SEMA Member News—October 2021
By Ellen McKoy
WTC Prioritizes Education, Presents The Stage
Providing resources to improve members’ businesses is top of mind for the Wheel & Tire Council (WTC). In recent years, WTC has prioritized education, offering seminars on industry-centric topics. In 2019, WTC powered The Stage at the SEMA Show, featuring interviews with thought leaders.
When the pandemic halted in-person gatherings, WTC pivoted to distance learning, launching “Wheel & Tire Insights,” a monthly webinar series. The council plans to continue the webinar series and host in-person meetups.
“Our webinar series and The Stage presence continue to be focused on wheel and tire and operations,” said Chair Todd Steen. Relying on a matrix to determine the council’s strengths, he said, “We can be about networking and facing industry challenges, but we should rest our laurels on bringing education to our members.”
With that thought in mind, WTC is concentrating on the SEMA Show, not only by rejiggering The Stage to be more industry specific but also consolidating key activities in a single location.
WTC Moves to Member Lounge
The Lower South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center features the Global Tire Expo and Wheels & Accessories during the SEMA Show, but WTC activities have often been held elsewhere. To encourage interest in and participation among wheel and tire professionals, three council events will now occur in the South Hall Member Lounge.
WTC will kickstart the week at The Stage with twice-daily presentations centered on the wheel and tire segment. Sessions are set for Tuesday, November 2, through Thursday, November 4. Todd Steen, Chair-Elect Mike Lusso and Immediate Past Chair Tyson Boyer will serve as event hosts, conducting in-depth interviews with prominent industry players.
As a segue to WTC’s annual reception, scheduled for Tuesday evening, 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., an awards ceremony will take place on The Stage. Immediately following, attendees can experience an evening of good fellowship as guests enjoy refreshments and mingle with industry legends and council leadership.
Lastly, attendees are invited to drop by Coffee & Conversation on Thursday, November 4, 8:00 a.m.–9:00 a.m., at the entrance to the Global Tire Expo. Stop by for a fresh brew and a snack while learning about WTC programs, benefits and overall value.
