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Have a question about the Specialty Equipment Market Association?

We're here to help. Please send all inquiries to SEMA’s Customer Service Team, members@sema.org.

For industry news and Association updates please visit SEMA.org. For information about the SEMA Show visit SEMAShow.com.

You can also contact SEMA via phone at 909-610-2030 and speak to a Customer Service Team member immediately.

If you would like to contact SEMA via mail, please use the address listed below:

SEMA Headquarters
1575 S. Valley Vista Drive
Diamond Bar, CA 91765

SEMA has joined forces with the "Outdoor Recreation Roundtable" (ORR) to showcase outdoor recreation as an important economic contributor. ORR works to promote federal policy and legislative reforms needed to grow the outdoor recreation economy --estimated to be $887 billion annually and supporting an estimated 7.6 million jobs. 

ORR organizations represent thousands of U.S. businesses that produce vehicles, equipment, gear, apparel and services enjoyed in our nation's parks, waterways, byways, trails and outdoor spaces. SEMA's focus is on motorized recreation (4-wheel, ATVs, UTVs, etc.) along with all the equipment that makes it possible to tow RVs, trailers, boats and off-road vehicles (suspension, wheels, tires, increased horsepower, etc.).

Members of the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORIR) met with U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke to discuss expanding public-private partnerships.
Members of the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR) met with U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke to discuss expanding public-private partnerships.

SEMA and other ORR members work with lawmakers in Congress and federal agency officials to identify ways to improve visitor experiences on the nation's public lands and waters. Examples include public-private partnerships to reduce a multi-billion-dollar maintenance backlog, modernize campsites, extend service hours and seasons, and implement electronic fee collection.  ORR strives to achieve the following:

  1. Foster collaboration with the Federal government to enable the outdoor recreation economy to reach its full potential;
  2. Remove barriers that prevent private investment from being made on public lands and waters; and
  3. Change the mindset of federal agencies so recreational access and high-quality visitor experiences are prioritized.

Recent SEMA/ORR Highlights

 

Click Here for 4-Page Quick Reference Guide to the ORR & Economic Data

 

The ORR Coalition Currently Includes:

  • American Horse Council
  • American Recreation Coalition
  • American Sportfishing Association
  • Archery Trade Association
  • Association of Marina Industries
  • Boat U.S.
  • International Snowmobile Manufacturers Association
  • Marine Retailers Association of the Americas
  • Motorcycle Industry Council
  • Outdoor Industry Association
  • National Association of RV Parks & Campgrounds
  • National Marine Manufacturers Association
  • National Shooting Sports Foundation
  • Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association
  • Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association
  • Recreation Vehicle Industry Association
  • SnowSports Industries America
  • Specialty Equipment Market Association
  • Specialty Vehicle Institute of America

Members of the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORIR) met with U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke to discuss expanding public-private partnerships.
SEMA members Tom Brooks with his son T.C. Brooks (Truckin Thunder) with their '16 Jeep Wrangler in front of the U.S. Department of the Interior.

For additional information about ORR, please contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org or (202) 792-7793. 

2024 SEMA and PRI Washington Rally!

 

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA and PRI members traveled to Washington, DC, to advocate for the interests of the specialty automotive aftermarket and motorsports parts industries as part of the 2024 SEMA & PRI Washington Rally. Members and industry leaders held nearly 150 meetings with their elected officials and congressional staff, advocating for their lawmakers to support legislation to protect the future of the industry. The Washington Rally kicked off with a congressional dinner where TV presenter and car builder Ant Anstead hosted an engaging panel discussion with industry champions from the U.S. Representatives, including Reps. Marie Glusenkamp Perez (D-WA), Tim Walberg (R-MI) and Mark Amodei (R-NV), and included a lunch at the exclusive Capitol Hill Club with U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), co-chair of the Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus. 

   

The event also featured the "Cars at the Capitol" event, which showcased a curated offering of customized cars, trucks and SUVs that exemplify the spirit of innovation and craftsmanship that drives the specialty automotive aftermarket. The car show put our industry on display with a vehicle lineup that included everything from a vintage 1982 Jeep Scrambler to late-model vehicles such as a '15 Nissan GT-R, a '22 Gladiator 4xe, and a Toyota Tundra. 

Washington Rally PRI SEMA 2024

From left to right: Auto industry personality Ant Anstead and U.S. Representatives Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-WA), Tim Walberg (R-MI) and Mark Amodei (R-NV).

Congressional meetings provided SEMA and PRI members with an opportunity to advocate for protecting the right to repair and modify vehicles with advanced technology, stopping vehicle technology mandates that limit consumer choice, protecting motorized access to federal government lands, making permanent business tax incentives for race tracks and extending business tax incentives that will be expiring or be reduced in 2025. This year's Washington Rally marked the 17th time that SEMA and industry members have traveled to our nation's capital to advocate for the industry. The event plays a pivotal role in SEMA and PRI's advocacy efforts at the federal level, providing our members with an opportunity to develop and strengthen relationships with key members of Congress.

SEMA and PRI encourage those who weren't able to attend the 2024 SEMA & PRI Washington Rally--which included the "Cars at the Capitol" event seen here--to get involved by writing their members of Congress on issues of key importance to their business and the industry.

SEMA and PRI welcome our members who weren't able to attend the Rally to get involved by writing their members of Congress on issues of key importance to their business and the industry. We also encourage you to host your members of Congress at your business. Our government affairs team makes this easy by coordinating the logistics and participating in lawmaker visits to member companies. Click here to sign up to host your members of Congress.

 

SEMA PRI Washington DC Rally 2024

 

Articles

WHAT IS SEMA CARES?

SEMA Cares provides a forum from which our association members can act as a collective influence toward making a positive impact beyond the automotive community.

We are able to significantly improve the lives of many who need it through our support of the great work done by the Austin Hatcher Foundation for pediatric cancer, Childhelp prevention and treatment of child abuse, and the Victory Junction camp for children with serious medical conditions and serious illnesses.

Established in 2007, SEMA Cares steers the same dedication and passion our membership has for automotive to the kind care of children and others in need.

HOW WE ACCOMPLISH OUR MISSION

Our primary fundraising is through charitable events and direct donations.

  • The SEMA Cares pinewood races bring together the best of both worlds. The annual Pinewood Drags feature sponsored miniature wooden cars and trucks, designed by children and adults, racing in downhill action. The Industry Cup Challenge is where the top competitors in five industry categories compete head-to-head for bragging rights and trophy cup immortality.
  • SEMA Cares also benefits from the Barrett-Jackson Auction sale of customized vehicles featuring member-donated parts & accessories, built in partnership with the SEMA Garage and member volunteers.
  • Direct donations from SEMA Show exhibitors, SEMA Gear merchandise, and member fundraising events also benefit the efforts of SEMA Cares.

As you can see, the SEMA Cares mission embraces and values the participation of association members and other partners in a collective effort to make the world a better place.

Ways to Support SEMA Cares’ Partners:
Giving Back and Leveling Up Corporate Philanthropy

Established in 2007, SEMA Cares is a nonprofit entity that unites the automotive aftermarket’s efforts to support children and others in need. Hear from the three SEMA Cares charities and discover how you can support them.

During this on-demand session, representatives from the following groups updated the industry on how SEMA Cares has made a positive difference in the lives of children in need, and offer ideas on easy ways to get involved:

  • Austin Hatcher Foundation for Pediatric Cancer: Provides services to children with cancer and their families through industrial arts therapy, diversionary therapy, psycho-oncology and healthy lifestyle education
     
  • Childhelp: Serving abused, neglected and at-risk children by focusing on advocacy, intervention, treatment, prevention, family resilience and community outreach
     
  • Victory Junction: Founded in honor of Adam Petty, the program assists children with serious medical conditions and serious illnesses by providing life-changing camping experiences that are exciting, fun and empowering, at no cost to children and their families

Viewers will discover that there are many ways to support SEMA Cares and get involved. This is a perfect opportunity for businesses that want to level up their charitable programs and for individuals in the industry who want to get more involved and give back.

PINEWOOD CARS

Purchasing a pinewood car is one of the easiest ways to contribute to SEMA Cares. The Annual Pinewood Drags has quickly become a signature event by combining just the right elements of charitable giving, community participation, automotive passion, and youthful spirit.

Donors have three options for participating:

  • The Build-It-For-Me kit is the easiest. Simply purchase a kit and a child from one of our sponsored charities will decorate your vehicle.
  • The Stock Class is for the child in each of us. You do the build using kit parts only. Decorations are the only modification allowed. Cars and trucks race side-by-side in this all-class competition.
  • The Unlimited Class is for the true builder who is in it to win it. Your customization ethos is scaled down to size with an almost anything-goes race to be the best.

INDUSTRY CUP CHALLENGE

 

The Industry Cup Challenge takes charitable giving to the next level.

Sponsoring companies are divided into five divisions where they race with high-quality, child-built pinewood cars. Each division crowns a winning company which then goes on to represent that division in an all-out industry race to #1.

Everyone is a true winner as the charities continue to help those in need, the disadvantaged children have fun building toy cars, and the industry engages the community in an overwhelmingly positive way.

The industry challengers each have a limited number of entrants in the following divisions:

  • Warehouse Distributors
  • Manufacturers
  • Media Groups
  • Rep Agencies
  • Service Providers

The champion can display the impressive trophy for a year with its company name boldly engraved among the winners. It must then be returned, in a Stanley Cup style tradition, as it will be up for grabs again at the next Pinewood Drags where the company will have a chance to defend the title

The donation cost is $1,000 per sponsoring company. The standard pinewood build rules apply to all competing vehicles. Vehicles are randomly assigned and the race is officiated by SEMA Cares volunteers.

2024 PINEWOOD RACE WINNERS

INDUSTRY CUP CHALLENGE

(Member Category Represented)

CHAMPION
Manufacturer's Class

ACT #7


Rep Agency Class

R&R Marketing #2



Warehouse Distributor Class

Motor State Distributing #5


Service Providers Class

Auto Additions


Build It For Me

Dianna Spagnola


ReStylers United

Auto Plex #13

THE IMPACT OF DONATING

SEMA Cares works with select charities that best reflect the values and interests of the automotive specialty equipment industry. We have worked hand-in-hand with each of these charities and seen the positive results that the funding helps provide.

We also look for opportunities to incorporate the joy of automotive into fun activities and fundraising. Projects and camp activities, from pinewood toy car kits to actual vehicle builds, give young minds a very important reprieve from hard life circumstances, even if only for a brief moment.

By donating through SEMA Cares, you make a larger and more significant impact of giving as part of a collective automotive industry voice while still knowing that your contributions go directly to the individual charities without administrative overhead.

SEMA Cares Annual Contribution Application

The following application is to receive an annual contribution from SEMA for a partnership opportunity. Applications will be reviewed by the SEMA Cares Committee for review and a recommendation made to the SEMA Board of Directors for final approval. Decisions on annual contributions will be made upon review of the budget each fiscal year.

View Application

BECOME A VOLUNTEER

There are ways to help others in need beyond financial donations. SEMA Cares hosts and assists with various sponsored events throughout the year.

We offer the opportunity to help behind-the-scenes or work directly with the community members and charitable organizations. If you would like to get involved in making a difference in your area, remotely, or at any SEMA Cares event please let us know by completing a volunteer application.

VOLUNTEER NOW!
Lori Ramsey
Chair
Sara Morosan
Immediate Past Chair
Jenna Jefferies
Committee Member
Michelle McGaughy
Committee Member
Colby McLaughlin
Committee Member
Kathryn Reinhardt
Committee Member
Joel Ayres
Committee Member
Rich Barsamian
Committee Member
Dawson Druesedow
Committee Member
Matt Reasoner
Committee Member
Tony Colombini
Committee Member
Joe Escobar
SEMA STAFF LIASON

909-378-4860
josee@sema.org

2009 Ford F-150

Customized with product donations by SEMA-member companies, this 2009 Ford F-150 Super Crew 4X4 was available through eBay auction to benefit childrens charities Childhelp and Victory Junction Gang Camp. The vehicle was sold to Ron Schmucker of San Ramon, California, for $30,100.

READ MORE

WD-40 2010 Camaro SS/RSz

WD-40 Company and SEMA Cares, the association's charity arm, have partnered to build a custom 2010 Camaro for the 2009 SEMA Show. Several specialty-equipment manufacturers are also pitching in to bring the classic pony car back in style, and with its aggressive stance, 6.2L V8 and 600+ hp, the WD-40/SEMA Cares Camaro has exceptional performance to match its distinctive look.

READ MORE

WD-40 Foose 2012 Ford Super Duty f-350

Custom '12 Ford F-350 Super Duty work truck that will include Foose-inspired custom front- and rear-wheel flares, side rockers and a front chin spoiler, among other upgrades. The WD-40 Specialist/SEMA Cares Foose Ford F-350 represents the new WD-40 Specialist line of products

READ MORE

WD-40/SEMA Cares Foose '53 Ford F-100

Leading aftermarket companies that stepped up to donate parts, equipment and services to the project include: Street Scene Equipment, Barrett-Jackson, LMC Truck, L&R Engine, Egge, MHT Wheels, Pirelli Tires, BASF Paint, American Auto Wire, Painless Performance, Quiet Ride, K&N Filters, McGard and others.

READ MORE

WD-40/SEMA Cares '13 Ford F150 Lariat

The enhanced '13 Ford F-150 Lariat, a collaboration between SEMA manufacturing members and students from the Alex Xydias Center for Automotive Arts (AXC), was designed by industry icon Chip Foose and is the first vehicle to be modified in the SEMA Garage – Industry Innovations Center in Diamond Bar, California. All modifications and installs were performed by students from the AXC.

READ MORE

Omix-ADA 2015 Jeep Wrangler JK Sport

Customized through a collaboration between Omix-ADA and the Alex Xydias Center for Automotive Arts, the upfitted, dirt-ready Jeep features $30,000 in aftermarket parts and accessories. As part of the build, a team of students from the school modified the standard four-door JK Sport at the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California, using parts from several donor companies.

READ MORE

Omix-ADA 2016 Jeep Wrangler JK

Transformed from a standard four-door Jeep Wrangler JK into a one-of-a-kind "ready-when-you-are" Jeep, was custom designed by "Overhaulin'" co-host and UFC ring girl Arianny Celeste, along with LFTD & LVLD magazine, Rugged Ridge and SEMA Cares, and it was built by DUB Gara

READ MORE

Petty Garage 2016 Jeep Wrangler

The custom Petty's Garage-built Jeep Wrangler JKU began life as a stock 2016 Hydro Blue JK Rubicon and was transformed into the "ultimate off-road masterpiece" through the addition of a full array of Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge parts and accessories

READ MORE

WD-40 67 Camaro

WD-40 Company has partnered with SEMA Cares to build a custom '67 Chevrolet Camaro in celebration of both the SEMA Show's and the Camaro's 50th anniversaries. The Camaro project was designed by noted car builder Neil Tjin and built in partnership with Tjin and instructors from Universal Technical Institute. Build partners that have donated product for use on the Camaro include Eckler's, Budnik Wheels, Axalta, Eibach, Falken Tires, Baer Brake Systems, LR Auto Body and Optima Batteries. The engine, transmission, suspension, wheels and tires will be installed on PowerNation TV.

READ MORE

Industry Leadership Opportunities

SEMA members are invited and encouraged to increase their involvement and participation in the industry by volunteering for a leadership role. Volunteers are vital to shaping the industry and addressing issues or concerns. When you raise your hand to volunteer, you'll receive leadership development training and work with SEMA staff to build community within your market segment or group, create awareness with legislative leaders, identify challenges and develop solutions to strengthen the industry. Most of all, you will be contributing to and be a part of something bigger.

SELECT COMMITTEE NOMINATIONS PERIOD IS NOW CLOSED

To learn about other volunteer opportunities, click below to fill out an application.

Get Started

About Select Committee Volunteering

A Council or Network Select Committee is made up of elected automotive aftermarket professionals who are passionate about the advancement of the industry as a whole. The select committee serves as the council or network leadership and works with SEMA staff to strategically align its initiatives with current member and industry needs.

Select committee members work alongside industry professionals from different segments to provide valuable programs, events, education opportunities and other resources for the council or network membership.

An elected Select Committee member will serve a minimum of a two-year term. In order to be considered as a candidate, you must be employed by a current SEMA member company and be a member of the council or network in which you are interested in volunteering for.

Why do you volunteer?

Joanna Agosta Shere, Steel Rubber Products- ARMO

“Volunteering for a SEMA Council Select Committee gives you a window into the industry and allows you to impact the direction of the organization. Personally, I have grown industry connections and learned a lot from my fellow members to better my organization and myself.”
 

Todd Steen, Jackson Marketing Group- WTC

"I think people would agree that volunteering with SEMA can offer you an opportunity to meet new people, grow your network and form some solid relationships that can have a lasting impact on your career. But I also believe volunteering offers us a chance to hone our skills, learn something from the other side of the coin we’ve been chasing and gain a new perspective on our industry."
 

Gabe Hall, Magnaflow- ETTN

“I volunteer my time to a SEMA select committee mainly because of my passion and love for the industry. I want to do my part to give back and help pave the future for upcoming designers and engineers. Working and collaborating with fellow industry colleagues is super beneficial for my growth in the industry and my own personal knowledge. Also, it’s important to me to represent and give recognition to a company like MagnaFlow, who shares my passion for the automotive industry.”
 

Ellen McKoy, EMK Marketing- PRO

“Volunteers are the backbone of SEMA councils and networks, and serving on a select committee is a very rewarding experience. It offers a unique opportunity to collaborate with likeminded colleagues on issues that influence your specific industry segment, and play a key role in helping your council/network achieve its goals. It’s also an opportunity to learn from others, share ideas, form lasting friendships, and have a positive impact on your market niche.”
 

Jeremy Headlee, UTV Source LLC- YEN

“I volunteer my time with SEMA and the Young Executives Network to gain a better understanding of the inner-workings of the automotive aftermarket industry, identify challenges and opportunities on the horizon, and to play a part in where this industry is headed in the future. I consider serving on behalf of YEN an honor, and hope that we can continue to effectively engage the youth to bring new ideas and young talent to the table.”
 

Lana Chrisman, Lions Automobilia Foundation- SBN

“Volunteering on the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network has connected me with progressive thinkers focused on leading our industry to the next level.”
 

Jonathan Barber, Bob Cook Sales- YEN

“SEMA has opened doors for me to help advance my professional career through the years. Now, I’m grateful to be able to volunteer on a Select Committee to help give back, educate, create pathways for success, and assist others in the industry become better professionals.”
 

Allison Harding, Vintage Air- SBN

“SEMA has been essential in helping me build my network in an industry that can be dauntingly huge and geographically widespread. Joining a Select Committee has been the perfect way to get involved, meet new people, and make a difference for women in the industry.”
 

BJ Leanse, Go Rhino/Big Country- PRO

“SEMA is a direct reflection of our Industry and very much like a diamond; the deeper you look, the more facets you see. The resources, benefits and opportunities SEMA provides really begin when you get in gear and engage and when you do, buckle up and enjoy the ride.”

Council & Networks Liaisons

Jim
Skelly

ARMO, HRIA, MPMC

jimsk@sema.org
909-978-6690

Nicole
Bradle

WTC, ETTN, SBN

nicoleb@sema.org
909-323-2149

Denise
Waddingham

YEN, TORA, PRO

deniselw@sema.org
909-978-6691

Council or Network Update

Special Webinar Series Focused on Responding to Coronavirus Situation

SEMA launched a special six-part webinar series filled with tips and strategies on how to communicate, respond to and plan for the changes resulting from the recent economic downturn. Presented by SEMA Education in partnership with Mike Brown, founder and CEO of the Brainzooming Group, the webinars...