By Ashley Reyes
The 2023 SEMA Scholarship application period for students preparing for careers in the automotive or performance parts industries closes March 1. Interested applicants can review and complete the scholarship application at www.sema.org/scholarships.
The SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund offers financial assistance of up to $5,000 to foster future leaders and innovators in the automotive aftermarket industry. A loan forgiveness component is also available to employees that work for SEMA-member companies who have completed and are currently paying off a loan for a program of study at an accredited university, college or vocational/technical school within the United States.
“Education can be expensive, but that shouldn’t limit students from getting ahead in their careers,” said Pamela Brown-Matthis, SEMA director of education. “There are so many career options in the automotive aftermarket, and it’s a thriving industry to be in. We encourage students who have a passion for cars to apply for a SEMA scholarship so that we can help jump-start their careers.”
The annual scholarship program is a cornerstone of SEMA’s efforts to support career development and access in the automotive industry. Scholarship winners will have the opportunity to attend the 2023 SEMA Show, providing unparalleled networking and education opportunities at the world’s largest trade show for the automotive aftermarket.
Applicants must be U.S. citizens 18 years or older and demonstrate a passion for automotive hobbies and careers. Scholarships are available in a variety of categories, including but not limited to, accounting, sales, marketing and engineering. Eligible students and SEMA-member company employees can apply until March 1 at www.sema.org/scholarships.
SEMA Loan Forgiveness Program
Each year, SEMA helps employees of member businesses pay off student loans as part of the SEMA Loan Forgiveness program. The 2023 application period also closes March 1.
The Loan Forgiveness Program provides funds to help selected current employees of SEMA-member businesses pay off education loans from a college, university or career technical/trade school. Unlike the SEMA Scholarship Program, which assists current students, the Loan Forgiveness Program focuses on recent graduates who are actively working for SEMA-member companies to help lessen the burden of education loans post-graduation.
What are the eligibility requirements?
- Currently employed by a SEMA-member business.
- Demonstrate passion for the automotive hobby and career.
- Possess a degree or certificate from a college, university or career technical/trade school in the United States.
- Have a minimum of $2,000 in outstanding student loans.
What are the benefits of being selected?
Beyond the impact that the monetary awards provide, the SEMA Loan Forgiveness program is a passion-driven program aimed to help SEMA members further their careers in the automotive and performance parts industries. SEMA members and program recipients also have access to resources through SEMA Education and the SEMA Career Center, and in-person networking opportunities at the SEMA Show.
What is the application process?
Interested applicants can review and complete the scholarship application at www.sema.org/loan-forgiveness before the March 1 deadline. If you have children, friends or know someone who may qualify, we encourage you to share this opportunity with them.