By SEMA News Editors

PRI Announces Programming for Motorsports Engineering Symposium at 2026 PRI Show

PRI has announced the session schedule for the inaugural PRI Motorsports Engineering Symposium, taking place Thursday, December 10, during the 2026 PRI Show at the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. 

To register and learn more about the PRI Show, visit PRI2026.com/Attend.

The PRI Motorsports Engineering Symposium will bring race engineers, motorsports professionals, manufacturers, educators and emerging engineering talent together for technical discussions focused on the challenges shaping modern motorsports. Sessions will examine the engineering challenges that impact on-track performance, from simulation and powertrain development to materials, manufacturing and workforce development. 

The technical sessions will feature perspectives from leaders across motorsports and engineering, including experts from INDYCAR, Purdue University and Motor State Distributing. 

2026 PRI MOTORSPORTS ENGINEERING SYMPOSIUM SCHEDULE (all times Eastern)

10:00 a.m. — Opening Statements 

10:15 a.m. — From Simulation to Track: Closing the Performance Gap 

11:15 a.m. — Powertrain & Thermal Limits: Where Performance Breaks 

12:15 p.m. — Purdue Networking Lunch: Engineering Exchange 

1:30 p.m. — Building the Next Race Engineer: Closing the Talent Gap 

2:30 p.m. — Materials & Manufacturing: Speed to Track 

3:30 p.m. — The Future of Motorsports Engineering 

4:30 p.m. — Closing Remarks 

"The PRI Motorsports Engineering Symposium is designed to bring different areas of motorsports engineering into the same conversation," said PRI Managing Director Doug Bresnahan. "From simulation and powertrain development to materials, manufacturing and developing the next generation of engineers, these are issues that affect the future of the industry. Bringing the right people together to share knowledge and experience is an important part of PRI's commitment to technical education and industry advancement."

"The technical demands of motorsports continue to evolve, and the companies supporting the industry have to evolve with them," said Motor State Distributing Vice President of Marketing Daryl Sampson. "This program creates an opportunity to share knowledge, explore new technologies and connect with the engineers and professionals who are solving these challenges every day." 

"Developing the next generation of motorsports engineers requires more than classroom learning," said Purdue University Director of Motorsports Engineering Chris Finch. "It requires opportunities to connect students and emerging engineers with the people, technologies and challenges shaping the industry. The program provides a valuable forum for that exchange." 

"Engineering decisions are ultimately about finding performance, and that requires bringing together data, technology and experience," said INDYCAR Vice President of Competition and Engineering Mike O'Gara. "Creating a forum where engineers and industry professionals can discuss those challenges and share what they are learning is valuable for the entire motorsports community." 

The PRI Motorsports Engineering Symposium is open to all registered PRI Show attendees. A valid PRI Show badge is required for entry. There are no additional registration requirements or fees to attend. 

For questions about Symposium registration, contact PRI at mail@performanceracing.com or 812-592-7219. 

Register for the 2026 PRI Show  

The 2026 PRI Show takes place December 10-12 at the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, bringing together motorsports professionals from across the globe.  

Register today to connect with more than 1,000 exhibiting companies across more than 370,000 net sq. ft. of exhibit space, explore new products and technologies, attend education sessions, network with industry professionals and experience everything the PRI Show has to offer.  

To register and learn more, visit PRI2026.com/Attend. PRI membership is no longer required to attend.

Autobahn Country Club Unveils Expanded North Track

Autobahn Country Club, the Joliet, Illinois, private motorsports club, has unveiled its newly expanded North Track, part of the facility's "Drive to 2035" long-term development plan.

The $3-million expansion of Autobahn's North Track marks one of the track's most significant investments since opening in 2004, according to track officials.

"When we created Autobahn, the idea was simple but radical: car enthusiasts deserved a community of their own," said Mark Basso, co-founder of Autobahn Country Club. "More than two decades later, this expansion shows that the idea is still evolving. We are enhancing the experience on a track they already know and love while preserving the character of the original circuit and staying true to what makes this community so special."

The expansion adds approximately half a mile of new track, featuring a 21-ft. elevation change, an 11% grade and a technical series of esses. The longest North Track configuration will now measure 1.5 miles with 12 turns, compared with the original nine-turn circuit. New connection points also allow the North Track to be driven in five distinct configurations, bringing Autobahn's total road-course configurations to 11.

The new track was designed by Tilke Engineers and Architects, the international firm behind Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas, Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi, and the Bahrain International Circuit.

The North Track expansion is the first major project within Drive to 2035, Autobahn's broader vision to evolve its 330-acre campus and enhance the member and guest experience for years to come, track officials said, building on more than two decades of operational experience that has transformed Autobahn from a private road-course concept into a comprehensive automotive destination.

Autobahn is home to more than 560 members and a Member Racing Series that hosts 51 car races annually across open wheel, prototype and GT classes. Beyond its North and South road courses, the campus includes Kart Circuit Autobahn, the Autobahn Driver Academy powered by Toyota, Teen Driver Academy powered by Toyota, the Toyota TRD Pro Off-Road Experience Center, autocross, a 3-acre skid pad, corporate and group programs as well as hospitality experiences.

The new North Track will be unveiled at a special event on October 7 and will officially open during Autobahn's OktoberFast weekend, October 16–18.

For more information, visit autobahncc.com.

Image courtesy of Autobahn Country Club.

Barely Disguised: All-Electric '27 Porsche Boxster

It's been nearly five years since the first sighting of the highly anticipated Porsche 718 Electric, which is due to launch in very late 2026 for the '27 model year. Codenamed 983, the zero-emission sports car has now been spotted again testing on the Nürburgring for the first time without camouflage.

The black prototype in these pictures is the Boxster. Up front, we can see a variety of active cooling slats inspired by those of the 992.2-phase 911 Carrera GTS and 911 Turbo S. Bang in the center of the front bumper, Porsche integrated the radar sensor that makes adaptive cruise control possible. The active flaps are dual-purpose units that manage cooling and aerodynamic efficiency. While stickers may attempt to disguise the front lights, the four-point DRL signature is evident.

Equipped with stylish dual-spoke black alloys that frame steel brakes, the 718 Boxster Electric prototype features a center-mounted charge door out back. The charging flap is located between the rear license plate and the full-width light bar that connects the slim taillights.

From the rear, we also notice that Porsche went for a nearly flat underbody to improve aerodynamics. Based on a 718-specific derivative of the Premium Platform Electric, the all-new 718 will surely launch with an 800-volt architecture and two drivetrain configurations.

The standard layout should be a rear-mounted electric drive unit, whereas the higher-performance specifications are believed to adopt dual-motor setups. Three or more would be overkill for this application, especially when you remember that its high-voltage battery weighs a lot more than a full tank of gasoline.

Prospective customers will further be presented with a techy interior that could offer an optional passenger-side touchscreen. At least one steering column-mounted paddle is certain to happen, although we look forward to a couple of paddles.

In lesser Porsche battery-electric vehicles, the left and right paddles increase and decrease the level of recuperation. But in the Taycan Turbo GT, the right paddle activates a performance mode that provides a temporary power boost.

Due to packaging constraints, the T-shaped battery of the 718 Electric Boxster and 718 Electric Cayman isn't likely to match that of the Taycan. Originally intended to be electric-only models, the 983-series 718 Boxster and 718 Cayman will also get internal-combustion options.

Porsche quietly confirmed this change of heart during the latest investor call. Because the PPE Sport architecture of the 983 wasn't developed with internal combustion in mind, it presently lacks the structural space for a six-pot boxer, a transmission, the fuel tank and the exhaust system.

Engineers are believed to be working on a new structural floor section that bolts perfectly into the mounting points of the full-electric platform, restoring the rigidity lost by removing the load-bearing battery pack. In any case, these internal-combustion 983s are certain to be priced higher than electric 983 models.

From Track to Road: The Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series

The future Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series is taking on an increasingly concrete form. Compared to the first prototypes, a great deal has changed with this high-performance model. While the early vehicles still bore a strong visual resemblance to hand-built GT3 racing cars, the current prototype already looks much closer to a production car developed for public roads.

Refined touches have been made practically all around the vehicle. The front, sides and rear feature numerous changes. At the front, the revised headlights are particularly striking. The rear lights now also feature a design that appears ready for series production.

AMG seems to have carried out particularly extensive work on the rear. The bumper, side skirts and the entire area around the diffuser have been modified compared to the first test vehicles. At the same time, the active rear spoiler has grown significantly and is therefore likely to play an important role not only visually but also aerodynamically. Another interesting new feature can be found on the rear window: a small fin is visible there for the first time. The doors and side windows have also been modified during the course of development.

Another interesting feature is the fuel filler flap on the passenger side, near the B-pillar. On earlier prototypes, this design still looked heavily inspired by motor racing. On the current prototype, it now gives a much more production-ready impression.

There is little doubt that AMG will not compromise on maximum performance with the upcoming Black Series. The numerous aerodynamic details and the visible links to motorsport suggest that the model will once again bring plenty of motorsport DNA to the road.

At the same time, the current stage of development makes it clear that AMG is evidently in an advanced phase of testing. The upcoming Black Series could therefore not only be a particularly radical model in terms of its appearance, but also set new standards in terms of driving dynamics. A world premiere is currently expected in early 2027. Until then, however, the Black Series is likely to complete a few more laps as a prototype––presumably with less and less camouflage.

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

 By SEMA News Editors

Think your 2026 SEMA Show build has what it takes to stand among the industry's best? Submit it for the 2026 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers High Performance Car Care and put your craftsmanship, creativity and innovation in the spotlight at the SEMA Show. The competition is open for 2026, and builders across the automotive and motorcycle worlds are invited to enter. Builders may enter while working to secure a spot for their vehicle at the 2026 SEMA Show, but the vehicle must have a feature vehicle space or booth space secured by October 16, 2026, to continue in the Battle of the Builders competition. Enter at semabotb.com.

Now in its 13th year, the SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers High Performance Car Care has become a proving ground for custom vehicle builders exhibiting at the SEMA Show. For 2026, the competition is expanding beyond four wheels with the debut of the SEMA Battle of the Builders: Bike Builder Shootout, creating a new opportunity for custom motorcycle builders to earn industry recognition on the SEMA Show stage. Entries will be evaluated separately by motorcycle industry judges based on craftsmanship, design innovation and overall execution, with entries advancing through the competition until one builder is ultimately named the overall Bike Builder champion.

The Bike Builder Shootout joins the program's four core automotive competition classes: Hot Rod & Hot Rod Truck; 4 Wheel Drive & Off-Road; Sport Compact, Import Performance, Luxury & Exotic; and BFGoodrich Young Guns. As in years past, winners from these four classes will advance through the competition, with one ultimately named overall Battle of the Builders champion.

Supporting the Next Generation of Builders With the BFGoodrich Young Guns

Builders age 29 and younger can enter the BFGoodrich Young Guns category, which continues to provide emerging talent with increased visibility and opportunities to compete alongside some of the industry's most respected names.

If you have a 2026 SEMA Show build, you can enter the Battle of the Builders competition while working to secure its Show placement. The BOTB operations team will review applications and verify the vehicle's status for displaying at the 2026 SEMA Show. To continue in the competition, the vehicle's feature vehicle space or booth space must be secured by October 16, 2026.

If you have already secured a spot on the 2026 SEMA Show floor for your build, you can enter now at semabotb.com.

Enter the 2026 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers High Performance Car Care today.

The 2026 SEMA Show is set for November 3-6, in Las Vegas. Interested exhibitors can buy a booth and learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor. Attendee and buyer registration is now open online. For more information, visit semashow.com, the Registration Resource Center, or the 2026 SEMA Show floorplan.  

Tickets are also available for SEMA Fest, the celebration of car culture and music on Friday, November 6, 2026, on the SEMA Show campus. Secure tickets or learn more at semafest.com.   

Note: Battle of the Builders entrants may enter while working to secure their vehicle's placement at the SEMA Show. However, the vehicle must have its feature vehicle space or booth space secured by October 16, 2026, to continue in the 2026 BOTB competition. Applying for the Battle of the Builders does not grant a vehicle a spot at the 2026 SEMA Show.

To apply for a feature vehicle space at the 2026 SEMA Show, a SEMA Show exhibiting company must sponsor the space. Once sponsorship has been secured, builders can apply for a feature vehicle space here. See the feature vehicle rules and regulations for additional information. Questions about applying for a feature vehicle space can be directed to Maurice O'Connell at mauriceo@sema.org.

By SEMA News Editors

Motorsports brands have until Friday, October 2, to register for the MPMC Media Trade Conference (MTC), the industry's premier media networking event. Set for February 2-4, 2027, at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando-International Drive Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, the event marks 30 years of connecting manufacturers with influential media professionals through its  face-to-face meeting format. Register or learn more about the MPMC MTC.

Why Register for the 2027 MPMC Media Trade Conference? 

The MPMC Media Trade Conference gives motorsports manufacturers three days of focused, face-to-face meetings with journalists, editors, broadcasters, podcasters, photographers and content creators covering the automotive aftermarket. Manufacturers can use these meetings to introduce new products, pitch feature ideas, discuss upcoming launches and build relationships that can lead to coverage throughout the year.

What Is the Setup Process for MPMC MTC Manufacturers?

Each registered manufacturer receives a private hotel suite at the Embassy Suites to use as its dedicated meeting space. No complicated booth setup is required. Brands simply bring the products, samples and marketing materials they want to share with media. The suite provides a comfortable setting for focused conversations and product discussions.

How Brands Benefit in Just Three Days

In addition to securing up to 42 scheduled media meetings, the conference provides opportunities to connect with media and industry peers during daily lunches, networking breaks and an industry reception. These informal settings make it easy to continue conversations, meet additional contacts and strengthen relationships outside of scheduled meetings.

Why Is Attending This Event in 2027 Important?

As motorsports enthusiasts increasingly consume information through digital media, video channels, podcasts and social platforms, securing coverage has become more important than ever. The Media Trade Conference gives motorsports brands direct access to the storytellers who can showcase their products, highlight company milestones and generate awareness before, during and after the 2027 racing season, helping brands stay top-of-mind with consumers and industry professionals alike.  

To learn more and to register, visit mediatradeconference.com. 

30th Anniversary MPMC Media Trade Conference
February 2-4, 2027
Embassy Suites by Hilton Orlando-International Drive Convention Center
8978 International Dr., Orlando, FL 32819
mediatradeconference.com

By SEMA News Editors

The light-truck segment has become a dominant force in the U.S. automotive landscape, extending well beyond traditional pickups. Pickups, SUVs, CUVs and vans now account for nearly two-thirds of vehicles on the road, and more than 80% of new-vehicle sales come from these segments. And that continued shift is creating a broad range of opportunities for the specialty-equipment industry.

According to the SEMA Light-Truck Snapshot, pickups remain a significant part of the market, representing about 20% of vehicles on the road. More than $15 billion is spent annually to accessorize and modify pickups, which account for about 30% of the overall specialty-parts market. At the same time, the segment is diversifying as new midsize and small pickups introduce additional platforms for accessories and utility products.

SUVs continue to offer significant opportunities, particularly as automakers expand their off-road-focused offerings in response to consumer demand. The Jeep Wrangler remains one of the most modified vehicles on the road, while the Ford Bronco has continued to gain sales.

CUVs have emerged as another major opportunity. They account for about half of new-vehicle sales and more than 30% of vehicles on the road. Their growing association with outdoor recreation, utility and rugged capability has helped drive CUV accessory sales to 16% of the market.

With more than $30 billion spent each year on accessories and modifications for light trucks, the segment represents a substantial and growing market for specialty-equipment businesses.

The full report goes much further. The new SEMA Light-Truck Snapshot provides a deeper look at the trends, vehicle segments and opportunities shaping this market.

Download the full SEMA Light-Truck Snapshot report for a closer look at the data and findings.

By SEMA News Editors

The SEMA Fest schedule is here, making it easier to plan an action-packed Friday, November 6. Check out the full schedule below, then secure tickets before prices increase on Sunday, October 4––and keep in mind that payment plans remain available through October 9.

For an at-a-glance look at the SEMA Fest lineup, check out the schedule graphic at the end of the article. It's an easy way to see when each performance and attraction takes the stage.

Following a day of exploring on the SEMA Show floor on Friday, November 6, the doors to SEMA Fest open at 3:00 p.m. PST. Enjoy the atmosphere and check out the rare supercars and hypercars from Supercar Saturdays Florida before the high-energy Globe of Death begins its world-famous stunt show from 3:30 p.m.-3:50 p.m. PST.

Then, from 4:00 p.m.-4:40 p.m. PST, The Alive opens the music lineup with a fresh California rock sound rooted in surf, skate and hard-driving live performance. The band cites influences including Black Sabbath, Nirvana, Rush and Queens of the Stone Age, making them a fitting addition to a lineup built on energy, edge and attitude. 

Heart-pumping, tire-flinging drifting demonstrations will then take place in the Optima Unleashed area from 4:45 p.m.-5:00 p.m. PST.

From 5:10 p.m.-6:10 p.m. PST, 311 brings its unmistakable blend of rock, reggae, funk and hip-hop influences to the main stage. The band has released 14 studio albums, sold more than 10 million records in the United States and remains known for crowd favorites such as "Down," "Amber" and "All Mixed Up." 

The action continues with fresh demonstrations from Optima Unleashed at 6:10 p.m.-6:30 p.m. PST followed by another round of death-defying stunts from the Globe of Death from 6:30 p.m.-6:50 p.m. PST.

From 6:50 p.m.-8:00 p.m. PST, Jimmy Eat World adds its signature anthemic alternative-rock sound to the lineup. The band broke through globally with "The Middle," which reached No. 1 on Billboard's Modern Rock Tracks chart and became one of the defining rock songs of the early '00s.  

Following another round of Optima Unleashed (8:05 p.m.-8:20 p.m. PST) and the Globe of Death (8:20 p.m.-8:35 p.m. PST), the headliners take to the SEMA Fest stage from 8:40 p.m.-9:55 p.m. PST. Multi-platinum punk-rock icons The Offspring bring decades of Southern California punk-rock energy to SEMA Fest. Formed in Garden Grove in 1984, the band is known for their generation-defining hits such as "Self Esteem," "Come Out and Play," "The Kids Aren't Alright" and "Pretty Fly (For a White Guy)." Widely credited with helping revive mainstream interest in punk rock during the '90s, The Offspring has sold more than 45 million records worldwide.  

Tickets are still available, but prices increase Sunday, October 4, while payment plans remain available through October 9. Non-industry members can also make it a full-day adventure with the "SEMA Show Friday–Open to the Public" ticket at semafest.com. 

For the latest updates, follow @SEMAFestOfficial on social media or visit semafest.com. 

Save the schedule for easy reference as SEMA Fest approaches. The graphic below shows when each act, demonstration and attraction is scheduled to take the stage:

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA has officially relaunched its Drive the Vote campaign to mobilize the employees of SEMA's member businesses, along with the nation's 70 million automotive enthusiasts, to cast ballots in this November's midterm elections.  

Employers and voters can visit sema.org/vote to access resources for registering and voting this November, and to educate your people on the issues facing the automotive aftermarket industry. Because the 2026 SEMA Show begins on Election Day, those planning to attend should review their state's laws on casting ballots in advance of November 3. 

"Voting is a fundamentally American act, and we need everyone in the automotive aftermarket industry to get to the polls during this pivotal election and lend their voices to the political process," said Karen Bailey-Chapman, SEMA's senior vice president for public and government affairs. "In 2024, our community showed up in a big way by delivering a clear referendum on EV mandates and reminding lawmakers that our industry is a powerful force to reckon with. This year, we have new issues and new names on the ballot, but our mission remains the same: send pro-automotive legislators to Washington, D.C., to ensure we can deliver pro-automotive legislation and policies that support our industry and the small businesses who drive our culture."

For 2026, Drive the Vote has again developed resources to ensure that every American is fully knowledgeable about where their candidates stand on automotive, racing, and off-roading issues. These resources include the development of a 2026 Voter Guide led by SEMA's Driving Force Foundation voter education initiative. The guide presents information on every single elected official in Congress and how they have voted on SEMA-backed issues. 

To learn more about Drive the Vote, visit sema.org/vote. To sign up for updates from SEMA's Washington, DC, team, visit semahq.org.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA has officially relaunched its Drive the Vote campaign to mobilize the employees of SEMA's member businesses, along with the nation's 70 million automotive enthusiasts, to cast ballots in this November's midterm elections.  

Employers and voters can visit sema.org/vote to access resources for registering and voting this November, and to educate your people on the issues facing the automotive aftermarket industry. Because the 2026 SEMA Show begins on Election Day, those planning to attend should review their state's laws on casting ballots in advance of November 3. 

"Voting is a fundamentally American act, and we need everyone in the automotive aftermarket industry to get to the polls during this pivotal election and lend their voices to the political process," said Karen Bailey-Chapman, SEMA's senior vice president for public and government affairs. "In 2024, our community showed up in a big way by delivering a clear referendum on EV mandates and reminding lawmakers that our industry is a powerful force to reckon with. This year, we have new issues and new names on the ballot, but our mission remains the same: send pro-automotive legislators to Washington, D.C., to ensure we can deliver pro-automotive legislation and policies that support our industry and the small businesses who drive our culture."

For 2026, Drive the Vote has again developed resources to ensure that every American is fully knowledgeable about where their candidates stand on automotive, racing, and off-roading issues. These resources include the development of a 2026 Voter Guide led by SEMA's Driving Force Foundation voter education initiative. The guide presents information on every single elected official in Congress and how they have voted on SEMA-backed issues. 

To learn more about Drive the Vote, visit sema.org/vote. To sign up for updates from SEMA's Washington, DC, team, visit semahq.org.

By SEMA News Editors

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Dane Trask of Riley's Rebuilds as its newest allyship honoree.

Learn how Trask supports women in the industry and promotes the ally mindset in the SEMA News interview below. 

SEMA News: What do you do to support the ally mentality and women's empowerment?

Dane Trask: I see the woman my daughter Riley is growing into and the women she is surrounding herself with, and I am in awe of them every day. If I am doing anything to support women's empowerment, it is by teaching my daughter the theory of business by abundance––the philosophy that opportunity expands when it is shared. Instead of guarding connections, ideas or chances for growth, leaders practicing this theory intentionally give them away.

At its core, opportunity is not finite. Generosity multiplies it––for your sponsors, for your friends, for your followers and for your self-growth. In business by abundance, success is not a single seat at a table––it’s a table you keep expanding for others.

This theory rejects scarcity thinking that there's only room for one of us. Instead, it embraces this truth: The more you share, the more you grow. The more people you help, the more people help you.

SN: Can you share your favorite experience being an ally?  

DT: The most recent and meaningful example of abundance in action was the Road to SEMA project. When Riley first spoke with the organizers about her all-female '66 Fairlane build, she didn't just describe a car––she painted a vision. A vision of women from across North America coming together again, sharing the spotlight and taking this rebuilt '66 Fairlane on a journey from Colorado to Las Vegas and onto the SEMA Show floor.

What unfolded was more than a road trip. It was community, connection and confidence being built in real time.

Being allowed to be part of that experience was something I won't forget. I watched these women create, collaborate and grow on the road, on the side of the road, in O'Reilly's parking lots and everywhere in between. I can't definitively say what the experience meant for each of them––that's their story to tell. But from my perspective, I witnessed transformation happening in different ways for each person.

Some gained new business skills. Some discovered a deeper confidence in themselves. Some developed stronger interpersonal or leadership abilities. All of them learned that this industry truly has a place for them––a community where they belong and can contribute and lead.

For me, it reaffirmed everything I believe about abundance: when you open the door for others, you don't just create opportunities––you create moments, memories and momentum that can change lives.

SN: Why do you feel that being an ally is important? 

DT: I'm a girl dad, and that shapes everything about how I show up in this world. What matters to my daughter––and to her friends and even the friends of her friends––matters to me. I don't want basic equality for them. I want them to surpass the old limits, to lead and to shape the future without barriers.

Ruth Bader Ginsburg said it best: "Women belong in all places where decisions are being made––and, in most cases, making the decisions."

Being an ally means using my voice and my actions to help create the world I want my daughter to inherit––a world where she doesn’t need permission to lead, she simply does.

SN: What have you found to be the most important/valuable part of being an ally?

DT: For me, the most valuable part of being an ally is treating my daughter––and every woman I've encountered in this industry––as true peers. I defer to their expertise, I ask for their advice, I rely on their input, I ask for their help.

When there's something I am asked to teach, I don't teach it by doing it. I offer whatever guidance they want and then get out of the way so they can do it themselves, grow their skills and lead with confidence.

What I value most is the mutual respect and the genuine back-and-forth relationships I've built with women in this industry. Being an ally isn't about speaking for women––it's about standing beside them, learning and experiencing with them.

SN: How long have you been in the industry?

DT: I have been in the SEMA industry for five years, helping my daughter and now her friends navigate the corporate world.

SN: What advice do you have for those who want to become an ally?

DT: I want to rewrite this question… It's impossible to simply "become" an ally. That's not a title you get to claim for yourself. If your heart and your head are in the right place, you might be invited into the community built and led by the incredible women in this industry. And if they choose to bring you into that space, show up with gratitude for simply being allowed in the room.

Be on time. Be informed. Pay attention. Bring ideas, not ego.

If you approach it this way, you might be invited to stay. And from that vantage point, you'll witness something remarkable: the transformation of this industry from the inside––a transformation driven by women who are not just participating, but leading.

SN: How does someone spread the ally mentality?

DT: I believe you spread the ally mentality by living it every single day. Live by example. Show up in the world the way you want the world to evolve. If, at your core, you want to see women take the reins, then live in a way that supports and reflects that belief.

Mentor when you're asked. Listen more than you speak. And know when it’s time to get out of the way.

When people see you consistently respecting women as peers, championing their leadership and creating space instead of taking it––the ally mentality spreads naturally. It's not something you announce; it's something others observe, feel and then emulate. 

Fill out an SBN Ally Spotlight form to highlight how you or a colleague is being an ally to women in the automotive specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on SBN's social media and in SEMA News.

By SEMA News Editors

As demand for advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) expertise continues to rise, SEMA Garage is once again partnering with AUTEL to deliver hands-on, in-depth training designed to keep repair professionals ahead of rapidly evolving vehicle technology. These highly sought-after sessions focus on ADAS fundamentals, calibration techniques and proper reporting practices--skills that are becoming increasingly critical as more ADAS-equipped vehicles enter the market.

The next opportunity to participate in this training takes place at SEMA Garage Diamond Bar, where space is limited and registration is filling quickly. SEMA Garage Diamond Bar will host its next AUTEL ADAS training session on Tuesday, October 13, and Wednesday, October 14, with an optional expanded third day of training on Thursday, October 15, at the facility located at 1577 Valley Vista Dr., Diamond Bar, CA 91765. (View on Google Maps). 

For attendees looking to take their training even further, SEMA Garage now offers an exclusive expanded third day of instruction. The optional Day 3 on October 14 builds on the two-day curriculum by applying diagnostics, decision-making and liability awareness to real-world ADAS calibration scenarios. Rather than standalone lectures, participants work through hands-on exercises designed to reinforce confidence and accuracy in the field. To participate, select the "3-Day" option when registering on the Autel website. Note: The "Day 3" option requires an additional fee. 

How to Reserve Your Spot for the SEMA Garage AUTEL ADAS Session

👉 Reserve your spot now at the Autel Academy website by: 

• Visiting autel.us/autel-academy.
• Select ADAS TRAINING.
• Navigate to the "California" tab, and click REGISTER.

Previous SEMA Garage AUTEL training sessions sold out quickly, and organizers encourage early registration, especially for the limited-capacity Diamond Bar event.

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.