By Ashley Reyes
SEMA Council and Network members have until Tuesday, April 13, to submit their select committee nominations at www.sema.org/volunteer.
From truck and off-road to motorsports and even automotive restyling, young executives, emerging trends and technology, businesswomen and more, each SEMA Council and Network segment is led by a select committee that helps develop programs, events, education opportunities and other resources that will be of value to its membership.
Read below to learn a few common misconceptions and reasons why industry members who are looking to get more involved and gain hands-on leadership experience should submit a nomination today.
Myth: It takes up a lot of time. Volunteers are so instrumental for Councils and Networks, that some people believe there is a lot of work involved. The reality is that volunteers typically spend between one and five hours per month supporting their respective councils or networks.
Myth: It won’t make a difference. Select-committee volunteers contribute to their communities and often identify challenges and develop solutions to strengthen the industry. In fact, many new programs and changes to existing programs are a direct result of contributions from volunteers.
Myth: It’s not worth the effort. In addition to gaining personal knowledge and recognition for their company, volunteering offers a unique opportunity to collaborate with like-minded colleagues, share ideas and play an integral part in where the industry is headed in the future. The role is so satisfying and fulfilling, that many volunteers continue volunteering beyond their initial term of service.
Elected select-committee members serve a minimum of a two-year term, must be employed by a current SEMA-member company and must be a member of the council or network in which they are interested in volunteering in order to be considered as a candidate.