SEMA Member News—September 2019
SBN Connects and Empowers Industry Women at the Show Events
 A new addition to last year’s SEMA Show, the SBN photo map provided members the opportunity to identify and connect with colleagues from similar geographic regions. |
The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) is a dynamic group representing more than 550 professional women employed in the aftermarket industry and has set its sights on hosting multiple women-driven networking and educational opportunities at the 2019 SEMA Show.
In keeping with the overarching theme of #SheIsSEMA and the network’s mission to empower women employed in the aftermarket, the SBN programs will offer opportunities for industry women to connect with likeminded colleagues, become more engaged in the industry and further their professional careers.
Gear Up for Gear-Up Girl!
Gear-Up Girl, now in its eighth year, is one of SBN’s most popular and well-attended events and a key component of #SheIsSEMA. Slated for Monday, November 4, from 3:30 p.m.–5:00 p.m. at the Las Vegas Convention Center, the women-only gathering is first and foremost a prime networking venue. It is a conduit for up-and-coming young women to engage in the aftermarket, learn about career paths, and connect with many of the seasoned professional women who attend the event—all while enjoying snacks and beverages in an informal setting.
“Gear-Up Girl is an excellent networking venue,” said SBN Chair Lana Chrisman. “It’s focused on engaging young women who have just entered the industry and who are trying to establish a good career foundation, as well as students interested in learning about career opportunities. It’s a chance for them to meet women influencers currently working in the industry, ask questions and begin building relationships.”
 Gear-Up Girl is a highly anticipated event sponsored by the SBN and SEMA Education to bring together students and female industry professionals. |
During the event, SBN also salutes women in the industry. Two awards will be presented this year. The SBN Woman of the Year will honor an industry woman for her outstanding achievements and contributions to the automotive aftermarket. The SBN Rising Star Award recognizes a woman under the age of 30 who is making significant strides in advancing her career in the aftermarket, along with paving the way for her peers. This year, the Rising Star Award will be presented to the student selected as the SBN scholarship recipient.
“I encourage all of our members as well as women interested in learning more about SBN to join us at Gear-Up Girl and continue building our community,” Chrisman said.
Celebrate With SBN
Come one, come all to the fifth annual SBN Reception, on tap for Wednesday, November 6, 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino. Complete with gourmet food and beverages, the festive occasion typically draws a standing-room-only crowd for an evening of camaraderie and networking.
“We welcome everyone, men and women, to join us for the SBN Reception,” Chrisman said. “It’s truly an outstanding networking event and a great opportunity for other SEMA council and network leaders to get together as well.”
Focus on Women-Centric Education
Last year, SBN sponsored a morning keynote address presented by actress, author and correspondent Megan Alexander. SBN also powered two women-only seminars during Show week. While details were not confirmed at press time, the network is also planning to present women-centric seminars during this year’s Show.
“SBN will again sponsor a women-driven track,” Chrisman said. “We expect that there will be two sessions, including a panel discussion. We’re very focused on offering educational events to help support women in the industry, to give them tools and resources to improve their careers, and to help them navigate through a male-dominated industry. Going forward we’ll continue to provide education and networking opportunities, including quarterly meet-ups and an ambassador program. It’s an exciting time for SBN.”
