SEMA Member News—October 2021
By Ellen McKoy
SBN Programs Connect and Engage
The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) is poised to host its first in-person programs after a two-year pandemic-induced hiatus. Designed to empower industry women, SBN’s activities present opportunities for attendees to connect with like-minded colleagues and further their careers.
Women-Centric Education
To help members stay connected during the past year, SBN launched a virtual education platform and hosted nearly 20 virtual sessions. They focused on enhancing your career, providing tips on successful management and assisting C-Suite executives to be as successful as possible post-pandemic. The SBN Resource Committee is drafting its 2022 virtual education roadmap and will be ready for release at the upcoming SEMA Show. The SBN will continue to provide education through in November. The SEMA Show offers a welcome opportunity to power three interactive educational sessions.
“Women Who Build” is on tap for Tuesday, November 2, 11:15 a.m.–12:15 p.m., in room N259. The panel discussion features top women builders sharing insights into their journeys to success and what they see for the future of custom-car building.
On Wednesday, November 3, 1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m., SBN will present “Women in Leadership” in room N258. A diverse panel of CEOs will discuss the importance of having women among a company’s leadership team, plus the unique perspectives women bring to the table and how to encourage the advancement of women in the industry.
“Women Who Rule Racing” is set for Thursday, November 4, 4:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m., room N258. The Brew Talks session will feature top names in racing—who happen to be female. The women will share inspiring conversation about the adversities they’ve faced and overcome and how they’re encouraging young women to step into the world of racing.
An Evening of Camaraderie
In years past, two SBN events—Gear-Up Girl and the SBN Reception—were held on different nights. This year, both events are set for Wednesday evening, November 3, at the Renaissance Hotel Pool, and SBN is especially excited that students attending Gear-Up Girl will be able to attend the reception as well.
Gear-Up Girl will be held from 4:30 p.m.–5:30 p.m. The women-only networking event gives up-and-coming young women a chance to meet seasoned women leaders, learn about career opportunities, and make valuable connections. The venue also serves as the backdrop for an awards ceremony.
The sixth annual SBN Reception runs from 5:30 p.m.–7:00 p.m. and is open to men and women. Complete with gourmet food and beverages, the festive event typically draws a standing-room-only crowd—including many from other SEMA councils and networks—for an evening of networking and camaraderie.
