By Ashley Reyes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By SEMA News Editors

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

Serving as a volunteer leader is your opportunity to: 

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

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

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

SEMA's Councils and Networks: 

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

Together, we drive the industry forward. 

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

By Ashley Reyes

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Ashley Reyes

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

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

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

Register here.

By Ashley Reyes

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

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

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

Register here.

By SEMA News Editors

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

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

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

Note: "Day 3" option requires additional fee. 

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

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

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

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

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

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

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

Preserving Vehicle Choice

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

Ensuring Your Right to Modify

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

Protecting the Right to Race

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

Maintaining Access to Public Lands

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

Telling Your Story About Tariffs

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

Helping Small Businesses Thrive

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

Defense of Classic Vehicles and Collector Rights

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

Protection of Small Businesses from Regulatory Overreach

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

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

Image courtesy of Tupungato, Shutterstock

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

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

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

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

Preserving Vehicle Choice

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

Ensuring Your Right to Modify

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

Protecting the Right to Race

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

Maintaining Access to Public Lands

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

Telling Your Story About Tariffs

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

Helping Small Businesses Thrive

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

Defense of Classic Vehicles and Collector Rights

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

Protection of Small Businesses from Regulatory Overreach

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

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

Image courtesy of Tupungato, Shutterstock

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA invites women working in any corner of the automotive industry to join an upcoming virtual event on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, for an inside look at the tools, programs and community designed to help women accelerate their careers in the specialty-equipment market.

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) virtual General Membership Meeting, will take place on via Zoom on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. PDT/3:00 p.m. EDT. 

Whether you're already an SBN member or curious about joining, this meeting is your chance to connect, learn and discover resources designed to help women succeed in the automotive specialty-equipment industry.  

Select committee leaders will share updates about networking events, volunteer opportunities, recognition programs and webinars designed to support members' professional growth. Exciting details will also be shared about the SBN Women’s Leadership Forum happening March 3-5, 2026, in San Diego, California.

SBN membership is free and open to all women employed by a SEMA member company. If this sounds like you, don't miss your chance to level up your career and network by attending the meeting.   

Save your spot here or click below.

To learn more about SBN, visit sema.org/sbn.

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

Spy photographers have once again caught several upcoming vehicles undergoing testing, giving an early glimpse at what's to come before they officially debut.

'26 Porsche 718 Cayman EV Prototype Offers New Details

SEMA News sources recently captured new images of the next-generation Porsche Cayman electric vehicle (EV).

The all-electric iteration of the 718 aims to blend the brand's performance heritage with cutting-edge technology and sustainability, according to insiders, with multiple new features expected from the new model.

The Porsche 718 series, which includes the Boxster and Cayman, has long been celebrated for its exceptional handling, lightweight construction and thrilling driving dynamics. With a focus on performance, the new models are expected to deliver exhilarating acceleration and precise handling, insiders said.

The design of the '26 Porsche 718 EV appears to reflect modern interpretations of the classic 718 silhouettes. Expect to see sleek lines, a low stance and an aerodynamic profile that enhances efficiency and performance. While the overall shapes may remain familiar, the EVs will incorporate unique design elements that distinguish them from their gasoline-powered predecessors, such as a closed-off front grille and distinctive lighting signatures.

At the heart of the new Porsche 718 Boxster and Cayman will be a state-of-the-art electric powertrain. While specific details are still under wraps, industry insiders anticipate a dual-motor setup that will provide all-wheel drive and instantaneous torque delivery. This configuration could enable Boxster and Cayman to achieve 0-60 mph times in the realm of 3 seconds or less.

Porsche is also expected to utilize advanced battery packs that offer a balance of high energy density and lightweight construction, ensuring that the vehicle remains agile and responsive, insiders said. Additionally, fast-charging capabilities will likely be a priority, allowing drivers to recharge their vehicles quickly and efficiently during long journeys.

Inside the Porsche 718, the cabin will likely feature high-quality materials, ergonomic design and a driver-focused layout. A digital cockpit with a large infotainment display will provide access to a range of connectivity features, navigation and performance data.

Porsche is also expected to integrate advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) to enhance safety and convenience.

Facelift Coming for Mercedes-AMG SL 63

While Mercedes-AMG is working on the successor of the GT, the company seems to be planning a facelift for the GT's stablemate, the SL. SEMA News sources at the German Nürburgring caught an early prototype of what appears to be an updated version of the SL 63.

So far, modifications seem to be limited to the front fascia, but insiders expect the rear to receive a makeover, too, as well as a fresh look for the interior. Together with the tweaked design will come tech updates for driver assistance systems, as well as connectivity and entertainment.

What's unclear so far is if AMG will squeeze more power out of the 4-L V8 engine. With 585 hp up to 616 hp it isn't exactly weak today, but with so much electric competition producing up to 1,000 hp, more power would definitely be appreciated by customers.