Member News

As members of WTC, the expectation is that you take off your company hat and put on your industry one. Through the collaborative efforts and experience of the select committee and membership, the WTC will continue to provide relevant education, monitor regulatory policies as they come down the pike, and work with the likes of the Society of Automotive Engineers and the Tire Industry Association to assure that our segment of industry is represented and building a prosperous future. —David Insull, Director Marketing & Procurement, Wheels & Accessories, American Tire Distributors

Any company or individual who claims to be an automotive enthusiast will thrive in the SPC. I feel that this is one of the most worthy and satisfying councils SEMA has to offer. If you are an action-oriented individual and would like to expand your networking status while serving our industry, SPC will meet your objectives. —Roger Tibbetts, National Account Manager,K&N Engineering Inc.

I believe that being a member of PRO keeps Auto Trim Restyling at the forefront of all that’s current in our industry. Staying in the loop and staying ahead of our competitors is the difference between a restyler and a PRO restyler. —Kevin McGowan, President, Auto Trim Restyling

I feel strongly about being involved in the MRC for two main reasons. One being that it helps our fellow manufacturers’ representatives by being more proactive with changes in our industry. A second important benefit/reason for being involved is that I am personally using what I learn in my committee activities every day. It is helping me to be a better representative. —Bill Eagan, Performance Rep, Airheart Sales

Even with a record number of exhibitors at the Media Trade Conference, MPMC continues to find new ways to deliver member value. Based upon the success of our seminar at the 2011 PRI show, we will host two events in 2012, with member-specific topics intended to help them make better business decisions. Our Hall of Fame ceremony at the PRI show continues to grow in stature, and our Business Guidelines Manual is now available online through the SEI. If you manufacture parts used in motorsports, it’s a great time to be involved in the Motorsports Parts Manufacturer’s Council. — Kyle Fickler, VP Of Sales, Weld Racing LLC

YEN is growing very rapidly and is one of the best ways to open yourself to networking and education opportunities. I encourage any young person in this industry to sign up. You will then be plugged into a network of young executives that is over 800 strong, and you can start getting involved by joining our Member Resource Pool, attending a YEN Mixer or attending the big YEN reception at SEMA. It doesn’t matter the extent to which you get involved at first; it just matters that you take that first step to find out how rewarding the experience can be. —Lee McGuire, Director of Marketing & Operations, Skyjacker Suspensions

Belonging to LTAA has given us an edge in business by taking advantage of the social networking, education and technical information offered. In giving back to society, LTAA has been at the front in supporting SEMA’s charitable efforts such as SEMA Cares and SEMA scholarships. LTAA’s Pinewood Derby raises money for children in need and provides a competitive and fun experience for LTAA members. —Joel Ayres, VP Sales & Marketing, Bedslide

HRIA is comprised of a group of industry professionals who volunteer their time to develop initiatives that will benefit the hot rodding industry and the future of its livelihood. The partnership between HRIA and Hotrod & Restoration is extremely special because technical, business and new-product education is crucial for our market segment growth. That is what the HRIA Education Day at the Hotrod & Restoration Trade Show is all about. —Travis Weeks, Publisher/Producer, Hot Rod & Restoration

SEMA is dedicated to fostering the industry’s next generation of leaders and innovators. Its goal is to expand awareness of the automotive specialty-equipment aftermarket, provide scholarships and loan-forgiveness awards to the best and brightest students and give groups from colleges and universities the opportunity to attend the SEMA Show.

I strongly support the ARMO council and the tasks it fulfills. It is a great watchdog for our hobby and always has innovative ideas for education, youth involvement and government and OEM affairs. The great thing about the energetic council is that members can volunteer their time in order to help with subcommittee tasks. By joining ARMO, you will have great interaction among fellow businesses that will greatly enhance your own. —David A Mihalko Jr., President, Restoration Specialties & Supply Company Inc.