By Michael Imlay
The SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala is a long-standing tradition that honors and celebrates individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the industry. This year's Gala is set for Friday, July 25, at the Sheraton Universal in Los Angeles (next to Universal Studios Hollywood). The festivities will include the recognition of the 2025 SEMA Hall of Fame inductees: Luanne Brown, George Lathouris, John McLeod, and Larry Pacey, as well as the incoming and outgoing SEMA Board members. Register for the 2025 SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala here or visit sema.org/gala to learn more.
In anticipation of the event, SEMA News caught up with current SEMA Chairman of the Board Kyle Fickler and Chair-Elect Melanie White for their reflections on SEMA's ongoing challenges and accomplishments, this year's Gala and Hall of Famers, and the upcoming "passing of the chair torch" from Fickler to White. What follows has been edited for clarity and conciseness.
SEMA News: Kyle, as you move into the role of immediate past chairman, what are your personal reflections about your Board experience?
Kyle Fickler: To be honest, I'm 12 years in on my Board experience—two three-year terms as a Board member, then treasurer for two years, and now four years in the chair suite, if you will--two years as chair-elect and two years as chair. Sometimes when I do that math it really surprises me because it just doesn't seem that long. I'd gladly serve another year. But with our recent accomplishments, maybe the timing is right. I mean, it's always nice to go out on a high note.
SN: Speaking of accomplishments… Kyle, Melanie, this question is for you both. SEMA has faced some real challenges since the pandemic, but has also racked up some incredible wins. What are your thoughts about its work on the industry's behalf?
KF: We're in a good place right now after some tangible victories. I think particularly about the revocation of the California EV mandate. You don't always get victories like that. We're in such a fortunate spot right now with our Government Affairs office in D.C.—that entire team is doing great things.
We've also had some other fortunate things like the Chevron Decision come our way—things not under our control but that happen for a reason. We've also built enough momentum in the last 12 to 18 months to understand that SEMA really can be powerful… And we have some stories to tell in how we're grappling with future technology and some of the automotive transformations in general.
I always couch it in terms of wanting my daughter, Danica [a racer and automotive enthusiast], to have the same things we've enjoyed through our adulthood.
Melanie White: Like Kyle, I recognize that our industry faces challenges, and I also see incredible opportunities for growth, innovation and advocacy. That's why in my upcoming term, I'll focus on what I call "GYT"—a three-pillar approach that will drive meaningful change through government advocacy, youth engagement and vehicle technology.
At SEMA, we recognize that success comes from forward thinking, from pushing boundaries, adapting to challenges and driving change with the consumer always at the heart of our decisions. SEMA members are a priority, and we'll make it our mission to equip them with the tools, knowledge and support they need to thrive.
SN: So much of SEMA's leadership on industry issues flows from its volunteers, whether on councils, task forces or the Board. What advice do you have for others in the industry who may be considering volunteering and making a difference for their own and other member businesses?
MW: One of SEMA's greatest strengths lies in the passion and dedication of its volunteers. Whether serving on councils, task forces, or the Board, these individuals shape our industry's future by stepping up, lending their voice, and sharing their expertise.
My advice to anyone looking to make a meaningful impact is simple: get involved. Your unique insights and experiences are incredibly valuable not just to your business, but to the broader SEMA community. Collaboration is key. When we come together, listen, and lead with intention, we elevate the entire industry. [Editor's note: Learn more about SEMA Council & Networking opportunities here.]
KF: One thing I'm aware of is the need to thank industry employers for allowing their employees to volunteer, because there is a cost aspect to their time and service. But as Melanie says, for SEMA members, there is also a tremendous value and ROI in the networking. At some point down the road, you'll see that value when you least expect it.
For example, I've always been on the industry's performance side, but things can happen in other segments before they happen in yours. So through your network and volunteer experience, you're able to witness how another industry segment is handling an emerging issue. That's a real benefit.
SN: The Hall of Fame inductions are a time-honored Gala tradition. Any words you'd like to share about this year's Hall of Fame class? And why is the Gala such an important event for SEMA and the industry?
MW: The Gala is a gathering of visionaries, pioneers and changemakers who remind us why we do what we do. For SEMA, it's a moment to pause, reflect, and celebrate our shared journey.
For me, the Hall of Fame inductees embody the spirit, resilience and passion that define our industry. Each one has not only made a lasting impact through innovation and leadership but has also uplifted those around them, setting a powerful example for future generations. It's a privilege to honor their legacy.
KF: I got to call this year's group of inductees. That, for me, was special in the sense that I've never had that opportunity before. I'm struck by how all four inductees have contributed to our industry in dramatically different ways. What's cool is the SEMA Hall of Fame is not a cookie-cutter deal where you check the right boxes and you're good to go. Each inductee this year is unique in their own right. It's going to be fun seeing them on stage, watching their videos, and hearing the stories they have to tell.
SN: Kyle, what are your thoughts on "passing the Chair torch" to Melanie, and what are your hopes for the SEMA Board as it moves forward? And Melanie, what have you appreciated most in working with Kyle on the Board?
KF: Melanie is going to do great. I've been lucky to know her while I was on the Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) and she was on the LTAA [now the Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA)]. We've had these parallel paths and have been good friends for probably 20 years. I've watched her grow into this role, and she's been ready for some time. One issue confronting SEMA is ADAS (advanced driver assistance systems), which is a day-to-day reality for her company. So the timing is perfect, and she's going to be fantastic.
MW: Working alongside Kyle has been a privilege. He brings a steady hand, a collaborative spirit, and a deep-rooted passion for the industry. His ability to unite diverse perspectives and guide strategic decisions with integrity has left a lasting impression on me and the entire Board. What I appreciate most is his unwavering commitment to fostering growth, not just within SEMA, but for every business and individual member.
2025 SEMA Leaders & Legends Gala
Date: Friday, July 25
Location: Sheraton Universal, just steps from Universal Studios Hollywood in Universal City, California. View on Google Maps.
Attire: Cocktail or semi-formal.
Details: Attendees must be at least 16 years old to participate in the event.
Registration: Tickets are required to attend. Register here or click below.
Support: Join the Industry Cup Challenge!
For questions, contact Courtney Wright at CourtneyW@sema.org.
