REQUIRED READING
SEMA Members in the Media
By Juan Torres, Rachel Tatum and Carr Winn
The SEMA Launch Pad program, the ultimate product-pitching competition for automotive entrepreneurs, returned for the 10th consecutive year to give innovators a chance to establish their product within the automotive industry. “SEMA Launch Pad helps bring these emerging inventors to the forefront, providing a platform for them to potentially take their new creations to the next level,” said RJ de Vera, SEMA vice president of marketing.
Through the program, selected applicants are hand-picked to receive brand exposure, access to business resources, and the chance to win a grand-prize package valued at $92,000 to launch their product or service into the marketplace. Additionally, the Launch Pad competition will be featured in a nationwide television special that will give competitors added exposure. To learn more about SEMA Launch Pad, visit www.sema.org/launchpad.
FenderBender
FenderBender editors informed their readers that the 2021 Launch Pad competition would air on national television. Last year’s winner, Dustin Woolf, owner of Woolfpack Racing, took home the grand prize for his product Natural Nitrous—a stand-alone intake cooling system.
EngineLabs
EngineLabs, which provides readers with coverage of performance engine technology, ensured that the entrepreneurs in its audience were aware when registration opened for this year’s program. Editor Greg Acosta shared that 15 hand-selected applicants would be given exhibitor space at the 2022 SEMA Show.
Aftermarket News
Aftermarket News editors reported on the five Launch Pad finalists last year. Jonathan Hurley (Toolbox Widget), Brendan McGrath (Dyme Performance Systems Inc.), Kevin Robinson (TRAC LLC), Tom Sawarynski (Off-Road Research) and Dustin Woolf (Woolfpack Racing) vied for the grand prize at the 2021 SEMA Show.
The RPM Act—Make Your Voices Heard!
What if there was no racing? Join Cleetus McFarland and the rest of the motorsports community and tell your elected officials to sign the RPM Act of 2021 (H.R. 3281) to protect the motorsports that you love. McFarland explains how to do it.
Allies of Auto Enthusiasts: U.S. Senator Jon Tester
When he’s not in D.C., Sen. Tester and his son Shon can be found on their Montana farm working on their many collector cars, such as a Ford Model T, Ford Model A, ’38 Chevy, ’48–’53 Willy’s Jeep, ’56 Buick Century, ’55 Chevy Stepside pickup, and ’70 Buick Electra.
Help Fight Unfair Automotive Laws—Join the SAN Today
The SEMA Action Network’s (SAN’s) efforts have resulted in positive outcomes on a wide range of issues, from vehicle scrappage laws to equipment standards, registration classifications, emissions-test exemptions and hobbyist rights. Join for free at https://bit.ly/3M65Mff.
Faces in the Crowd
Wendy Huynh
@gtrwendy
Wendy Huynh is a content creator who shares build updates and event coverage on her ’15 Nissan GT-R. Many of her social shares feature SEMA members, including AMS and Mickey Thompson. Huynh is a true enthusiast as she enjoys all aspects of the aftermarket community from building to racing to cruising.
Jacob Doty
@jacobrdoty
Jacob Doty is a Ford enthusiast builder from Sacramento, California. His content features all of his Ford vehicles and builds, including a ’13 5.0 Mustang and ’22 Ford Bronco. Doty is most active on YouTube, creating install and how-to videos with more than 6 million views. Doty will be making more videos on his new Bronco, featuring a multi-part build series as he prepares for the upcoming SEMA Show.
Kendal Klein
@kendal240sx
Kendal Klein is a young female builder, enthusiast and drifter. She is working on her 240sx and frequently posts build updates and following her driving progression as her top performing content. She also produces an all-female drift event to encourage other women to get involved in the sport and provide learning opportunities.
HEARD ON SOCIAL MEDIA
“SEMA is now accepting applications for the 2022 Launch Pad competition. Find out how to apply.”—The Shop, via Facebook
“SEMA’s ‘State of the Industry–Spring 2022’ report shows sales surpassed pre-“Check out the most recent episode of SEMA Launch Pad, then tune this Sunday for the finale, on the History Channel, check local listings for times!”—BCII, via Facebook
“SEMA Launch Pad’s Automotive Entrepreneurs and Inventors Featured on Television Special.”—12 Volt News, via Facebook
“Time is quickly running out. Applications to participate in SEMA Launch Pad must be submitted online by Monday, June 13.”—Aftermarket Matters, via Twitter
