The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) Women’s Leadership Forum returns March 3–5, 2026, at Humphrey’s Half Moon Inn in San Diego, CA, bringing together professionals from across the automotive aftermarket for three days of leadership development, connection and transformation. Built around the theme “From Insight to Impact,” this year’s program is designed to equip attendees with practical tools that strengthen individual performance and drive organizational success.
The Forum opens Tuesday with onsite activities, speed networking hosted by Cora Jokinen and an evening reception that sets the tone for authentic connection. Wednesday launches with keynotes from industry leaders, including Emily Miller and Kirstin Backes, followed by sessions that explore modern leadership, emotional intelligence, reinvention, AI strategy, confidence-building and technical knowledge. A series of workshops and roundtables allows attendees to customize their learning path with topics ranging from communication in male-dominated spaces to leveraging LinkedIn, understanding engines, maintaining boundaries and more.
Thursday continues the momentum with interactive sessions led by Lisa Bartley and a dynamic fireside chat moderated by Denisse Ypina, where C-suite leaders unpack real-world decision-making and the evolving expectations of leadership. Additional workshops offer deeper training in communication, empathy, conflict management and listening – skills proven to elevate team effectiveness and business outcomes.
Companies benefit greatly when they invest in developing strong leaders, especially female leaders whose perspectives drive innovation, foster inclusive workplaces and elevate organizational resilience. The SBN Women’s Leadership Forum provides attendees with actionable strategies they can bring back to their teams: strengthening company culture, improving decision-making and contributing to long-term success.
The 2026 Forum promises meaningful conversations, practical insights and the empowerment needed to translate new knowledge into measurable impact. We look forward to seeing you there!
Learn more and register at www.sema.org/sbn-wlf.