By Ashley Reyes
Ivan Korda is the SEMA Young Executives Network’s (YEN) newest spotlight member. Korda is a business development manager at Power Automedia—a media company that produces automotive content, digital websites and immersive video.
Find out what keeps Korda in the industry and how he prepares for important meetings in his interview with SEMA below.
SEMA: What is the best advice you have ever received?
Ivan Korda: “Follow your gut”—simple, I know. As a young adult starting out in the industry more than 10 years ago, I had to learn to trust my instincts and let my passion drive me. In the last decade, I have made several big decisions that were uncomfortable but have transformed my career in ways I didn’t expect.
SEMA: What keeps you in the industry?
IK: My earliest memories are of my love for racing, speed and the automobile. My entire childhood and young adult life were based on finding my way into the automotive aftermarket. I knew this industry is where I belonged because that’s where my passion lies.
SEMA: Where can you be found on a Saturday?
IK: I can be found spending time with my wife and three dogs, working in the shop on one of my project vehicles, racing or somewhere on the beach.
SEMA: How do you prepare for an important meeting?
IK: I prepare by understanding the agenda and doing my research to understand the topics that are going to be discussed. I am most comfortable when I am prepared.
SEMA: If you could go to lunch with one industry leader, living or dead, who it would be?
IK: There are so many, but one that came to mind first was Nicky Hayden. As a kid, I remember watching him compete. I couldn’t help but notice how competitive and focused he was, but at the same time, he showed his competitors and supporters so much respect, sincerity and love. I have huge respect for him and his legacy.
If you are a current YEN member, fill out a YEN member spotlight form. Selected candidates may be featured on YEN’s social media, SEMA eNews and YEN-member updates.