By Ashley Reyes
The SEMA Hall of Fame has honored individuals who have enhanced the stature of the automotive specialty-equipment industry since 1969. To date, 180 distinguished individuals have earned induction, celebrating the vision, innovation and leadership that transformed the industry and drove SEMA's growth. Below is a look back at the history of SEMA's highest honor.
Early Days
As the aftermarket industry began to grow, so did the need to recognize the pioneers who contributed to it and to the formation of SEMA. Paul Schiefer was the first to earn SEMA Hall of Fame induction in 1969. A speed-equipment industry pioneer, Schiefer developed the earliest flywheels and clutches for all-out racing and high performance. He owned and operated Schiefer Manufacturing Company, which became the largest manufacturer of specialty drivetrain components in the world at the time.
In honor of Schiefer, subsequent inductees received the Paul Schiefer "Old Timer's Memorial Award", before it was officially re-named the "SEMA Hall of Fame" in 1986. The "old timer's" reference alluded to a board directive that the award honor founders of the industry.
Paul Schiefer
Throughout the Years
SEMA Hall of Fame induction was originally reserved for one person a year; however, it became clear that more people deserved recognition for contributing to the growth of the industry. Starting in 1979, it became common for multiple people to be inducted into the SEMA Hall of Fame each year.
SEMA Hall of Fame Members at the 2024 SEMA Show
On the SEMA Hall of Fame website, you will find a long list of passionate leaders, changemakers and pioneers who took chances that have changed the course of the industry for the better. It is inspiring to see names such as SEMA founding member Ed Winfield; Bob Spar, founder of B&M; Linda Vaughn, known as "The First Lady of Motorsports"; Rolan "Jeep" Worthan; automotive designer Chip Foose; groundbreaking fabricator and racer Jessi Combs; and, most recently in 2024, Chris Kersting, Jack Priegel, Less Rudd and Jon Wyly, to be listed among the greats in automotive history, among many others.
Each honoree has a unique story, yet they all share a relentless passion for the automotive aftermarket and a commitment to driving positive change at the highest levels.
2024 SEMA Hall of Fame Inductee Jon Wyly
Celebration of Talent
SEMA Hall of Fame inductees are formally celebrated during the annual SEMA Leaders and Legends Gala in July. This event is a long-established tradition where individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the industry are honored. The inductees are then honored again at the SEMA Awards Banquet in November during the SEMA Show, where they receive a custom-designed trophy.
Nominations Now Open
SEMA is currently accepting nominations for induction into the 2025 SEMA Hall of Fame Class. If you know someone who has made a significant and lasting impact on the automotive aftermarket, this is your chance to tell their story. The nominee must have made contributions beyond the local level and reached throughout the national or international level, have enhanced technology, professionalism, dignity, and/or general stature and growth of the industry, have been in the industry for a minimum of 10 years, and will be least 50 years or older by the 2025 SEMA Show.
Nominations are due by the Friday, March 14 deadline at sema.org/hof. Questions can be directed to Jose Escobar at josee@sema.org.