SEMA businesswomen, builders, business owners, and leaders reunited at the 2021 SEMA Show – marking a successful conclusion of the largest North American automotive trade show since 2019.

Below are highlights of SBN-related activities from the SEMA Show that took place in Las Vegas, Nevada:

SBN Gear Up Girl

Targeted to female students, this event highlighted the career paths available in the automotive aftermarket. Female automotive professionals joined the event to provide guidance and inspiration to the students, as they shared advice from their own experiences and created valuable relationships that will have a positive impact on the industry’s future workforce.

Also, during the event, Katie Lyon from Iowa State University was awarded the Jessi Combs Rising Star Award for making significant strides in the advancement of her career in the automotive aftermarket.

SBN Reception 2021
SBN Reception 2021

SBN Reception

More than 100 SBN members celebrated women in the industry at the SBN Reception that took place at Renaissance Pool Deck on Wednesday evening. In addition to networking and socializing, Theresa Contreras of LGE-CTS and Baja Forged was awarded the #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year award for her contributions to the industry.

SBN Reception 2021
SBN Reception 2021

Resources and Education

SEMA Showgoers heard from women leaders in the industry through three SEMA Education seminars: Women Who Build, Women in Leadership and Women Who Rule Racing – all powered by SBN. Discussions included current adversities women face, the future of custom car building, and how to encourage the advancement of great leaders in a company. Keep an eye out for recordings of these seminars to be available through SEMA’s virtual education in the near future.