SEMA Member News—January 2018
Kristen Stone
YEN Recognizes Young Industry Leaders
 Paul McCain of Diode Dynamics was honored with the YEN Vanguard Award. | |
One of the highlights for the Young Executives Network (YEN) during the SEMA Show each year is the opportunity to present awards to deserving industry professionals for the work they’ve done benefitting young people within the industry. This year, YEN was thrilled to present the Vanguard award as well as the Young Executive of the Year award at a presentation during the network’s annual industry reception.
The YEN reception is the largest gathering of young professionals at the SEMA Show and is a pillar event of the week. The reception was held Tuesday evening at the Westgate Resort & Casino. The event featured a Rocket League tournament, a live DJ, food, beverages, networking, and multiple activity stations. The awards program is an opportunity for the network to celebrate advancements of young professionals in the industry.
“Each year, we get to honor one of the best up-and-comers in the industry with the Young Executive of the Year award, and someone who has helped the newest generation to succeed and develop as professionals with the YEN Vanguard award.” said YEN Chair Rory Connell. “This year was no different, and YEN is immensely grateful for the contributions of those we were able to recognize.”
YEN Vanguard Award: Diode Dynamics
Paul McCain is the owner and founder of Diode Dynamics. By focusing on U.S.-based manufacturing, he has created more than 50 jobs in St. Louis, Missouri.
McCain’s focus on education has made a significant impact in the careers of so many young people in the company. He has given his employees the ability to volunteer for SEMA and to pursue their goals of generating excitement for the next generation of young executives interested in the automotive aftermarket industry. He also dedicates his time to assisting students at local schools and encouraging youth to follow their passion in science, as he did.
With a focus on manufacturing, quality design and engineering, Diode Dynamics has revolutionized the lighting market and provided valuable education resources for enthusiasts interested in lighting products.
Young Executive of the Year: Trent Goodwin, COMP Performance Group
 Paul McCain of Diode Dynamics was honored with the YEN Vanguard Award. | |
Trent Goodwin has actively served and contributed to the growth of the Young Executives Network through new and innovative programs that have increased visibility for the group, such as the YEN Live Chat program. At Comp, Goodwin is an active part of the sales and marketing departments, regularly leading other employees in major initiatives such as the company’s summer trailer tour and trade-show appearances. He’s well known in the industry and is well respected as a young innovator by his peers and the media with whom he regularly works. Goodwin is an example of what a successful young executive is.
2018 Awards
Know someone who deserves to be recognized for his or her efforts? Nominations for the 2018 YEN awards open in the summer. Follow the SEMA Young Executives Network on Facebook for updates on the nomination process.
General Membership Meeting
YEN also held a general membership meeting and mixer at the 2017 SEMA Show. More than 70 young automotive professionals were present to network, and the select committee was on hand to discuss opportunities to get involved and volunteer time. YEN holds regional networking events throughout the year, often at popular industry events. Be sure to check www.sema.org/yen for upcoming events.