Business Tools

New Certification Program for SEMA Business Owners, Managers

A new certification program, available through the California State University San Bernardino (CSUSB), is available to help business owners and professionals increase their knowledge and proficiency of the automotive aftermarket. Endorsed by SEMA, the program consists of four unique online courses, all designed specifically for business owners and managers in the automotive aftermarket.

“Our goal is to provide SEMA members and the industry with ongoing training and education,” said Tom Myroniak, SEMA vice president of marketing and member services. “It’s great to see organizations, such as CSUSB, offering our industry relevant programs, and we’re happy to endorse the series to our members.”

The five aftermarket business courses available through the program are: "Principles of Automotive Business Management," "Principles of Aftermarket Marketing," "Aftermarket Finance Components," "Aftermarket Operations" and "Logistics Management." Each four-week series component is available at a single low cost and expected to take one to two hours per week, making it both affordable and convenient for working professionals to participate.

“This new program was developed specifically with the SEMA member in mind,” said Dick Dixon, Cal State San Bernardino automotive and motorsports management professor and program director. “Business owners and managers, particularly those who are new to the automotive aftermarket or those who simply want to strengthen their knowledge of this unique industry, will find the program to be informative and useful. Student participants will gain new knowledge and skill sets that will help them better understand their marketplace and the management of their enterprise.”

Because the courses are available online, it’s easy and convenient for participants to complete the program. Each course is expected to take one to two hours per week, and upon completion of the 16-week program, participants will receive a CSUSB Automotive Education Certificate of Competency.

“SEMA Education Institute offers a variety of training tools,” said Jamie Eriksen, SEMA education director. “Whether it is a SEMA webinar, onsite seminar or third-party programs such as CSUSB’s, our hope is that members will take advantage of the opportunities that are available and continue to strengthen their knowledge base.”

To learn more about the program and how to participate, contact Dixon at 909/447-0812 or ddixon@csusb.edu.