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SEMA Council & Committee News: SEMA Show Offerings for Wheel and Tire Professionals

Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO)
Manufacturers' Rep Network (MRN)
Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) Professional Restylers Organization (PRO)
Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN)
Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) Wheel & Tire Council (WTC)
Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) Young Executives Network (YEN)

 


WTC Logo
 
Visit WTC's website

SEMA Show Offerings for Wheel and Tire Professionals

By Amanda Gubbins

At this year’s SEMA Show, wheel and tire professionals will have the chance to review some of the latest industry research in addition to the usual educational and networking offerings.

The first opportunity will come as a part of the Wheel and Tire Council (WTC) general membership meeting, Monday, November 4, from 1:00 p.m.–3:30 p.m. The meeting is open both to current council members and anyone who would like to learn more about how membership could benefit their company. Two education sessions will cover topics that include Clemson University's vehicle dynamics research on the effects of wheel and tire variance and how to improve customer service in today's media-saturated world.

Following the meeting at 3:30 p.m. in the Vehicle Technology Center, Council Chair Joe Schaefer will present initial findings of a collaborative research project with Clemson University's International Center for Automotive Research (CU-ICAR) about the effect of wheel plus-sizing on vehicle dynamics.

As always, the week also will provide networking opportunities. The annual WTC industry reception will take place Tuesday, November 5, at 5:00 p.m. at the Renaissance Hotel pool. The evening will include food, a chance to connect with similar businesses and recognize the achievements of one very special professional who will receive the WTC Hall of Fame award. The council will also host students and faculty from the CU-ICAR as our special guests, so be sure to stop by and learn more. If you are planning to attend the reception, send in your RSVP today.

These events are open to all wheel and tire industry professionals. If you would like to learn more about how your company could benefit from membership with the WTC, contact Clayton Drescher or call or 909-978-6696.

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ARMO Logo

Visit ARMO's website.

Learn and Lead Alongside Other Restoration Professionals at the SEMA Show

By Amanda Gubbins

Automotive restoration professionals will have many opportunities to connect with peers at the 2013 SEMA Show.

Networking and Industry Awards Reception

The Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) will lead off the week with its annual Industry Awards Reception, Tuesday, November 5. The event will take place in Ballrooms D and E of the Las Vegas Hotel from 5:15 p.m.–7:30 p.m.

“We intentionally keep the reception about networking,” said ARMO Chair Alex Tainsh. “We want to keep the program part short and allow attendees the chance to meet and greet with others in the industry.”

In addition to networking opportunities, the council will take time during the event to honor some of the individuals whose life and work have made a significant impact on the industry.

General Membership Meeting

ARMO will also conduct a general membership meeting in Conference Rooms 1–3 at the Las Vegas Hotel, Wednesday, November 6, from 7:15 a.m.–9:00 a.m.

“This is a great venue for newer members to find out what ARMO does—what it accomplishes for the marketplace and its members,” stated Chair-elect Dennis Roberts. “It’s also a good place for members to give input and voice their opinions.”

ARMO Roundtable

The Builder’s Roundtable offers an additional way for individuals to stay informed about issues facing the industry. This year’s event will be moderated by Tom Shay and will take place Thursday, November 7, at 9:30 a.m. in the Las Vegas Convention Center, meeting room N262. Geared toward small businesses and shop owners, the event allows companies to exchange challenges, opportunities and solutions.

Each of these events is open to all restoration industry professionals. If you would like to learn more about the resources and opportunities available through ARMO membership, contact Council Director Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org or 909-978-6690.

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ettn 
Visit ETTN's website 

Vehicle Technology Meeting to Take Place at Clemson University

By Clayton Drescher

SEMA members are invited to an open meeting and tour of Clemson University’s International Center for Automotive Technology (CU-ICAR). This is an important opportunity for manufacturers, those in the product-development industry and any other members who are interested in helping to shape a new benefit. Through a partnership with CU-ICAR, SEMA will host an open meeting and tour of the Greenville, South Carolina, campus, Tuesday, November 19, from 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

The tour will give active SEMA members a unique opportunity to tour the campus and learn about the many resources available, including testing facilities in the areas of advanced powertrain systems, automotive systems, manufacturing and materials, vehicle performance and vehicular electronics. The behind-the-scenes look at the world-class vehicle research facility will help members see how they can take advantage of the resources to benefit their companies.

In addition to the tour, attendees will be invited to stay for an open meeting of SEMA’s Emerging Trends and Technology Network (ETTN), Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA), Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) and Wheel and Tire Council (WTC). The groups will discuss how members can best utilize resources available through the facility.

Lastly, we will be asking those in attendance to participate in breakout groups focused on a future education program to take place at CU-ICAR in the late-spring or early-summer 2014. This will be a great opportunity for volunteers, council and network members and staff to work side-by-side to build the next learning opportunity for SEMA members. If you have a great understanding of the industry’s training needs, then you are needed at this event.

If you are interested in participating in this event or have any additional questions, please contact Clayton Drescher, senior manager, councils, at 909-978-6696 or claytond@sema.org. Space is limited, so RSVP soon.

For more information on CU-ICAR research and facilities, visit www.CUICAR.com. To learn more about SEMA councils and networks, visit www.SEMA.org/councils-networks.

For more information about ETTN, contact Bryan Harrison.

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Visit HRIA's website
  hria
A new vehicle will be displayed to the public for the first time at the HRIA booth.
  hria
Derek White of Street Vizions built this year’s race winner. It will be auctioned alongside the other pinewood cars at the HRIA reception.

New Hot Rod Creation to Be Unveiled at HRIA Booth

By Amanda Gubbins

Hot-rod and restoration professionals are invited to kick off the 2013 SEMA Show by witnessing the unveiling of Alloway’s Hot Rod Shop’s latest creation. This new vehicle will be displayed to the public for the first time on Tuesday, November 5, at 11:00 a.m. at the HRIA Booth #23395.

While at the booth, attendees can also view the Pinewood Builder’s Challenge finalists, which first raced at the annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Races in Pomona, California, last summer. Each of the cars will be auctioned during the HRIA reception to benefit the charities supported by SEMA Cares—Childhelp and Victory Junction. The live portion of the auction will include three award winners: the Race Winner, Best Engineered and Best in Show. The remaining eight cars will be sold in a silent auction, along with a limited edition signature model Gibson Les Paul guitar and a trail can tool box custom pinstriped by Von Hot Rod.

The annual HRIA reception is the second-largest event during Show week, with more than 600 attendees. It will take place Wednesday, November 6, from 5:15 p.m.–8:30 p.m. in Ballrooms A and B of the Las Vegas Hotel. In addition to the auction, the evening’s festivities will include a tribute to those serving in the military by the Nellis Air Force Base Honor Guard, awards presentations and plenty of time for networking.

The reception is open to all hot-rod industry professionals. Interested Show attendees may pick up tickets at the HRIA Booth.

For more information about this event or how your company could benefit from a Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) membership, contact Council Director Jim Skelly.

  education
HRIA Education Day will consist of 24 sessions, each led by a hot-rod parts manufacturer educating attendees about product features, benefits and installation guidelines.
  

Hot Rod Council to Present Education Day at 2014 Detroit Autorama

By Della Domingo

The annual SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Education Day will be held, for the first time, in conjunction with the Detroit Autorama—the 60-year-old custom car show taking place in March 2014 at Cobo Hall in Detroit. The program will consist of 24 sessions, each led by a hot-rod parts manufacturer educating attendees about product features, benefits and installation guidelines.

“For more than 10 years, HRIA Education Day has proven to be a key event for helping manufacturers share detailed, and sometimes technical, information about their products with their customers,” said Jim Skelly, SEMA director of councils. “Holding the Education Day program at the Detroit Autorama will allow HRIA members to expand and reach a new audience.”

HRIA previously held its Education Day program at the Hotrod & Restoration Trade Show in Indianapolis. The move to the Detroit Autorama will enable manufacturers to reach a new, expanded audience. Autorama, which is well known for having the world’s most coveted hot rods, prestigious awards competitions, as well as top celebrities and student programs, attracts more than 150,000 individuals annually. Education Day will take place Thursday, March 6, 2014 (the day before Autorama officially opens), and is open to all hot-rod shops and businesses, as well as to all Autorama attendees.

“As one the nation’s premier indoor custom car show, the Detroit Autorama attracts thousands of businesses and enthusiasts who are passionate and deeply vested in new hot-rod products,” said Peter A. Toundas, president of Championship Auto Shows Inc.—promoter of the event. “The HRIA Education Day program will add a valuable element to the event, giving attendees an opportunity to connect directly with manufacturers, which would be difficult for them to do on their own.”

Attendee registration is now open. Reserve your spot today.

For more information about HRIA, contact Jim Skelly.

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TORA Logo
 
Visit TORA's website.  
  TORA
Reception attendees can rent a Pinewood car for $20 to participate in the Fall Nationals.
  

Network with Light Truck Accessory Professionals at the TORA Happy Hours

By Amanda Gubbins

Light truck accessory professionals can expect a few new networking opportunities at this year’s SEMA Show. In addition to the annual awards reception, the Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) will host a happy hour at the booth (#34151), Tuesday, November 5, and Thursday, November 7, from 4:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.

This event gives council members and those wondering how their business could benefit from membership a chance to meet and mingle. SEMA's Vice President of OEM and Product Development Programs Mike Spagnola will be present to share about the SEMA Garage on Tuesday and on Thursday, and Government and Public Affairs Manager Colby Martin will update attendees about the SEMA Action Network (SAN).

The Industry Awards Reception will take place Wednesday, November 6, from 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. at the Las Vegas Hotel Garden Patio. The evening will include food, networking and tributes to some of the most influential professionals in the industry during the awards presentations. Arrive early to rent a Pinewood racer in exchange for a $20 donation to SEMA Cares, and then compete for the title of Fall Nationals Top Eliminator.

If you are planning to attend the reception, send in your RSVP today. If you have questions about these events or would like to join the council, contact Clayton Drescher, senior manager, councils.

For more information about TORA, contact Clayton Drescher.

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Visit MPMC's website.  

  mpmc
The 2014 MPMC Media Trade Conference will be held January 21–23, at the Embassy Suites Orange County Airport South.
  
Media Registration Open for 2014 MPMC Media Trade Conference

By SEMA Editors

Reporters, editors and freelance journalists: Conduct private interviews with leading manufacturers during the 2014 MPMC Media Trade Conference. Registration is now open and available. The 2014 event takes place January 21-23, at the Embassy Suites Orange County Airport North in Santa Ana, California.

The annual Media Trade Conference, which features 100 companies from SEMA's Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC), brings together members of the working press with motorsports parts producers for face-to-face private meetings. Media reps have the opportunity to meet with up to 14 exhibitors each day of the conference—for a total of 42 quality meetings throughout the event's three days.

Media will select the manufacturers they most want to meet with and indicate those which they do not want to meet with when registering online. A personalized schedule will then be created for the registered media, and sent out in early January. Register now! Questions? Media inquiries can be directed to dellad@sema.org. All manufacturer questions or general questions about the event can be directed to jimsk@sema.org or 909-978-6690.

View the list of participating exhibitors.

Date: January 21–23, 2014
Location: Embassy Suites Orange County Airport South
1325 East Dyer Rd.
Santa Ana, CA 92705

  mpmc
PRI Show attendees will be able to have face-to-face interaction with MPMC manufacturers at the inaugural MPMC Education Day at the 2013 PRI Show in Indianapolis, Wednesday, December 11, 2013.
  

MPMC to Present “MPMC Education Day” at 2013 PRI Show

MPMC and PRI will present “MPMC Education Day” at the 2013 PRI Show, Wednesday, December 11, 2013. The event takes place at the Indiana Convention Center the day before the PRI Trade Show floor opens.

Patterned after the already successful HRIA Education Day, 15 MPMC-member companies will present one-hour product training presentations to PRI Trade Show attendees. Three seminars will each run concurrently over five, one-hour time slots beginning at 9:00 a.m.

“The HRIA Education Day is wildly successful,” said MPMC Chairman Vic Wood of Aeromotive. “The PRI Show seemed a perfect venue to try the same template for MPMC companies. We originally were planning to implement it in 2014, but after presenting the idea to John Kilroy and his PRI team, the decision was made to go for it this year. We’ll start with just the 15 companies this year, and see how it goes. But I see no reason why this shouldn’t expand to 30 or 40 companies one day, as soon as attendees realize the opportunity it presents.”

To emphasize the popularity of this program, the 15 registrations were received within one hour of registration opening, and a total 27 registrations were received within two hours. Congratulations to the following MPMC companies who were selected via a first-come, first-served online registration April 30:

Session times and seminar titles will be presented in the coming weeks. For more information, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.

MPMC Business Guidelines Manual

MPMC members may now reference and download the "MPMC Business Guidelines Manual" from the new MPMC Learning Track on the SEMA Education Institute (SEI). Previously available only in hard copy, MPMC members now have this valuable information at their fingertips via an Internet connection.

Written, produced and designed specifically for performance product manufacturers, the manual addresses the many challenges such companies face. Definitions, resources, options and examples also are included in the various sections of the manual. Each section is written in simple details, making it quick and easy to read. Sample documents and verbiage are also included to help members decide which practices will be best for their individual businesses.

Chapters and topics include:
  • Bar codes
  • Catalogs and price sheets
  • Cooperative advertising programs
  • Counterfeiting
  • Debt collections
  • Electronic Data Interchange
  • Freight policies
  • International business
  • Manufacturer's reps
  • Minimum Advertised Pricing (MAP)
  • Packaging
  • Insurance
  • Terms and Conditions
Go directly to the MPMC Education Track on SEI to begin taking advantage of these MPMC-member benefits.

Not yet an MPMC member? Download an application or contact Jim Skelly at JimSk@sema.org or 909-978-6690 for more information.

For information about MPMC, contact Jim Skelly.

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mrn  
Visit MRN's website.  

  sdc
More than 50 manufacturer's reps became certified ambassadors of the SEMA Data Co-op.
  
SEMA Data Co-op Congratulates Certified Reps

By SEMA Editors

Earlier this year, the SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) announced the SDC/MRN Certification Program for manufacturer's reps to become certified ambassadors of the SDC. Reps are uniquely positioned between manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers. Therefore, there is a need to ensure they understand the benefits of the SEMA Data Co-op program and can communicate them accurately to the marketplace.

To qualify for certification, manufacturer’s reps completed four training modules, each one having an exam at the end, to confirm their comprehension of the materials.

“I am pleased to say this program has been a big success, and we have more than 50 reps who are now certified, many of whom were acknowledged at the recent PWA Conference,” said Jim Graven, director of membership for the SEMA Data Co-op.

Congratulations to the following individuals and their agencies for becoming certified ambassadors of the SDC:

Adam Brown
  Michael A. Kunzman & Associates
Alex Walker
  Bob Cook Sales
Bill Eagan
  Airheart Sales
Brian Hosenfeld
  R&R Marketing
Cathy Clark
  Bob Cook Sales
Charlie Jensen
  Innovative Marketing Services LLC
Chris Bondy
  Innovative Marketing Services LLC
Chris Corbett
  Wes-Coast Marketing
Chris Perry
   PSKB Inc.
Chuck Schwam
  Bob Cook Sales
Craig Neveu
  Innovative Marketing Services LLC
Dan Peoples
  Innovative Marketing Services LLC
Dean Hargesheimer
  Wes-Coast Marketing
Derrick Johnstone
  Alliance Sales West Ltd.
Don Saenz
  Bob Cook Sales
Doug Thiel
  Michael A. Kunzman & Associates
Eddie Hamilton
  Bob Cook Sales
Greg Bernheisel
  Considine Sales & Marketing Inc.
Ian Gerrard
  Wes-Coast Marketing
James Rafinski
  Foster Babcock & Associates
Jeff Bates
  Bob Cook Sales
Jessica Chance
  Ballard & Allen Marketing Inc.
Jim Considine
  Considine Sales & Marketing Inc.
Jim Kerr
  Jim Kerr & Associates
Joe Nalezny
  KND Sales
Joel Rosenthal
   Gantt-Thomas & Associates
John Clark
  Bob Cook Sales
John Gleason
  United Sales Associates
Jon Kunzman
  Kunzman & Associates
Keith Craley
  Repforce Inc.
Les Kirby
  N.A. Williams Company
Les Rudd
  Bob Cook Sales
Lynne Trimble
  Innovative Marketing Services LLC
Mark Adin
  PSKB Inc.
Matt Ross
  R&R Marketing
Mike Bolio
  Repforce Inc.
Mike Katz
  Bob Cook Sales
Mike Oldham
  Bob Cook Sales
Peter Jarema  Tasco
Robert Cook
  Bob Cook Sales
Robert Jacobs
  Bowdoin Marketing
Ron Hix
  Scott Lewis Associates Inc.
Russell Freeman
  Bob Cook Sales
Shawn Pitts
  Considine Sales & Marketing Inc.
Steve Starr
  PSKB Inc.
Thom Bernheisel
  Considine Sales & Marketing Inc.
Thomas Jourdan
  True High Performance Sales
Tim Young  All Midwest Sales
Troy Hudson
  Bob Cook Sales
Vic Bennett  Gantt-Thomas & Associates
Walt Siklich
  Autorep Sales Co.
Zane Shaffer   Wes-Coast Marketing

For more information, contact Jim Graven at JimG@SemaDataCoop.org.

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PRO Logo
 
Visit PRO's website.  

Connect With Other Professional Restylers at the SEMA Show

By Amanda Gubbins

All professionals in the restyling industry are invited to attend the Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) Night Club for networking and to recognize some of the industry’s top talent. The council will honor the Manufacturer of the Year, Restyler of the Year, Nat Danas Person of the Year and the Jim Borré Lifetime Achievement recipient during the awards presentation portion of the program. Above all, this is a chance to mingle with industry icons, leaders and friends. The event will take place Tuesday, November 5, from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m. in the Oasis Lounge at the Las Vegas Hotel.

Another opportunity to mingle with peers and learn about the PRO council’s current projects will be Thursday, November 7, at the General Membership Meeting. The early-bird gathering will run from 7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m. at the Las Vegas Convention Center, room N232. Breakfast will be served at 7:00 a.m., so attendees will want to arrive early.

During Show hours, PRO members and those who are interested in joining can stop by the council booth (#12561) to say hello to the volunteer leadership and learn more about the benefits available.

  dealer
The National Independent Automobile Dealers Association (NIADA) and the Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) will offer four free automotive dealer sessions at the 2013 SEMA Show.
  
Learn to Maximize Profits at SEMA Show Auto Dealer Track

By Zane Clark

The National Independent Automobile Dealers Association (NIADA) and the Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) have joined forces to offer four free automotive dealer sessions at the 2013 SEMA Show focusing on creating dealership profit centers through accessorization.

Whether you sell new- or late-model vehicles, now is the time to discover ways to dramatically increase sales and profits. Participate in the SEMA Auto Dealer sessions and take the lead in your market.

Maximizing Dealership Profitability With Accessories, Powered by NIADA and PRO

Tuesday, November 5, 2013, from 3:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.
Las Vegas Convention Center N253
Ellen McKoy, Trucking Times magazine, and Ron Leslie, Katzkin, will join two franchised dealers.

Accessorizing is the cornerstone to building high-margin profit centers. Learn how your dealership can capture its share of the lucrative accessory business. Hear from the experts as they share insights on industry trends and provide proven strategies on how to implement a successful accessory program. A must-attend session for any franchised dealership principal or manager looking to accelerate sales and profits and outmaneuver the competition.

The New Car Dealer’s Opportunity in Automotive Accessories, Powered by NIADA and PRO

Wednesday, November 6, 2013, from 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Las Vegas Convention Center N256
Steve Bruyn, Foresight Research

When the dealer experience includes the retailing of automotive accessories, a new profit opportunity is the result. How big is that opportunity and what are the specifics about what customers expect? That is the subject of this SEMA education session. Learn what the most popular automotive accessories are by segment. It’s no longer just about pickups and SUVs. Women and Baby Boomers are spending big money on accessories, and they likely will continue on this path. Which vehicle brands are most often accessorized and how much do customers spend? Do buyers accessorize at the time of new-car delivery or later? Do accessories play a role in dealer selection? These are some of the questions that will be addressed.

Auto Dealers: Creating the Best Possible Sales Team, Powered by NIADA and PRO

Wednesday, November 6, 2013, from 1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m.
Las Vegas Convention Center N254
Maria Grande, Grande Consulting

We will reveal the top motivators for the four personality styles, helping you identify the strengths of your current sales team and showing you how to create better synergy. We will also help you appeal to the internal and external customer on a different level to build relationships and increase sales.

Used-Vehicle Accessorizing: The New Profit Center, Powered by NIADA and PRO

Thursday, November 7, 2013, from 9:30 a.m.–10:30 a.m.
Las Vegas Convention Center N254
Ellen Mckoy, Trucking Times magazine; Dave Edmondson, Roadwire; Lou Tedeschi, president, A.S.P.I. Motor Cars; Fred Petrivelli, Keystone Automotive; Zane Clark, SEMA

Whether you’re an independent used-car dealer or manage the used-car department in a franchised dealership, this session is for you. Learn from a panel of experts how to use accessories to turn late-model cars and trucks into eye-catching profit generators. Discover new ways to speed inventory turns, drive up sales and profits and set your dealership apart from the competition.

For a complete list of educational sessions visit www.SEMAShow.com/Education. Auto Dealer Sessions are free with your SEMA Show registration.

For information about PRO, contact Clayton Drescher or call 909/978-6696.

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Visit SBN's website.
 

  sbn
  

You’re Invited to Celebrate the Past, Present and Future of SBN

By Gigi Ho

This year marks the 20th Anniversary of the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN). To recognize this milestone and all the women who have contributed to the specialty-equipment industry over the past 20 years, SBN will host a gala at this year’s SEMA Show in Las Vegas.

The winners of this year’s Athena Awards will also be recognized: Mentor of the Year, Woman of the Year, and Champion, which honor the top individuals for their contributions to women in industry.

Join us for this special event of networking, awards and great food and drink!

SBN 20th Anniversary: Celebrating Past, Present and Future
Wednesday, November 6, 2013
6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.
Oasis Lounge at Las Vegas Hotel

  girl
Gear-up Girl is designed to connect female students with industry-leading female professionals.
  

Gear-up Girl: Calling Female Professionals

By Zane Clark

The SEMA Businesswoman’s Network (SBN) will again host the Gear-up Girl networking event at this year’s SEMA Show. Started in 2011, as part of SEMA Education Institute’s (SEI) student program, Gear-up Girl is designed to connect female students with industry-leading female professionals.

Taking place Monday, November 4, from 3:30 p.m.–5:00 p.m. at the Las Vegas Convention Center, the program supports SBN’s mission of “enhancing careers and positively impacting the growth of the entire automotive aftermarket” by providing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for aspiring young women to interact with, learn from and network with influential women in the industry who have set a path through innovation, integrity and hard work.

"This event is a terrific way for women industry veterans to connect and mentor students interested in entering the automotive aftermarket," said SBN Chair Rose Kawasaki of Exports International LLC. "The female students will be able to walk away with contact information, a wealth of information and motivation toward their future path."

This year’s event will feature “round-robin” networking tables led by such notable female professionals as Marla Moore, Coker Tire (SEMA’s 2012 Person of the Year); JoAnn Bortles, Crazy Horse Painting; Camee Edelbrock, Shiefer Media; and Jennifer Lafever, Roush Yates Performance. Every 15 minutes, students will be given the opportunity to rotate to another table and interact with professionals in their field of interest.

Sign up today and be a part of this special opportunity to network with female professionals and share your experience with our industry’s next generation.

Gear-up Girl is free with your SEMA Show registration, but still requires separate registration.

Coffee and a Coveted Seat with Industry Pros! Sign Up Now for Café SEMA, Powered by SBN!

By Gigi Ho

Café SEMA is not a classroom lecture; it is a conversation between you and industry pros. In 60 minutes, you will get direct access to experts with answers to your questions on today’s most pressing topics. Make connections that will impact your business and bottom line. But sign up soon, because Café SEMA is limited to only 100 participants.

Buy your ticket today through your SEMA Show dashboard! Only $10 for SEMA members and $20 for non-members. Topics at this year’s Café SEMA will include:

Leadership

  • Effective Female Leadership in a Male-Dominated Environment.

New Media

  • Rock Bottom Basics of Social Media: Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Google+ and forums—Determining what matters and how to participate.
  • Website 101: How to go about planning and building a website or a Facebook page; determining what matters to you and your customers; contracting development services and tracking performance.
  • Converging Media: Using earned (from social), owned (your website, Facebook page, sponsored media), PR and paid media (advertising) to reach customers with a consistent message.

Business Technology

  • The process of finding, evaluating, costing and implementing technology solutions for your business.

Product Development

  • Good OE Relations: Talking to and working with the OEs and the basics of presenting a product for consideration.
  • Making the most of new-vehicle Measuring Sessions to support product development.

Business Development

  • Take advantage of emerging markets and do business globally; successfully navigate international business regulations, duties and cultural waters.
  • Successful Joint Promotions—Manufacturers, retailers and distributors collaborating to increase sales.

Details:

Café SEMA: In the Know With a Cup of Joe
Friday, November 8, 2013
9:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m.
Las Vegas Convention Center, Room N243

  sbn
The Speed Networking Breakfast is the quickest and easiest way to meet peers, prospects and vendor associates to expand your current network of contacts
  
Connect With Your Peers at the SEMA Show SBN Speed Networking Breakfast

By Bryan Harrison

The Speed Networking Breakfast, powered by the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) is the annual premier event at the SEMA Show and has achieved sold-out status four years in a row. It is open to all SEMA members and is the quickest and easiest way to meet peers, prospects and vendor associates to expand your current network of contacts, which could be instrumental in the growth of your business or career. Attendees will walk away with more than one dozen new contacts.

Don’t miss this opportunity to meet movers and shakers and make new contacts in short, four-minute intervals. Mark your calendar and purchase your tickets as attendance is limited to only 250 people.

Details: Thursday, November 7, from 7:00 a.m.–9:00 a.m., Las Vegas Hotel, Ballroom A
Price: SEMA Members: $35, Non-members: $45 until October 18. After October 18, pricing increases to $49 for SEMA members and $69 for non-members.

For information about SBN, contact Bryan Harrison.

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YEN Logo

Visit YEN's website

 yen
The Student Welcome Lunch will be held at the Las Vegas Convention Center, Room N242, Monday, November 4
, from 12:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
  
The Young Professional's Guide to the SEMA Show

The 2013 SEMA Show will be packed with educational and networking opportunities designed to help attendees grow, both personally and professionally. The following is a definitive list of must-attend Young Executives Network (YEN) events:

Student Welcome Lunch

Network with students at the Student Program Welcome Lunch

Location: Las Vegas Convention Center, Room N242
Date: Monday, November 4

Time: 12:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.

YEN Long-Range Planning Open Meeting

All YEN Members are welcome to join the open portion of the Long-Range Planning meeting to learn more amount the network and share your ideas and opinions. 


Location: Las Vegas Convention Center, Room N241

Date: Monday, November 4 

Time: 5:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.

YEN-Sponsored SEMA Seminar: Industry Trends & Forecasts: Recruiting and Retaining Young Talent

Location: Las Vegas Convention Center, Room N253

Date: Wednesday, November 5 

Time: 1:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.

YEN Awards & Networking Reception


Join us for the largest automotive networking event for young professionals with a casino-themed event featuring gaming tables, a life-size Max Grundy art that you can paint by number, an awards ceremony and food and drink.

Location: Las Vegas Hotel (LVH), BR C

Date: Tuesday, November 5 

Time: 5:00 p.m.–7:30 p.m.

YEN Networking Lunch Opportunity

Join other YEN members at the SEMA Members Lounge for some networking over lunch, which can be purchased in the lounge. 


Location: Las Vegas Convention Center, SEMA Members Lounge – Reserved YEN Table 

Date: Tuesday, November 5–Friday November 8

Time: 12:00 p.m.–1:00 p.m. each day

SEMA Launch Pad Presented by YEN

The field has been narrowed to the top five executives pitching their business in a live event to industry juggernauts (the judges) with a goal of being crowned the inaugural Launch Pad winner.

Location: Las Vegas Convention Center Grand Lobby – Vehicle Technology Center Stage

Date: Thursday, November 7 

Time: 9:00 a.m.–10:30 a.m.

YEN-Sponsored SEMA Seminar: Getting to the Boardroom From the Dorm Room

Location: Las Vegas Convention Center, Room N253 

Date: Thursday, November 7 

Time: 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

YEN Networking Mixer at the SEMA Industry Awards Banquet

For those young professionals attending the annual SEMA Industry Awards Banquet, be sure to join us for drinks in the special YEN designated area.

Location: Las Vegas Hotel (LVH)

Date: Thursday, November 7
Time: 6:00 p.m.–7:30 p.m.

Questions? Please contact YEN’s liaison, Bryan Harrison, senior manager of networks, at BryanH@SEMA.org or 909-978-6691.

For information about YEN, contact Bryan Harrison.

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Join the SEMA Council Family

SEMA hosts 10 distinct councils and committees that represent focused niches within the specialty-equipment industry. These groups are comprised of elected volunteers (Select Committee) who guide and direct council activities while representing the membership at large. Although each council acts independently and represents a different segment, they are all focused on the betterment of the industry as a whole.

The value councils provide SEMA and the industry is beyond refute. It is inspiring to witness a diverse collection of company representatives, many of which are direct competitors, come together and develop educational, training, youth awareness and networking events that are, at the core, designed to give back and promote business. An equally important council function is to ensure that SEMA sustains a pulse on the industry and maintains a presence with its members.

The question is often asked, “Why should my company join a council?” The answer is simple. SEMA councils open the doors and provide you exposure to industry leaders, decision makers, trendsetters and a community of like-minded individuals who share your passion and desire to see business succeed and prosper. Once the doors are open, it is your responsibility to take advantage of the benefits by becoming actively involved.

Learn more today
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