Compiled by SEMA Editors

Simon Pagenaud took the checkered flag in the Honda Indy Grand Prix of Alabama on April 24 at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham.

Team Penske’s Simon Pagenaud Races Chevy to Victory

Driving his PPG-painted car, the No. 22 PPG Team Penske Dallara/Chevrolet, Simon Pagenaud took the checkered flag in the Honda Indy Grand Prix of Alabama on April 24 at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham. It was Pagenaud’s second consecutive Verizon IndyCar Series win. The previous week Pagenaud, a native of France, raced to victory in the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach. Pagenaud now has captured two victories and two second-place finishes for Team Penske in the first four races of the 2016 season, putting him at the top of the series’ driver point standings in just his second season with Team Penske.

Jaynes and Godfrey in the Caballo del Diablo Bronco Win the Pioneer 4x4 Class at the Mexican 1000

The 2016 NORRA Mexican 1000 race has ended at the tip of the Baja peninsula in Cabo, and the Caballo del Diablo team, headed by Boyd Jaynes, captured a first-place finish in the Pioneer 4x4 class and earned the Steve McQueen memorial trophy. Driver Jaynes and copilot Brian Godfrey took on the “Evil Mariachi” theme this year.

Royal Purple will sponsor the Ed Carpenter Racing Verizon IndyCar Series team for the 2016 race season. Photo Credit: Royal Purple

Royal Purple Revs Up for the Indy 500 as Sponsor of Ed Carpenter Racing

Just in time for the 100th running of the Indianapolis 500, Royal Purple has announced its sponsorship of the Ed Carpenter Racing Verizon IndyCar Series team for the 2016 race season. Beginning May 29, the Royal Purple logo will adorn the engine cover of the Ed Carpenter Racing No. 20 Chevrolet, driven by IndyCar racer Ed Carpenter. In celebration of its partnership, Royal Purple is launching the 2016 Royal Purple Indy 500 Sweepstakes, offering race fans the opportunity to win a one-of-a-kind Royal Purple racing helmet signed by Carpenter. Until June 1, fans can enter the sweepstakes by completing the online entry form at www.RoyalPurple.com. Following the close of the sweepstakes’ entry period, one winner will be chosen at random to receive the grand prize.

RSI Petroleum Signs on With VP Racing Fuels Branding Program; VP Named Official Fuel of the New Heartland Park Topeka

Officials with VP Racing Fuels have introduced RSI Petroleum Products as the newest partner in its retail branding program. Based in Mojave, California, RSI supplies 60 retail sites throughout Southern California, primarily east of the Sierra Nevada range. In addition, VP Racing Fuels has been named the New Heartland Park Topeka official fuel for 2016 and 2017. The sponsorship encompasses Heartland Park’s dragstrip, oval track, road course and a new motocross track opening this month. As part of the agreement, the track will have three blends of VP Racing Fuels available at its fuel station with service provided by VP Heartland—VP’s distributor based in Manhattan, Kansas.

The 16th Annual WyoTech NMRA Ford Motorsport Nationals Presented by Juggernaut Power was held at Maple Grove Raceway.

Race Wrap for 16th Annual WyoTech NMRA Ford Motorsport Nationals Presented by Juggernaut Power at Maple Grove Raceway

Included in the finished categories at the 16th Annual WyoTech NMRA Ford Motorsport Nationals presented by Juggernaut Power were JPC Racing Turbo Coyote Shootout, QA1 True Street, Muscle Mustangs All-Female Shootout presented by American Muscle, Micro Strategies Stock/Super Stock Combo, all three Bracket categories and G-Force Racing Transmissions Pure Street. The remainder of the index and heads-up eliminators will be completed during the next stop on the NMRA tour—the SuperNationals held at National Trail Raceway (Hebron, Ohio) over the weekend of June 9–12, 2016.

G-Force Racing Transmissions Pure Street: Teddy Weaver in the Roush-powered Terminator clone took out Tommy Godfrey by rushing to the finish line in 9.557 at 139.54 mph. Godfrey ran 9.757 at 137.86 mph to secure runner-up honors.

JPC Racing Turbo Coyote Shootout: Ronnie Reynolds beat fellow JPC Racing-built ride of Brad Bench with a 7.796 at 179.61 mph to Bench’s 8.925 at 141.91 mph.

QA1 True Street: The overall winner honor was awarded to Mike Jovanis, who secured the win with an 8.458 average. Other winners included Brian Culmone (9-second), Joe Cascio (10-second), Scott Lehr (11-second), Robert Foley (12-second), William McCurdy (13-second), Chris Bremer (14-second) and Michael Phillips (15-second).

All-Female Shootout, presented by American Muscle: Leslie Upole ran 10.747 at 123.40 mph in her Maverick and beat Nikki Frost, who posted a career-best of 10.871 at 117.87 mph.

Micro Strategies Stock/Super Stock: Chris Bowman in an ’84 Mustang GT in stock trim defeated an ’08 Cobra Jet driven by NHRA driver Ray Scardelli. 

Four categories were developed for a Ford-only race with B1 acting as Fast Ford, B2 Quick Ford, B3 Street Ford, and B4 Nostalgia Ford. Shane Williams, who was double entered in Exedy Racing Clutch Modular Muscle, survived four rounds in B1 Fast Ford to take the win. Rodger Vogel was the B2 Quick Ford winner while John Grater was the B3 Street Ford victor. The final bracket race winner was Joe Grippo in his ’66 Ford Fairlane, which took the B4 Nostalgia Ford eliminator.

Jeff Jones in the DOC Nissan S14 took the victory and the lead in the standings at Road Atlanta.

Jeff Jones Takes Formula DRIFT PRO 2 Victory at the Advance Auto Parts Road to the Championship Presented by Gumout

Formula DRIFT PRO 2 entered Road Atlanta for the first round of the PRO 2 championship where Jeff Jones in the DOC Nissan S14 took the victory and the lead in the standings. The inaugural event for PRO 2 at Road Atlanta kicked off the PRO 2 championship season. The 2016 Formula DRIFT Pro Championship will continue to Round 3: Uncharted Territory, June 3–4, at Orlando Speedworld. 

Tanner Foust.

Tanner Foust to Charge for Global Rallycross Title

Rockstar Energy Drink driver Tanner Foust has unveiled a new look for the Rockstar Energy Drink Volkswagen Beetle that he will drive during his 2016 Global Rallycross Championship campaign. The two-time Global Rallycross champion finished third in the 2015 championship points, and this year returns to the Volkswagen Andretti Rallycross team. He and teammate Scott Speed dominated the second half of the 2015 season with Foust finishing on the podium at five of the series’ 12 rounds, including three outright wins. Foust takes on four championship races in three international series this month. Following his 2016 Formula Drift debut at Road Atlanta in the 900hp Rockstar Energy Drink Volkswagen Passat this past weekend, he travels to Phoenix to open the Global Rallycross season with a doubleheader May 22–25. He next appears at World RX of Great Britain for the first of two World Rallycross Championship races on his schedule this year with Volkswagen RX Sweden in the Rockstar Energy Drink Volkswagen Polo. The American driver won the Lydden Hill race in 2012 and 2013.

Vaughn Gittin Jr.

Vaughn Gittin Jr. Runs a Perfect Weekend at Formula DRIFT Atlanta

Team Nitto driver Vaughn Gittin Jr. has claimed victory at Formula DRIFT’s “Road to the Championship” at Road Atlanta, marking the first time that Gittin has completed a “perfect weekend,” sweeping both qualifying and the race, in his career. At this year’s event, Gittin Jr. laid down a perfect qualifying run that earned him the number-one spot in the Top 32. The next day, Gittin put down a series of flawless runs and emerged victorious from the Top 4 where he squared off against two other past champions in one of the closest competitions of the season. Vaughn’s performance also helped catapult him into the lead in the 2016 series points championship after the former points leaders were knocked out of the first round of competition. Gittin Jr.’s win at Road Atlanta marks his first race win for his new ’16 Monster Energy Nitto Tire Ford Mustang RTR.

Larry Morgan. Photo credit: Anne Proffit

Quarter Mile Foundation Announces Larry Morgan Roast “Roasters,” Master of Ceremonies

The Quarter Mile Foundation’s roast—themed “A Cavalcade of Laughter”—of Pro Stock drag-racing star Larry Morgan of Newark, Ohio, will feature  a lineup of former Pro Stock and sportsman drag-racing stars known for their sharp wit and humor. The roast will be held at The Colonnade, north of Milan, Ohio, Thursday, June 23, 2016, during the NHRA/Mello Yello Summit Racing Equipment Nationals drag-race weekend. Bill Bader Jr., president of Summit Racing Equipment Motorsport Park, will serve as the evening’s “ringmaster” of ceremonies. Morgan personally selected his roasters: Tony Christian – Modified Eliminator, Pro Stock and Pro Street star; Ian Landies Jr. – Competition Eliminator racer; Pat Musi – engine builder, Pro Street pioneer; John Nobile – IHRA Pro Stock World Champion, NHRA Pro Stock; Ollie Volpe – business manager, Reher-Morrison Racing Engines and former Mr. Gasket director of racer services and Gas-class racer; and Billy Wagner – former Larry Morgan Racing crew chief.

Activities will commence at 6:00 p.m., with a cocktail reception hour, followed by a buffet dinner. The roast festivities will begin at approximately 8:00 p.m. Tickets may be ordered online at Eventbrite or by visiting the Quarter Mile Foundation’s website. Proceeds from a live auction from the stage and a silent auction during the cocktail hour and dinner will benefit the Quarter Mile Foundation. For further information, contact Traci Hrudka at the Quarter Mile Foundation.

By SEMA Editors

Are you hunting for a new job? The SEMA Career Center has a comprehensive listing of automotive-related job openings around the country. Here are some of the latest classifieds posted to the website.

• Territory Sales Manager: Daystar Products International is hiring an experienced territory sales manager to support growth for both jobbers and distributors, develop new incremental business related to Daystar aftermarket products and support trade show and customer events. The qualified candidate must have a minimum of five years’ experience in automotive aftermarket products.
• Automotive Customer Service/Tech Assistant: Energy Suspension is hiring an automotive customer service specialist/tech assistant to respond to emails and provide customer service, automotive product application, technical assistance and order processing. This position may include occasional travel to trade shows and events. The successful candidate must have basic automotive knowledge, prior customer service experience and be bilingual (English/Spanish).
• Inventory Pullers and Packers: NPW dba Speed Warehouse is hiring inventory pullers and packers to pull or pack items listed on pick tickets onto carts and stage shipments to customers. This position requires lifting items up to 50 lbs. A high school diploma or GED is required. Candidates must be able to pull 600+ line items after training and be able to read, write and comprehend English. Bilingual is a plus.
• Automotive Procurement Associate: United Pacific Industries Inc. is hiring an automotive procurement associate to assist in the responsibilities of placing and tracking orders, inventory control, research and procurement of local and overseas parts and price negotiation within the automotive industry. The ideal candidate must have strong and effective written and oral communication abilities in English and Chinese, sourcing skills and computer skills. This position requires one–two years of purchasing experience and the aptitude to work independently with minimal direction.
• Inside and Outside Salesperson: Injen Technology is hiring an inside and outside salesperson. This position will require aftermarket experience and familiarity with existing WD systems and online retailer networks. The successful candidate will have great communication and computers skills, a commitment to after-hour shows and customer events, a willingness to travel to visit customers and participate in industry events. Responsibilities will include receiving inbound potential customer requests and making outbound sales development calls. Timely professional follow up and representation is expected, along with methodical problem-resolution skills.

SEMA recently launched the SEMA Career Center to address the employment challenges of automotive companies and facilitate a talent pipeline for entering into the automotive aftermarket industry. Through an automotive network that includes the Auto Care Association, the SEMA Career Center will expand the volume and reach of job openings from automotive companies throughout the country.

Strengthen Your Company Through Community

No matter what niche you're in—rods, restoration, racing, restyling, reps, trucks or wheels and tires—there's a SEMA council or professional network that's right for your company. SEMA councils and networks offer members a variety of market-specific programs and activities designed to provide educational and networking opportunities while promoting their particular industry segment.

Visit PRO's website.

PRO to Host Long-Range Planning Meeting in Detroit

The Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) is hosting its annual Long-Range Planning (LRP) meeting June 15–16 in the nation’s car capital—Detroit. The annual LRP is an opportunity for council members to address restyling industry issues and challenges, and weigh in on the needs of its member companies. Employees of PRO-member companies are encouraged to attend to gain insight into council initiatives, contribute their ideas to push the restyling industry forward and mingle with Select Committee members and SEMA staff to learn how PRO resources can help your business grow.

As an added bonus, attendees will tour the innovative Mobility Transformation Facility, more commonly known as Mcity, at the University of Michigan. The 32-acre facility is located on campus and is the first of its kind in testing new automated vehicle technologies and their capabilities to safely maneuver actual roadways. Public access to Mcity is limited, but LRP attendees will enjoy a guided, private tour of the facility.

The meetings kick off Wednesday, June 15, at the Detroit Metro Airport Marriot, and will break late morning for the Mcity tour and lunch. The meeting will reconvene back at the hotel after the tour for a group discussion and breakout sessions. A PRO-hosted dinner will take place that evening. The Thursday agenda includes a continental breakfast, breakout sessions, lunch and group project planning, and is slated to end at 3:00 p.m.

RSVP now!

For questions on this event, contact Senior Manager of Councils Allan Keefe at 909-978-6696 or allank@sema.org.

Back to Top

Visit YEN's website

Zach Denney

Jason Wieczorek

Zach Denney will drive his ’90 Toyota Supra Turbo on the Hot Rod Power Tour.

Meet the YEN Power Tour Participants

The Young Executives Network (YEN) will hit the road this summer with 10 members to participate in the Hot Rod Power Tour. The YENsters will stop in seven cities along the tour starting in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, with the finish line in Kansas City, Kansas. Each stop attracts hundreds of local car enthusiasts, students and automotive professionals. YEN members will interact with students showing them around the “traveling car show” and discussing career paths in the automotive aftermarket industry.
You can follow them along their journey via the hashtag #YENPowerTour. Let’s meet one of the teams!

Driver: Zach Denney, President, Wholesale Horsepower

Zach Denney is the president of Wholesale Horsepower, who is the exclusive North American distributor for ECUMaster Engine Management Products, Nashin Brakes and Shadow Auto Electronics. Having enjoyed working in many areas of the automotive aftermarket industry, Denney is excited to join the Power Tour with the SEMA Young Executives Network in an effort to reach out to young enthusiasts.

As an avid reader of Hot Rod magazine, Denney will drive his ’90 Toyota Supra Turbo on the Power Tour. In the true spirit of hot rodding, not much on the car is left as the factory designed it, and his Supra serves as a rolling product development platform for all three of the brands his company represents. Follow Denney via Instagram on the YEN Power Tour @HolyZachrilege.

Passenger: Jason Wieczorek, Sales Representative, Motovicity Distribution

Jason Wieczorek is a senior sales representative at Motovicity Distribution—a performance parts WD based out of the Motor City. He has worked in the automotive industry since the age of 15, starting with a major tire retail chain and working his way into distribution, where he has called Motovicity home for the past nine years. Throughout his career, an emphasis on building lasting relationships has been the key to staying relevant in a competitive market.

“The bonds and friendships I have made with my customers are the greatest part of my job. People don’t buy from businesses, they buy from people,” says Wieczorek.

The proudest moment of his career was in November 2013 when Motovicity won SEMA’s WD of the Year award, being the first sport-compact segment WD to win this award. Traveling to races and attending trade shows, such as the SEMA Show and the PRI Show, are some of his favorite industry events where he can strengthen those relationships. Outside of work, Wieczorek enjoys spending time with his fiancée Gail and his daughter Alexa. His hobbies are as broad as his knowledge of cars and include hunting, playing softball and working on cars.

For more information about the YEN Power Tour, visit www.sema.org/yen-power-tour.

Young entrepreneurs have the opportunity to bring their new products to the SEMA Show to compete for a grand-prize package designed to launch the winner’s business to the next level.

Young Professionals Business Competition Application Period Ending Soon!

Calling all young entrepreneurs with the next big automotive aftermarket product! The SEMA Launch Pad powered by YEN is a platform for you to transform your dream into a growing business.

Young entrepreneurs have the opportunity to bring their new products to the SEMA Show to compete for a grand-prize package designed to launch the winner’s business to the next level. Any executive with an automotive aftermarket product or service is encouraged to apply. You do not have to be a SEMA member to participate.

Ten finalists will be given the opportunity to pitch their product to industry icons in front of a live audience at the 2016 SEMA Show.
Prize packages include:

Semi-Finalist (14 participants):

• One-year complimentary SEMA membership.
• Complimentary registration to the 2016 Exhibitor Summit, two nights of hotel and meals at the event (June 21–22).
• $500 grant to be used toward the cost of travel to the 2016 Exhibitor Summit.

Finalists (10 participants):

• All the semi-finalist prizes, and:
• Complimentary 2016 SEMA Show kiosk booth in the New Products Showcase area.*
• Two exhibitor passes to the SEMA Show.
• Two tickets to the SEMA Banquet.
• A one-hour mentoring session with an industry icon.

Winner (one participant):

• All the semi-finalist prizes, finalist prizes and:
• SEMA News: One full-page, four-color ad.
• SEMA eNews: One full-page article.
• SEMA YEN Member News: Featured section in one article.
• SEMA Show: Turnkey exhibit space with premium placement at the 2017 SEMA Show*
• SEMA Garage: One full day of photography studio usage and up to three hours of free custom scanning services.
• SEMA Data Co-op: 50% off supplier monthly membership fees for your first year. Up to a $3,600 value.
• SEMA Education: One video feature in SEMA's “BizTips” video series.
• SEMA Manufacturers’ Rep Network: Distribution/sales support consultation meeting.
• Hot Rod Magazine: A page equivalent advertisement in Hot Rod magazine and 200k banners on the Hot Rod network.
• Family Events: Event-level sponsorship package to either a Family Events truck and off-road group property or a Family Events performance car group property.

* No changes are permitted to the booth layout. Company does not accrue SEMA Show seniority points by reason of exhibiting at a 2016 SEMA Show kiosk booth in the New Products Showcase area or the turnkey exhibit space with premium placement at the 2017 SEMA Show. All taxes on prizes are the sole responsibility of the prize winning company. Tax liability is based on the value of the prizes.

What are you waiting for? Learn more and launch your business today!

 Back to Top

Strengthen Your Company Through Community

No matter what niche you're in—rods, restoration, racing, restyling, reps, trucks or wheels and tires—there's a SEMA council or professional network that's right for your company. SEMA councils and networks offer members a variety of market-specific programs and activities designed to provide educational and networking opportunities while promoting their particular industry segment.

Visit PRO's website.

PRO to Host Long-Range Planning Meeting in Detroit

The Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) is hosting its annual Long-Range Planning (LRP) meeting June 15–16 in the nation’s car capital—Detroit. The annual LRP is an opportunity for council members to address restyling industry issues and challenges, and weigh in on the needs of its member companies. Employees of PRO-member companies are encouraged to attend to gain insight into council initiatives, contribute their ideas to push the restyling industry forward and mingle with Select Committee members and SEMA staff to learn how PRO resources can help your business grow.

As an added bonus, attendees will tour the innovative Mobility Transformation Facility, more commonly known as Mcity, at the University of Michigan. The 32-acre facility is located on campus and is the first of its kind in testing new automated vehicle technologies and their capabilities to safely maneuver actual roadways. Public access to Mcity is limited, but LRP attendees will enjoy a guided, private tour of the facility.

The meetings kick off Wednesday, June 15, at the Detroit Metro Airport Marriot, and will break late morning for the Mcity tour and lunch. The meeting will reconvene back at the hotel after the tour for a group discussion and breakout sessions. A PRO-hosted dinner will take place that evening. The Thursday agenda includes a continental breakfast, breakout sessions, lunch and group project planning, and is slated to end at 3:00 p.m.

RSVP now!

For questions on this event, contact Senior Manager of Councils Allan Keefe at 909-978-6696 or allank@sema.org.

Back to Top

Visit YEN's website

Zach Denney

Jason Wieczorek

Zach Denney will drive his ’90 Toyota Supra Turbo on the Hot Rod Power Tour.

Meet the YEN Power Tour Participants

The Young Executives Network (YEN) will hit the road this summer with 10 members to participate in the Hot Rod Power Tour. The YENsters will stop in seven cities along the tour starting in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, with the finish line in Kansas City, Kansas. Each stop attracts hundreds of local car enthusiasts, students and automotive professionals. YEN members will interact with students showing them around the “traveling car show” and discussing career paths in the automotive aftermarket industry.
You can follow them along their journey via the hashtag #YENPowerTour. Let’s meet one of the teams!

Driver: Zach Denney, President, Wholesale Horsepower

Zach Denney is the president of Wholesale Horsepower, who is the exclusive North American distributor for ECUMaster Engine Management Products, Nashin Brakes and Shadow Auto Electronics. Having enjoyed working in many areas of the automotive aftermarket industry, Denney is excited to join the Power Tour with the SEMA Young Executives Network in an effort to reach out to young enthusiasts.

As an avid reader of Hot Rod magazine, Denney will drive his ’90 Toyota Supra Turbo on the Power Tour. In the true spirit of hot rodding, not much on the car is left as the factory designed it, and his Supra serves as a rolling product development platform for all three of the brands his company represents. Follow Denney via Instagram on the YEN Power Tour @HolyZachrilege.

Passenger: Jason Wieczorek, Sales Representative, Motovicity Distribution

Jason Wieczorek is a senior sales representative at Motovicity Distribution—a performance parts WD based out of the Motor City. He has worked in the automotive industry since the age of 15, starting with a major tire retail chain and working his way into distribution, where he has called Motovicity home for the past nine years. Throughout his career, an emphasis on building lasting relationships has been the key to staying relevant in a competitive market.

“The bonds and friendships I have made with my customers are the greatest part of my job. People don’t buy from businesses, they buy from people,” says Wieczorek.

The proudest moment of his career was in November 2013 when Motovicity won SEMA’s WD of the Year award, being the first sport-compact segment WD to win this award. Traveling to races and attending trade shows, such as the SEMA Show and the PRI Show, are some of his favorite industry events where he can strengthen those relationships. Outside of work, Wieczorek enjoys spending time with his fiancée Gail and his daughter Alexa. His hobbies are as broad as his knowledge of cars and include hunting, playing softball and working on cars.

For more information about the YEN Power Tour, visit www.sema.org/yen-power-tour.

Young entrepreneurs have the opportunity to bring their new products to the SEMA Show to compete for a grand-prize package designed to launch the winner’s business to the next level.

Young Professionals Business Competition Application Period Ending Soon!

Calling all young entrepreneurs with the next big automotive aftermarket product! The SEMA Launch Pad powered by YEN is a platform for you to transform your dream into a growing business.

Young entrepreneurs have the opportunity to bring their new products to the SEMA Show to compete for a grand-prize package designed to launch the winner’s business to the next level. Any executive with an automotive aftermarket product or service is encouraged to apply. You do not have to be a SEMA member to participate.

Ten finalists will be given the opportunity to pitch their product to industry icons in front of a live audience at the 2016 SEMA Show.
Prize packages include:

Semi-Finalist (14 participants):

• One-year complimentary SEMA membership.
• Complimentary registration to the 2016 Exhibitor Summit, two nights of hotel and meals at the event (June 21–22).
• $500 grant to be used toward the cost of travel to the 2016 Exhibitor Summit.

Finalists (10 participants):

• All the semi-finalist prizes, and:
• Complimentary 2016 SEMA Show kiosk booth in the New Products Showcase area.*
• Two exhibitor passes to the SEMA Show.
• Two tickets to the SEMA Banquet.
• A one-hour mentoring session with an industry icon.

Winner (one participant):

• All the semi-finalist prizes, finalist prizes and:
• SEMA News: One full-page, four-color ad.
• SEMA eNews: One full-page article.
• SEMA YEN Member News: Featured section in one article.
• SEMA Show: Turnkey exhibit space with premium placement at the 2017 SEMA Show*
• SEMA Garage: One full day of photography studio usage and up to three hours of free custom scanning services.
• SEMA Data Co-op: 50% off supplier monthly membership fees for your first year. Up to a $3,600 value.
• SEMA Education: One video feature in SEMA's “BizTips” video series.
• SEMA Manufacturers’ Rep Network: Distribution/sales support consultation meeting.
• Hot Rod Magazine: A page equivalent advertisement in Hot Rod magazine and 200k banners on the Hot Rod network.
• Family Events: Event-level sponsorship package to either a Family Events truck and off-road group property or a Family Events performance car group property.

* No changes are permitted to the booth layout. Company does not accrue SEMA Show seniority points by reason of exhibiting at a 2016 SEMA Show kiosk booth in the New Products Showcase area or the turnkey exhibit space with premium placement at the 2017 SEMA Show. All taxes on prizes are the sole responsibility of the prize winning company. Tax liability is based on the value of the prizes.

What are you waiting for? Learn more and launch your business today!

 Back to Top

Strengthen Your Company Through Community

No matter what niche you're in—rods, restoration, racing, restyling, reps, trucks or wheels and tires—there's a SEMA council or professional network that's right for your company. SEMA councils and networks offer members a variety of market-specific programs and activities designed to provide educational and networking opportunities while promoting their particular industry segment.

Visit PRO's website.

PRO to Host Long-Range Planning Meeting in Detroit

The Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) is hosting its annual Long-Range Planning (LRP) meeting June 15–16 in the nation’s car capital—Detroit. The annual LRP is an opportunity for council members to address restyling industry issues and challenges, and weigh in on the needs of its member companies. Employees of PRO-member companies are encouraged to attend to gain insight into council initiatives, contribute their ideas to push the restyling industry forward and mingle with Select Committee members and SEMA staff to learn how PRO resources can help your business grow.

As an added bonus, attendees will tour the innovative Mobility Transformation Facility, more commonly known as Mcity, at the University of Michigan. The 32-acre facility is located on campus and is the first of its kind in testing new automated vehicle technologies and their capabilities to safely maneuver actual roadways. Public access to Mcity is limited, but LRP attendees will enjoy a guided, private tour of the facility.

The meetings kick off Wednesday, June 15, at the Detroit Metro Airport Marriot, and will break late morning for the Mcity tour and lunch. The meeting will reconvene back at the hotel after the tour for a group discussion and breakout sessions. A PRO-hosted dinner will take place that evening. The Thursday agenda includes a continental breakfast, breakout sessions, lunch and group project planning, and is slated to end at 3:00 p.m.

RSVP now!

For questions on this event, contact Senior Manager of Councils Allan Keefe at 909-978-6696 or allank@sema.org.

Back to Top

Visit YEN's website

Zach Denney

Jason Wieczorek

Zach Denney will drive his ’90 Toyota Supra Turbo on the Hot Rod Power Tour.

Meet the YEN Power Tour Participants

The Young Executives Network (YEN) will hit the road this summer with 10 members to participate in the Hot Rod Power Tour. The YENsters will stop in seven cities along the tour starting in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, with the finish line in Kansas City, Kansas. Each stop attracts hundreds of local car enthusiasts, students and automotive professionals. YEN members will interact with students showing them around the “traveling car show” and discussing career paths in the automotive aftermarket industry.
You can follow them along their journey via the hashtag #YENPowerTour. Let’s meet one of the teams!

Driver: Zach Denney, President, Wholesale Horsepower

Zach Denney is the president of Wholesale Horsepower, who is the exclusive North American distributor for ECUMaster Engine Management Products, Nashin Brakes and Shadow Auto Electronics. Having enjoyed working in many areas of the automotive aftermarket industry, Denney is excited to join the Power Tour with the SEMA Young Executives Network in an effort to reach out to young enthusiasts.

As an avid reader of Hot Rod magazine, Denney will drive his ’90 Toyota Supra Turbo on the Power Tour. In the true spirit of hot rodding, not much on the car is left as the factory designed it, and his Supra serves as a rolling product development platform for all three of the brands his company represents. Follow Denney via Instagram on the YEN Power Tour @HolyZachrilege.

Passenger: Jason Wieczorek, Sales Representative, Motovicity Distribution

Jason Wieczorek is a senior sales representative at Motovicity Distribution—a performance parts WD based out of the Motor City. He has worked in the automotive industry since the age of 15, starting with a major tire retail chain and working his way into distribution, where he has called Motovicity home for the past nine years. Throughout his career, an emphasis on building lasting relationships has been the key to staying relevant in a competitive market.

“The bonds and friendships I have made with my customers are the greatest part of my job. People don’t buy from businesses, they buy from people,” says Wieczorek.

The proudest moment of his career was in November 2013 when Motovicity won SEMA’s WD of the Year award, being the first sport-compact segment WD to win this award. Traveling to races and attending trade shows, such as the SEMA Show and the PRI Show, are some of his favorite industry events where he can strengthen those relationships. Outside of work, Wieczorek enjoys spending time with his fiancée Gail and his daughter Alexa. His hobbies are as broad as his knowledge of cars and include hunting, playing softball and working on cars.

For more information about the YEN Power Tour, visit www.sema.org/yen-power-tour.

Young entrepreneurs have the opportunity to bring their new products to the SEMA Show to compete for a grand-prize package designed to launch the winner’s business to the next level.

Young Professionals Business Competition Application Period Ending Soon!

Calling all young entrepreneurs with the next big automotive aftermarket product! The SEMA Launch Pad powered by YEN is a platform for you to transform your dream into a growing business.

Young entrepreneurs have the opportunity to bring their new products to the SEMA Show to compete for a grand-prize package designed to launch the winner’s business to the next level. Any executive with an automotive aftermarket product or service is encouraged to apply. You do not have to be a SEMA member to participate.

Ten finalists will be given the opportunity to pitch their product to industry icons in front of a live audience at the 2016 SEMA Show.
Prize packages include:

Semi-Finalist (14 participants):

• One-year complimentary SEMA membership.
• Complimentary registration to the 2016 Exhibitor Summit, two nights of hotel and meals at the event (June 21–22).
• $500 grant to be used toward the cost of travel to the 2016 Exhibitor Summit.

Finalists (10 participants):

• All the semi-finalist prizes, and:
• Complimentary 2016 SEMA Show kiosk booth in the New Products Showcase area.*
• Two exhibitor passes to the SEMA Show.
• Two tickets to the SEMA Banquet.
• A one-hour mentoring session with an industry icon.

Winner (one participant):

• All the semi-finalist prizes, finalist prizes and:
• SEMA News: One full-page, four-color ad.
• SEMA eNews: One full-page article.
• SEMA YEN Member News: Featured section in one article.
• SEMA Show: Turnkey exhibit space with premium placement at the 2017 SEMA Show*
• SEMA Garage: One full day of photography studio usage and up to three hours of free custom scanning services.
• SEMA Data Co-op: 50% off supplier monthly membership fees for your first year. Up to a $3,600 value.
• SEMA Education: One video feature in SEMA's “BizTips” video series.
• SEMA Manufacturers’ Rep Network: Distribution/sales support consultation meeting.
• Hot Rod Magazine: A page equivalent advertisement in Hot Rod magazine and 200k banners on the Hot Rod network.
• Family Events: Event-level sponsorship package to either a Family Events truck and off-road group property or a Family Events performance car group property.

* No changes are permitted to the booth layout. Company does not accrue SEMA Show seniority points by reason of exhibiting at a 2016 SEMA Show kiosk booth in the New Products Showcase area or the turnkey exhibit space with premium placement at the 2017 SEMA Show. All taxes on prizes are the sole responsibility of the prize winning company. Tax liability is based on the value of the prizes.

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By SEMA Editors

Following are dates and locations for several upcoming SEMA-sponsored shows, measuring sessions and activities.

For association-related travel, contact Manya Petropaki (manya.p@travelstoreusa.com) at Travel Store USA, 949-930-9268.

By SEMA Editors

The current SEMA Board of Directors.

Voting for the 2016 SEMA Board of Directors election is underway now through through Tuesday, May 24. Election details, ballots and links were sent to each member company's designated primary contact earlier this week. Learn more about the candidates, their backgrounds and campaign goals by visiting www.sema.org/bod16.

To help ensure that the primary contact received the specific voting details, they were encouraged to add the following e-mail address as an approved sender: noreply@directvote.net.

The SEMA Board is comprised of 10 directors, the chairman, the chairman-elect, immediate-past chairman, secretary and treasurer. While there are a limited number of seats available on the SEMA Board, the election process provides all SEMA-member companies the opportunity to influence the direction and future of the association and specialty-equipment market.

Winners will be announced by May 27 and formally welcomed to the SEMA Board of Directors during the SEMA Installation Gala, July 29.

Here are the candidates for this year’s election:

Manufacturers Category (two open seats)

• Chris Douglas – vice president of marketing, COMP Performance Group
• Dave Edmondson – senior vice president, Roadwire
• Kyle Fickler – director of business development, Aeromotive Inc.
• Rick Love – executive vice president, Vintage Air

Manufacturers' Representative Category (one open seat)

• Les Rudd – president, Bob Cook Sales
• Rich Butler – CEO, R&R Marketing

For more information about the 2016 SEMA Board of Directors election, contact Susan Alfonso at 909-978-6671 or susana@sema.org.

By SEMA Editors

The current SEMA Board of Directors.

Voting for the 2016 SEMA Board of Directors election is underway now through through Tuesday, May 24. Election details, ballots and links were sent to each member company's designated primary contact earlier this week. Learn more about the candidates, their backgrounds and campaign goals by visiting www.sema.org/bod16.

To help ensure that the primary contact received the specific voting details, they were encouraged to add the following e-mail address as an approved sender: noreply@directvote.net.

The SEMA Board is comprised of 10 directors, the chairman, the chairman-elect, immediate-past chairman, secretary and treasurer. While there are a limited number of seats available on the SEMA Board, the election process provides all SEMA-member companies the opportunity to influence the direction and future of the association and specialty-equipment market.

Winners will be announced by May 27 and formally welcomed to the SEMA Board of Directors during the SEMA Installation Gala, July 29.

Here are the candidates for this year’s election:

Manufacturers Category (two open seats)

• Chris Douglas – vice president of marketing, COMP Performance Group
• Dave Edmondson – senior vice president, Roadwire
• Kyle Fickler – director of business development, Aeromotive Inc.
• Rick Love – executive vice president, Vintage Air

Manufacturers' Representative Category (one open seat)

• Les Rudd – president, Bob Cook Sales
• Rich Butler – CEO, R&R Marketing

For more information about the 2016 SEMA Board of Directors election, contact Susan Alfonso at 909-978-6671 or susana@sema.org.

It's a triple feature at the SEMA Garage. Running concurrently with the 2017 and Titan XD pickup measuring session, the new 2017 Nissan Armada is joining the event at the SEMA Garage for exclusive member access!

With the introduction of the all-new, second-generation Armada full-size SUV, arriving at Nissan dealers nationwide in mid-2016, the last piece of Nissan’s transformation of its SUV and crossover lineup falls into place. As the largest and most powerful vehicle in the portfolio, Armada earns its flagship status by every measure—whether performance, refinement, advanced technology and even heritage. Unlike the original Armada, which was based on the Nissan Titan full-size pickup, the new-generation design traces back to one of Nissan’s most beloved global vehicles, the Patrol.

It's a triple feature at the SEMA Garage. Running concurrently with the 2017 and Titan XD pickup measuring session, the new 2017 Nissan Armada is joining the event at the SEMA Garage for exclusive member access!

With the introduction of the all-new, second-generation Armada full-size SUV, arriving at Nissan dealers nationwide in mid-2016, the last piece of Nissan’s transformation of its SUV and crossover lineup falls into place. As the largest and most powerful vehicle in the portfolio, Armada earns its flagship status by every measure—whether performance, refinement, advanced technology and even heritage. Unlike the original Armada, which was based on the Nissan Titan full-size pickup, the new-generation design traces back to one of Nissan’s most beloved global vehicles, the Patrol.