By Michael Imlay

SEMA's FutureTech Studio debuted last year and was an immediate hit with attendees eager to explore the wide range of emerging technologies transforming the aftermarket.

Maybe you're into classics or hot rods. Then again, maybe trucks or modern muscle are your scene--or perhaps even tuners or Teslas. But whatever industry sector you cater to as an aftermarket professional, the very nature of automotive transportation is rapidly changing. Thankfully, you can get a handle on the fluctuating currents at the 2024 SEMA FutureTech Studio, returning to Booth #24401 in the Show's Central Hall, November 5–8 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. [Still need to register? Attendee, buyer and media registration for the 2024 SEMA Show has been open at semashow.com/register. Attendees can maximize their ROI by registering early and taking advantage of travel discounts like these and Show badge discounts. Registration is only $60 for qualified attendees who register by Friday, September 27. After, the price will increase to $120 per approved badge.]

"Obviously, everyone nowadays is focusing on powertrains and emissions and the continued viability of internal combustion engines [ICEs] in the coming decades," observes Andy Tompkins, SEMA trade show director. "But the industry is already feeling the impact of other trends as well, from new manufacturing techniques and materials to telematics and autonomous vehicles. While these present challenges to industry businesses, they also promise new opportunities. On a macro level, all this is reflected throughout the SEMA Show floor, but the FutureTech Studio condenses them all in one place for discovery, discussion and understanding."

All-Inclusive Innovation

In a turn of serendipity, the FutureTech Studio itself has evolved from a prior Show section, SEMA Electrified, which, until 2023, highlighted battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and the developing infrastructure around them. The section was well received, but it also was becoming clear that today's aftermarket must keep pace with an ever-broadening array of alternative-propulsion scenarios. The industry is currently seeing tremendous leaps in cleaner fuels and engines, not to mention highly innovative approaches to car building that shave weight, speed production, and improve engine and vehicle performance.

While EVs seem to get all the press nowadays, the industry is stepping forward with cleaner ICE offerings to reduce carbon emissions. Developed through its industrial division, BluePrint Engine's Origin crate powerplant can run on gasoline, natural gas or propane.

 

"We wanted to shine a light on all the automotive industry's emerging technologies and demonstrate the inclusivity of everything the market offers," explains SEMA Director of Vehicle Technology Luis Morales, who curates the exhibit space. "In addition to renaming the section the SEMA FutureTech Studio, we greatly expanded the former SEMA Electrified section's content and its footprint on the Show floor. We also reserved a number of booths around the space for exhibitor companies developing and supplying products and tools related to future-focused technologies."

Morales says it's "been interesting and fun rebranding the space." For him, it's exciting to see all the research and creative thinking at play as legacy companies and bold new startups alike develop products and solutions for entirely new markets.

"The FutureTech Studio is now the heart of the SEMA Show's EV and Future Propulsion section," he says, adding that the rebranding also better reflects SEMA's all-inclusive position on clean propulsion. "We embrace battery electric, we understand it, and we want it to be a part of our Show; but we want to showcase it alongside other emerging forms of vehicle propulsion, like synthetic fuels, ethanol, natural gas, hydrogen and more."

In keeping with that philosophy, last year's exhibits encompassed a Toyota of North America/Kenworth commercial truck cab powered by hydrogen fuel-cell technology, hydrogen and compressed natural gas (CNG) engines, hybrids and synthetic fuel options, and ethanol conversion kits. In all, the FutureTech Studio occupied more than 22,000 sq. ft. and featured 50 displays addressing the latest powertrain and component trends, along with 29 vehicles representing a wide range of applications. There was even a solar-panel-equipped, fully electrified Lightship RV trailer that grabbed attendees with its futuristic design and versatility.

Morales promises that similar innovations will again be showcased this year through exciting vehicle builds, product displays and a variety of demonstrations right on the Show floor.

"We'll have representations of what's happening on the OEM side as well as the aftermarket side," he notes. Plus, attendees can also look forward to a few thought-provoking features that "rattle the cage" as well.

"Last year, we had people coming in from 2022 expecting our area to be all BEVs, like SEMA Electrified was, and asking, 'Why are all these ICE vehicles here?' But whether it's electrification or advanced fuels and powertrains, it's important for us to share all the technologies that are emerging, including new manufacturing materials and methods, as well as ever-more complex onboard systems.

"We want to make sure that our industry is aware of all these different tools and resources," Morales continues. "Maybe the folks using them today are OEMs and tier ones, and those resources may not be available to me as a business this year or next. But in three or four years down the road, they might be something that applies to my product development."

In fact, Morales believes Show attendees have much to gain from exploring the range of invention taking place. At the very least, it will help them future-proof their current businesses--and may even spark new ideas for growth.

"I would say a large percentage of SEMA members are all making products for ICEs and a small percentage are making them purely for BEVs," he explains.

"There are some universals that carry over to both vehicle types, but looking at the powertrain alone, you have this big gap between the two. Still, there's a lot of innovation that can be had with ICE. What's special about the technology that they're developing right now? How is it going to impact the industry? And what does it mean for the aftermarket? Seeing and understanding all this can help our industry evolve and continue to make products that push the market forward."

Sparking New Business Ideas

Alex Parker, president of Redline Detection, is among those already finding opportunities in the rapidly developing electric vehicle (EV) space. Last year, Redline leveraged the FutureTech Studio to debut its new Battery + Coolant Leak Detector that connects to an EV's battery enclosure. The detector gives audible and visual pass/fail leakage alerts tailored to each battery and vehicle type. The product is designed to protect vehicle shops, workers and their customers from the catastrophic risks of compromised EV batteries.

"Our approach [to the EV space] is not an 'either/or.' EVs are just one more innovation that we need to learn how to work on," Parker explains. "My company has been a leader in diagnostic leak detection in naturally aspirated and boosted high-pressure diagnostics both on the OEM side and in the aftermarket. We reached a point that we had to make a decision about when to invest in developing EV diagnostic technology."

EV conversion products are a growing industry market. New kits are making such conversions easier than ever and opening new revenue streams for shops and builders.

 

In Parker's view, why wouldn't any aftermarket business want to try to meet the challenges of a new and growing market? "Quite honestly, it was a little scary because we weren't sure the market was there," she admits, "but I really believe that people in our industry are innovators at heart."

As it turns out, Redline's entry into the market did indeed find a receptive audience at last year's Show.

Another rapidly growing area of opportunity for the aftermarket is EV conversions, with multiple brands now offering specialized kits and components for builders.

"Over the past several years, there's been exponential growth in this market," Morales points out. "What started several years back as finding a wrecked Tesla or Nissan Leaf and salvaging and fitting their powertrain components into a classic vehicle has morphed into companies offering full turnkey solutions."

This means that builders, customizers and even hobbyists can now purchase entire conversion packages consisting of electric motors, batteries and battery management systems, controls, wiring and other essentials.

"In many cases, these kits are direct-fit, so if you have a '69 Mustang, you can buy a kit specific to your need," notes Morales. "You don't have to find a battery pack here, an electric motor there, and then hope you can figure out a way to connect them and make them all communicate with each other."

As demonstrated last year by companies like Tremec, Legacy EV and Scorpion EV, the kits also take the vexation out of a conversion's more daunting tasks. "Several years back it could take you months of R&D and fabrication to mount a Tesla motor into that '69 Mustang and balance everything out. But these companies are bringing solutions to market that enable the conversion in mere hours--or less," explains Morales.

"In Scorpion's case, they're packaging everything in a single unit that you can drop into the engine bay and even remove easily if you ever want to convert back to ICE. They're essentially selling you a self-contained electric crate motor."

In fact, Scorpion's less-than-90-minute Venom conversion of a Factory Five Shelby Cobra replica on the Show floor so wowed the crowd and Show officials that the car won the SEMA's first-ever Best Engineered Vehicle award.

Scorpion EV's Shelby Cobra replica conversion captured the Show’s first-ever Best Engineered Vehicle award. Pictured are Scorpion CEO Bill Cardoso, who engineered the Venom conversion kit, and Scorpion Vice President of Business Development Karen Salvaggio.

"Venom is a sealed, contained plug-and-play system. There's no high-voltage wiring to play with," explained Scorpion EV Vice President of Business Development Karen Salvaggio after the demonstration. "You just literally pull your internal combustion engine out and drop this in. If you don't want to lose your stick shift, it will run with the standard transmission."

A One-Stop Place of Learning

In addition to showcasing live EV conversions on the Show floor, this year's FutureTech Studio will again include an education stage with speakers and seminars probing a multitude of topics.

A live education stage returns to the section for 2024. Moderated seminars and talks help explicate the trends and technologies displayed on the Show floor, along with the new opportunities they bring industry businesses of all types.

"We're bringing in a lot of experts who were previously part of the closed-door education at the Show, and many of them will complement our booth exhibits," says Morales. "Moderated sessions will discuss all sorts of emerging technologies and how they're moving the automotive industry forward, specifically from an aftermarket perspective. I really enjoy it when we can connect education with the displays and demonstrations in the section. It helps attendees put one and one together."

More importantly, Morales sees the FutureTech Studio as a way to excite traditional SEMA Show attendees while cementing the Show's position at the leading edge of automotive trends. The studio's exhibits also underscore SEMA's commitment to protecting the right to modify vehicles--even today's increasingly complex and computerized platforms. The studio also demonstrates the significant commitment and pioneering strides the aftermarket is making toward emissions reduction, regardless of vehicle type. Turbocharging advocates will find themselves just as much at home among the clean-ICE displays as EV proponents will among the conversion kits.

"We're expanding on what we've always done," Morales emphasizes. "The Show is known for spotlighting new industry tools and products. With the FutureTech Studio, we're making it clear to OEMs and industry companies that the SEMA Show is also the place for them to debut breakthrough technologies and grab the attention of industry professionals, media, advocates and even lawmakers. This is a vibrant space where your idea will get the attention it deserves."

Morales takes his role in building an interactive environment seriously. Although futuristic in look and feel, the exhibit area will also feature plenty of content to entice the veteran Show attendee—albeit with new and interesting twists.

"We'll have classic and late-model cars and trucks with lots of interesting accessories and individual components--last year, we even had e-bikes," he says. "We're taking bits from every Show section—hot rods, wheels and tires, off-road, high-performance—and combining them in one place with revolutionary technologies. We design the area to advance an attendee's understanding, introduce them to multiple vehicle applications, and make it easy to talk with vendors and share ideas."

Connecting Exhibitors and Attendees

Lightship RV Co-Founder Ben Parker said that the spirit of collaboration was an unexpected, added benefit last year when his company signed up to exhibit its fully electric, solar-charged trailer. Parker and his startup partner Toby Kraus left Tesla hoping to revolutionize the overlanding space. The result of their collaboration is the L1 tow trailer. Energized by rooftop solar panels, the unit also features an electric motor that can sync with an EV truck to reduce drag, extending the toy hauler's range. In a pinch, the trailer can also recharge an EV or even power a small home. The trailer generated a lot of interest and valuable feedback from Show attendees, and Parker found his discussions and sharing of ideas with other exhibitors especially helpful.

The futuristic, fully electrified Lightship RV trailer wowed attendees with its design and utility. The vehicle includes its own onboard electric motor to help offset drag and increase range when towed by a BEV truck.

 

"We've been to other shows for our market, but [the SEMA Show] is the biggest and a dream come true for us to be here with our RV," he explained at the time. With plans to start production and go to market within a year, "being at the SEMA Show now is a huge deal for us."

Meanwhile, Chad Hrencecin of Electrified Garage was among the numerous buyers checking out the section in 2023 and was enthused to find several innovations for his Ocala, Florida-based EV repair operation. "A lot of people are realizing [EV and alternate fuels] are not going away. We've been working with Legacy EV, Torque Trends and a lot of companies that are here to make new conversions and one-off projects," he explained. A self-described "off-roader guy," he was especially impressed by an EV-conversion sand rail featuring a VW off-road chassis. "I haven't seen anything like that before," he emphasized.

This is exactly the sort of impact Morales hopes the FutureTech Studio will have on 2024 SEMA Show exhibitors and attendees.

"Our goal with this space is to facilitate networking and education," he sums up. "Again, we want to give attendees a concentrated space to explore our industry's future. We want them to walk away feeling inspired by what they see. Maybe even say, 'Wow, I learned something and can see my business doing that.' That's what drives us forward."

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

 

SEMA has launched Drive The Vote, a campaign to mobilize voters among its 7,000 member companies and the millions of American automotive enthusiasts, with resources to enable their participation in the 2024 general election. 

SEMA is providing vetted links to important voter information, questions to ask candidates during campaign events and social-media assets and sample messages to encourage their employees, customers and community members to register to vote. Members planning to attend the 2024 SEMA Show, which begins on Election Day, November 5, are encouraged to vote early using the resources provided through Drive The Vote.

"Voting is an essential activity for our nation and for ensuring the automotive aftermarket industry has a say in the business undertaken by our lawmakers as the state and federal levels," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "SEMA's Drive The Vote campaign empowers our members and those around them with the information they need to vote in their community for the candidates who best speak for their values. And, because of the 2024 SEMA Show starts on Election Day, November 5, we're encouraging those traveling to Las Vegas to review these resources so they know how to vote early."

For more information, visit sema.org/vote.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

 

SEMA has launched Drive The Vote, a campaign to mobilize voters among its 7,000 member companies and the millions of American automotive enthusiasts, with resources to enable their participation in the 2024 general election. 

SEMA is providing vetted links to important voter information, questions to ask candidates during campaign events and social-media assets and sample messages to encourage their employees, customers and community members to register to vote. Members planning to attend the 2024 SEMA Show, which begins on Election Day, November 5, are encouraged to vote early using the resources provided through Drive The Vote.

"Voting is an essential activity for our nation and for ensuring the automotive aftermarket industry has a say in the business undertaken by our lawmakers as the state and federal levels," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "SEMA's Drive The Vote campaign empowers our members and those around them with the information they need to vote in their community for the candidates who best speak for their values. And, because of the 2024 SEMA Show starts on Election Day, November 5, we're encouraging those traveling to Las Vegas to review these resources so they know how to vote early."

For more information, visit sema.org/vote.

By Juan Torres

With more than 2,400 credentialed media at the SEMA Show, November 5-8 in Las Vegas, the annual event is the ideal venue for exhibitors to make newsworthy announcements. The following is the official 2024 SEMA Show Press Conference Schedule. This year's schedule boasts a full, three–day itinerary of announcements and vehicle unveilings from exhibitors at the ultimate business gathering for the automotive aftermarket industry.

Media are encouraged to attend all press conferences. To apply for media credentials, visit semashow.com/register.

Official 2024 SEMA Show Press Conference Schedule

(As of Sept. 23, 2024; all times PST)

Tuesday, November 5

• 7:30 a.m.-8:50 a.m.: SEMA – SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast, Featuring Best New Products Announcement (Paradise Event Center)
• 9:00 a.m.-9:20 a.m.: Red Line Synthetic Oil – Red Line Oil & Pro Superstar Shootout (Booth #22933)
• 9:30 a.m.-9:50 a.m.: KIA America – Movement that Inspires (Booth #23763)
• 10:00 a.m.-10:20 a.m.: Toyota Motor North America – Toyota SEMA Builds Walk Around With Rutledge Wood (Booth #22200)
• 10:30 a.m.-10:50 a.m.: Suspension Direct Inc. – SDi E-Tuner: Redefining Civic Type R Suspension (Booth #20657)
• 11:00 a.m.-11:20 a.m.: The Wheel Group – The Wheel Group Corporate Advancements (Booth #44021)
• 11:30 a.m.-11:50 a.m.: RealTruck– RealTruck Chip Foose Collaboration (Booth #50027)
• 12:00 p.m.-12:20 p.m.: CTEK – WhippleD Vehicle Reveal & Product Overview (Booth #23657)
• 12:30 p.m.-12:50 p.m.: Hemmings – Hemmings 1970 Dodge Charger (Booth #22493)
• 1:00 p.m.-1:20 p.m.: Legacy EV – Legacy EV Electrifies Central America (Booth #24913)
• 1:30 p.m.-1:50 p.m.: SEMA – Battle of the Builders Top 40 Announcement (BOTB Stage, Silver Lot)
• 2:00 p.m.-2:20 p.m.: TMI Products – G-Body Full Monte Interior (Booth #24477)
• 2:30 p.m.-2:50 p.m.: HEXIS – New Products and Innovations from HEXIS (Booth #52215)

 Wednesday, November 6

• 9:00 a.m.-9:20 a.m.: The Wheel Group – Manufacturing, Product, and Sales News (Booth #44021)
• 9:30 a.m.-9:50 a.m.: ClearPro – Unveil the Fusion in PPF Innovation with ClearPro (Booth #52251)
• 10:00 a.m.-10:20 a.m.: Barrett-Jackson – Barrett-Jackson Charity Car Unveil (Booth #21427)
• 10:30 a.m.-10:50 a.m.: TOPDON USA – New Innovative Products by TOPDON (Booth #38195)
• 11:00 a.m.-11:20 a.m.: EMPI – EMPI Presents a Custom Porsche 914 (Booth #23427)
• 11:30 a.m.-11:50 a.m.: Coker Tire – Legendary Companies Rebranding to Coker Group (Booth #22591)               
• 1:00 p.m.-1:20 p.m.: Repairify – AsTech Rules Engine and OEM-C (Booth #33201)
• 1:30 p.m.-1:50 p.m.: UPPF – Terminax New Product Release (Booth #52227)
• 2:00 p.m.-2:20 p.m.: Legacy EV – EVSC Announces New Aftermarket EV Standards (Future Tech Studio, Central Hall)
• 2:30 p.m.-2:50 p.m.: Quad Film Ltd. – Quad Gilding Sunroof Film (Booth #12479)
• 3:00 p.m.-3:20 p.m.: SEMA – Battle of the Builders Top 12 Announcement (BOTB Stage, Silver Lot)
• 3:30 p.m.-3:50 p.m.: I-CAR – I Count on I-CAR: Recharge and Refuel (Booth #33139)

Thursday, November 7

• 9:00 a.m.-9:20 a.m.: Cedar Electronics – Off-Road, Off-Grid but Still Connected with Cobra Electronics' All-New Two-Way Radio Launch (Booth #10429)
• 9:30 a.m.-9:50 a.m.: Vanair Manufacturing – Vanair Introduces the EPEQ Mobile Support Kit. Turn any vehicle into an electrified mobile service vehicle! (Booth #41219)
• 10:00 a.m.-10:20 a.m.: ASA Automotive Systems – ASA Launches ASA Pay (Booth #43069)
• 10:30 a.m.-10:50 a.m.: Superformance – Shelby Anniversary Edition Vehicle Introduction (Booth #24043)
• 11:00 a.m.-11:20 a.m.: RBW EV cars – RBW Debuts Fully Compatible EV System (Booth #24515)
• 11:30 a.m.-11:50 a.m.: RealTruck – RealTruck Bear Grylls Garage Collaboration (Booth #50027)
• 1:00 p.m.-1:20 p.m.: SEMA – Keynote Speaker: Bear Grylls (West Hall, Room #326)
• 1:30 p.m.-1:50 p.m.: SolarDe Film – Reveal the Future of Car Window Film Technology (Booth #51253)
• 2:00 p.m.-2:20 p.m.: Anyline – New Research: The State of Automotive Technicians (Media Center)
• 3:00 p.m.-3:20 p.m.: SEMA – Battle of the Builders Top 4 Finalists Announced (BOTB Stage, Silver Lot)               

Friday, November 8

• 3:30 p.m.-3:50 p.m.: SEMA – Battle of the Builders Winner Announced

Attendee, buyer and media registration for the 2024 SEMA Show has been open at semashow.com/register. Attendees can maximize their ROI by registering early and taking advantage of travel discounts (more details here) and Show badge discounts. Registration is only $60 for qualified attendees who register by Friday, September 27. After, the price will increase to $120 per approved badge. Deadlines and fees for other registration categories can be found at semashow.com/register. 

By SEMA News Editors

 

The SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO), a SEMA Council dedicated to advancing the automotive restyling market, has announced the six finalists that will compete in the 2024 PRO Cup Challenge. The competition, now in its fifth year at the SEMA Show, challenges automotive restylers to develop accessory packages for new-model vehicles that would take less than 40 hours to execute and have a wholesale cost of no more than $12,500 to dealers. 

"With the new world of de-contented factory vehicles and the restrictions placed by the FTC on profit centers of the dealership, the objective of the program is to show how car dealers can benefit from working with restylers to pre-load accessory packages that are easy to replicate and appeal to the masses, as opposed to offering extravagant one-off builds," said PRO Chair Colby McLaughlin. "This competition not only provides restylers with a platform to showcase their creativity and skills but also highlights the many ways that new vehicles can be accessorized for added convenience, safety and style." 

Six restyled builds will be displayed in PRO's booth (Booth #50203 in the West Hall) during the SEMA Show. Judges will select a PRO Cup Challenge winner based on the vehicle's marketability, ease of production, creativity and profitability.

Additionally, SEMA Showgoers can visit the builds and scan a QR code on-site to vote for the winner of the People's Choice award.

The 2024 SEMA PRO Cup Challenge finalists are:

• Auto Trim Design of Utah
• Auto Trim Restyling
• Automotive Concepts
• Classic Soft Trim Pittsburgh LLC
• Keystone Styling
• MARS of Billings 

In 2023, Chuck Graf of Auto Sunroof and Leather won the SEMA PRO Cup Challenge for his '24 Subaru Crosstrek Premium build, which he dubbed "Ruff Rider" for its appeal to dog owners. The networking that resulted from entering the competition enabled Graf to meet more people who had great ideas.

"After the Show, our company used the credibility of SEMA and winning the PRO Cup Challenge while promoting our business," said Graf. "It was amazing to see customers perk up when they realized that the little shop they use in New York had a car in Las Vegas and won a competition at SEMA. Now, all our business cards say '2023 SEMA PRO Cup Challenge Winners.'"

SEMA Showgoers have until 2:00 p.m. PST on Wednesday, November 6, to submit their People's Choice votes in PRO's booth. The PRO Cup Challenge and People's Choice awards will be announced during the PRO Happy Hour on Wednesday, November 6, from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. PST in the PRO booth.

"The SEMA Show is all about discovering new products, vehicle trends and ideas that can take businesses and careers to new levels," said Andy Tompkins, SEMA trade show director. "We look forward to seeing restylers use the latest parts and accessories to showcase their skills and creativity."

To learn more about the PRO Cup Challenge, visit sema.org/pro-cup-challenge. To learn more about PRO, visit sema.org/pro.

By SEMA News Editors

 

The SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO), a SEMA Council dedicated to advancing the automotive restyling market, has announced the six finalists that will compete in the 2024 PRO Cup Challenge. The competition, now in its fifth year at the SEMA Show, challenges automotive restylers to develop accessory packages for new-model vehicles that would take less than 40 hours to execute and have a wholesale cost of no more than $12,500 to dealers. 

"With the new world of de-contented factory vehicles and the restrictions placed by the FTC on profit centers of the dealership, the objective of the program is to show how car dealers can benefit from working with restylers to pre-load accessory packages that are easy to replicate and appeal to the masses, as opposed to offering extravagant one-off builds," said PRO Chair Colby McLaughlin. "This competition not only provides restylers with a platform to showcase their creativity and skills but also highlights the many ways that new vehicles can be accessorized for added convenience, safety and style." 

Six restyled builds will be displayed in PRO's booth (Booth #50203 in the West Hall) during the SEMA Show. Judges will select a PRO Cup Challenge winner based on the vehicle's marketability, ease of production, creativity and profitability.

Additionally, SEMA Showgoers can visit the builds and scan a QR code on-site to vote for the winner of the People's Choice award.

The 2024 SEMA PRO Cup Challenge finalists are:

• Auto Trim Design of Utah
• Auto Trim Restyling
• Automotive Concepts
• Classic Soft Trim Pittsburgh LLC
• Keystone Styling
• MARS of Billings 

In 2023, Chuck Graf of Auto Sunroof and Leather won the SEMA PRO Cup Challenge for his '24 Subaru Crosstrek Premium build, which he dubbed "Ruff Rider" for its appeal to dog owners. The networking that resulted from entering the competition enabled Graf to meet more people who had great ideas.

"After the Show, our company used the credibility of SEMA and winning the PRO Cup Challenge while promoting our business," said Graf. "It was amazing to see customers perk up when they realized that the little shop they use in New York had a car in Las Vegas and won a competition at SEMA. Now, all our business cards say '2023 SEMA PRO Cup Challenge Winners.'"

SEMA Showgoers have until 2:00 p.m. PST on Wednesday, November 6, to submit their People's Choice votes in PRO's booth. The PRO Cup Challenge and People's Choice awards will be announced during the PRO Happy Hour on Wednesday, November 6, from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. PST in the PRO booth.

"The SEMA Show is all about discovering new products, vehicle trends and ideas that can take businesses and careers to new levels," said Andy Tompkins, SEMA trade show director. "We look forward to seeing restylers use the latest parts and accessories to showcase their skills and creativity."

To learn more about the PRO Cup Challenge, visit sema.org/pro-cup-challenge. To learn more about PRO, visit sema.org/pro.

How industry advocates are imparting transformative skills to young people (and ensuring the aftermarket's sustainability in the process).

By Michael Imlay

 

In a nondescript warehouse complex of a tough Chicago suburb, the sparks are flying. While that's not unexpected in an industrial setting, the workers wielding the grinders and plasma torches are definitely not your typical career mechanics. Rather, they're young people seeking a future beyond the troubled confines of their zip code.

"About 80% of the kids that are killed in gang violence in Chicago are usually killed within a four-square block area in which they live," explains Automotive Mentoring Group (AMG) founder Alex Levesque. For more than a decade, Levesque, a former architectural professional, and his small core of local volunteers--mainly retired law enforcement officers--have sought to help underprivileged kids--mainly teenagers--escape that grim reality. Working 30 hours a week, they lead groups of up to 20 young trainees through a series of courses covering the basics of automobile restoration.

"We're doing everything here," Levesque says, ticking off the skills the boys and girls learn: spray-booth paint application and pinstriping; designing and sewing upholstery; drafting and CAD design; and cutting, welding and fabrication.

"I would say the average age we have here would be 19, but we have some as young as seven," he continues, noting that the area's gangs put guns into the hands of kids as young as nine.

"If they can have them that early, then we can have them that early… The sooner that we can get them involved in this car culture and profession/hobby, the better. Once you get into cars there's nothing to stop or distract you--you're just kind of laser focused," he asserts.

 

AMG's successful training program emphasizes plenty of mentoring and affirmation, encouraging its students to realize their own value and potential as they acquire hands-on technical skills.

During his architectural career, Levesque acquired a taste for collector cars. The hobby opened doors for him, introducing him to people and venues he never thought he'd connect with. The collectors he met didn't care about each other's backgrounds--all that took a back seat to a shared love of the automobile. Now Levesque wants to open those same doors for these kids.

AMG's most junior apprentices start out building car models. As they grow, they move up to restoring bicycles and other old-school gadgetry.

"We've got a whole bunch of vintage refrigerators from the '50s--the big round Andy and Mayberry types--and we got old gas pumps," says Levesque. "Now they know how to use the tools better; they know how to use the sandblasting equipment better. We get them to redo these old refrigerators, paint them automotive colors and do pinstriping on them--and we get them to restore the old gas pumps. Once you get through that phrase, okay, now you're ready to start working on some cars."

Because most of AMG's students come from fatherless households, they crave mentorship. Volunteers work side-by-side with the trainees, accompanying them on their journey with plenty of encouragement and affirmation. AMG's "crash-course" program boasts an 85% success rate in advancing students on to technical schools or placing them in jobs with over 80 of the nonprofit's automotive "hiring partners."

"We're not trying to be a school," Levesque confides. "What we want to do is take individuals that have nothing and no confidence level at all, and build them up so that when they finish our program they can [continue on] with confidence because of the background and experience they've had through the AMG program."

The program has been a confidence-builder for Levesque as well. "I was frustrated about [the level of violence in Chicago]. I felt the government should do something about it, or the mayor of Chicago should do something about it…" he says. "But God had another plan and chose me to do something about it."

 

Alex Levesque, founder of AMG in Chicago. "What we want to do is take individuals that have nothing and no confidence level at all, and build them up," he says.

But AMG is doing more than giving these young people a future. The charity is providing for the automotive trade's future as well--by connecting young, motivated and talented workers with businesses desperately in need of them.

It's a win-win answer to a very real problem. As Boomers and early Gen X'ers exit the workforce, and Millennials move into leadership positions, there simply aren't enough incoming Gen Z'ers to fill the gaps. From its OEM dealerships, to its collision-repair centers, to its specialty-equipment manufacturing operations, to its restoration and specialty build shops, America's automotive sector is facing a serious labor shortage, with experts predicting the situation may only get worse.

"Everybody's looking for talent, and there's not enough people getting involved in this industry to fill that void, so that's what we're trying to do," says Levesque.

Thankfully, AMG isn't alone in addressing the issue. Throughout the industry, there are a growing number of grassroots programs emerging to offer diverse solutions to the problem. The only question is whether these efforts are spreading widely and quickly enough to make any appreciable difference.

"From today to 2031, the Bureau of Labor Statistics is saying that we need more than 73,000 auto technicians in the United States. That's a big number," notes Kira Daczko, regional admissions director at the Universal Technical Institute (UTI) campus in Sacramento, California. To help people put that figure in perspective, she often tells them to take a drive through their neighborhood, count all the cars they see, and then "really think about this and what the demand is."

Generating STEAM

From his vantage point in Columbus, Ohio, Sef DeChristopher sees that growing demand. But more importantly, he sees the need to reach out to youth who hunger for something meaningful in their lives. Most of all, he believes the automotive industry can help them find it.

"What really gets me going is hearing others say young people just want to be on their phones," he opines. "That's not necessarily true--maybe try passing on or sharing some of your skills, vehicles or time with them… They're on their phones because they have nothing and no one else to guide them."

Just before COVID hit, DeChristopher had opened a fabrication shop, but when the pandemic began shuttering businesses, he had an epiphany: "I was like, hey, I've got all these tools, I've got 5,000 sq. ft., and I've got some old cars. What if I just open it up to some of these young people who want to learn some skills?"

The result is the Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics (STEAM) Cathedral, a faith-based, automotive-oriented nonprofit dedicated to teaching skills and concepts usually unavailable in public schools, especially in underserved communities. In their coursework, students learn and apply STEAM concepts to the building and racing of karts. The Cathedral also offers a visual storytelling course for those interested in podcasting and visual arts with motorsports as the primary setting.

 

Vehicles awaiting their transformation at the STEAM Cathedral. The Cathedral emphasizes mentoring, personal guidance and authentic interaction in a safe learning space for young people.

Much like AMG in Chicago, the Cathedral stresses mentoring, personal guidance and authentic interaction, helping students discover their potential in a supportive environment. Key values include honor, integrity, respect, excellence and community building.

In fact, DeChristopher chose the Cathedral moniker as a metaphor. "It takes an average of 150 to 250 years for a traditional cathedral to be built," he explains. "Imagine being that first person laying the foundation. No one knows who you are… But 200 years later, there's this beautiful masterpiece that is all-inspiring on a strong foundation that will last for generations."

Among the Cathedral's apprentices is Ciara Hall, a 17-year-old high school graduate with a passion for horses and an interest in pursuing graphic design in college. She discovered STEAM Cathedral through her father's involvement with a Christian outreach, and says she has learned valuable technical and life skills. She especially credits the program with sparking her interest in motorsports and imparting the confidence to network with others.

"After the program, I'm going to take the skills that they've given me and apply that into college," she says, adding that while "we haven't run on the race track yet, if I really do like it and want to advance ahead, maybe I'll dive into motorsports more."

Meanwhile, Maxwell Hartman, age 17, recently joined the Cathedral program. Homeschooled, he always had an interest in the mechanical, especially bicycles and cars. "I've been, like, categorizing cars since I was three," he relates. At the Cathedral, he learned welding, fabrication, bodywork, metalworking and painting.

"I really enjoy welding; it's very tactile," he says. "I'm a musician, so it's kind of important to me feeling a trigger underneath your finger, knowing how far to depress it, knowing the distance you need to keep the welder from your metal…joining parts together to create something is really cool and satisfying."

A 'Kustomized' Solution

While community-based programs like AMG and STEAM Cathedral have devoted themselves entirely to recruiting and training next-gen talent, specialty automotive businesses are also confronting the industry's labor challenges through some creative thinking of their own.

When ACME Chop Shop in Grand Junction, Colorado, encountered difficulty bringing new auto restoration employees up to speed, the company decided to start the non-profit Kustom Built Cars program to train aspiring young builders.

"We were having a bunch of people come in here wanting to get jobs in the industry, but by the time we would bring them in as interns, we were kind of losing money. Your mechanic isn't working on what they're supposed to be working on--they're teaching," explains Shelby Robison, ACME's executive assistant and secretary on the Kustom Built Cars board of directors.

Launched five years ago as an intensive basics course for those interested in auto restoration, Kustom Built Cars has grown into a five-month, hands-on educational workshop geared especially to young adults aged 18–25. Students learn an extensive variety of restoration skills, plus the day-to-day operational knowledge needed to run a successful hot-rod/custom-car shop. Workshops average two to five students per term, with their $19,500 tuition covering their learning modules, tools and safety equipment. Because the program is non-accredited, grant money isn't available to students. However, Kustom Built Cars has found a workaround to aid young men and women who struggle with costs.

 

Aspiring young automotive restorers training at Kustom Built Cars in Grand Junction, Colorado. The finished truck will be sold at Barrett-Jackson, with proceeds going back into the Kustom Built program for future students.

"We build a project truck and then we take it to Barrett-Jackson and sell it. The money comes back to build a new one and give scholarships to those students who can't afford it," says Robison. "Honestly, like probably 85% of our students who have gone through this nonprofit, we have given scholarships to."

Meanwhile, Robison is often found making the rounds at high school career days, hoping to encourage teenagers otherwise hesitant about a mechanical trade. "A lot of students shy away from my booth because they don't know how to do anything [automotive]. But when they overhear in my speech that you don't have to know any skills, then all of a sudden, their faces light up," she says.

About a month before the workshop's end, Robison meets with students to discuss their future plans. If ACME Chop Shop has openings, some might fill those positions. Others may land with different local businesses, or even relocate to pursue careers outside Colorado.

"I help them find jobs in the industry… We have a huge list of shops in the United States that want to hire our students," she says, adding that some go on for further schooling at technical institutions like UTI.

"I tell them, 'If you go into this industry, in a couple of years down the road, if you need help, call me.' I want to be a life support… I will always give them a good reference if they were good and had a good work ethic."

Tomorrow's Technicians

There are, in fact, many ways for industry businesses to help address the youth recruitment and training issue. Based in Northbrook, Illinois, automotive chemical maker Old World Industries has a history of supporting technical schools, notably the Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC).

"They've reached into the community of Milwaukee and the inner city, and are trying to give the underserved opportunities for career paths in automotive," explains Brian Bohlander, Old World director of marketing for sports and partnership.

Bohlander believes that filling the labor pipeline requires industry engagement at the nation's high school level. Although the situation is slowly changing now, many high school shop programs were gutted over the past few decades, leaving a gaping void in mechanical and technical skills training.

Old World's involvement with MATC eventually led the company to also support Technicians of Tomorrow, an Automotive Dealers of Metro Milwaukee competition in which top high school auto technology students vie for prizes ranging from cash and tools to college scholarships. Old World contributes co-branded PEAK pit shirts and other support to the contest.

"It really comes down to creating the opportunity for students to touch vehicles, giving them a platform to compete against one another for prizes, scholarships and bragging rights," says Bohlander. "That in turn gives them the opportunities and recognition to get into vocational schools. Area dealers then work with those schools and ultimately get them placed within dealerships or other opportunities within the automotive aftermarket."

In addition, Old World partners with the Automotive Society of Engineers (ASE) Education Foundation, to provide support and input to its programs for young people.

 

Old World Industries supports the Technicians for Tomorrow competition, supplying co-branded PEAK pit shirts to the students. Company officials believe every aftermarket business has a stake in engaging young people.

"Ultimately, what they're trying to do is build a sustainable future for the aftermarket," Bohlander explains. "To do that, they're making sure that they have the curriculum needed to train technicians appropriately. But they also have relationships with dealers and manufacturers because they want to make sure they're getting the right information to develop education modules [for] these students."

"And that involvement really has paid dividends for everybody," he asserts. "It's an ecosystem… The more information that they get from the aftermarket that they can communicate to schools, technicians and other industry partners, the better they can help everybody understand where the problems are or where the new technology is evolving. Everybody wins."

Back at UTI, Daczko says the real challenge is exposing young people to an industry they may know little about and providing the big picture of what's available to them: a good-paying career in an exciting, dynamic sector offering real opportunities for growth and personal satisfaction.

"We need students that are creative, but also hands-on kinesthetic learners," she says. "Students who can problem-solve and utilize math, science and technology, but who can also understand engineering concepts."

After entering the STEAM Cathedral program, 16-year-old Joey Chambers is sold on the concept. "I came here because I've always had a passion for automotive engineering… That's always something I've wanted to do with my life," he says. "I've also had this itch for racing… I've had opportunities [here] to learn how to truly engineer a kart and how to apply that to engineering to a car because they're very similar." He now knows an industry career is in his grasp.

It's a start, but Bohlander believes the industry's growing labor shortage is an all-hands-on-deck situation requiring a wide range of innovative, grassroots solutions.

"It's our responsibility--and 'ours' meaning everyone in this ecosystem, whether it's manufacturers like us making aftermarket products, or automobile manufacturers and everyone else--to make sure that we develop the next generation to keep this industry thriving," he emphasizes. "All of us have that responsibility of giving back to make this industry not only sustainable, but better in the long term."

How industry advocates are imparting transformative skills to young people (and ensuring the aftermarket's sustainability in the process).

By Michael Imlay

 

In a nondescript warehouse complex of a tough Chicago suburb, the sparks are flying. While that's not unexpected in an industrial setting, the workers wielding the grinders and plasma torches are definitely not your typical career mechanics. Rather, they're young people seeking a future beyond the troubled confines of their zip code.

"About 80% of the kids that are killed in gang violence in Chicago are usually killed within a four-square block area in which they live," explains Automotive Mentoring Group (AMG) founder Alex Levesque. For more than a decade, Levesque, a former architectural professional, and his small core of local volunteers--mainly retired law enforcement officers--have sought to help underprivileged kids--mainly teenagers--escape that grim reality. Working 30 hours a week, they lead groups of up to 20 young trainees through a series of courses covering the basics of automobile restoration.

"We're doing everything here," Levesque says, ticking off the skills the boys and girls learn: spray-booth paint application and pinstriping; designing and sewing upholstery; drafting and CAD design; and cutting, welding and fabrication.

"I would say the average age we have here would be 19, but we have some as young as seven," he continues, noting that the area's gangs put guns into the hands of kids as young as nine.

"If they can have them that early, then we can have them that early… The sooner that we can get them involved in this car culture and profession/hobby, the better. Once you get into cars there's nothing to stop or distract you--you're just kind of laser focused," he asserts.

 

AMG's successful training program emphasizes plenty of mentoring and affirmation, encouraging its students to realize their own value and potential as they acquire hands-on technical skills.

During his architectural career, Levesque acquired a taste for collector cars. The hobby opened doors for him, introducing him to people and venues he never thought he'd connect with. The collectors he met didn't care about each other's backgrounds--all that took a back seat to a shared love of the automobile. Now Levesque wants to open those same doors for these kids.

AMG's most junior apprentices start out building car models. As they grow, they move up to restoring bicycles and other old-school gadgetry.

"We've got a whole bunch of vintage refrigerators from the '50s--the big round Andy and Mayberry types--and we got old gas pumps," says Levesque. "Now they know how to use the tools better; they know how to use the sandblasting equipment better. We get them to redo these old refrigerators, paint them automotive colors and do pinstriping on them--and we get them to restore the old gas pumps. Once you get through that phrase, okay, now you're ready to start working on some cars."

Because most of AMG's students come from fatherless households, they crave mentorship. Volunteers work side-by-side with the trainees, accompanying them on their journey with plenty of encouragement and affirmation. AMG's "crash-course" program boasts an 85% success rate in advancing students on to technical schools or placing them in jobs with over 80 of the nonprofit's automotive "hiring partners."

"We're not trying to be a school," Levesque confides. "What we want to do is take individuals that have nothing and no confidence level at all, and build them up so that when they finish our program they can [continue on] with confidence because of the background and experience they've had through the AMG program."

The program has been a confidence-builder for Levesque as well. "I was frustrated about [the level of violence in Chicago]. I felt the government should do something about it, or the mayor of Chicago should do something about it…" he says. "But God had another plan and chose me to do something about it."

 

Alex Levesque, founder of AMG in Chicago. "What we want to do is take individuals that have nothing and no confidence level at all, and build them up," he says.

But AMG is doing more than giving these young people a future. The charity is providing for the automotive trade's future as well--by connecting young, motivated and talented workers with businesses desperately in need of them.

It's a win-win answer to a very real problem. As Boomers and early Gen X'ers exit the workforce, and Millennials move into leadership positions, there simply aren't enough incoming Gen Z'ers to fill the gaps. From its OEM dealerships, to its collision-repair centers, to its specialty-equipment manufacturing operations, to its restoration and specialty build shops, America's automotive sector is facing a serious labor shortage, with experts predicting the situation may only get worse.

"Everybody's looking for talent, and there's not enough people getting involved in this industry to fill that void, so that's what we're trying to do," says Levesque.

Thankfully, AMG isn't alone in addressing the issue. Throughout the industry, there are a growing number of grassroots programs emerging to offer diverse solutions to the problem. The only question is whether these efforts are spreading widely and quickly enough to make any appreciable difference.

"From today to 2031, the Bureau of Labor Statistics is saying that we need more than 73,000 auto technicians in the United States. That's a big number," notes Kira Daczko, regional admissions director at the Universal Technical Institute (UTI) campus in Sacramento, California. To help people put that figure in perspective, she often tells them to take a drive through their neighborhood, count all the cars they see, and then "really think about this and what the demand is."

Generating STEAM

From his vantage point in Columbus, Ohio, Sef DeChristopher sees that growing demand. But more importantly, he sees the need to reach out to youth who hunger for something meaningful in their lives. Most of all, he believes the automotive industry can help them find it.

"What really gets me going is hearing others say young people just want to be on their phones," he opines. "That's not necessarily true--maybe try passing on or sharing some of your skills, vehicles or time with them… They're on their phones because they have nothing and no one else to guide them."

Just before COVID hit, DeChristopher had opened a fabrication shop, but when the pandemic began shuttering businesses, he had an epiphany: "I was like, hey, I've got all these tools, I've got 5,000 sq. ft., and I've got some old cars. What if I just open it up to some of these young people who want to learn some skills?"

The result is the Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics (STEAM) Cathedral, a faith-based, automotive-oriented nonprofit dedicated to teaching skills and concepts usually unavailable in public schools, especially in underserved communities. In their coursework, students learn and apply STEAM concepts to the building and racing of karts. The Cathedral also offers a visual storytelling course for those interested in podcasting and visual arts with motorsports as the primary setting.

 

Vehicles awaiting their transformation at the STEAM Cathedral. The Cathedral emphasizes mentoring, personal guidance and authentic interaction in a safe learning space for young people.

Much like AMG in Chicago, the Cathedral stresses mentoring, personal guidance and authentic interaction, helping students discover their potential in a supportive environment. Key values include honor, integrity, respect, excellence and community building.

In fact, DeChristopher chose the Cathedral moniker as a metaphor. "It takes an average of 150 to 250 years for a traditional cathedral to be built," he explains. "Imagine being that first person laying the foundation. No one knows who you are… But 200 years later, there's this beautiful masterpiece that is all-inspiring on a strong foundation that will last for generations."

Among the Cathedral's apprentices is Ciara Hall, a 17-year-old high school graduate with a passion for horses and an interest in pursuing graphic design in college. She discovered STEAM Cathedral through her father's involvement with a Christian outreach, and says she has learned valuable technical and life skills. She especially credits the program with sparking her interest in motorsports and imparting the confidence to network with others.

"After the program, I'm going to take the skills that they've given me and apply that into college," she says, adding that while "we haven't run on the race track yet, if I really do like it and want to advance ahead, maybe I'll dive into motorsports more."

Meanwhile, Maxwell Hartman, age 17, recently joined the Cathedral program. Homeschooled, he always had an interest in the mechanical, especially bicycles and cars. "I've been, like, categorizing cars since I was three," he relates. At the Cathedral, he learned welding, fabrication, bodywork, metalworking and painting.

"I really enjoy welding; it's very tactile," he says. "I'm a musician, so it's kind of important to me feeling a trigger underneath your finger, knowing how far to depress it, knowing the distance you need to keep the welder from your metal…joining parts together to create something is really cool and satisfying."

A 'Kustomized' Solution

While community-based programs like AMG and STEAM Cathedral have devoted themselves entirely to recruiting and training next-gen talent, specialty automotive businesses are also confronting the industry's labor challenges through some creative thinking of their own.

When ACME Chop Shop in Grand Junction, Colorado, encountered difficulty bringing new auto restoration employees up to speed, the company decided to start the non-profit Kustom Built Cars program to train aspiring young builders.

"We were having a bunch of people come in here wanting to get jobs in the industry, but by the time we would bring them in as interns, we were kind of losing money. Your mechanic isn't working on what they're supposed to be working on--they're teaching," explains Shelby Robison, ACME's executive assistant and secretary on the Kustom Built Cars board of directors.

Launched five years ago as an intensive basics course for those interested in auto restoration, Kustom Built Cars has grown into a five-month, hands-on educational workshop geared especially to young adults aged 18–25. Students learn an extensive variety of restoration skills, plus the day-to-day operational knowledge needed to run a successful hot-rod/custom-car shop. Workshops average two to five students per term, with their $19,500 tuition covering their learning modules, tools and safety equipment. Because the program is non-accredited, grant money isn't available to students. However, Kustom Built Cars has found a workaround to aid young men and women who struggle with costs.

 

Aspiring young automotive restorers training at Kustom Built Cars in Grand Junction, Colorado. The finished truck will be sold at Barrett-Jackson, with proceeds going back into the Kustom Built program for future students.

"We build a project truck and then we take it to Barrett-Jackson and sell it. The money comes back to build a new one and give scholarships to those students who can't afford it," says Robison. "Honestly, like probably 85% of our students who have gone through this nonprofit, we have given scholarships to."

Meanwhile, Robison is often found making the rounds at high school career days, hoping to encourage teenagers otherwise hesitant about a mechanical trade. "A lot of students shy away from my booth because they don't know how to do anything [automotive]. But when they overhear in my speech that you don't have to know any skills, then all of a sudden, their faces light up," she says.

About a month before the workshop's end, Robison meets with students to discuss their future plans. If ACME Chop Shop has openings, some might fill those positions. Others may land with different local businesses, or even relocate to pursue careers outside Colorado.

"I help them find jobs in the industry… We have a huge list of shops in the United States that want to hire our students," she says, adding that some go on for further schooling at technical institutions like UTI.

"I tell them, 'If you go into this industry, in a couple of years down the road, if you need help, call me.' I want to be a life support… I will always give them a good reference if they were good and had a good work ethic."

Tomorrow's Technicians

There are, in fact, many ways for industry businesses to help address the youth recruitment and training issue. Based in Northbrook, Illinois, automotive chemical maker Old World Industries has a history of supporting technical schools, notably the Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC).

"They've reached into the community of Milwaukee and the inner city, and are trying to give the underserved opportunities for career paths in automotive," explains Brian Bohlander, Old World director of marketing for sports and partnership.

Bohlander believes that filling the labor pipeline requires industry engagement at the nation's high school level. Although the situation is slowly changing now, many high school shop programs were gutted over the past few decades, leaving a gaping void in mechanical and technical skills training.

Old World's involvement with MATC eventually led the company to also support Technicians of Tomorrow, an Automotive Dealers of Metro Milwaukee competition in which top high school auto technology students vie for prizes ranging from cash and tools to college scholarships. Old World contributes co-branded PEAK pit shirts and other support to the contest.

"It really comes down to creating the opportunity for students to touch vehicles, giving them a platform to compete against one another for prizes, scholarships and bragging rights," says Bohlander. "That in turn gives them the opportunities and recognition to get into vocational schools. Area dealers then work with those schools and ultimately get them placed within dealerships or other opportunities within the automotive aftermarket."

In addition, Old World partners with the Automotive Society of Engineers (ASE) Education Foundation, to provide support and input to its programs for young people.

 

Old World Industries supports the Technicians for Tomorrow competition, supplying co-branded PEAK pit shirts to the students. Company officials believe every aftermarket business has a stake in engaging young people.

"Ultimately, what they're trying to do is build a sustainable future for the aftermarket," Bohlander explains. "To do that, they're making sure that they have the curriculum needed to train technicians appropriately. But they also have relationships with dealers and manufacturers because they want to make sure they're getting the right information to develop education modules [for] these students."

"And that involvement really has paid dividends for everybody," he asserts. "It's an ecosystem… The more information that they get from the aftermarket that they can communicate to schools, technicians and other industry partners, the better they can help everybody understand where the problems are or where the new technology is evolving. Everybody wins."

Back at UTI, Daczko says the real challenge is exposing young people to an industry they may know little about and providing the big picture of what's available to them: a good-paying career in an exciting, dynamic sector offering real opportunities for growth and personal satisfaction.

"We need students that are creative, but also hands-on kinesthetic learners," she says. "Students who can problem-solve and utilize math, science and technology, but who can also understand engineering concepts."

After entering the STEAM Cathedral program, 16-year-old Joey Chambers is sold on the concept. "I came here because I've always had a passion for automotive engineering… That's always something I've wanted to do with my life," he says. "I've also had this itch for racing… I've had opportunities [here] to learn how to truly engineer a kart and how to apply that to engineering to a car because they're very similar." He now knows an industry career is in his grasp.

It's a start, but Bohlander believes the industry's growing labor shortage is an all-hands-on-deck situation requiring a wide range of innovative, grassroots solutions.

"It's our responsibility--and 'ours' meaning everyone in this ecosystem, whether it's manufacturers like us making aftermarket products, or automobile manufacturers and everyone else--to make sure that we develop the next generation to keep this industry thriving," he emphasizes. "All of us have that responsibility of giving back to make this industry not only sustainable, but better in the long term."

By SEMA News Editors

Get ready to wrap up the SEMA Show in style on Friday, November 8, with a night of heart-pounding live music at the SEMA Fest concert featuring live performances by Cage The Elephant, Sublime, Fitz And The Tantrums and Petey! (Buy tickets at SEMAFest.com).

Ahead of the second annual SEMA Fest, SEMA News is sharing an exclusive spotlight on Chicago-bred and Los Angeles-based Petey to share the hype as we approach this year's concert on the SEMA Show campus at the Las Vegas Convention Center parking lot adjacent to South Hall.

2024 SEMA Fest Artist Spotlight: Petey

On his new album "USA," Chicago-bred singer/songwriter Petey bares his soul about all the endless things that keep him up at night. As he muses on everything from masculinity to anxiety to the very nature of human existence, the Los Angeles-based artist drifts between warmhearted sincerity and delightfully warped humor--a deeply affecting dynamic that also defines the absurdist alt-comedy that's earned him a massive following on TikTok with 1.5 million followers at the time of this article. Built on his idiosyncratic but viscerally charged breed of alt-pop/rock, "USA" is Petey's Capitol Records debut that ultimately brings a gloriously strange convergence of comfort, catharsis and unrelenting joy.

"For me, making music has always been like throwing spaghetti at the wall, and working with [co-producers] John [DeBold] and Aidan [Spiro] allowed me to be reckless and experimental while giving each song the care it deserved," said Petey, who also plays guitar, bass, drums, and synth on "USA." "It helped me fulfill the only real goal I had for the album, which was to make sure every single song would be super-fun to play live."

Petey hopes that exposing his deepest neuroses might have a liberating impact on the listener. "So much of life is out of our control, which is really scary, but hopefully, these songs will help people feel a little better and less alone in their struggle," he said. "I hope everyone can find some kind of solace in recognizing that life is incredibly complicated for everyone--so instead of spending too much time ruminating on a mistake you've made or something that went wrong, maybe the best thing is to go easy on yourself and let it go."

SEMA Fest goers will be able to witness Petey's undeniable energy during an epic concert on Friday, November 8, 4:00 - 4:45 p.m. PST on the SEMA Fest stage.

How to Attend the 2024 SEMA Fest

Tickets to the 2024 SEMA Fest, open to members of the industry and the public, start at just $59 and are available at SEMAFEST.com. 

Note: Your SEMA Show badge does not get you into the SEMA Fest concerts; a SEMA Fest concert ticket must be purchased.

Guests are encouraged to secure their hotel stay for SEMA Fest as soon as possible through OnPeak, SEMA Fest's only official housing provider. View available hotels here and select your preferred stay dates! 

Keep an eye on SEMA News for headliner spotlights and more details--including motorsports activations!--on this one-of-a-kind event. For more details and tickets, visit SEMAFEST.com!

In addition, find out about additional SEMA Week events, like Industry Night @ SEMA Featuring The Goo Goo Dolls, set for Monday, November 4, ahead of the opening of the SEMA Show on Wednesday, November 5. Same concert stage, different event!

By SEMA News Editors

Get ready to wrap up the SEMA Show in style on Friday, November 8, with a night of heart-pounding live music at the SEMA Fest concert featuring live performances by Cage The Elephant, Sublime, Fitz And The Tantrums and Petey! (Buy tickets at SEMAFest.com).

Ahead of the second annual SEMA Fest, SEMA News is sharing an exclusive spotlight on Chicago-bred and Los Angeles-based Petey to share the hype as we approach this year's concert on the SEMA Show campus at the Las Vegas Convention Center parking lot adjacent to South Hall.

2024 SEMA Fest Artist Spotlight: Petey

On his new album "USA," Chicago-bred singer/songwriter Petey bares his soul about all the endless things that keep him up at night. As he muses on everything from masculinity to anxiety to the very nature of human existence, the Los Angeles-based artist drifts between warmhearted sincerity and delightfully warped humor--a deeply affecting dynamic that also defines the absurdist alt-comedy that's earned him a massive following on TikTok with 1.5 million followers at the time of this article. Built on his idiosyncratic but viscerally charged breed of alt-pop/rock, "USA" is Petey's Capitol Records debut that ultimately brings a gloriously strange convergence of comfort, catharsis and unrelenting joy.

"For me, making music has always been like throwing spaghetti at the wall, and working with [co-producers] John [DeBold] and Aidan [Spiro] allowed me to be reckless and experimental while giving each song the care it deserved," said Petey, who also plays guitar, bass, drums, and synth on "USA." "It helped me fulfill the only real goal I had for the album, which was to make sure every single song would be super-fun to play live."

Petey hopes that exposing his deepest neuroses might have a liberating impact on the listener. "So much of life is out of our control, which is really scary, but hopefully, these songs will help people feel a little better and less alone in their struggle," he said. "I hope everyone can find some kind of solace in recognizing that life is incredibly complicated for everyone--so instead of spending too much time ruminating on a mistake you've made or something that went wrong, maybe the best thing is to go easy on yourself and let it go."

SEMA Fest goers will be able to witness Petey's undeniable energy during an epic concert on Friday, November 8, 4:00 - 4:45 p.m. PST on the SEMA Fest stage.

How to Attend the 2024 SEMA Fest

Tickets to the 2024 SEMA Fest, open to members of the industry and the public, start at just $59 and are available at SEMAFEST.com. 

Note: Your SEMA Show badge does not get you into the SEMA Fest concerts; a SEMA Fest concert ticket must be purchased.

Guests are encouraged to secure their hotel stay for SEMA Fest as soon as possible through OnPeak, SEMA Fest's only official housing provider. View available hotels here and select your preferred stay dates! 

Keep an eye on SEMA News for headliner spotlights and more details--including motorsports activations!--on this one-of-a-kind event. For more details and tickets, visit SEMAFEST.com!

In addition, find out about additional SEMA Week events, like Industry Night @ SEMA Featuring The Goo Goo Dolls, set for Monday, November 4, ahead of the opening of the SEMA Show on Wednesday, November 5. Same concert stage, different event!