By Bob Morreale
As 2025 comes to a close, I’m proud to reflect on a year defined by momentum, collaboration, and purpose within the Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN). Since stepping into the chairman’s role in July, I’ve had a front-row seat to the passion and expertise that power ETTN, and the progress we’ve made together in just a few short months has been remarkable.
Our strength starts with our leadership team: Greg Banish, Jeffrey Banyas, Chris Crecelius, Tim Michaliszyn, Wendy Miles, Gordon Paden, Kannan Parekh, Karen Salvaggio (Chair-Elect), Justin Starkey, Kelleigh Shankel (Immediate Past Chair), Peter Treydte, Nick Wolgamott, and Charles Woodruff.
I’m also incredibly grateful for the continued support of our SEMA Council Director, Nicole Bradle, whose dedication keeps ETTN moving forward every day.
Career Fair Success
One of this year’s biggest highlights was the ETTN Student Career Fair at the SEMA Garage in Detroit, which welcomed more than 125 engineering and technical students alongside 15 SEMA member companies. This event built on the momentum of our Diamond Bar, California career fair earlier in the year, further strengthening the connection between emerging talent and the aftermarket industry.
These career fairs are a cornerstone of ETTN’s mission: supporting the next generation of engineers while helping member companies find the skills and innovation needed to stay competitive.
Streamlined and Focused
Throughout the second half of the year, ETTN sharpened its focus around three core priorities: member engagement, education (both virtual and in-person), and events. This streamlined approach has allowed us to be more agile, responsive, and effective, amplifying member expertise and delivering value across the SEMA ecosystem.
Closing the Year Strong
We wrapped up 2025 at the SEMA Show with our annual ETTN Lunch & Learn, bringing engineers, product developers, and innovators together for meaningful conversations about emerging technology and industry trends. The event also featured the presentation of the Engineer of the Year Award, one of ETTN’s most meaningful traditions, honoring an individual whose innovation and leadership exemplify engineering excellence.
Closing Thoughts
ETTN’s mission remains clear: to identify, communicate, and deliver knowledge on emerging vehicle trends and technology to aftermarket engineers, programmers, and product developers, ensuring continued success and keeping innovation at the heart of SEMA.
Thank you to everyone who contributed, participated, and pushed us forward in 2025. The future is being built now and ETTN is proud to be part of that journey.
See you on the next lap.