By Tiffanie Hartenstein (SBN Chair) and Jaclyn Bradham (SBN Chair-Elect)
As SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) leaders and women who have built our careers in the automotive aftermarket, we are energized by the direction set during our recent Long-Range Planning Meeting. What emerged is not just a roadmap, but a clear commitment to creating more opportunities for women to connect, grow and lead within the industry.
This year, our focus is on turning strategy into action. We are strengthening our cornerstone programs by refining their long-term vision, enhancing the attendee experience and exploring new ways to foster meaningful connections, both during and beyond the event. At the same time, we are revitalizing key initiatives like Gear Up Girl and identifying new ways to bring past award winners into the spotlight, ensuring their stories continue to inspire others across the industry.
Recognition remains a critical priority. Through the #SheIsSEMA program, we are expanding efforts to increase awareness of awards and recognition opportunities—not just within SBN, but across all of SEMA. By simplifying nomination processes, encouraging peer-to-peer recognition and amplifying these stories through targeted campaigns, we aim to ensure more women are seen, celebrated and elevated.
Equally important is how we connect with our members. We are enhancing our communications through more intentional social content, new storytelling formats and improved member updates that better reflect the voices within our community. From highlighting new members and volunteers to launching recruitment campaigns and exploring new communication channels, our goal is to make it easy to engage with SBN.
We are also investing in resources that support your growth, including the development of a masterclass program and increased posts on resources available to you from both SBN and SEMA. These efforts are designed to provide practical, career-building value at every stage of your journey.
Above all, this year is about building momentum together. By creating more ways to connect, recognize and support one another, we are not only strengthening SBN, but helping shape a more inclusive and dynamic future for the industry.