By Ashley Reyes
Employees of SEMA member companies have a unique opportunity to make a lasting and positive impact on the automotive aftermarket industry by volunteering on a SEMA council or network select committee. Applications are open now through Friday, April 18, at sema.org/volunteer.
Each of the nine SEMA councils and networks is led by a select committee, a small group of volunteers who donate their time, passion and expertise to help create valuable programs for their membership. They work alongside SEMA staff to shape initiatives, opportunities and events throughout the year, while gaining invaluable leadership experience and business relationships along the way.
How Volunteering Works
Select committee volunteers meet online and in person throughout the year to develop resources tailored to their market segment. It's a great opportunity to share ideas and provide input for programs, events, and educational opportunities that support industry growth and awareness.
The Impact
Many of the programs that benefit SEMA members today would not exist without the help of select committee volunteers. By taking on a leadership role, volunteers can make a meaningful impact beyond their day jobs, helping deliver solutions to the ongoing and emerging needs of their market segment.
The Commitment
- Term length: Two years.
- Time commitment: Five–10 hours per month.
- Meetings: Attend monthly select committee meetings, an annual long-range planning meeting and a council summit every other year. These meetings are where all the brainstorming happens and where your contributions come to life.
Eligibility Requirements
- Employed by a current SEMA member company.
- Willing to become a member of the council or network in which you are interested in volunteering.
- Have strong strategic planning skills, significant aftermarket knowledge and experience, and a passion for giving back to the industry.
"Volunteering has given me the opportunity to learn something new every day and has given me a family in the industry," said Hannah Neal of Automotion Customs. "Every time I am in a meeting or with this group of people, I come back to the shop with new ideas that need to be implemented into our business model."
Apply Today
Applications to volunteer on a SEMA council and network select committee are being accepted until April 18. Learn more about the nine specialized communities and how you can make a difference at sema.org/volunteer.