Strengthen Your Company Through Community
No matter what niche you're in—rods, restoration, racing, restyling, reps, trucks or wheels and tires—there's a SEMA council or professional network that's right for your company. SEMA councils and networks offer members a variety of market-specific programs and activities designed to provide educational and networking opportunities while promoting their particular industry segment.
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| Visit HRIA's website |
New Hot Rod Creation to Be Unveiled in Hot Rod Alley
Hot-rod and restoration professionals are invited to kick off the 2014 SEMA Show by witnessing the unveiling of a new vehicle by one of the industry’s top builders. Salvaggio Auto Design will debut its latest project, Tuesday, November 4, at 12:30 p.m., in the HRIA booth #23395.
While at the booth, council members can also view the Pinewood Builder’s Challenge cars that first raced at the annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Races in Pomona, California, last summer. For the first time, members are invited to cast their votes at the booth for the “Best Engineered” and “Best in Show,” which will be announced at the HRIA’s Wednesday evening reception and sold alongside Race Winner Jesse Greening’s creation in a live auction. The remaining cars will be sold in a silent auction with all the evening’s proceeds supporting the SEMA Cares charities.
HRIA Reception
The HRIA will hold its annual awards reception, Wednesday, November 5, from 5:15 p.m.–8:30 p.m., in Ballrooms A and B of the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino (formerly LVH). The event provides a community-building opportunity for members and a chance for prospective members to learn more about the group’s focus. The evening’s festivities will include award presentations and a Pinewood Builder's Challenge auction to raise money for the charities supported by SEMA Cares. Register for the event today.
For more information, contact Jim Skelly at 909-978-6690, jimsk@sema.org.
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| Visit ARMO's website. | |
Save the Date for ARMO Awards Reception
The annual awards reception for the ARMO will be held Tuesday, November 4, in ballrooms D and E of the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino (formerly the LVH). Members and individuals interested in learning more about the council are invited to register and attend the event, which will run from 5:15 p.m.–7:30 p.m. The evening will feature opportunities to catch up with old friends and make new connections, and honor a few of the industry’s influential restoration professionals during the award presentations.
General Membership Meeting
ARMO will hold a general membership meeting, Wednesday, November 5, from 7:15 a.m.–9:00 a.m., in conference rooms 4–6 of the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino (formerly the LVH). The group will discuss current initiatives and plans for the future over pastries and coffee. This event is a great introduction to the council for new and prospective members, and a chance to share challenges and ideas. Register today to save your seat.
Builder’s Roundtable
The ARMO roundtable provides an opportunity each year for members to discuss issues facing the industry. Geared toward small businesses and shop owners, the roundtable offers companies the opportunity to exchange information about market challenges and solutions in a casual, small-group setting. This year’s event will take place Thursday, November 6, from 9:30 a.m.–10:30 a.m., in the Las Vegas Convention Center, room N236. Register today.
For more information about ARMO’s SEMA Show events, contact Jim Skelly at 909-978-6690, jimsk@sema.org.
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| Visit ETTN's website |
The ETTN will host a joint networking reception with the YEN, Tuesday, November 4, from 5:00 p.m.–7:30 p.m., in ballroom C of the Westgate (formerly LVH). All ETTN members, YEN members and other professionals interested in exploring the group’s benefits and programs are invited. The event will feature casino tables, specific areas showcasing emerging technologies, an awards ceremony and refreshments. Register for this event online.
For more information, contact Bryan Harrison at 909-978-6691, bryanh@sema.org.
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| Visit TORA's website. |
 Ford's BoxLink cargo management system is debuting on the ’15 F-150. | |
Ford to Host Cargo Management System Demonstration at TORA Booth
Ford will host a demonstration of its newly released BoxLink cargo management system during the 2014 SEMA Show. The orientation will take place at the TORA Booth (#34183), Wednesday, November 5, between 1:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m.
BoxLink is debuting on the ’15 F-150. Consumers can attach to the cleats in four locations, or hook directly to the BoxLink Interface plate with a bungee cord, S-hook or E-track fitting. Additionally, BoxLink is located on a reinforced area of the box at mid-level to accommodate cargo loads up to a horizontal (cross-box) load of 275 lbs. and a diagonal load of 600 lbs.
Register for the orientation and join Ford at booth #34183 to learn more.
Save the Date for the TORA Reception
The TORA Industry Awards Reception will be held November 5, from 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., at the Westgate (formerly the LVH), Ballroom C. Open to all employees of TORA-member companies and prospective members, the reception will feature networking opportunities and three award presentations—the TORA Hall of Fame, TORA Retailer of the Year and TORA Ron Webster Memorial Award for Engineering Excellence.
The TORA is also looking for volunteers for the annual TORA Industry Awards Reception and Fall Nationals Pinewood Drags.
Register now! For more information, contact Clayton Drescher at 909-978-6696, claytond@sema.org.
TORA Booth Happy Hour
Are you a buyer interested in meeting exhibitors in the truck and off-road industries? Are you a manufacturer hoping to build leads in a casual environment on the Show floor? Truck and off-road buyers and exhibitors are invited to the TORA Happy Hour at the TORA booth (#34183) in upper South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center, Tuesday, November 4, from 4:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m. Wrap up the first day of the 2014 SEMA Show by mingling with motivated buyers and exhibitors and learning about the council over a drink. Register today, or volunteer to help staff the booth.
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| Visit MPMC's website. |
Motorsports Manufacturers: Networking Opportunities at the 2014 PRI Show
The Performance Racing Industry Show week will kick-start for members of the MPMC with a general membership meeting on Wednesday, December 10, from 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m., in the Indiana Convention Center, room 243. The meeting will provide participants a chance to share challenges and opportunities facing the segment. Lunch will be served to attendees following the meeting. Register today to join the group and share your perspective.
The council also looks forward to bringing back Education Day in 2014, with a few adjustments and new features. The “New Racing Products in the Fast Lane” event will feature three, 30-minute sessions on Wednesday, from 2:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m., in the convention center. Guests will have their choice of three presentations, which will run concurrently. Each presentation will focus on cutting-edge products from MPMC members, and attendees will learn more about the parts in a casual, small-group setting. To RSVP for individual seminars, access the PRI Attendee Registration Dashboard and select the MPMC link for more information.
The complete schedule of sessions follows:
2:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m.
Room 240: Mahle
Room 241: MSD
Room 242: Turbosmart
2:45 p.m.–3:15 p.m.
Room 240: Holley
Room 241: Driven Racing Oil
Room 242: Lunati
3:30 p.m.–4:00 p.m.
Room 240: Ron Francis Wiring
Room 241: Edelbrock
Room 242: Comp Cams
Finally, the 2014 MPMC Hall of Fame inductees will be honored at a formal induction ceremony and networking reception from 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., on Friday, December 12, in the Indiana Convention Center, room 208. Attendees will have the chance to network over drinks and hors d'oeuvres. Register today.
For more information about these events, contact Jim Skelly at 909-978-6690 or jimsk@SEMA.org.
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| Visit MRN's website. |
Discussion Topics Announced for SEMA Show Rep Roundtable
The Manufacturers’ Representative Network (MRN) will host a collection of business-critical discussions for reps, November 2, 3:30 p.m.–6:00 p.m., in Ballrooms D&E of the Westgate (formerly the LVH). Through roundtable discussions, attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and receive practical solutions that address real issues. The event will also include a group discussion on trending topics. The cost is $25 for SEMA-member reps, $35 for others.
2014 Discussion topics will include:
- "How to Recruit Next-Gen Talent in the Rep Industry" – Amy Hirsh Robinson, principal, Interchange Consulting Group
- "Future Automotive Trends Affecting Reps: OE, Manufacturers, WDs" – Gavin Knapp, senior market research manager, SEMA
- "Trends in Healthcare: How Rep Agencies Navigate Obamacare" – Gladys Zolna Esq., partner, Freeborn & Peters LLP
- "How MRERF Can Help Reps Conduct Business" – Karen Jefferson, CSP, CMPR, executive director, MRERF
- "Business Apps for Reps" – Tyler Tanaka, president, Cie Studios
- "Reps as SDC Receivers—Value Add Proposition" – Jon Wyly, president and CEO, SEMA Data Co-op
To reserve a seat, register today through the SEMA Show dashboard. For more information, contact Bryan Harrison at 909-978-6691, bryanh@sema.org.
MRN Rep Center
MRN members will have exclusive access to a number of resources in the Rep Lounge at the 2014 SEMA Show. The lounge, located inside the Members Lounge (Las Vegas Convention Center, room N251), will be open Monday, November 3–Friday, November 7, from 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Inside the lounge, printers and a charging station will be available. A private room is also open for client meetings and can be booked on site. Reps also have the opportunity to connect with manufacturers through a rep matching service—a book of information about interested exhibitors will be in the lounge for reps to review during the week. Exhibitors seeking representation for their product lines should submit the online form prior to the Show for inclusion.
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| Visit PRO's website. |
Visit PRO in the North Hall at Booth #12561 during Show hours to learn more about what the council has to offer, the group's long-term goals, or just to meet the leadership face to face. Be sure to take a mid-week break by mingling with motivated restyling buyers and exhibitors over drinks at the PRO Happy Hour, Wednesday, November 5, from 4:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m. Register for the Happy Hour, or volunteer to help staff the booth today.
Save the Date for the PRO Industry Awards Reception
The PRO will hold its annual Industry Awards Reception, November 4, from 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m., at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino (formerly the LVH), Ballrooms F and G. The reception is open to all employees of PRO-member companies and others interested in learning more about the council. It will feature networking opportunities and award presentations to honor leaders in the restyling industry, as chosen by peers.
Register now. For more information, contact Clayton Drescher at 909-978-6696, claytond@sema.org.
PRO General Membership MeetingPRO members and others who would like to learn more about the council are invited to attend a general membership meeting, Thursday, November 6, from 7:30 a.m.–9:00 a.m., in the Las Vegas Convention Center, room N234. The meeting will provide a chance to learn more about the group’s focus and connect with other restylers over breakfast. Register today.
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| Visit SBN's website. |
 Kimberly Callahan | |
SBN Member of the Month – Kimberly Callahan, Insignia Group
Kimberly Callahan is the aftermarket manager at Insignia Group in Rock Hill, South Carolina, and SBN’s Member of the Month.
What does your company do?
Insignia Group is a consulting and technology company servicing car dealerships, OEMs, distributors, restylers and parts manufacturers.
What is your position?
Aftermarket manager
What is the most satisfying aspect of your job?
Sense of achievement.
How long have your been involved with the aftermarket industry?
14 years.
What brought you to the industry?
Diversity, opportunities and attractiveness of the industry.
What are some of your major professional accomplishments?
I was the 2013/2014 National Association of Professional Women Woman of the Year, 2013 Four for the Future AAIA Impact award winner and 2014–2016 SEMA PRO Select Committee member.
Are you a member of any other organizations?
SEMA PRO Council and Select Committee member, Auto Care Association and National Association of Professional Women.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
To be open-minded and never limit yourself.
What would someone meeting you for the first time be surprised to learn?
I am a softball player of 23 years, and in 2003, I played in the World Series Tournament at the ESPN Wide World of Sports at Disney World.
What is your dream car?
A ’66 Corvette Sting Ray with 427 Big Block.
What is your favorite pastime?
Anything outdoors, traveling, and spending quality time with loved ones.
Must Attend Events for Businesswomen at the 2014 SEMA Show
By Jenna Jefferies
Monday, November 3
SBN General Membership Meeting
Join SBN leadership and members to celebrate the year's accomplishments, look forward to future goals and discuss topics of interest to females in the automotive industry. This is a chance for current members to get plugged in and for prospective members to learn more about joining. Following the discussion, attendees are invited to stay and network over refreshments.
Details: Monday, November 3, 12:00 p.m.–1:00 p.m., Las Vegas Convention Center, room N242
Register for this event online.
Gear-Up Girl Networking Event
A part of the SEMA Education Institute’s Student Program, the Gear-Up Girl Networking Event connects female students with industry-leading female professionals in a round-robin networking format.
Details: Monday, November 3, 2014, 3:30 p.m.–5:00 p.m., Las Vegas Convention Center, room N253
Register: The event is free, but participants are required to register through their SEMA Show dashboards.
Wednesday, November 5
“Your Career; Your Success”—An SBN-Powered Super Session
This session features prominent leaders and professionals who will share the experiences and professional habits that have facilitated their success in the aftermarket industry. Utilizing a moderator-and-panel format, attendees will have the opportunity to take away key insights that they can incorporate into their professional lives.
Details: Wednesday, November 5, 2014, 3:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m., Las Vegas Convention Center, room N258
Register: The session is free, but participants are required to register through their SEMA Show dashboards.
Thursday, November 6
 During the SBN Speed Networking Breakfast, attendees can have quality conversations, exchange business cards with dozens of new contacts, network with industry leaders and ignite new business alliances in a matter of minutes. | |
Speed Networking Breakfast – Powered by SBN
The annual Speed Networking Breakfast is open to all SEMA members and is one of the best opportunities to meet peers, prospects, vendor associates and valuable contacts in one setting. Meet more than a dozen new contacts in a fast-paced environment that is structured to keep the introductions flowing.
Details: Thursday, November 6, 2014, 7:00 a.m.– 9:00 a.m., Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, ballroom A
Price: $35 for SEMA members and $49 for non-members.
Register: Purchase tickets through your SEMA Show dashboard.
Friday, November 7
Café SEMA—In the Know with a Cup of Joe
A one-hour roundtable conversation with business pros and experts, “Café SEMA—In the Know with a Cup of Joe” provides a popular format in which attendees get expert answers to their questions.
Details: Friday, November 7, 2014, 9:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m., Las Vegas Convention Center, room N243
Price: $10 for SEMA members and $20 for non-members.
Register: Purchase tickets through your SEMA Show dashboard.
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| Visit WTC's website |
Save the Date for the WTC Industry Awards Reception
The WTC will hold its annual Industry Awards Reception, November 4, from 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., at the Renaissance Hotel Pool in Las Vegas. The reception, open to all employees of WTC-member companies and prospective members, will feature networking opportunities and an award presentation for the WTC Hall of Fame.
Register now! For more information, contact Clayton Drescher at 909-978-6696, claytond@sema.org.
WTC General Membership Meeting
The WTC General Membership Meeting will take place Monday, November 3, from 1:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m. in the Las Vegas Convention Center, rooms N219–N220. The meeting will provide a valuable opportunity for members to network and learn from each other. This is also a great venue to learn how to get involved, share feedback or voice concerns and opportunities. In particular, members will learn more about a new resource to aid in selecting the correct wheel and tire fit for trucks—WTC’s "Ride Guide"—and a vehicle data-sharing program. Register today.
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| Visit YEN's website | |
 Launch Pad competition finalists interact with the judges and receive feedback on their business pitches. | |
Industry Heavyweights Team Up for Launch Pad Competition
By Amanda Gubbins
The 2014 SEMA Launch Pad, powered by the Young Executives Network (YEN) will feature another line-up of all-star industry veterans. This year’s event will be hosted by Matt D’Andria, CEO of Motorator.com and co-host of the “CarCast” podcast. The judging panel will bring a diverse portfolio of experiences and offer feedback to the contestants, ultimately choosing the next Launch Pad winner.
The 2014 judges include:
- Designer and marketer Mark Arcenal of Illest Brand and Fatlace
- Lawyer and business leader Ron Coleman of COMP Performance Group
- Fabricator and TV personality Jessi Combs of “Overhaulin’” and “All Girls Garage”
- Publisher and SEMA board of directors Chair-elect Doug Evans of The Enthusiast Network
- Marketer Glenn Rogers of Cascadia Capital LLC
The live event will take place, November 5, at 11:00 a.m. at a new location in the Las Vegas Convention Center—the second level of the North Hall in room N258. Five finalists will pitch their business concepts in competition for the grand prize—a package of business resources designed to extend the winning company’s reach and boost exposure.
SEMA Show attendees are invited to watch the contest unfold. Lunch will be served to the first 125 individuals to arrive. Admission to the event is free, but attendees should pre-register through their SEMA Show dashboards. Use the unique URL in the SEMA Show registration confirmation e-mail, or start at attendee registration and click the “Ticket Only” button. After logging in, select “The Next Great Business: How Entrepreneurs Pitch their Ideas.”
YEN General Membership Meeting
The YEN will hold a general membership meeting Monday, November 3, from 5:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m., in the Las Vegas Convention Center, room N242. Join the leadership and other members as they celebrate the year's accomplishments, look forward to future goals and discuss topics of interest to young professionals in the automotive industry. This is a chance for current members to get plugged in and for prospective members to learn more about joining. Following the discussion, attendees are invited to stay and network over refreshments. Register for this event online.
Discussion topics will include:
- YEN Annual Reception
- SEMA Launch Pad
- YEN Power Tour
- YEN Networking Events
- YEN Member Activation Program (MAP)
- Member Resource Pool
- Industry Challenges and Opportunities
For more information, contact Bryan Harrison at 909-978-6691, bryanh@sema.org.