By SEMA News Editors

Are you hunting for a new job? The SEMA Career Center has a comprehensive listing of automotive-related job openings nationwide. Below are some of the latest postings.

Canepa

Engine Builder in Scotts Valley, California

Canepa is seeking an experienced high-performance engine builder with experience in all aspects of engine building, including engine diagnosis, functions, machining, repair, rebuilding and tuning, plus knowledge of fuel systems from carburetion to modern fuel injection.

AMS Performance

Build Specialist and Retail Sales in Batavia, Illinois

This role will guide customers from initial consultation through completed high-performance builds, combining hands-on build coordination, retail sales and community outreach, requiring strong performance knowledge and sales skills, as well as a passion for helping enthusiasts achieve their vehicle goals.

BluePrint Engines

Customer Service Manager in Kearney, Nebraska

BluePrint Engines is seeking a people-focused customer service manager to lead, mentor, and support a customer service team while ensuring excellent customer experience and consistent communication. This role emphasizes team development, process improvement, cross-department collaboration and proactive problem-solving.

By SEMA News Editors

Sean Lee Appointed Global Head of Genesis

Genesis, the South Korean automaker owned by Hyundai, has appointed Sean (Sihyeok) Lee as the brand's new global head and promoted Lee to senior vice president.

In his new role, Lee will oversee the global Genesis organization and lead the brand into its next decade, following the celebration of Genesis' 10th anniversary and the successful launch of the Genesis Magma program.

Lee brings 25 years of automotive experience at Hyundai Motor Company, including multiple leadership roles within the Genesis brand. Since joining the company in 2000, he has worked across brand management, marketing and product divisions.

Lee joined Genesis in August 2017, where he led product planning and operations, contributing significantly to growth in global product volume and profitability, according to the company.

Since 2021, he has held several leadership roles across Hyundai and Genesis operations in North America. Most recently, he led product and business planning, playing a pivotal role in driving both quantitative and qualitative growth in Genesis' largest overseas market.

Lee succeeds Mike (Min Kyu) Song, who has served as global head of Genesis for the past three years.

For more information, visit genesis.com.

F1 Arcade Announces Jonathan Peters as New CEO

As part of a planned leadership transition, F1 Arcade has appointed Jonathan Peters, previously global president, as the entertainment company's new CEO.

Co-founders Adam Breeden and Diane Jervis will transition to non-executive director roles, as the business scales up and enters new markets, continuing to support the company in strategic areas but stepping back from day-to-day operations.

The expansion plans include the opening of its 15,000-sq.-ft. venue in Atlanta, Georgia, as well as its first mainland European location in Madrid, Spain.

Additionally, F1 Arcade has added to its leadership team, appointing Adam Hughes, formerly European finance director at Soho House, as chief financial officer; Tom Littlechild, who previously served as head of brand at Formula 1, as interim chief marketing officer; and Janene Pretorius as chief people officer.

For more information, visit f1arcade.com.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Jeni Bukolt as the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member. Bukolt is the founder and CEO of Haven Creative, a communications consultancy.

Get to know Bukolt in her interview with SEMA News below.

SEMA News: How many years have you been with your current company and what do you enjoy most about working there?

Jeni Bukolt: I founded Haven Creative a little over 12 years ago. What I enjoy most is the opportunity to collaborate with amazing people--both my team and our clients. I love using creativity and strategy to solve problems and make meaningful connections that drive growth.

SN: What is the most challenging part of running your business or job?

JB: People. Business isn't just about strategy and execution--it's about humans. Leading a team, managing client relationships and navigating change all require clarity, compassion and radical candor. It's the hardest part and the most rewarding. Building a culture where people feel seen, heard and empowered fuels everything we do.

SN: How many years have you been in the industry and what was your first industry job?

JB: I've been in and out of the automotive and communications industries for 24 years. My first role was as a production assistant at Hot Rod TV and MotorTrend TV, a job I landed thanks to a family connection and sheer grit. From there, I found my way back to the automotive aftermarket as a brand strategist and eventually built Haven Creative, working with standout clients like Warn, Fab Fours, FabTech, Factor 55 and some of the industry's top installers.

SN: What are three qualities that got you to where you are today?

JB: Grit, tenacity and a bias toward action. Grit kept me pushing through moments when failure felt inevitable. Tenacity fueled bold goals others thought were out of reach. My hunger to get sh!t done has helped me adapt to an industry and a world that's constantly changing. Together, these traits have helped me move faster, braver and smarter.

SN: Being a woman in the industry, what have been your biggest challenges and accomplishments?

JB: One of my biggest challenges--and unexpected advantages--has been being underestimated. Early on, I was often the only woman in the room and sometimes the youngest. People doubted me. Instead of fighting for permission, I focused on delivering results. Earning respect through hard work and not waiting for someone to hand me a seat at the table became one of my greatest accomplishments.

SN: Who are your role models or mentors in the industry?

JB: While working closely with Fab Fours in the early days, I was inspired by its founder Greg Higgs. He was unapologetically himself and created bold, innovative ideas that stood out from the crowd.

Jessi Combs' legacy, carried forward by the Jessi Combs Foundation, has also been a powerful inspiration for me. Seeing how Jessi blazed her own trail with authenticity and grit made me more confident in how I show up in the industry and as a business leader.

SN: What is the best career advice you have received?

JB: Greg Higgs' father Bill Higgs once said, "All problems are communication problems." This advice shaped the way I run Haven Creative. Whether it's a client issue or an internal challenge, I approach it by analyzing and resolving communication gaps. This philosophy has led to stronger teams and more impactful client relationships.

SN: Have you always wanted to work in the automotive industry? What keeps you here?

JB: Not initially. I stumbled into the industry thanks to my dad's connection at PRIMEDIA, which led me to MotorTrend and Hot Rod TV, and I’ll admit I was terrified at first. What I found was a world fueled by passion, grit and innovation. That energy--the drive to build, innovate and go beyond--is what keeps me here.

SN: Who was the most influential person in shaping your career or goals?

JB: My dad. From day one, he encouraged me to chase purpose over a paycheck. When I didn’t know what I wanted to do, he taught me to stay curious and be brave enough to find out. Kevin Oeste, now with V8 Speedshop, was another early influence. He helped me see that even as a newcomer, I had value to offer and that sometimes the best thing you can do is jump in, listen hard and figure it out as you go.

Fill out a #SheIsSEMA spotlight form to submit a self-nomination or nominate a colleague and highlight how you or she is contributing to the specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are automatically eligible for consideration for SBN's #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year award, featured on SBN's social media, SEMA News and recognized on the sema.org/she-is-sema website.

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA is calling on passionate members like you to get involved and make an impact! Volunteer now for Members-at-Large positions across SEMA's nine Councils and Networks. 

Serving as a volunteer leader is your opportunity to: 

• Expand your network – Connect with fellow industry professionals and leaders. 
• Shape the future – Influence programs, events, and resources that move the industry forward. 
• Build your skills – Gain leadership experience and professional development. 
• Give back – Contribute your expertise to help others in the community. 
• Be recognized – Stand out as an engaged, committed industry advocate. 
• Have a voice – Represent your segment and share ideas that matter. 

Your participation helps strengthen the community that drives us all forward. 

👉 Apply today to become a Member-at-Large Volunteer and help guide the future of your industry. 

SEMA's Councils and Networks: 

• Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) 
• Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) 
• Future Leaders Network (FLN) 
• Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) 
• Motorsports Performance & Media Council (MPMC) 
• Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) 
• SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) 
• Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) 
• Wheel, Tire, Suspension, & Brake Council (WTSBC) 

Together, we drive the industry forward. 

SEMA is calling on passionate members like you to get involved and make an impact! Volunteer now for Members-at-Large positions across SEMA’s nine Councils and Networks. 

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA is hosting its 2026 General Membership Meeting on Wednesday, January 28, during the MPMC Media Trade Conference in Anaheim, California.

Open to all SEMA business members, the General Membership Meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, January 28, at 5:15 p.m. PST in the Media Trade Conference Ballroom at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Anaheim South in Anaheim, California.

The annual meeting provides members with an opportunity to receive updates on association initiatives, learn about priorities for the coming year, connect with fellow industry professionals and share feedback that helps guide SEMA's future direction.

The General Membership Meeting will be held alongside the MPMC Media Trade Conference, scheduled for January 27–29, 2026, in Anaheim. Attendance at the conference is not required to participate in the membership meeting.

For more information on the MPMC Media Trade Conference, visit sema.org/mtc or contact MPMC Council Director Mary Yanus at marcy@sema.org or Juan Torres at juant@sema.org.

Attendance to the MPMC Media Trade Conference is not required to attend the meeting. In accordance with SEMA bylaws, this notification is provided at least 30 days in advance to ensure all members have the opportunity to participate.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA members attending King of the Hammers in Johnson Valley, California, are invited to a cross-council networking mixer hosted by the Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA), Future Leaders Network (FLN), SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) and Wheel, Tire, Suspension & Brake Council (WTSBC). The mixer will take place on Thursday, February 5, from 6:00–8:00 p.m. PST inside the Hammertown VIP tent. 

The mixer is a great opportunity for attendees to grow their professional network, discover resources to enhance their business or simply connect with peers in a relaxed environment. Select committee leaders will be on-site to share volunteer and education opportunities, targeted professional development programs and upcoming in-person and virtual events that members can look forward to in 2026.   

If you are attending King of the Hammers, don't miss your chance to join great conversations with great company. Complimentary appetizers and refreshments will be provided. Registration is encouraged.

Register here.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA members attending King of the Hammers in Johnson Valley, California, are invited to a cross-council networking mixer hosted by the Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA), Future Leaders Network (FLN), SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) and Wheel, Tire, Suspension & Brake Council (WTSBC). The mixer will take place on Thursday, February 5, from 6:00–8:00 p.m. PST inside the Hammertown VIP tent. 

The mixer is a great opportunity for attendees to grow their professional network, discover resources to enhance their business or simply connect with peers in a relaxed environment. Select committee leaders will be on-site to share volunteer and education opportunities, targeted professional development programs and upcoming in-person and virtual events that members can look forward to in 2026.   

If you are attending King of the Hammers, don't miss your chance to join great conversations with great company. Complimentary appetizers and refreshments will be provided. Registration is encouraged.

Register here.

By SEMA News Editors

The SEMA Garage continues to host engaging, hands-on events in partnership with AUTEL. These two-day training sessions focus on advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and help participants gain valuable knowledge on fundamentals, calibration techniques and necessary reporting practices. As the number of ADAS-equipped vehicles continues to grow, mastering the proper calibration of these systems is becoming increasingly vital. 

• SEMA Garage Diamond Bar will host its next AUTEL ADAS training session on Tuesday, January 13, and Wednesday, January 14, (with an optional third day of training on Thursday, January 15) at the facility located at 1577 S. Valley Vista Dr., Diamond Bar, CA, 91765.
• SEMA Garage Detroit will host its next AUTEL ADAS training session on Tuesday, February 3, and Wednesday, February 4, at the facility located at 14655 Jib St., Plymouth, MI, 48170.

🆕BIG NEWS: attendees at the Diamond Bar location can now opt into an exclusive third day of training, available only at that facility. The optional Day 3 on January 15--available exclusively at SEMA Garage Diamond Bar--reinforces the objectives from the two-day curriculum by layering diagnostics, decision-making and liability awareness onto real-world ADAS calibration scenarios. Concepts are applied through hands-on exercises rather than taught as standalone lectures. To participate in the 3rd day of ADAS training at SEMA Garage Diamond Bar, choose the "3-Day" option when signing up. 

Note: "Day 3" option requires additional fee. 

👉 Reserve your spot now at the Autel Academy website: autel.us/autel-academy (select ADAS TRAINING, then click the "California" or "Detroit" tab). Can't make it in January or February? Stay tuned for more training opportunities later in 2026.

The most recent SEMA Garage AUTEL sessions sold out quickly, so organizers recommend signing up NOW!

Want more details? Read a recap article here, or reach out to Autel via email to academy@autel.com or visit autel.us/autel-academy for details.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

In January, SEMA mapped its advocacy agenda for 2025, and our advocates showed up in force as we elevated to heights previously unseen by the automotive aftermarket.

Here's your 2026 SEMA/PRI advocacy wrap-up:

• More than 125,000 letters to Congress
• More than 3,000,000 voters reached
• Two pro-race track victories (North Carolina and Iowa)
• Two anti-race track bills defeated (Arkansas and Oregon)
• 330,000 jobs protected from EV mandates
• Biggest-ever increase of SEMA & PRI PAC Red Line Keyholder donors

Preserving Vehicle Choice

SEMA was at the White House when President Trump signed into law a Congressional Review Act resolution that revoked California's a 2024 waiver that allowed the state to ban the sale of new internal-combustion-engine vehicles, not only in California but in 12 other states. SEMA's successful campaign even won international accolades, with the Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) presenting SEMA with its first President's Award for Excellence in Communication for our unyielding efforts to mobilize the automotive community against EV mandates.

Ensuring Your Right to Modify

In a watershed moment for American car culture, SEMA secured the introduction of the "ADAS Functionality & Integrity Act" (H.R. 6688) in the U.S. House of Representatives, marking the first time that Congress has introduced legislation to protect vehicle owners' right to modify. If passed, this bipartisan bill would ensure that aftermarket businesses have the information needed to properly calibrate advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) after vehicles are modified, which is critical to being able to safely modify new vehicles, including common modifications like installing bike racks, wrapping a vehicle, installing larger wheels and tires or installing a winch, bull bar or an aftermarket bumper.

Protecting the Right to Race

SEMA and PRI took the checkered flag in a handful of efforts to protect race tracks nationwide. SEMA halted legislation in Oregon and Arkansas that would have shut down important local tracks, and in North Carolina and Iowa, helped establish new protections that will enable race tracks to stay open and fight back against nuisance complaints. SEMA and PRI also laid the groundwork for forthcoming action to secure a more sustainable economic landscape for race tracks across the nation via the bipartisan Motorsports Fairness and Permanency Act (H.R. 2231/ S. 2462).

Maintaining Access to Public Lands

SEMA kicked off 2025 with a win for the off-road community, as President Biden signed into law the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences Act (EXPLORE Act), which improves the permitting process for motorized recreation events on federal lands. And the California Supreme Court ruled to uphold a SEMA-supported effort to preserve motorized access to Oceano Dunes, the only place in California where off-road enthusiasts can drive and camp on the beach for off-roading, camping and exploring. 

Telling Your Story About Tariffs

SEMA has used its platform to share with the Trump Administration and lawmakers how tariffs are impacting your business. SEMA met with the Department of Commerce to discuss survey data collected from our member businesses on tariff impacts and continues to communicate how the automotive aftermarket is impacted by these policies.

Helping Small Businesses Thrive

SEMA helped secure passage of the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act," which provides tax certainty to American small businesses and will help the aftermarket thrive.  The law includes several key provisions that benefit SEMA member companies, including reduced tax rates for individuals and pass-through businesses, the 199a deduction made permanent, Section 179 expensing cap increased, full expensing for research and development and capital investments, expanded business interest deductions and 100% immediate deductibility of certain investments in new factories and improvements.

Defense of Classic Vehicles and Collector Rights

SEMA made significant gains in the fight to modernize California's smog-check laws to help collectors of classic vehicles. This effort, dubbed Leno's Law, earned bipartisan support and represents the most significant progress we've made in California on this sort of bill in decades.

Protection of Small Businesses from Regulatory Overreach

SEMA backed a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposal to overturn the 2009 "endangerment" finding on greenhouse gases and repeal the greenhouse gas standards for light- and medium-duty motor vehicles. Our improved relationship with the EPA was never more evident than when EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin visited with SEMA leaders at the 2025 SEMA Show in Las Vegas.

Want to learn more? Keep an eye out for the forthcoming 2026 Advocacy Agenda, visit sema.org/advocacy for the latest news and resources, and give a follow to SEMA Action on Instagram to be a part of our growing community of advocates.

Image courtesy of Tupungato, Shutterstock

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

In January, SEMA mapped its advocacy agenda for 2025, and our advocates showed up in force as we elevated to heights previously unseen by the automotive aftermarket.

Here's your 2026 SEMA/PRI advocacy wrap-up:

• More than 125,000 letters to Congress
• More than 3,000,000 voters reached
• Two pro-race track victories (North Carolina and Iowa)
• Two anti-race track bills defeated (Arkansas and Oregon)
• 330,000 jobs protected from EV mandates
• Biggest-ever increase of SEMA & PRI PAC Red Line Keyholder donors

Preserving Vehicle Choice

SEMA was at the White House when President Trump signed into law a Congressional Review Act resolution that revoked California's a 2024 waiver that allowed the state to ban the sale of new internal-combustion-engine vehicles, not only in California but in 12 other states. SEMA's successful campaign even won international accolades, with the Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) presenting SEMA with its first President's Award for Excellence in Communication for our unyielding efforts to mobilize the automotive community against EV mandates.

Ensuring Your Right to Modify

In a watershed moment for American car culture, SEMA secured the introduction of the "ADAS Functionality & Integrity Act" (H.R. 6688) in the U.S. House of Representatives, marking the first time that Congress has introduced legislation to protect vehicle owners' right to modify. If passed, this bipartisan bill would ensure that aftermarket businesses have the information needed to properly calibrate advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) after vehicles are modified, which is critical to being able to safely modify new vehicles, including common modifications like installing bike racks, wrapping a vehicle, installing larger wheels and tires or installing a winch, bull bar or an aftermarket bumper.

Protecting the Right to Race

SEMA and PRI took the checkered flag in a handful of efforts to protect race tracks nationwide. SEMA halted legislation in Oregon and Arkansas that would have shut down important local tracks, and in North Carolina and Iowa, helped establish new protections that will enable race tracks to stay open and fight back against nuisance complaints. SEMA and PRI also laid the groundwork for forthcoming action to secure a more sustainable economic landscape for race tracks across the nation via the bipartisan Motorsports Fairness and Permanency Act (H.R. 2231/ S. 2462).

Maintaining Access to Public Lands

SEMA kicked off 2025 with a win for the off-road community, as President Biden signed into law the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences Act (EXPLORE Act), which improves the permitting process for motorized recreation events on federal lands. And the California Supreme Court ruled to uphold a SEMA-supported effort to preserve motorized access to Oceano Dunes, the only place in California where off-road enthusiasts can drive and camp on the beach for off-roading, camping and exploring. 

Telling Your Story About Tariffs

SEMA has used its platform to share with the Trump Administration and lawmakers how tariffs are impacting your business. SEMA met with the Department of Commerce to discuss survey data collected from our member businesses on tariff impacts and continues to communicate how the automotive aftermarket is impacted by these policies.

Helping Small Businesses Thrive

SEMA helped secure passage of the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act," which provides tax certainty to American small businesses and will help the aftermarket thrive.  The law includes several key provisions that benefit SEMA member companies, including reduced tax rates for individuals and pass-through businesses, the 199a deduction made permanent, Section 179 expensing cap increased, full expensing for research and development and capital investments, expanded business interest deductions and 100% immediate deductibility of certain investments in new factories and improvements.

Defense of Classic Vehicles and Collector Rights

SEMA made significant gains in the fight to modernize California's smog-check laws to help collectors of classic vehicles. This effort, dubbed Leno's Law, earned bipartisan support and represents the most significant progress we've made in California on this sort of bill in decades.

Protection of Small Businesses from Regulatory Overreach

SEMA backed a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposal to overturn the 2009 "endangerment" finding on greenhouse gases and repeal the greenhouse gas standards for light- and medium-duty motor vehicles. Our improved relationship with the EPA was never more evident than when EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin visited with SEMA leaders at the 2025 SEMA Show in Las Vegas.

Want to learn more? Keep an eye out for the forthcoming 2026 Advocacy Agenda, visit sema.org/advocacy for the latest news and resources, and give a follow to SEMA Action on Instagram to be a part of our growing community of advocates.

Image courtesy of Tupungato, Shutterstock