A contingent of SEMA and PRI members, bolstered by automotive content creators and the SEMA/PRI Government Affairs staff, descended on Washington, D.C., earlier this month to urge lawmakers to strike down California's waiver that would enable electric vehicle (EV) mandates throughout the U.S. Watch the highlight video here:
"This was a rapid call to action for our SEMA and PRI membership to come to Capitol Hill to talk about the California waiver that would ban the internal combustion engine and put in place an EV (electric vehicle) mandate, not only in California, but affect nearly half of the country if this is allowed to go through," said Karen Bailey Chapman, SEMA senior vice president of Public and Government Affairs. "Congress has the opportunity to overturn the California waiver and return us back to vehicle choice, allow us to do the cool stuff that this industry is known to do and put some stability back in the automotive marketplace for all of us."
For more on the D.C. fly-in, read the SEMA News article here. To get involved, visit semasan.com.
A contingent of SEMA and PRI members, bolstered by automotive content creators and the SEMA/PRI Government Affairs staff, descended on Washington, D.C., earlier this month to urge lawmakers to strike down California's waiver that would enable electric vehicle (EV) mandates throughout the U.S. Watch the highlight video here:
"This was a rapid call to action for our SEMA and PRI membership to come to Capitol Hill to talk about the California waiver that would ban the internal combustion engine and put in place an EV (electric vehicle) mandate, not only in California, but affect nearly half of the country if this is allowed to go through," said Karen Bailey Chapman, SEMA senior vice president of Public and Government Affairs. "Congress has the opportunity to overturn the California waiver and return us back to vehicle choice, allow us to do the cool stuff that this industry is known to do and put some stability back in the automotive marketplace for all of us."
For more on the D.C. fly-in, read the SEMA News article here. To get involved, visit semasan.com.
TheSEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) has named AJ El-Amin, technician at Oracle Lighting, as the network's newest spotlight member.
Get to know El-Amin in his interview with SEMA News below.
SEMA News: What is the best advice you have ever received?
AJ El-Amin: My father told me to always do what makes you happy, and not to chase monetary gains, but look for what you can learn and those who you can help grow around you.
SN: What keeps you in the industry?
AE: My passion for cars; I love talking to people about different situations they've been in and how our products have benefited them.
SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday?
AE: Hanging out in the shop with my friends or at the race track.
SN: How do you prepare for an important meeting?
AE: Igo for an early morning run with my dog.
SN: If you could go to lunch with one industry leader, living or dead, who would it be?
CTEK Appoints Steve Hayes to Lead North American Operations
CTEK, the provider in battery charging solutions based in Chicago, has announced the appointment of Steve Hayes as head of North American Operations. He will be tasked to spearhead the company's growth and market development initiatives across the United States. and Canada.
"Steve's extensive experience in the automotive sector and proven ability to drive market growth makes him the ideal leader for our North American operations," said Fredrik Uhrbom, CTEK president of Consumer Division. "His strategic vision and deep understanding of the American market will be invaluable as we continue to expand our presence and bring innovative charging solutions to more customers across the region."
Hayes brings more than two decades of automotive and outdoor industry expertise to CTEK, most recently serving as managing director for Front Runner Outfitters/Dometic.
Cummins Announces Retirement of Sharon Barner, Chief Administrative Officer
Cummins has announced that Chief Administrative Officer Sharon Barner will retire, effective May 31, following an extraordinary career and 13 years of committed service to Cummins.
"Sharon is not only a renowned legal expert and business leader in intellectual property, risk management and environmental and regulatory affairs, she is also a model of courage, integrity and strong leadership," said Jennifer Rumsey, chair and CEO of Cummins Inc. "She embodies our values, always lifting others up as she climbs, creating nurturing environments where everyone can thrive and passionately advocating in our communities."
Barner's career has spanned both the private and public sectors. Prior to joining Cummins, Barner spent 27 years at private practice law firms, many of which in leadership positions, where she focused primarily on intellectual property law. Barner then served in the U.S. Department of Commerce as Deputy Under Secretary of Commerce for Intellectual Property and Deputy Director of the United States Patent and Trademark Office. She joined Cummins in 2012, serving first as vice president and general counsel, eventually adding interim chief human resources officer and corporate secretary to her responsibilities, before becoming chief administrative officer in 2021.
In related Cummins news, the power solutions provider has announced DNV approval in principle (AIP) for its methanol-ready QSK60 IMO II and IMO III engines, available from 2,000 to 2,700 hp.
Following extensive field testing, Cummins plans to launch the retrofit kits post-2028 to align with market demand and infrastructure readiness. These kits will be particularly suited for diesel-electric systems that can be integrated with a battery, optimizing efficiency and sustainability.
For more information, visit the Cummins announcement here.
Trick-Tools Marks 30 Years of Excellence in Metal Fabrication
Trick-Tools.com, the provider of high-performance metal fabrication tools, marks its 30th anniversary in 2025. Founded in 1995, Trick-Tools has built a reputation for providing innovative, top-tier tools that help fabricators and builders achieve precision and efficiency in their work. From its humble beginnings to becoming a trusted name, Trick-Tools remains committed to equipping craftsmen, small businesses, and manufacturing facilities with the best tools available. Its website, Trick-Tools.com, hosts more than 20,000 products from more than 120 top brands in the metal fabrication industry.
"30 years is a testament to the trust and loyalty of our customers," said Bruce Van Sant, founder of Trick-Tools. "We've always been passionate about delivering the best and most innovative tools while helping fabricators succeed."
SoCal Automotive Industry Members Invited to Car Show at San Clemente High School Auto Academy
The Auto Academy at San Clemente High School in San Clemente, California, will host a Meet the Industry & Car Show event on Saturday, April 19. Industry business members are encouraged to join the event. For more information, visit here or contact kntuckerking@capousd.org.
SEMA Show organizers have announced the SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit will return to Las Vegas in 2025 with new dates: Wednesday, June 25, Thursday, June 26, and Friday, June 27 (travel date).
The program, which will take place at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) South Hall Skybridge, will lead exhibitors through the art of the exhibit, step-by-step, to maximize their SEMA Show experience at the LVCC later this year, November 4-7.
"Exhibiting at the SEMA Show is an art form with proven best practices and techniques that exhibitors can utilize to maximize their ROI. At the Exhibitor Summit across two days, you and your team will be armed with practical and proven strategies for lead generation, media engagement, booth layout, debuting products and cost-saving opportunities," said Andy Tompkins, SEMA trade show director. "Just make it to Vegas, and we've got your SEMA Show planning covered. But hurry, space is limited, so register and secure your spot today!"
As the SEMA Show continues to evolve, the Summit provides exhibitors with effective lead generation and sales-building programs as well as the latest information on how to build brand visibility, media engagement and marketing reach.
To support this mission, prominent content creators and media members will share first-hand insights on how they approach covering the SEMA Show, revealing to exhibitors how they can maximize their booth's impact on the media. In addition, organizers will also provide tips on launching new products, free and low-cost sponsorship opportunities, and everything exhibitors need to know to save time and money at the SEMA Show. Those seeking booth design and layout direction will not be disappointed, as the SEMA Show team will also share ways to create the best possible booth presentation that aligns with a brand's specific goals and needs.
Longtime exhibitors may notice an earlier Exhibitor Summit date this year. This change was designed to bring more impact to the event, as it will provide exhibitors with more time to put event takeaways into an actionable exhibit plan.
Register to join the SEMA Show team in Vegas this June, and we'll handle the rest. Exhibitors enjoy complimentary registration, a two-night hotel stay (for up to two representatives from each exhibiting company), and select meals courtesy of SEMA.
Haven't signed up to exhibit at the 2025 SEMA Show yet? Get ready to power your sales and marketing yearlong with a booth at the SEMA Show and learn more details here.
Note: the booth space deposit deadline, Friday, March 28, is fast approaching. Register before the official SEMA Show space draw process, Monday, April 28 through Wednesday, May 14, to be included in the initial floor plan release.
The Manufacturing Institute recognizes women in manufacturing, aiming to close the gender gap in the industry and inspire future generations. Its 10th annual Step Ahead Awards ceremony is seen here. Photo courtesy of Manufacturing Institute.
The Manufacturing Institute--the workforce development and education affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers--will honor two SEMA members among its recipients of the 2025 Women MAKE Awards. Tiffanie Hartenstein, of Oracle Lighting, and Alex Parker, of Redline Detection, will be honored on April 24 in Washington, D.C., joining a class of some of the most impressive and inspiring women in the manufacturing industry today.
Women MAKE Award honorees have accomplished success within their companies and have proven to be leaders in the manufacturing industry as a whole.
"We're delighted to see Tiffanie and Alex receive this prestigious honor," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "Their leadership, passion and relentless drive to pursue excellence in everything that they do is admirable among the aftermarket community and has driven the industry forward in extraordinary ways."
Tiffanie Hartenstein is CEO and co-founder of Oracle Lighting, directly managing the organization's day-to-day operations. Since 1999, Oracle Lighting has developed custom lighting solutions for a wide variety of vehicles and applications. For more than 15 years, Hartenstein and her talented team have grown Oracle Lighting in both size and revenue. They have helped Oracle Lighting make nine consecutive appearances on the Inc magazine Inc. 500/5000 list, which highlights the nation's fastest growing small businesses. In 2021, Oracle Lighting received SEMA's Manufacturer of the Year Award and was recognized as the number one fastest-growing company in the greater New Orleans metro area. Hartenstein also serves as chair-elect for the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN).
"I feel powerful when I have the opportunity to mentor others," Hartenstein said. "Sharing my experiences, helping others overcome challenges, and celebrating their successes reminds me of the strength we all have to uplift and inspire each other. It's when I feel most aligned with my purpose as a leader."
Alex Parker is president of Redline Detection, which designs and manufactures tools for the automotive aftermarket and automakers in 160 countries. Under Parker's leadership, Redline Detection has evolved from a mechanical manufacturer to a leader in the field in software-based battery diagnostic technology for e-mobility, developing technology that facilitates the safe adoption of EVs. Redline Detection's headquarters facility brings together engineering, design and manufacturing units. Parker has been a judge on SEMA Launch Pad on The History Channel and part of the Petersen Automotive Museum's business incubator, sponsored by Rolex and Porsche, advocating for independent businesses, hands-on internships and STEM education in the automotive industry. Redline Detection was the SEMA 2020 Manufacturer of the Year.
"I am empowered when I see leaders like Mary Barra forging progress with such determination, innovation and vision," said Parker. "I aspire to lead with that kind of vision, fueled by both deep technical knowledge and heart."
Employees of SEMA member companies are invited to increase their involvement in the automotive aftermarket industry by volunteering as a SEMA council or network select committee member. Applications are open until April 18 at sema.org/volunteer.
Below are five reasons to consider applying.
1. Advance Your Market Segment
Select committee members spearhead programs, events and networking opportunities that benefit the members of their council or network. Tailored to various market segments, these resources educate, build and connect industry professionals and businesses, helping them succeed in the marketplace.
2. Expand Your Professional Network
Select committee members work alongside other volunteers who are industry leaders, business owners and subject-matter experts. By gaining access to this exclusive network, volunteers can expand their professional network and open doors to potential business collaborations and relationships.
3. Develop Leadership Skills
Select committee members plan, lead, and execute projects that advance the specialty-automotive aftermarket. These projects enable volunteers to build programs from scratch and spearhead various initiatives--all of which provide skills that look great on a resume.
4. Gain New Industry Knowledge
Select committee members attend monthly meetings and a select committee summit every other year. These events provide volunteers with a new perspective on the industry, giving them the opportunity to engage in conversations on where the industry is headed.
5. Establish Industry Recognition
Select committee members participate in speaking engagements, industry discussions and advocacy efforts that connect them with leaders in the automotive industry; this helps them expand their visibility as professionals and experts in their market segment.
Apply Today
Select committee applicants must be employed by a SEMA member company and be willing to serve a two-year term. Planning skills and aftermarket knowledge are helpful, but the most important trait required is a passion for giving back to the industry. Apply here.
ProCharger has received a California Air Resources Board (CARB) Executive Order (EO) for its Chevrolet C8 Corvette Stingray supercharger system, making the system 50-state legal.
The EO allows enthusiasts, including those in emissions-restricted states like California, to legally upgrade their C8 Corvettes with the ProCharger supercharger system.
"From day one, our goal has been to provide C8 Corvette owners with the most advanced, reliable, and high-performing forced induction system on the market," said ProCharger CEO Ken Jones. "Achieving 50-state street-legal status is a major milestone, reinforcing our commitment to both performance and compliance."
Apollo Sprayers has launched the POWER-6 VS, an HVLP electric painting system designed for automotive collision repair and custom paint professionals. Built to spray a range of automotive coatings, the POWER-6 VS features advanced turbine power, variable speed control, enhanced cooling and filtration, and much more.
Street & Track Big Brake Kits for Mazda MX-5 Miata
Wilwood has released new front big brake kits for Mazda MX-5 Miata street and track applications. The kits provide more torque using 11.75-in. diameter rotors and pairing them with lightweight, rigid, forged aluminum four-piston calipers. The complete kits are engineered to bolt on to factory hubs and spindles without modification.
AutoMeter's new Plug-N-Play Ford Tachometer Adapter Harness (PN 9126) lets you connect the adapter to your late-model Ford engine in minutes. The harness features OEM connectors and wiring, making for a hassle-free installation with no splicing, according to the manufacturer. It is compatible with '09-plus Ford F-150, '10-plus Ford Mustang, '21-plus Ford Bronco and more.
Metra Electronics has released two new stereo installation kits (PN 95-7804B and PN 95-7804HG) for the '13-'17 Honda Accord featuring the same stereo mounting face plate as the manufacturer's series. Both kits are engineered to help install a 4-in. tall aftermarket radio into the original vehicle dashboard. All interfacing is sold separately to provide a more customizable solution, the company said.
Quad Lock has partnered with McLaren Racing to offer a range of officially licensed McLaren phone cases, mounts and accessories. Available in the McLaren Racing Edition, Lando Norris Edition and Oscar Piastri Edition, each case is engineered with Quad Lock's MAG technology and is compatible with all Quad Lock mounts and accessories. The Quad Lock McLaren Racing MAG Water Bottle features an integrated MAG mechanism on the cap.
Follower counts: 3.8k on Instagram; 255 on TikTok; 171 subscribers on YouTube
Focus: BMW community, N5X motors, E9X chassis and overall high-horsepower street and drag-car builds
Keely Gorney, a content creator, automotive professional and stalwart of the BMW enthusiast community, is aiming to take on a bigger role in the aftermarket world in 2025, with plans to attend more events, grow her online audience and connect further with like-minded enthusiasts through advocacy efforts that support the industry. She recently advanced that goal by joining SEMA/PRI in Washington, D.C., to help fight to stop the ban on internal combustion engines (ICE).
Get to know Gorney in her interview with SEMA News below.
SEMA News: How did you get into the automotive industry?
Keely Gorney: I've always been surrounded by cars, thanks to my dad and his side of the family. From a young age, my dad would take me to our local track, Firebird Raceway, where we'd watch Funny Cars, junior drag races and more drag racing. He also introduced me to what I can only call the worst addiction: speed. Before my time, my dad built custom mini trucks, some of which were even featured in magazines and car shows. One of the memories that stands out the most is when my dad put 100-octane fuel into one of his trucks, which made it shoot flames out of the exhaust. From that moment, I was hooked on cars.
Growing up, I was always watching my dad work on his vehicles, whether he was upgrading the interior, installing new sound systems or adding exterior modifications. I'd often find him making his cars more personal, which inspired me to do the same. My younger brother Xavier and I would spend hours playing "car school," a game we made up with Hot Wheels cars. We'd set up Lego classrooms, create tiny paper dyno sheets and race our cars down Hot Wheels tracks to see which one was the fastest. We even went to Hot Wheels Pinks Racing events where we could trade, buy and race Hot Wheels cars to win prizes. Those little moments were the start of my love for cars.
Then, in elementary school, I saw the E46 M3 in Need for Speed, and that's when I really got into BMWs. Both of my parents owned BMWs and I instantly knew that one day I wanted to have one of my own. That dream came true when my dad bought an E93 '11 BMW 335i. It was my first time driving a turbo-powered BMW and I was completely hooked. I may or may not have snuck out with it for late-night drives before I even had my license. My dad also allegedly took me to street racing events to drive his car, which helped me become comfortable handling high-performance cars. Those experiences helped me feel confident handling performance vehicles. Today, I'm proud to drive my own 600-plus-hp single-turbo BMW, and I owe so much of that passion and knowledge to those early experiences with my dad and brother.
Professionally, I've taken my passion for cars to the next level. I started as the manager of operations at Vader Solutions, a high-performance BMW shop based in Mesa, Arizona. Working closely with the owner, Omar, was a game-changer for me. He pushed me to pursue my BMW build goals, helped develop my career and provided invaluable mentorship that expanded my network, and deepened my car knowledge and skillset. More recently, I've been with Carvana since 2021, where I'm now a team lead. This role has allowed me to grow professionally in the automotive industry. Additionally, I've had the opportunity to collaborate with brands like Bimmer Invasion, FCP Euro, Elite Tuner and more, which has been an amazing way to expand my reach and contribute to the automotive community on a larger scale.
SN: What's been your biggest motivator?
KG: My biggest motivator, automotive-wise, is ensuring that my '08 BMW 335i lasts my lifetime. It's a forever build for me. I'm dedicated to doing everything I can to keep it running long-term. From advocating for combustion engines and sharing knowledge about the BMW community to becoming deeply familiar with the inner workings of my car and engine. I want it to outlive me and continue being a symbol of my passion. Additionally, one of my goals is to eventually own an individual BMW M3 that I can build to my exact specifications.
Professionally, my motivation revolves around becoming more well-rounded and creating my own personal brand. I aspire to leave a lasting impact on a community of people. That's why I focus heavily on leading and supporting events, networking and pushing my personal/online brand forward. Building connections and contributing to the community is what drives me.
Outside of that, I'm all about mantras, and the one that resonates with me the most is one I created myself: "Mentality is everything; success is earned." It's a constant reminder that my mindset shapes my success.
SN: What's been your favorite part of being a part of the automotive community?
KG: I know it sounds cliché, but honestly, the best part of being part of the automotive community is the community itself. The BMW community, in particular, is by far the most tight-knit group of people I've ever met. I've built lasting relationships through it! I met my boyfriend, my best friend and have grown even closer with my little brother, all thanks to being more involved. Beyond that, the opportunities I've received have been incredible, and they've all come from simply doing what I love and staying true to myself. It's amazing how the automotive world has connected me with so many amazing people and opened doors I never expected.
SN: As a content creator in the industry, how do you hope to make an impact on your audience?
KG: As a content creator in the automotive industry, my main goal is to make sure that everyone who interacts with me feels heard, valued and supported. The car community is filled with so many passionate individuals, and I want to shine a light on them and give them the recognition they deserve. I don't want to be seen as just another surface-level content creator. I want to truly make an impact by highlighting important things that can impact myself and my audience, celebrating my audience's wins and motivating them to move forward with their goals. The community's support is what fuels my own dreams, and I want to return that by encouraging and uplifting them in their journey. My aim is to build a meaningful connection with my audience, helping them feel seen and heard, while also sharing in the excitement of their automotive passions and achievements.
SN: What made you want to integrate advocacy into your content?
KG: As someone who's often looked to as the "voice of reason" in group chats I manage for BMW owners (and trust me, you can imagine the interesting exchanges that come up), I decided to take that role a step further. I'm deeply involved with the AZ BMW Club, Road Runner CCA, N54/N55 enthusiast groups and E9X Owners, and I help support events hosted by Bimmer Invasion and FCP Euro.
With all the behind-the-scenes work I do to ensure events run smoothly, help people connect with communities within the BMW world and share valuable tips and tricks, it just made sense for me to broaden my reach and use my platform to advocate for the things that matter to the community. I want to show people that I'm in the trenches for them. Whether it's helping them connect with fellow enthusiasts or advocating for laws that could impact the future of the cars we all love, it's all about making sure the community thrives and stays strong for years to come.
SN: What's been the biggest moment of your career thus far?
KG: The biggest moment of my career so far has to be when I decided to drop out of college to pursue my passion for cars. I went from being a full-time student working toward a double major in psychology and neuroscience to making the bold decision to work at Vader Solutions and Carvana while building my BMWs and getting more involved in the car community. It was a huge leap, but it ultimately set the foundation for everything that followed.
Since then, I've had several pivotal moments that have shaped my journey. One of the biggest was attending the 2024 SEMA Show, which was an incredible opportunity to connect with industry leaders and showcase my passion. I've gotten much closer to the Bimmer Invasion team, had the chance to work with Donuts & Wheels as a model for their brand and was even recognized by the CEO of FCP Euro more than two years ago for my loyalty as an FCP customer. It's been surreal to see all these companies take notice of my work and passion, and it continues to fuel my drive every day.
SN: What is on the horizon for you in 2025? Anything you're looking forward to?
KG: 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year already, and we're only three months in! The rest of the year is packed with events all across the country, most of which will be with the Bimmer Invasion team. I'm also working on transitioning into a role that allows me to focus more on content creation, get closer to the community and support car culture on a deeper level. The reason I'm pursuing this change is to produce better content, travel to car events and be in a position that aligns more with my passions. Everyone wants to do a job they love, something that doesn't feel like work, and that's what I'm striving for. I'm looking for a company that values the car community as much as I do.
On the personal side, I have some ambitious goals. Social media-wise, I'm aiming to hit 5,000 followers on Instagram. I've also got some exciting upgrades planned for my own car, including a transmission swap, pushing it to 700-plus hp, getting my wheels redone and possibly giving it a fresh paint job! I'm also hoping to find a project car. Preferably an E92 BMW 328i manual. I want this so I can track build/daily drive it.
All in all, I'm excited about the opportunities coming up, from the events I'll be attending to the progress I'll be making on my car. 2025 is definitely going to be a year to remember!
Are you a passionate automotive or racing content creator? Do you want to get involved with SEMA/PRI and spread the word about important advocacy initiatives? Contact Lauren Wilbor from the SEMA Washington, D.C., office at laurenpw@sema.org.
