Roy Littlefield, executive vice president of the Tire Industry Association (TIA), gives lectures to students as part of his “hobby”—a job as an adjunct professor of politics and American history at Catholic University in Washington, D.C.

When his software company asked him to become vice president of operations for a newly acquired tire industry company, tires had “no appeal for me whatsoever,” said Wayne Croswell.

From A–Z, the companies that had the South Hall rolling.

With more than 290 exhibitors showcasing and 110 new product registrations within the Tires, Wheels & Equipment section of the 2009 SEMA Show, it is apparent that this segment of the specialty-equipment industry remains one of the most popular with vehicle enthusiasts.

Thousands of buyers from the tire and wheel market spent a portion of their 2009 SEMA Show week scanning bar codes from the New Products Showcase and visiting exhibitor booths to identify the next must-have tire and wheel gear for their local markets.

No single element can change the look of a car or truck like a set of tires and wheels.

This custom-built Ford F-150 is not something that can be easily picked up at the dealer lot.

The SEMA Person of the Year award was established in 1969 to honor an individual for outstanding contributions to the industry reaching beyond the person’s normal job functions.

This series of SEMA News stories is based on the idea of using reliable and repeatable methods to ensure business success. In coming issues, we will delve into a range of topics aimed at developing Best Practices through knowledge, motivation and skills.

As the automotive industry continues to adapt to changes in the economy and consumer spending habits, SEMA-member companies are faced with the decision to either race ahead with the new course of the specialty-equipment market or to fall behind with the old status quo.