By Ashley Reyes
 Kathryn Reinhardt |
The SEMA Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) is recognizing Kathryn Reinhardt of 4 Wheel Parts/Pro Comp as this week’s TORA Volunteer Spotlight Member. As an automotive marketer, Reinhardt gives back to the industry by selling automotive parts and creating marketing programs that produce valuable market share.
Reinhardt is a SEMA Board member and volunteer whose passion exemplifies the heart of the specialty-equipment aftermarket. Through her leadership and professionalism, she has helped guide the association as TORA’s prior chair-elect and was named 2015 SEMA Person of the Year. Her contributions to the industry are second to none.
Get to know Reinhardt in her Q&A with the SEMA Truck and Off-Road Alliance:
SEMA: What inspired you to pursue a career in the truck and off-road industry?
Kathryn Reinhardt: One of the first off-road events I ever attended was Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah. I saw manufacturers, media outlets and distribution partners cohesively riding the same trails together. How unusual and yet inspiring. I saw industry competitors working together conquering rock obstacles and lending tools and hands to repair Jeeps in need. It was at that event that I knew this was the aftermarket segment I needed to be a part of.
SEMA: Why did you decide to volunteer for TORA? How has it or will it impact you?
KR: I picked TORA to be my volunteer path with SEMA because it fit the area of work my career was at during that time. They had a clear direction and goals they wanted to achieve to bring the market together. As a result of joining, I was able to expand my truck knowledge, meet other industry professionals and gain market expertise to bring back to my employer.
SEMA: What advice do you have for someone pursuing a career in the automotive aftermarket?
KR: My advice to someone pursuing a career in the aftermarket is to learn everything you can, attend every gathering you can and meet everyone in the room you can.
SEMA: What is your dream truck or off-road vehicle?
KR: I would love to have a Jeep Gladiator. I think they are super cool, high function and my sons love Jeeps, so I want to share the off-roading experience with them as well.