By Ashley Reyes
The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) is equipping automotive aftermarket professionals with skills to be more effective communicators in their organizations with its Professional Development Program, happening May 14-15, 2026, at the SEMA Garage in Detroit, Michigan.
Hosted in partnership with the renowned Dale Carnegie organization, the program focuses on enhancing individual communication, providing participants with a tailored framework for public speaking, active listening and relationship-building.
Participation is limited and open to the first 25 SEMA members that apply here.
Key takeaways of the course include:
- The Fine Art of Getting Along with People: Understand the impact attitude has on success, access communications skills and style and learn what constitutes winning business conversations.
- Gain Cooperation and Build Relationships: Learn how to engage others with pertinent questions, access listening skills for different types of listeners and practice listening at the highest level.
- Build Rapport and Credibility: Explore the factors that reflect on your image, identify ways to build rapport and earn respect, and learn to give sincere praise and appreciation.
- Communicate with Confidence: Learn how to deal with difficult conversations with diplomacy and tact, practice giving and receiving constructive criticism and learn how to maintain composure under pressure.
- The Power of Influence: Understand the persuasion process, recognize and overcome resistance from others and practice influencing and persuading.
More than 100 professionals have already graduated from the program--many of whom have credited the experience for helping them earn promotions and improve communication within their teams. In addition to the learning module, the program features group breakouts and networking opportunities that will connect attendees with peers that face similar challenges.
Registration is $960 for FLN Members and $1,060 for SEMA Members. The program includes the full training curriculum, a certificate of completion, three nights of hotel accommodations (May 13–15) and food and beverage during training.
