motorsports and the most enjoyable part about my job is my team. I have been extremely blessed with a team who share the same values and passions. Not to mention the endless opportunities available.
SEMA: How many years have you been in the industry and what was your first industry job?
SC: I was born and raised in the industry growing up at the family shop, Chrisman Driveline Components. I started volunteering at a young age at John Force Racing and moved on to my first paid job at McLeod Racing part-time at age 16.
SEMA: What are three qualities that got you to where you are today?
SC: Three qualities that got me to where I am today are my passion for the industry, my willingness to learn and the ability to adapt and pivot as needed. My passion for the industry has benefited me in my career because I look at it as more than just a job--it's an adventure. My willingness to learn and my ability to adapt has benefited me because it invites opportunities to expand my experience and knowledge to further my career.
SEMA: Being a woman in the industry, what have been your biggest challenges and accomplishments?
SC: My greatest challenge being a woman in the industry is feeling that I have to work harder than my male counterparts to prove myself and navigating that my age reflects my level of experience. My biggest accomplishment would be being a part of our team launching a program that benefits the culture of the company.
SEMA: Who are your role models or mentors in the industry?
SC: My number one role model in the industry is my mom, Lana Chrisman. She introduced me to the industry at a young age. She has taught me not only how to be a strong female in the industry but has taught me that leadership is defined by the success of your team and that feedback from your team is valuable from all levels. My second mentor is Chris Gauss, vice president of Warn Industries. This year the company launched a mentor program in which I was proudly chosen by Chris, who is also a male ally for SBN. Chris has shared strong leadership skills with me, valuable advice to further my career and he has expanded my vision on strong leadership attributes. He has shown support by encouraging me to join SEMA networks like TORA. Lastly, the women of SBN have provided guidance and paved the path for the next generation of leaders.
SEMA: What is the best career advice you have received?
SC: The best career advice I have received is to always stay true to your values and to have a successful team you need to provide the necessary tools. This advice has helped me professionally and personally as a formula to success.
SEMA: Have you always wanted to work in the automotive industry? What keeps you here?
SC: Is there another industry outside of the automotive world? Yes, I have always known that I wanted to have a career in the industry. The Chrisman name was introduced to the automotive industry in the late '40s and then to the world of motorsports in the early '50s, making my future inevitable. I have an appreciation for the craftsmanship and hard work that goes into producing award-winning hot rods and performance products.
SEMA: Who was the most influential person on your career/goals?
SC: That's a difficult question to answer because there are a lot of people in the industry who have influenced me. From spending time with Ed Iskenderian, Carl Olson, Walker Evans and many other legends, to the women of SBN. I've had the privilege to learn from some of the top leaders in the industry.
Fill out a #SheIsSEMA spotlight form to submit a self-nomination or nominate a colleague and highlight how you or she is contributing to the specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are automatically eligible to be considered for SBN's #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year award, featured on SBN's social media, SEMA News and recognized on the sema.org/she-is-sema website.