By Ashley Reyes

Autumn Schwalbe, Global Ford Performance marketing specialist at Ford Motor Co., has been named the SEMA Young Executives Network’s (YEN) newest spotlight member. Read her Q&A with SEMA to learn more about her career and passion for the industry.

SEMA: What is the best advice you have ever received?

Autumn Schwalbe: Instead of waiting for opportunities to present themselves, create them.

SEMA: What keeps you in the industry?

AS: Everything! I grew up around motorsports and fell in love with cars and trucks at a young age. I started drag racing when I was 15 and knew I wanted to turn my passion into my career, so I attended Northwood University and studied automotive aftermarket management. My passion and hobbies are in automotive, so I never see myself leaving this amazing industry. I love my job. Everyday I’m working on different fun projects and have made some of my best friends in the industry from traveling to marketing events and expos.

SEMA: Where can you be found on a Saturday?

AS: You can find me at the drag way! I have an ’89 Foxbody Mustang that I did a Gen 2 Coyote swap with my dad. I’m always at the track practicing or training for races. I race the mod muscle class in the NMRA series, and I also do local bracket racing for fun.

SEMA: How do you prepare for an important meeting?

AS: I prepare by arriving early, dressed to impress and very prepared on the topic.

SEMA: If you could go to lunch with one industry leader, living or dead, who it would be?

AS: I would go to lunch with Carroll Shelby.

If you are a current YEN member, fill out a YEN member spotlight form. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on YEN’s social media, SEMA eNews and YEN member updates.

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

SEMA and other organizations representing the off-highway vehicle (OHV) industry and enthusiast community are seeking to overturn a March 18, 2021, decision by the California Coastal Commission (Commission) to terminate OHV access at the Oceano Dunes State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA). SEMA joined with Ecologic Partners Inc., comprised of the Off-Road Business Association (ORBA), American Sand Association (ASA) and American Motorcyclist Association District 37 (AMA District 37) in filing a lawsuit in California State Superior Court for San Luis Obispo County.

Since 1974, Oceano Dunes SVRA has been a state-designated OHV park managed and operated by the California Department of Parks and Recreation (“State Parks”). The SVRA comprises 3,500 acres, of which less than 1,350 acres of dunes and 3.5 miles of beach provides open riding access for OHVs. In March, the Commission voted to eliminate OHV access within three years.

The lawsuit states that the Commission does not have substantive evidence to support the closure and has failed to conduct an environmental impact review required under the California Environmental Quality Act or consider alternatives.

“The Commission’s decision was unjustified since State Parks has undertaken a three-year public process to develop a long-range management plan,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA’s president and CEO. “It renders meaningless the State Parks’ ongoing effort to adopt a plan consistent with the Coastal Act that will include OHV access to this unique resource.”

“It is important that government agencies follow their own rules,” said Fred Wiley, ORBA’s president and CEO. “The Commission is acting in a unilateral fashion that exceeds its own authority under the California Coastal Act. It is imperative that the courts step in to protect OHV access.”

Oceano Dunes SVRA provides the only opportunity for motorized recreation at a state park along California’s Pacific coast. OHV recreation is an important contributor to the local economy. While bringing pleasure to thousands of enthusiasts, the monies spent at area stores, motels, restaurants and gas stations support jobs and generate tax revenues.

For decades, SEMA has supported reasonable land-use policies that include motorized recreation. SEMA remains committed to this mission on behalf of the off-road industry and the enthusiasts who enjoy outdoor recreation. This includes protecting Oceano Dunes SVRA.

The lawsuit asks the court to issue an injunction and vacate the Commission’s March 18 decision to eliminate OHV access to Oceano Dunes.

Questions? Contact Stuart Gosswein at stuartg@sema.org.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) named Lana Chrisman as the latest #SheIsSEMA Spotlight Member. Chrisman is the current SBN chair and executive director of the Lions Automobilia Foundation.

A 36-year industry veteran, Chrisman but grew up in the family business working for Chrisman Driveline Components before obtaining a position at John Force Racing as director of retail sales. Having been introduced to the SBN by Rose Kawasaki in 2015, Chrisman is now providing leadership guidance to help the network’s top goals.

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

Lana Chrisman: I have been with the Lions Automobilia Foundation & Museum for one year. What I enjoy most about working at Lions Automobilia are the opportunities to serve and preserve our industry’s history. The museum provides various platforms to share Southern California’s automotive history and the bonds between the drivers, builders and racers to the manufacturers.

SEMA: What are three qualities that got you to where you are today? How have these qualities benefited you?

LC: Be visible, strong and true to self. Be visible by simply introducing yourself to others; do not be shy. Networking is a vital key to success and has opened many opportunities for me, including meeting some incredible people. Be strong and resilient when your job is most challenging. My Christian faith provides me power to endure situations that would otherwise slow me down. Do not compromise what makes you, you. I have my own set of beliefs and standards and I stand by them. I have 36 years in this industry with a respectable reputation and I attribute that to being consistently true to myself.

SEMA: Being a woman in the industry, what have been your biggest challenges and accomplishments? Do you have a specific situation that comes to mind?

LC: My biggest challenge as a woman in the automotive aftermarket industry, especially when I was much younger, was being recognized as a knowledgeable source regarding automotive parts. Granted, I started my career at age 17 with a quiet voice, selling driveline components (aka rear-end parts). Eventually, customers realized that I was a capable saleswoman who provided the correct information, parts and service, and customer confidence improved.

SEMA: Who are your role models or mentors in the industry? How have they helped you along the way?

LC: Rose Kawasaki introduced me to the SBN in 2015 and encouraged me to join and volunteer on the select committee. This was my first time volunteering at this level and the experience has been incredible, both personally and professionally. I am grateful for Rose’s support throughout my SBN journey and providing leadership guidance to help top the goals of the SBN.

SEMA: What is the best career advice you have received? How has this advice helped you either professionally or personally?

LC: The best career advice that I have ever received was from my Dad. He said to be patient and be a good listener. That simple advice has helped me in both my professional and personal life.

Do you know, or are you, a woman with a career in the automotive industry? 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 to be considered for SBN’s #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year award, featured on SBN’s social media, SEMA eNews and recognized on the www.sema.org/she-is-sema website.

By Ashley Reyes

Holland Communications Inc. is the latest company to be recognized by the SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) member spotlight program. Holland Communications Inc. is a full-service PR/advertising agency that specializes in the automotive aftermarket and has been a SEMA member since 1975. Hear from company founder Bill Holland as he shares the story of his business.

SEMA: Tell us the story of your business. How did you start?

Bill Holland: I was editor of NHRA's publication National Dragster and spent much of my time creating ads for companies (as my background was in art and marketing). I went out on my own to perform these services for companies in the performance aftermarket and became a SEMA member in 1975.

My first exposure to hot rodding came from the pages of Hot Rod magazine when I was about 13 and rode my bicycle over to watch Von Dutch pinstripe cars. Lucky to have grown up in Hollywood during hot rodding’s halcyon days. I also raced T/F and F/C, with a dragster sponsored by TV personality Art Linkletter.

SEMA: What was your breakthrough moment?

BH: I have had the opportunity to work with a number of industry pioneers. Having them recommend me to others is a sense of pride.

SEMA: Tell us about your business now in 2021 and what projects you are working on.

BH: From being essentially focused on the print media, we are now very much involved with digital and social media and are working on programs with our clients to expand in those areas. There’s also an ever-increasing demand for videos, and that’s another area where we are active.

SEMA: Tell us about a build you are proud of.

BH: From an enthusiast standpoint, it was having my 23-GT track roadster featured in the HRIA booth at SEMA, and having it become a contender for the America’s Most Beautiful Roadster (AMBR) award at the Grand National Roadster Show and also featured in Hot Rod magazine.

SEMA: What advice do you have for young professionals contemplating a career in the automotive aftermarket?

BH: I spent 20-plus years on the SEMA Scholarship Committee and have encouraged young professionals to get a solid educational background and seek the wisdom and experience of industry veterans, most of whom are more than willing to provide guidance in their particular niche.

Fill out an HRIA member spotlight form to highlight how your company is contributing to the Hot Rod industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on HRIA’s and media, SEMA eNews, and future HRIA-member updates.

By Juan Torres

SEMA leadership, volunteers and industry icons will gather in Las Vegas for the 2021 SEMA Installation & Gala, Friday, July 30.

The SEMA Installation & Gala is a long-established tradition where individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the industry are recognized and celebrated. Since 1976, the SEMA Gala has served as a formal gathering where new SEMA Hall of Fame inductees are introduced, incoming Board of Directors are sworn in and outgoing Board of Directors are honored.

This year’s event will take place for the first time in Las Vegas. Specifically, the event will be held in the new West Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center, the same facility where thousands of industry professionals will gather for the 2021 SEMA Show in November.

“SEMA has a deep history and connection with the city of Las Vegas,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. “We could not be more excited about celebrating the industry in Las Vegas, and christening the West Hall with such a noteworthy event.”

The SEMA Installation & Gala will be one of the first events held in the West Hall since construction of the 1.4 million-sq.-ft. facility was completed in January. The event, which is expected to include about 400 individuals, will also mark SEMA’s first mass gathering to take place in more than a year.

“I look forward to the SEMA Gala each year—even more so this year than any other year since it will be a reunion for our industry’s friends and family,” said Kersting. “The SEMA Installation & Gala is important to the association, the members and the industry, and it’s about much more than just introducing new Hall of Fame members or recognizing our Board of Directors. The event is about community, family and celebration, with people who share a common passion and love for the industry.”

Tickets to the 2021 SEMA Installation & Gala are available to all SEMA members and can be purchased at www.sema.org/gala. Details about the honorees (new Hall of Fame members and incoming Board of Directors) will be announced in May.

By Jay Carpio, Fredy Ramirez & Carr Winn

“Carr Parts” is dedicated to builders. It’s about quick tips and tricks and the newest must-have products. It’s about visiting with a fellow builder, walking around their project and getting an up-close look at their handiwork. It's also about our industry sharing their passion for turning a wrench and taking time to give advice to fellow gearheads. Episode eight features Giulia Levenduski talking about upgrading the steering components on her Jeep Wrangler.

For more information about other talented young builders, visit SEMA's Young Guns www.semayoungguns.com.

SEMA’s video team is currently in production on future episodes of “Carr Parts“ and we’d love to hear from you. Do you have a tip, trick or advice you can share with our audience? Drop us a note on social via @SEMA_Association and we’ll connect with you.

We can't wait to find the next guest for “Carr Parts.” And finally...keep building.

By SEMA Editors

The SDC Data Excellence recognizes the companies that have worked with SDC to recreate and relaunch industry-leading product data sets. Here are products from current SDC members that have achieved data excellence.

Fuelab
Pro Series Line

Fuelab announces its all-new Pro Series line, developed for high-horsepower, high-flow applications where fuels such as methanol or E85 are used. At the center of the new series is the 40501 Pro Series Spur Gear pump, a variable speed pump built to handle more than 2500 hp, with extremely low current draw.

Built to compliment the all-new Spur Gear Pump are the 868xx Pro Series In-Line Fuel Filters. Built for maximum flow and minimal pressure drop, Fuelab’s new Pro Series Extreme Flow In-Line Fuel Filters are tough to beat. With a 10 GPM flow rating, these fuel filters offer huge flow capacity under extreme conditions.

And lastly, Fuelab’s 565 Series Fuel Pressure regulator, with its all-new look, rounds out the Fuelab Pro Series line. 565 Series Fuel Pressure Regulators have all of the same great features as the 515/525 Series except for extreme capacity. Utilizing a massive half-inch return orifice and -10AN ports, the regulator holds no bounds. With a bypass capability over 5 GPM at 5 psi, the regulator can handle blow through carbureted applications well over 1,800 hp and for EFI applications using belt driven fuel pumps. Regulator comes in four different pressure ranges covering applications between 4 and 80 psi.

www.fuelab.com
PNs: 565, 868xx, 40501, 565xx Cut-Away, 868xx Cut-Away, 40501 Cut-Away

Oracle Lighting
Nissan GT-R ColorSHIFT “Lighting Bolt” RGB+W Headlight DRL Upgrade

Oracle Lighting announced the launch of the new GT-R ColorSHIFT “Lightning Bolt” RGB+W headlight DRL upgrade for the Nissan GT-R (model years ’15-’21). The replacement boards feature Oracle Lighting’s traditional RGB ColorSHIFT technology along with an extra “True White LED,” which makes pure white tones that gives the user a crisp, white DRL and the ability to instantly switch over for 100% legal road driving. This lighting option provides color-changing capabilities without giving up any of the original factory features.

www.oraclelighting.com
PN: Kit for model years ’15–’21

Tuffy Security Products
Flip-Up Front License Plate Holder

Tuffy's front-mounted winch meets state front license plate requirements with its #189 Front License Plate Holder, which fits roller fairleads as well as the #333 for Hawse fairleads. The product enables the front license plate to attach firmly to the winch fairleads, and quickly flip out of the way when the winch is needed.

Manufactured of welded steel with a black powdercoat finish and a theft-deterring design, its strong construction looks good while also preventing the license plate from being stolen. It requires no drilling or wire ties, comes with all necessary mounting hardware and works with standard roller style (PN 189) or Hawse fairleads (PN 333) using synthetic rope.

www.tuffyproducts.com
PN: #189/#333

By SEMA Editors

SEMA eNews highlights new products from industry companies each week. To have your product considered for upcoming issues, send product press releases to editors@sema.org.

Continental Tire
OEM Fuel Injectors

Continental has expanded its line of OEM fuel injectors to offer new application coverage for a wide range of Infiniti, Nissan and Subaru models from ’96–’11. Five part numbers have been added to the fast-growing program to deliver expanded coverage for more than 1,140,000 VIO in North America. The fuel injectors are direct OE replacement parts and identical in fit, form and function to the OE part.

The fuel injectors are designed for long service life and simplified installation and are built in OE ISO TS-certified facilities and manufactured to the highest-quality standards. Continental offers five part numbers that provide coverage for Infiniti FX45, M45, Q45, G20, I30 and QX4 models, Nissan Altima, Maxima, Frontier, Pickup, Pathfinder, Sentra and Urvan models and Subaru Baja, Forester, Impreza, Legacy and Outback models.

www.continentalaftermarket.com

BDS
BBC/SBC Billet Timing Pointer

Blower Drive Service's new timing pointer is designed for used on both big-block and small-block Chevy engines. Machined from solid billet by BDS, the pointers are adjustable and precision-marked for precise identification using a BDS Degree Ring. The universal Chevy timing pointers come with mounting hardware shown and retail for just $65 each.

562-693-4302
www.blowerdriveservice.com

Superchips
Flashpaq for ’19–’20 Silverado

Superchips announced the release Flashpaq tuning coverage for ’19–’20 5.3L and 6.2L V8 applications with the six-, eight-, and 10-speed transmissions. With a simple, pre-loaded performance flash tuning device for the ’19+ GM trucks, enthusiasts can take advantage of Flashpaq's (2847-S) added power/torque and built-in features.

• ECM send-in process included to unlock factory ECM for flashing
• Speedometer correction for changes in tire size and gear ratio
• Enable/disable active and dynamic fuel management
• Adjust speed and rev limiters
• Remember last setting for auto start/stop
• Remember last setting for drive modes
• Adjustable TPMS settings 1-90 psi
• Read and clear DTCs
• Mileage XS, 87 octane, tow, 91 octane, 93 octane tunes

www.superchips.com

Westin Automotive/Superwinch
Overland Cargo Rack

Maximize the cargo space and storage capacity of your truck with the Westin/Superwinch new Overland Cargo Rack, a multi-purpose bed rack cargo-management system that allows for a wide variety of off-road and overland gear storage, such as off-road jacks, RotoPax gas cans, traction boards, shovels, rooftop tents, LED lighting and storage boxes, with multiple mounting positions and options. Constructed of 4-in. rectangular tubing and 14-gauge steel, this unique design utilizes the OEM bed rails for a no-drill mounting. The low-profile design was engineered to keep the cargo gear below the cab roof line, positioning most roof-top tents to be flush with the top of the roof to reduce wind resistance and allow for easier garage parking.

www.westinautomotive.com/overland-cargo-rack

Milwaukee Tool
Flex Head Ratcheting Combination Wrenches

Milwaukee Tool expanded its offering of combination wrenches with a new line of Flex Head Ratcheting Combination Wrenches. The wrenches feature a flexible head design that allows better access in hard-to-reach spaces. With 2.5⁰ of arc swing and 144 ratcheting positions, the wrenches allow for quick and efficient work in tight and awkward spaces. The double-stacked pawls within the ratcheting mechanism are engineered to increase durability and extend the life of the tool. The MAX BITE Open-End Grip improves the wrench’s grip on nuts and bolts, offering 25% more torque than smooth-faced wrenches. The ergonomic I-Beam handles are designed for superior comfort in high torque situations. The ink-filled size labels provide easy size identification and are color-coded for quick distinction between SAE and Metric sets.

The new Flex Head Ratcheting Combination Wrench Sets are available in both SAE and Metric seven-piece or 15-piece sets and are also sold individually. These products are a testament to Milwaukee’s continued commitment to developing innovative solutions that save users time and increase productivity.

www.milwaukeetool.com

Enerpac
Sync Grip Puller Series

Enerpac announced its new 100-ton puller addition to the company’s Sync Grip Puller series, providing the largest reach, spread, and capacity of the line. The Sync Grip Puller is a controlled solution for the removal of bearings, bushing, gears and pins from shafts during maintenance. The puller is a safe and cost-effective solution, eliminating the need to cut, heat or torch components that need to be removed from shafts. The puller removes parts without subjecting them to open flame, which could damage parts or injure the operator.

As with all pullers in the Sync Grip line, the new 100-ton model features simple, synchronous movement. The sync grip mechanism synchronizes movement of all jaws for simultaneous engagement, enhancing the operator’s control over the tool and simplifying the set-up. Hydraulic puller jaws fit around the part to be removed, while the spindle applies up to 100 tons of force to remove it. Hydraulically applied pulling force increases pulling capacity and reduces operator fatigue, enabling quicker and easier set up.

www.enerpac.com/en-us/US-News/e/new-products

3M
High-Gloss Protective Finish: 3M Ceramic Coating

3M announced the launch of 3M Ceramic Coating, the company’s new long-lasting protective finish for automotive paint, metal, plastic trim, wheels and glass. The coating delivers a high-gloss, extremely slick surface that looks great and helps shed water quickly while carrying away light dust.

3M Ceramic Coating is also resistant to road salts, harsh chemicals and acid rain. The coating lasts up to five years with proper annual care and maintenance. The fast-curing formula is easy to apply and has no strong odors or vapors.  

www.3M.com/CeramicCoating

By SEMA Washington, D.C., Staff

The Off-Road Business Association (ORBA) and its affiliated groups, Tread Lightly! and Mad Media, have teamed up to create “UTV Impact”, a community-driven effort to educate and persuade new utility vehicle (UTV) riders to ride with respect. Fellow drivers are impacted when new owners or renters drive recklessly. This behavior not only affects the driver, but also the other people and wildlife around them.

The objective of the campaign is aligned with ORBA/One Voice’s mission of protecting access to public and private lands for off-road motorized use. It is coupled with Tread Lightly!’s mission to promote responsible outdoor recreation to minimize the environmental and social impacts of off-road recreation. UTV Impact was created as an inclusive opportunity to connect this emerging form of motorized recreation into the off-highway world.

Fred Wiley, ORBA CEO, believes that with the 500% increase in sales of UTVs, also known as side-by-sides, “It is important that ORBA assists in developing a program that will sustain responsible recreation on public and private lands and UTV Impact is an important component of our work.”

ORBA represents members of the off-road industry, and this is a great way in connecting grassroots, new enthusiasts and the industry together with the common thread of protecting our privilege to ride in a safe and environmentally responsible manner. The time is now to take action and do our part to ensure we keep our trails and riding areas free of trash, respect wildlife and other users, and ride with control.

UTV Impact manager Dave Logan says, “As we see an explosive growth in new UTV owners and renters, we also see a need to explain how a driver’s behavior impacts the people and trails around them. We need everyone to cooperate to keep our trails open. There are not enough law-enforcement officers to write tickets and not enough volunteers to repair the trail damage.”

The off-road community and Tread Lightly! understand firsthand the impact of making responsible decisions that will help keep operators safe and access open to public lands. These decisions will conserve resources in all recreational situations. The foundations of this positive behavior are respect and responsibility.

Matt Caldwell, executive director of Tread Lightly!, sees UTV Impact as a vital tool in keeping trails open and accessible. “The influx of new users to the off-road community has put a great strain on public lands. We believe that UTV Impact can be the foundation to help protect our access for the next generations.”

The demand for access to public lands is increasing for all types of use and it is our goal to limit our impacts on the land and conflicts with other users. This will be accomplished through the UTV Impact campaign.

For more information contact Fred Wiley at fwiley@orba.biz or 661-323-1464.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA Virtual Education remains committed to empowering industry professionals by sharing innovative strategies, information and learning through new and engaging webinars.

Mark your calendars for the following upcoming webinars and stay tuned to SEMA eNews as additional sessions are announced throughout the year. For a comprehensive library of upcoming and on-demand sessions that members can access anytime, visit www.sema.org/virtual-education.

Wednesday, April 22 – Tire Knowledge 301: Common Causes of Balancing Process Errors and How to Avoid Them

Track: Industry Segments, Powered by SEMA Councils and Networks

Series: Wheel and Tire Industry Insights, Powered by WTC

Understanding causes for vehicle vibration and the mechanics of balanced vs. unbalanced tires is critical for helping tire professionals ensure their customers have a smooth ride, even tire wear and proper tire weight distribution around their vehicle. Learn about the common causes of balancing process errors, how to avoid them and best practices to minimize customer vibration complaints.

Register here.

Friday, April 23 – Facebook Live: ETTN Live Chat with Prashant Ahire and Russ O’ Blenes

Track: Industry Talks

Representatives from Chevy Performance will share their expert insight on performance electrification and electric vehicle performance, what’s in store for the future and answer questions live from participants. With OEMs committing to either fully electric or hybrid-electric powerplants for future models, now is the time to find out what they have planned.

Location: ETTN Facebook page

Tuesday, April 27 – Interview Skills

Track: Industry Segments, Powered by SEMA Councils and Networks

Series: Perfecting Your Job Search Series, Powered by the SBN

An interview may be the most important step of a job search. At this point, the prospective employer has already reviewed you résumé, determined that you meet their qualifications and has picked you as one of their top candidates. Get tips and tricks from HR professionals on what to do and what to avoid in an interview in order to secure the job offer. This one-hour interactive program will give participants confidence and strategies for a successful job interview.

Register here.