By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA, on behalf of the specialty automotive aftermarket industry and community of automotive enthusiasts nationwide, believes that individuals' right to repair and modify the vehicles they own is essential to a free nation and the future of the industry.  

New barriers, whether legal or technological, hinder vehicle owners' ability to work on their vehicles, seek repairs at independent automotive shops, and manufacture and install replacement and specialty parts, software and services to enhance their vehicles' safety, performance and comfort each year.

These barriers represent an ever-evolving challenge to vehicle owners and the thousands of businesses that make up the specialty automotive aftermarket industry, whose $337 billion annual economic impact is a core driver of the nation's economy.  

Historically, aftermarket modifications have been largely mechanical. However, modifying newer vehicles to improve performance, safety, reliability and appearance requires aftermarket businesses to access a vehicle's electronic control unit (ECU), on-board diagnostics systems (OBD) and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) to ensure it understands how the parts and products installed interact with OEM systems. Accordingly, it is imperative that OEM data from testing and system calibration is available and able to accommodate vehicle modifications to maintain the integrity and performance of safety systems after a vehicle has been modified.  

While many new ADAS features, such as lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking, come standard in the latest models of vehicles, the technology automakers employ to support these systems varies greatly by model and OEM. Currently, vehicle manufacturers are not required to provide full-vehicle lifecycle support, including instructions, application guides, proper mounting or functionality windows, or access to make changes outside of the original sensor location and configuration.  

This presents a challenge to correctly and safely calibrate ADAS and ensure optimal performance after basic modifications, such as installing larger tires and wheels, lift kits, lowering kits, bumpers, grilles, push bars, light bars, bike racks and winches.  

SEMA is committed to protecting the rights of vehicle owners and millions of automotive enthusiasts to choose where and with what parts and software their vehicles are repaired, customized and modified.  

It is imperative that any legislative, regulatory or industry standards or agreements adhere to the principles outlined below. While the REPAIR Act is designed to provide vehicle information and data to protect the future of the independent repair industry, the bill does not extend similar protections to individuals and businesses that modify and customize vehicles, nor does it provide access to the information needed to properly recalibrate ADAS systems after a vehicle has been modified.  

SEMA is neutral on the REPAIR Act and will advocate for expanding the legislation to protect the right to modify and customize vehicles. 

SEMA's support for any "right to repair" legislation is contingent upon meeting the aftermarket industry's needs in the following areas: 

• Access: As automotive technology continues to evolve, vehicle owners and the specialty automotive aftermarket industry, including businesses that manufacture and install specialty parts and software, must have access to the tools, repair procedures and information, configurable vehicle parameters, customization settings, software, technical and compatibility information, and wiring diagrams. Automakers must provide this access at fair and reasonable prices and subject to the same cryptographic or technological protections as their authorized dealers and service providers. 
• Calibration and recalibration: Specialty aftermarket businesses must have access to the information needed to calibrate and recalibrate vehicle systems, including ADAS, to ensure safe operation after a vehicle's ride height and profile is modified, or if the vehicle has been customized.  
• Elimination of barriers: Motor vehicle manufacturers must be prevented from using technological and legal barriers to limit aftermarket parts manufacturers, vehicle repairers, and businesses that modify or customize vehicles to manufacture or install aftermarket parts, services, and software needed to repair, customize, or modify a vehicle. 
• A level playing field: Vehicle owners, aftermarket parts manufacturers, diagnostic tool manufacturers, and motor-vehicle service businesses must have access to the same information and tools as OEM's authorized vehicle service providers. Along these lines, such access must be provided in the same manner, time, method, cost (must be fair and reasonable), content set, and subject to the same cryptographic or technological protections, as vehicle manufacturers' authorized vehicle service providers. 
• Owners' data rights: Vehicle owners must have the right to access their vehicle's safety and performance data and be able to share this information with the repairer or vehicle service provider of their choice. 

For more information, contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org. 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA, on behalf of the specialty automotive aftermarket industry and community of automotive enthusiasts nationwide, believes that individuals' right to repair and modify the vehicles they own is essential to a free nation and the future of the industry.  

New barriers, whether legal or technological, hinder vehicle owners' ability to work on their vehicles, seek repairs at independent automotive shops, and manufacture and install replacement and specialty parts, software and services to enhance their vehicles' safety, performance and comfort each year.

These barriers represent an ever-evolving challenge to vehicle owners and the thousands of businesses that make up the specialty automotive aftermarket industry, whose $337 billion annual economic impact is a core driver of the nation's economy.  

Historically, aftermarket modifications have been largely mechanical. However, modifying newer vehicles to improve performance, safety, reliability and appearance requires aftermarket businesses to access a vehicle's electronic control unit (ECU), on-board diagnostics systems (OBD) and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) to ensure it understands how the parts and products installed interact with OEM systems. Accordingly, it is imperative that OEM data from testing and system calibration is available and able to accommodate vehicle modifications to maintain the integrity and performance of safety systems after a vehicle has been modified.  

While many new ADAS features, such as lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking, come standard in the latest models of vehicles, the technology automakers employ to support these systems varies greatly by model and OEM. Currently, vehicle manufacturers are not required to provide full-vehicle lifecycle support, including instructions, application guides, proper mounting or functionality windows, or access to make changes outside of the original sensor location and configuration.  

This presents a challenge to correctly and safely calibrate ADAS and ensure optimal performance after basic modifications, such as installing larger tires and wheels, lift kits, lowering kits, bumpers, grilles, push bars, light bars, bike racks and winches.  

SEMA is committed to protecting the rights of vehicle owners and millions of automotive enthusiasts to choose where and with what parts and software their vehicles are repaired, customized and modified.  

It is imperative that any legislative, regulatory or industry standards or agreements adhere to the principles outlined below. While the REPAIR Act is designed to provide vehicle information and data to protect the future of the independent repair industry, the bill does not extend similar protections to individuals and businesses that modify and customize vehicles, nor does it provide access to the information needed to properly recalibrate ADAS systems after a vehicle has been modified.  

SEMA is neutral on the REPAIR Act and will advocate for expanding the legislation to protect the right to modify and customize vehicles. 

SEMA's support for any "right to repair" legislation is contingent upon meeting the aftermarket industry's needs in the following areas: 

• Access: As automotive technology continues to evolve, vehicle owners and the specialty automotive aftermarket industry, including businesses that manufacture and install specialty parts and software, must have access to the tools, repair procedures and information, configurable vehicle parameters, customization settings, software, technical and compatibility information, and wiring diagrams. Automakers must provide this access at fair and reasonable prices and subject to the same cryptographic or technological protections as their authorized dealers and service providers. 
• Calibration and recalibration: Specialty aftermarket businesses must have access to the information needed to calibrate and recalibrate vehicle systems, including ADAS, to ensure safe operation after a vehicle's ride height and profile is modified, or if the vehicle has been customized.  
• Elimination of barriers: Motor vehicle manufacturers must be prevented from using technological and legal barriers to limit aftermarket parts manufacturers, vehicle repairers, and businesses that modify or customize vehicles to manufacture or install aftermarket parts, services, and software needed to repair, customize, or modify a vehicle. 
• A level playing field: Vehicle owners, aftermarket parts manufacturers, diagnostic tool manufacturers, and motor-vehicle service businesses must have access to the same information and tools as OEM's authorized vehicle service providers. Along these lines, such access must be provided in the same manner, time, method, cost (must be fair and reasonable), content set, and subject to the same cryptographic or technological protections, as vehicle manufacturers' authorized vehicle service providers. 
• Owners' data rights: Vehicle owners must have the right to access their vehicle's safety and performance data and be able to share this information with the repairer or vehicle service provider of their choice. 

For more information, contact Eric Snyder at erics@sema.org. 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

From SEMA's Washington, D.C., office

SEMA is requesting that its members sign a letter to federal lawmakers explaining why Congress should pass a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution to overturn the United States Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Clean Air Act waiver for California's Advanced Clean Cars II (ACC II) regulation. Congress has an opportunity to stop California's disastrous regulation, which requires 100% of new cars, SUVs and small trucks sold in California and 11 other states to be zero-emissions vehicles (ZEV) by 2035. 

Click below to act now and add your name to the list!

SIGN THE LETTER TO LAWMAKERS HERE.

Congress is owed the opportunity to determine whether a single state should be empowered to enact a heavy-handed policy that would have broad, national implications for the economy, the entire automotive-aftermarket industry and consumers.

If not stopped by Congress, the Clean Air Act waiver that the EPA granted in December would enable California to implement its EV mandates and ban internal-combustion-engine vehicles. Congress, though, can use the CRA to nullify the waivers, thus preserving vehicle choice for consumers and halting a policy that would have a disastrous effect on the automotive aftermarket industry.

To sign your name to this important cause, complete SEMA's quick form here.

From SEMA's Washington, D.C., office

SEMA is requesting that its members sign a letter to federal lawmakers explaining why Congress should pass a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution to overturn the United States Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Clean Air Act waiver for California's Advanced Clean Cars II (ACC II) regulation. Congress has an opportunity to stop California's disastrous regulation, which requires 100% of new cars, SUVs and small trucks sold in California and 11 other states to be zero-emissions vehicles (ZEV) by 2035. 

Click below to act now and add your name to the list!

SIGN THE LETTER TO LAWMAKERS HERE.

Congress is owed the opportunity to determine whether a single state should be empowered to enact a heavy-handed policy that would have broad, national implications for the economy, the entire automotive-aftermarket industry and consumers.

If not stopped by Congress, the Clean Air Act waiver that the EPA granted in December would enable California to implement its EV mandates and ban internal-combustion-engine vehicles. Congress, though, can use the CRA to nullify the waivers, thus preserving vehicle choice for consumers and halting a policy that would have a disastrous effect on the automotive aftermarket industry.

To sign your name to this important cause, complete SEMA's quick form here.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA member company employees have until March 1 to apply to reduce their student debt through the SEMA Loan Forgiveness Program. Awards of $2,000 are available to eligible individuals who apply at sema.org/loan-forgiveness.

"Student loans can be a heavy burden for recent graduates," said SEMA Manager of Recognition Programs Jose Escobar. "The SEMA Loan Forgiveness Program addresses this by giving our members an exclusive opportunity to ease the financial pressure tied to their college education, enabling them to focus more on their careers."

Eligibility requirements include:

• Be currently employed by a SEMA-member business
• Demonstrate a passion for the automotive hobby and career
• Possess a degree or certificate from a college, university or career technical/trade school in the United States or Canada
• Have a minimum of $2,000 in outstanding student loans

The SEMA Loan Forgiveness Program is offered as a benefit of SEMA membership. Learn more and apply at www.sema.org/loan-forgiveness. Questions can be directed to SEMA manager of recognition programs at josee@sema.org or 909-378-4860.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

An update from the PRI Washington, D.C., office on March 25, 2025:

HB 2738 was not set for a hearing by the Oregon Legislature’s Working Session deadline on March 21, 2025. The next critical deadline is April 9, 2025, for the First Chamber deadline. If the bill misses this deadline, it is even less likely to move forward. SEMA and PRI thank industry members and the SEMA Action Network for their efforts supporting this important cause.   

The following article was originally published on February 24, 2025:

A SEMA- and PRI-opposed bill in Oregon threatens to shutter an iconic local race track by regulating the use of certain fuels. 

Oregon lawmakers are considering House Bill 2738, which aims to prohibit the use of leaded fuel at race tracks located within cities with populations of 500,000 or more, starting January 1, 2026. The only facility that would be impacted by the proposal is Portland International Raceway (PIR), the 63-year-old track that has hosted champions including Mario and Michael Andretti, Emerson Fittipaldi and Álex Palou. The bill, introduced by State Rep. Travis Nelson (D), sparked a heated debate among legislators, community members and racing enthusiasts, with SEMA/PRI testifying on the detrimental impact that closing the track would have on the local economy (more on this, below). 

Misrepresented Health Concerns Drive Legislation 

Rep. Nelson, who represents House District 44 in Northeast Portland, cited supposed health risks associated with leaded fuel emissions, relying on misrepresented data from a 2023 Guardian report and a Cornell University study, which showed that lead exposure could extend up to 25 miles from its source and significantly impact children's test scores and elderly mortality rates. However, these studies blatantly show that the presence of lead in ambient air has decreased so much that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has waived the lead monitoring requirement for the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality since 2003. 

Some lawmakers, specialists and advocates argue that emissions from leaded fuel at PIR are minimal at best. This includes Troy Abercrombie, a drag racer and natural resource conservationist. 

"The amount of leaded fuel emissions from this activity would be minimal, even if every single vehicle used leaded race gas," Abercrombie testified, who also pointed out that many racers are already transitioning to alternative fuels like E85 and methanol. 

Rep. Emerson Levy (D) similarly expressed concerns about the correlation between lead exposure and lower test scores. "The DEQ did a study in 2022 that showed no lead was above the ambient air quality standards... We need to be very careful with causation and correlation when making state laws," Rep. Levy stated.  

Keith DiBrino, a board advisor for the Oregon Motorcycle Road Racing Association, echoed these sentiments. "There's already been a transition moving towards unleaded race gas. The last thing we need [in this industry] is more regulation," DiBrino said. 

Economic Impact on Local Businesses 

In a letter to the committee, Victor Muñoz, SEMA and PRI's senior manager for state government affairs, emphasized the substantial economic contributions of PIR operates with a $2 million budget and would face substantial revenue losses of more than $600,000 if the bill is enacted, risking its closure. Major racing events hosted at PIR, such as IndyCar, NASCAR, the Rose Cup and the Oregon Motorcycle Road Race Association's events, generate more than $32 million annually for Portland's economy. The potential loss of these events would impact local businesses, hotels, restaurants and tourism. 

Muñoz also highlighted the economic impact of the automotive specialty-equipment industry, which supports grassroots racing enthusiasts in Oregon to the tune of more than $3 billion in economic impact and supports more than 14,000 jobs.  

Lewis Fitzgerald Holland, a resident of the Portsmouth neighborhood, echoed the value of the track, which extends beyond dollars: "I believe that Rep. Nelson and some of the other backers of this bill are well-intentioned, but they have been led astray... PIR is woven into the fabric of North Portland, and this bill would be a poison pill for the future of the track."  

Next Steps Hinge on Committee 

Amendments to the bill were submitted in committee that extend the prohibition date to 2029, allowing PIR time to explore alternative events to offset lost revenue.

As the debate continues, the Oregon House Committee will consider the testimonies and data presented by both supporters and opponents of the bill prior to voting on the bill in a future working session. The outcome will determine whether PIR will need to phase out leaded fuel by the end of the decade, dealing a devastating blow to the local grassroots racing community. 

For more information, please contact Muñoz at victorm@sema.org.  

Photo courtesy of PIR, Facebook

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

An update from the PRI Washington, D.C., office on March 25, 2025:

HB 2738 was not set for a hearing by the Oregon Legislature’s Working Session deadline on March 21, 2025. The next critical deadline is April 9, 2025, for the First Chamber deadline. If the bill misses this deadline, it is even less likely to move forward. SEMA and PRI thank industry members and the SEMA Action Network for their efforts supporting this important cause.   

The following article was originally published on February 24, 2025:

A SEMA- and PRI-opposed bill in Oregon threatens to shutter an iconic local race track by regulating the use of certain fuels. 

Oregon lawmakers are considering House Bill 2738, which aims to prohibit the use of leaded fuel at race tracks located within cities with populations of 500,000 or more, starting January 1, 2026. The only facility that would be impacted by the proposal is Portland International Raceway (PIR), the 63-year-old track that has hosted champions including Mario and Michael Andretti, Emerson Fittipaldi and Álex Palou. The bill, introduced by State Rep. Travis Nelson (D), sparked a heated debate among legislators, community members and racing enthusiasts, with SEMA/PRI testifying on the detrimental impact that closing the track would have on the local economy (more on this, below). 

Misrepresented Health Concerns Drive Legislation 

Rep. Nelson, who represents House District 44 in Northeast Portland, cited supposed health risks associated with leaded fuel emissions, relying on misrepresented data from a 2023 Guardian report and a Cornell University study, which showed that lead exposure could extend up to 25 miles from its source and significantly impact children's test scores and elderly mortality rates. However, these studies blatantly show that the presence of lead in ambient air has decreased so much that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has waived the lead monitoring requirement for the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality since 2003. 

Some lawmakers, specialists and advocates argue that emissions from leaded fuel at PIR are minimal at best. This includes Troy Abercrombie, a drag racer and natural resource conservationist. 

"The amount of leaded fuel emissions from this activity would be minimal, even if every single vehicle used leaded race gas," Abercrombie testified, who also pointed out that many racers are already transitioning to alternative fuels like E85 and methanol. 

Rep. Emerson Levy (D) similarly expressed concerns about the correlation between lead exposure and lower test scores. "The DEQ did a study in 2022 that showed no lead was above the ambient air quality standards... We need to be very careful with causation and correlation when making state laws," Rep. Levy stated.  

Keith DiBrino, a board advisor for the Oregon Motorcycle Road Racing Association, echoed these sentiments. "There's already been a transition moving towards unleaded race gas. The last thing we need [in this industry] is more regulation," DiBrino said. 

Economic Impact on Local Businesses 

In a letter to the committee, Victor Muñoz, SEMA and PRI's senior manager for state government affairs, emphasized the substantial economic contributions of PIR operates with a $2 million budget and would face substantial revenue losses of more than $600,000 if the bill is enacted, risking its closure. Major racing events hosted at PIR, such as IndyCar, NASCAR, the Rose Cup and the Oregon Motorcycle Road Race Association's events, generate more than $32 million annually for Portland's economy. The potential loss of these events would impact local businesses, hotels, restaurants and tourism. 

Muñoz also highlighted the economic impact of the automotive specialty-equipment industry, which supports grassroots racing enthusiasts in Oregon to the tune of more than $3 billion in economic impact and supports more than 14,000 jobs.  

Lewis Fitzgerald Holland, a resident of the Portsmouth neighborhood, echoed the value of the track, which extends beyond dollars: "I believe that Rep. Nelson and some of the other backers of this bill are well-intentioned, but they have been led astray... PIR is woven into the fabric of North Portland, and this bill would be a poison pill for the future of the track."  

Next Steps Hinge on Committee 

Amendments to the bill were submitted in committee that extend the prohibition date to 2029, allowing PIR time to explore alternative events to offset lost revenue.

As the debate continues, the Oregon House Committee will consider the testimonies and data presented by both supporters and opponents of the bill prior to voting on the bill in a future working session. The outcome will determine whether PIR will need to phase out leaded fuel by the end of the decade, dealing a devastating blow to the local grassroots racing community. 

For more information, please contact Muñoz at victorm@sema.org.  

Photo courtesy of PIR, Facebook

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Celina Leggiere, social media strategist at Fox Factory, as the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member.  

Get to know Leggiere 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?  

Celina Leggiere: I've been with my current company for almost a year--I'll hit my one-year mark this February. Every day is definitely a challenge, especially with social media constantly evolving, but that's what makes it exciting. It pushes my knowledge and creativity to new limits, and I love that it keeps me on my toes. Fox Factory is the family I've been looking for. Some of my co-workers have become my favorite people to do life with and see every day. It has truly changed my perspective of "work" from just being a job into something I'm energized and excited to contribute to every day.

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

CL: The most challenging part of my job is staying ahead of the ever-changing social media landscape. Platforms, algorithms and trends shift constantly, so it's crucial to adapt quickly while maintaining consistent and engaging content. It pushes me to always be on my toes, learning new strategies and finding creative ways to connect with our audience. But honestly, that's also one of the most exciting parts--it keeps things fresh and fuels my passion for what I do.

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

CL: This is my fifth year in the industry. Social media has changed since 2019, let me tell you! My first-ever industry job was as a social media assistant at an advertising agency that focused on car dealerships. I was helping manage more than 100-plus social accounts for all of our clients, which were mostly dealerships. It was a wild start, but it taught me how to juggle multiple accounts, adapt quickly and understand the fast-paced nature of this space.

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

CL: Three qualities that have gotten me to where I am today are adaptability, creativity and resilience. Adaptability has been essential, especially in social media, where things are constantly evolving. It's helped me stay ahead of trends and pivot strategies when needed.

Creativity keeps my content fresh and engaging, allowing me to think outside the box and connect with audiences in new ways. And resilience has been key in overcoming challenges and setbacks, allowing me to keep pushing forward when things get tough.

These qualities have helped me grow both professionally and personally, giving me the tools to thrive in a fast-paced, ever-changing industry.

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

CL: As a woman in a male-dominated industry, one of my biggest challenges has been gaining respect and being taken seriously, especially as the "social media girl." There have been countless times when I've asked for participation in videos or engagement on our platforms, and instead of support, I've been met with laughter or dismissive attitudes. It can feel isolating at times, but I've learned that staying confident in my skills and vision is key.

One of my proudest accomplishments has been turning those doubts into results--when the content I create drives engagement, increases our brand's visibility or sparks a conversation, it speaks for itself. I've earned respect by consistently showing that social media is a powerful tool for our industry.

A specific situation that comes to mind was when I initially faced resistance from some of the team regarding a video series I pitched. They didn't see the value in it, but I pushed through, created the content, and when it performed beyond expectations, the same people started coming to me with ideas. That moment was a turning point--it reminded me that persistence and believing in your vision is everything. Being a woman in this space isn't always easy, but it's made me stronger, more determined and has given me a deeper sense of purpose.

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

CL: I've been fortunate to have a few incredible role models and mentors in the industry who have played a huge role in my growth. One of my biggest inspirations is my former boss from my first social media job at an advertising agency. She was a powerhouse, and watching how she handled the fast-paced environment with grace and confidence gave me a clear picture of the kind of leader I wanted to be. She taught me the importance of staying calm under pressure and trusting in my own abilities.

Another major influence has been my faith in God. He's guided me through some of the toughest moments, helping me stay grounded and giving me the strength to push forward when I face challenges. Leaning on him has given me clarity and courage to take bigger risks and trust that everything happens in his perfect timing.

Both have shown me that resilience, creativity and faith are essential in this industry. Their guidance has shaped the way I approach my work and helped me trust my own voice and instincts.

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

CL: The best career advice I've ever received is, "don't be afraid to take up space." Early on, I struggled with feeling like I needed to stay in the background or play small, especially in male-dominated environments. But this advice helped me realize that my voice, ideas and contributions are valuable.

Professionally, it has given me the confidence to speak up, share my perspective and push for projects I believe in. Personally, it has been a reminder to embrace who I am and trust that I have something important to offer. It has helped me show up authentically in every space I enter, and that's been key to both my growth and success.

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

CL: I wouldn't say I always envisioned myself in the automotive industry, but once I found my way here, it felt like the perfect fit. Growing up, I had a passion for cars and trucks, thanks to my family's love for them, but it wasn't until I started working in this field that I truly realized how exciting and dynamic it is.

What keeps me here is the incredible community and the constant innovation in the industry. I love being part of a space where I can combine my creativity with my passion for vehicles. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities to learn, and being surrounded by like-minded people who share the same enthusiasm is incredibly motivating. Plus, seeing the impact of our work on fellow enthusiasts and customers makes it all worthwhile.

SEMA: Who was the most influential person on your career/goals?  

CL: The most influential person on my career and goals has been my former boss from my first job in the industry. She was a true trailblazer, and her leadership style inspired me to embrace my own potential. She taught me the importance of resilience, adaptability and the power of building strong relationships in the workplace.

Her belief in me pushed me to step outside my comfort zone and pursue opportunities I never thought possible. Watching her navigate challenges with confidence and grace made me realize that I could also carve out my own path in the automotive world. Her mentorship has left a lasting impact on my career, and I strive to embody those lessons in everything I do.

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 News and recognized on the sema.org/she-is-sema website.  

By Ashley Reyes

Young professionals in the aftermarket industry will have two unique opportunities to invest in their career growth through the SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) Professional Development Program (PDP), taking place this May at the SEMA Garage in Detroit, Michigan.  

In partnership with Dale Carnegie Training, the PDP will include a course on individual communication development (May 5-6) and a course on team leadership development (May 7-9). Both courses are tailored to help young aftermarket professionals gain the attitudes and skills to take their performance to the next level.  

Below are five reasons to apply for the PDP according to past participants:  

1. Immediate Return on Investment   

"Only a few days after the program, I started to see the difference it has made in me and improving communication with my team." -- Jonny Wood, Yakima Products, Inc.  

2. Interactive and Engaging Lessons   

"The instructors instilled excitement within the group with their teaching style, which in turn allowed all of us to be extremely open and vocal about our experiences." -- Kia Aghai, WARN Industries  

3. Quality Peer-to-Peer Connections   

"The training helped me see that I am not alone in my worries and concerns. I now have a group of people who I can rely on and bounce ideas off of when I run into hard times or challenges." -- Andrew Hodgson, Timbren Industries  

4. Solutions to Career Challenges 

"I learned a lot of different strategies on how to motivate my sales reps and move forward with my business." -- Dan LaRou, Chrome Enhancements/LKQ  

5. Broader Perspective  

"The FLN PDP provided me with insight and knowledge I am unable to receive in regular training at my job." -- Ryan Ehlers, Diode Dynamics.  

Dale Carnegie has more than 100 years of proven success in helping thousands of organizations and millions of people create positive change and successful growth. This year's PDP will be led by Dale Carnegie Master Trainer Brett Campbell, who for the past four years has been praised by past participants for his energetic and impactful teaching approach.  

This PDP is exclusive to FLN members and is available at a discounted rate off the standard Dale Carnegie Training fee. Learn more about each course and apply for one, or both, at sema.org/fln-pdp.   

Contact FLN Council Director Denise Waddingham at DeniseLW@sema.org with any questions. 

By SEMA News Editors 

Joseph "Corky" Coker, the industry legend, former SEMA Chairman of the Board and 2008 SEMA Hall of Fame inductee, has launched a brand-new TV series called "Corky Coker's Honest Charley Garage" airing on YouTube and The Hagerty channel on Samsung TV Plus. 

Coker got his start at his father's Coker Tire company and helped grow its antique-tire offerings to become its most requested product by-far today. In his new TV series, he takes viewers into his Honest Charley Garage in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to see restorations, vintage cars and motorcycles while also meeting some of the incredible people in the industry. Viewers travel with Coker and the crew as they pick up new acquisitions and follow along with restoration projects in the garage, often preparing for events. In addition, you might get a glimpse into the Coker Museum, a unique collection of Coker’s 100 vintage vehicles, from cars to airplanes, also in Chattanooga. 

In Episode 1, Coker acquires a '59 Jaguar XK 150 Drophead Coupe barn find, a build that has been in storage since 1985. They later travel to WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca in California to join the Ragtime Racers on the track with Coker's Marmon Wasp and Lozier race cars. You have got to see it, below! 

Episode 2 features Coker talking about the 1911 Mercer Raceabout, often considered to be the most-prized original American sports car known for its advanced design, magnificent handling, high speed and ability to win races. In addition, the garage team preps cars for the Chattanooga Motorcar Festival, a three-day event featuring unique classic cars and events tailored to the vintage and historic car collector and racer. Viewers can also see shop team member Josh Kuczek install new bushings, upper and lower control arms, torsion bars and more components on Coker's '59 Jaguar project. Watch it below! 

In Episode 3, watch Coker and the Honest Charley crew move cars to the concourse at the Chattanooga Motorcar Festival. Coker then introduces the audience to Van Thurston and his 1909 Sears Model J, purchased new by Thurston's great-great grandfather from Sears Roebuck and Co. See the full episode below!

Learn more about Corky Coker's career in this special sit-down interview by the SEMA Hall of Fame. Follow along with the action on the Honest Charley Speed Shop's YouTube page here and The Hagerty channel on Samsung TV Plus.