From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office
California Assemblymember Michelle Rodriguez, who represents the state's 53rd Assembly District, recently toured the EGR USA manufacturing facility in Ontario to gain firsthand insight into the specialty automotive aftermarket and the role SEMA plays in supporting local innovation and economic development.
EGR, a longtime SEMA member, is a key employer in Rodriguez's district, specializing in truck and SUV accessories. The company utilizes the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar to support product development through services like 3D scanning, emissions testing and ADAS calibration.
Assemblymember Rodriguez, whose district includes Ontario and surrounding communities in the Inland Empire, was joined by her field representative, Sophia Cohen, and welcomed by EGR Vice President of Operations Bryan Speer, SEMA Senior Manager of State Government Affairs Victor Muñoz, and other EGR team members and SEMA staff. The visit included a walkthrough of EGR's production floor, showcasing advanced manufacturing processes such as acrylic fabrication, robotic trimming, fender flare molding and Rivian part assembly.
"Education is the first step to understanding this industry, and visits like this help play a crucial role in building that understanding," said Damien Rickards, chief operating officer for EGR USA. "It's hard to sometimes get our name out there, so having an elected official tour our Ontario facility was really important. The more influence we can have, the better--it's great for EGR, it's great for the local economy and local jobs."
Assemblymember Rodriguez expressed appreciation for the opportunity to see how EGR integrates resources from across the industry to produce high-quality products not only for automotive applications but also for home décor and other sectors. "It's inspiring to see EGR leading with innovation and creating quality jobs right here in our community," said Assemblymember Rodriguez. "Their success is a testament to the Inland Empire's talent, creativity, and growing economic strength."
SEMA has 58 member companies in California's 53rd Assembly District, supporting nearly $1 billion in economic output and more than 3,000 jobs. Rodriguez's visit reflects her commitment to supporting manufacturing, infrastructure, and regulatory reform. She is also a coauthor of Leno's Law (SB 712), a SEMA-supported bill that expands smog check exemptions for collector vehicles.
"We're grateful to Assemblymember Rodriguez for taking the time to engage with our members and see the impact of our industry up close," said Muñoz. "Her leadership and support are vital to ensuring that California's policies foster innovation and economic opportunity."
For more information or to host your own lawmakers on a facility tour, contact Victor Muñoz at victorm@sema.org.
