SEMA Member News—September 2019
WTC Connects Wheel and Tire Pros at SEMA Show Events
 Coffee & Conversation brings together wheel and tire companies to network and start the SEMA Show off with a bang. |
As part of its mission to help its members’ businesses grow and thrive, the Wheel & Tire Council (WTC) centers its efforts on delivering meaningful benefits and opportunities during the SEMA Show. Whether it’s through educational offerings, networking venues or recognition of industry leaders during an awards ceremony, WTC invites all members and nonmembers interested in learning more about WTC to take advantage of its can’t-miss opportunities during Show week.
WTC to Sponsor Education Track
The combined Global Tire Expo and Wheels & Accessories section is the main attraction occupying the Lower South Hall. While thousands of buyers pass through during Show week, they typically had to leave the hall in the past to attend segment-specific seminars held elsewhere in the Las Vegas Convention Center—until now.
Although specific topics were not yet available at press time, the good news is that now there will be a wheel-and-tire-centric education track in the South Hall.
“The WTC is very excited to announce our sponsorship of the new, dedicated education section in the South Hall that will provide sessions on today’s hottest topics, ways to maximize your impact, resources to move to the next level, and tactics to minimize risk,” said Tyson Boyer, WTC chair.
Coupled with what Boyer described as an “outreach opportunity” on tap for Monday afternoon, November 4, he said that the WTC-sponsored education program will deliver on its promise.
“Rest assured, there will be events and opportunities that will educate almost anyone who spends time in the Global Tire Expo,” he said. “Our goal is to reinforce the value of being a WTC member while providing insights into key topics impacting our segment of the market. So watch for an upcoming schedule and be sure to lock it into your calendar.”
An Evening of Networking and Celebration
 Chairman Tyson Boyer (right) discussed the current council initiatives at the WTC held at the Renaissance Hotel Pool. |
Join WTC and scores of wheel and tire industry players as they gather for an evening of celebration and networking at the council’s awards reception, to be held at the Renaissance Hotel pool on Tuesday, November 5, from 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. All WTC members are encouraged to attend and enjoy connecting with friends and colleagues while savoring snacks and beverages.
The presentation of the WTC awards is always a highlight of the evening, as the council and the industry salute the newest inductee into the WTC Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame was founded to honor and recognize outstanding individuals in the wheel and tire industry for their creativity, dignity, integrity and accomplishments that have enhanced the stature of the industry on a national level, while significantly contributing to the industry’s growth, progress and professionalism.
Last year’s ceremony included the presentation of two awards. The late Wayne Williams was inducted posthumously into the WTC Hall of Fame, and a special Chairman’s Award was presented to then-SEMA Board Chair Wade Kawasaki of Coker Group.
“You don’t want to miss this incredible night of networking, awards and remarkable stories from some of the tire and wheel industry’s legends as well as the WTC select committee,” Boyer said. “Keep an eye out for an invite and details.”
Heads Up, Early Risers: Coffee and Conversation
Early birds catch the worms. Or, in this case, a chance to chitchat, talk shop and wrap up the week on a high note with the WTC select committee and fellow members while grabbing a cup of Joe and a sweet snack during the WTC Coffee Mixer, 7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m. on Thursday, November 7.
More than 100 wheel and tire pros from the Global Tire Expo joined the low-key event last year to connect with colleagues and talk about a range of industry topics as they geared up for another busy day on the exhibit floor.
“Ready to learn more and get engaged with WTC?” Boyer asked. “Then join us at the front of the South Hall to learn more about the programs, benefits and values the WTC provides. You, your business and your team can truly benefit from a brief conversation with members of our select committee. Heck, who would ever pass on a free cup of liquid tire juice and lug-nut treats to get your SEMA wheels spinning forward to success?”
