Mark Your Calendars
Thu, 02/14/2019 - 15:10

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@travelstore.com) at Travel Store USA, 949-930-9268.

Know Your SEMA Sales Representatives: Reham Gharib and Celina Ingargiola
Thu, 02/14/2019 - 14:55

By SEMA Editors

SEMA Show sales representatives are the first point of contact for exhibitors with general Show questions, seeking sponsorship opportunities or looking to stretch their Show budgets by taking advantage of existing, value-added programs.

SEMA eNews will highlight sales people each week, beginning with Reham Gharib and Celina Ingargiola, who both represent the Racing & Performance section of the 2019 SEMA Show.

The Racing and Performance section is one of the most expansive speciality markets represented at the SEMA Show, featuring exhibitors in the Central Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center and in the Racing Annex and Performance Pavilion. Judging by New Product Showcase, interest in the market its high, with nearly 800 entries—from both first-time and veteran racing and performance exhibitors.

Reham GharibReham Gharib

How many years in the automotive aftermarket industry? 5

What year was your first SEMA Show? 2014

What do you feel is the biggest opportunity for exhibitors?
The Exhibitor Summit. For new exhibitors and veterans alike, the Exhibitor Summit is a great way to learn how to maximize your presence at the SEMA Show.

What advice do you have for exhibitors?
Target your potential buyers before the Show. There are hundreds of exhibitors competing for your customer’s attention. Make sure you stand out by taking advantage of the pre-Show marketing opportunities SEMA offers.

What is the most common mistake you see exhibitors make?
Only having a booth. Exhibiting at the Show does not guarantee success. Have a marketing plan and reach out to your customers before, during and after the Show.

What is the one thing you want all exhibitors to know?
Location is not the most important factor to having a successful Show. Buyers come to the Show knowing who they’re going to see and will walk a few extra steps if they know you have what they’re looking for. Make sure you get their attention before they get to the Show.

 

Celina IngargiolaCelina Ingargiola

How many years in the automotive aftermarket industry? 4

What year was your first SEMA Show? 2016

What do you feel is the biggest opportunity for exhibitors?
Capitalizing on the extensive database of buyers and SEMA Show attendees and the benefits we offer to our SEMA Members. Through SEMA News and eNews there are countless opportunities to communicate to this audience year-round.

What advice do you have for exhibitors?
Remain active in the SEMA community outside of the Show. Connect with your SEMA rep often to ensure you're taking advantage of the complimentary services we offer to grow your business and gain coverage for your company. Having a presence through SEMA News, eNews, councils and networks, SEMA Data Co-op, taking advantage of your SEMA Membership benefits, attending SEMA Town Halls, etc. will ensure you're set up for success year-round. You must communicate to buyers and attendees year-round to maintain and grow your business.

What is the most common mistake you see exhibitors make?

Purchasing a booth at the SEMA Show and expecting to have a successful Show without any additional effort. Think of it this way, would you sign up for a marathon and then just show up without any preparation or training? Probably not. It's crucial to communicate to buyers and attendees before, during and after the Show. Schedule meetings in advance, promote your booth location, submit press releases, and enter into the New/Featured Products Showcase (it's free!); there are so many resources available and I am happy to guide you through all of them to ensure you have a successful Show.

What is the one thing you want all exhibitors to know?

Take the time to educate yourself and prepare for the Show. The SEMA Exhibitor Summit affords the opportunity to spend quality time with your rep, other exhibitors, SEMA leadership and our partners from Freeman, Las Vegas Convention Center, On-Peak, etc. You'll learn how to make the most of your SEMA Show and have plenty of time to capitalize on pre-show promotion. Get familiar with the exhibitor services manual to ensure you're within regulation and meeting important deadlines. Most importantly, ask questions. We are here to help!

Complete information about the 2019 SEMA Show is available at www.SEMAShow.com.

Know Your SEMA Sales Representatives: Reham Gharib and Celina Ingargiola
Thu, 02/14/2019 - 14:55

By SEMA Editors

SEMA Show sales representatives are the first point of contact for exhibitors with general Show questions, seeking sponsorship opportunities or looking to stretch their Show budgets by taking advantage of existing, value-added programs.

SEMA eNews will highlight sales people each week, beginning with Reham Gharib and Celina Ingargiola, who both represent the Racing & Performance section of the 2019 SEMA Show.

The Racing and Performance section is one of the most expansive speciality markets represented at the SEMA Show, featuring exhibitors in the Central Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center and in the Racing Annex and Performance Pavilion. Judging by New Product Showcase, interest in the market its high, with nearly 800 entries—from both first-time and veteran racing and performance exhibitors.

Reham GharibReham Gharib

How many years in the automotive aftermarket industry? 5

What year was your first SEMA Show? 2014

What do you feel is the biggest opportunity for exhibitors?
The Exhibitor Summit. For new exhibitors and veterans alike, the Exhibitor Summit is a great way to learn how to maximize your presence at the SEMA Show.

What advice do you have for exhibitors?
Target your potential buyers before the Show. There are hundreds of exhibitors competing for your customer’s attention. Make sure you stand out by taking advantage of the pre-Show marketing opportunities SEMA offers.

What is the most common mistake you see exhibitors make?
Only having a booth. Exhibiting at the Show does not guarantee success. Have a marketing plan and reach out to your customers before, during and after the Show.

What is the one thing you want all exhibitors to know?
Location is not the most important factor to having a successful Show. Buyers come to the Show knowing who they’re going to see and will walk a few extra steps if they know you have what they’re looking for. Make sure you get their attention before they get to the Show.

 

Celina IngargiolaCelina Ingargiola

How many years in the automotive aftermarket industry? 4

What year was your first SEMA Show? 2016

What do you feel is the biggest opportunity for exhibitors?
Capitalizing on the extensive database of buyers and SEMA Show attendees and the benefits we offer to our SEMA Members. Through SEMA News and eNews there are countless opportunities to communicate to this audience year-round.

What advice do you have for exhibitors?
Remain active in the SEMA community outside of the Show. Connect with your SEMA rep often to ensure you're taking advantage of the complimentary services we offer to grow your business and gain coverage for your company. Having a presence through SEMA News, eNews, councils and networks, SEMA Data Co-op, taking advantage of your SEMA Membership benefits, attending SEMA Town Halls, etc. will ensure you're set up for success year-round. You must communicate to buyers and attendees year-round to maintain and grow your business.

What is the most common mistake you see exhibitors make?

Purchasing a booth at the SEMA Show and expecting to have a successful Show without any additional effort. Think of it this way, would you sign up for a marathon and then just show up without any preparation or training? Probably not. It's crucial to communicate to buyers and attendees before, during and after the Show. Schedule meetings in advance, promote your booth location, submit press releases, and enter into the New/Featured Products Showcase (it's free!); there are so many resources available and I am happy to guide you through all of them to ensure you have a successful Show.

What is the one thing you want all exhibitors to know?

Take the time to educate yourself and prepare for the Show. The SEMA Exhibitor Summit affords the opportunity to spend quality time with your rep, other exhibitors, SEMA leadership and our partners from Freeman, Las Vegas Convention Center, On-Peak, etc. You'll learn how to make the most of your SEMA Show and have plenty of time to capitalize on pre-show promotion. Get familiar with the exhibitor services manual to ensure you're within regulation and meeting important deadlines. Most importantly, ask questions. We are here to help!

Complete information about the 2019 SEMA Show is available at www.SEMAShow.com.

Know Your SEMA Sales Representatives: Reham Gharib and Celina Ingargiola
Thu, 02/14/2019 - 14:55

By SEMA Editors

SEMA Show sales representatives are the first point of contact for exhibitors with general Show questions, seeking sponsorship opportunities or looking to stretch their Show budgets by taking advantage of existing, value-added programs.

SEMA eNews will highlight sales people each week, beginning with Reham Gharib and Celina Ingargiola, who both represent the Racing & Performance section of the 2019 SEMA Show.

The Racing and Performance section is one of the most expansive speciality markets represented at the SEMA Show, featuring exhibitors in the Central Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center and in the Racing Annex and Performance Pavilion. Judging by New Product Showcase, interest in the market its high, with nearly 800 entries—from both first-time and veteran racing and performance exhibitors.

Reham GharibReham Gharib

How many years in the automotive aftermarket industry? 5

What year was your first SEMA Show? 2014

What do you feel is the biggest opportunity for exhibitors?
The Exhibitor Summit. For new exhibitors and veterans alike, the Exhibitor Summit is a great way to learn how to maximize your presence at the SEMA Show.

What advice do you have for exhibitors?
Target your potential buyers before the Show. There are hundreds of exhibitors competing for your customer’s attention. Make sure you stand out by taking advantage of the pre-Show marketing opportunities SEMA offers.

What is the most common mistake you see exhibitors make?
Only having a booth. Exhibiting at the Show does not guarantee success. Have a marketing plan and reach out to your customers before, during and after the Show.

What is the one thing you want all exhibitors to know?
Location is not the most important factor to having a successful Show. Buyers come to the Show knowing who they’re going to see and will walk a few extra steps if they know you have what they’re looking for. Make sure you get their attention before they get to the Show.

 

Celina IngargiolaCelina Ingargiola

How many years in the automotive aftermarket industry? 4

What year was your first SEMA Show? 2016

What do you feel is the biggest opportunity for exhibitors?
Capitalizing on the extensive database of buyers and SEMA Show attendees and the benefits we offer to our SEMA Members. Through SEMA News and eNews there are countless opportunities to communicate to this audience year-round.

What advice do you have for exhibitors?
Remain active in the SEMA community outside of the Show. Connect with your SEMA rep often to ensure you're taking advantage of the complimentary services we offer to grow your business and gain coverage for your company. Having a presence through SEMA News, eNews, councils and networks, SEMA Data Co-op, taking advantage of your SEMA Membership benefits, attending SEMA Town Halls, etc. will ensure you're set up for success year-round. You must communicate to buyers and attendees year-round to maintain and grow your business.

What is the most common mistake you see exhibitors make?

Purchasing a booth at the SEMA Show and expecting to have a successful Show without any additional effort. Think of it this way, would you sign up for a marathon and then just show up without any preparation or training? Probably not. It's crucial to communicate to buyers and attendees before, during and after the Show. Schedule meetings in advance, promote your booth location, submit press releases, and enter into the New/Featured Products Showcase (it's free!); there are so many resources available and I am happy to guide you through all of them to ensure you have a successful Show.

What is the one thing you want all exhibitors to know?

Take the time to educate yourself and prepare for the Show. The SEMA Exhibitor Summit affords the opportunity to spend quality time with your rep, other exhibitors, SEMA leadership and our partners from Freeman, Las Vegas Convention Center, On-Peak, etc. You'll learn how to make the most of your SEMA Show and have plenty of time to capitalize on pre-show promotion. Get familiar with the exhibitor services manual to ensure you're within regulation and meeting important deadlines. Most importantly, ask questions. We are here to help!

Complete information about the 2019 SEMA Show is available at www.SEMAShow.com.

Industry Jobs
Thu, 02/14/2019 - 14:34

SEMA-member companies have posted several new listings for job opportunities (view all here) in the Classifieds page of SEMA.org.

Check Out the 5 Jeeps Secured for High School Vehicle Builds
Thu, 02/14/2019 - 14:24

By Katie Hurst

Five Jeep Wrangler TJ’s have been secured by SEMA for the High School Vehicle Build Program. Five high schools across the country have been selected to participate as build partners for the 2019 program which provides students with and educational hands-on customization experience. Through these SEMA-funded builds, high school auto shop programs will be connected with aftermarket manufacturers in a unique way.

Hundreds of high school students will learn about and install aftermarket products to customize their school’s Jeep TJ. The customization effort, which is enhanced by manufacturer support, will primarily focus on suspension, wheels/tires, interior and exterior accessories. Companies are invited to support the 2019 builds by donating product(s). Opportunities for product demonstrations and scheduled school visits are also available.

To support the 2019 SEMA High School Vehicle Build, please fill out the Partner Interest Form or contact Katie Hurst at katieh@sema.org.

Here are the specs for the vehicles and locations of the high schools.

C.D. Hylton High School- Woodbridge, VA

Vehicle Specs

  • 2002 Jeep Wrangler Sport
  • Shale Green
  • 4WD
  • 4L 6-Cylinder Engine
  • Soft Top
  • Automatic Transmission
Hylton Jeep

Comstock High School- Kalamazoo, MI

Vehicle Specs

  • 2004 Jeep Wrangler Sahara
  • Sienna Pearlcoat (Red)
  • 4WD
  • 4L 6-Cylinder Engine
  • Hard Top
  • Manual Transmission
Comstock Jeep

R.L. Turner High School- Carrollton, TX

Vehicle Specs

  • 2004 Jeep Wrangler TJ
  • Shale Green
  • 4WD
  • 4L 6-Cylinder Engine
  • Soft Top
  • Manual Transmission
R.L. Turner

Santa Fe ECO - Santa Fe, New Mexico

Vehicle Specs

2005 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport
Flame Red
4WD
4L 6-Cylinder Engine
Soft Top
Automatic Transmission

Santa Ynez

Santa Ynez Valley Union High School- Santa Ynez, CA

Vehicle Specs

  • 1997 Jeep Wrangler Sport
  • White
  • 4WD
  • 4L 6-Cylinder Engine
  • Soft Top
  • Manual Transmission
Santa Fe ECO

The builds will be completed by the end of the 2019 school year and will be auctioned off through Bring A Trailer. Proceeds from the auction will go towards the funding of another build for the schools and the continued expansion of this program.

Check Out the 5 Jeeps Secured for High School Vehicle Builds
Thu, 02/14/2019 - 14:24

By Katie Hurst

Five Jeep Wrangler TJ’s have been secured by SEMA for the High School Vehicle Build Program. Five high schools across the country have been selected to participate as build partners for the 2019 program which provides students with and educational hands-on customization experience. Through these SEMA-funded builds, high school auto shop programs will be connected with aftermarket manufacturers in a unique way.

Hundreds of high school students will learn about and install aftermarket products to customize their school’s Jeep TJ. The customization effort, which is enhanced by manufacturer support, will primarily focus on suspension, wheels/tires, interior and exterior accessories. Companies are invited to support the 2019 builds by donating product(s). Opportunities for product demonstrations and scheduled school visits are also available.

To support the 2019 SEMA High School Vehicle Build, please fill out the Partner Interest Form or contact Katie Hurst at katieh@sema.org.

Here are the specs for the vehicles and locations of the high schools.

C.D. Hylton High School- Woodbridge, VA

Vehicle Specs

  • 2002 Jeep Wrangler Sport
  • Shale Green
  • 4WD
  • 4L 6-Cylinder Engine
  • Soft Top
  • Automatic Transmission
Hylton Jeep

Comstock High School- Kalamazoo, MI

Vehicle Specs

  • 2004 Jeep Wrangler Sahara
  • Sienna Pearlcoat (Red)
  • 4WD
  • 4L 6-Cylinder Engine
  • Hard Top
  • Manual Transmission
Comstock Jeep

R.L. Turner High School- Carrollton, TX

Vehicle Specs

  • 2004 Jeep Wrangler TJ
  • Shale Green
  • 4WD
  • 4L 6-Cylinder Engine
  • Soft Top
  • Manual Transmission
R.L. Turner

Santa Fe ECO - Santa Fe, New Mexico

Vehicle Specs

2005 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport
Flame Red
4WD
4L 6-Cylinder Engine
Soft Top
Automatic Transmission

Santa Ynez

Santa Ynez Valley Union High School- Santa Ynez, CA

Vehicle Specs

  • 1997 Jeep Wrangler Sport
  • White
  • 4WD
  • 4L 6-Cylinder Engine
  • Soft Top
  • Manual Transmission
Santa Fe ECO

The builds will be completed by the end of the 2019 school year and will be auctioned off through Bring A Trailer. Proceeds from the auction will go towards the funding of another build for the schools and the continued expansion of this program.

How You Can Support SEMA’s Educator Grant Program
Thu, 02/14/2019 - 14:10

By Katie Hurst

SEMA has extended the association's new Elementary Educator Grant program, entitled The Automotive Aftermarket Grant Program. Through this program, the association will engage elementary school teachers and students across the nation in the automotive hobby, career pathing, lifestyle or all three.

SEMA is offering grants up to $1,000 to at least 50 elementary school teachers to support and fund the incorporation of a hands-on, interactive lesson plan or activity into their classroom that revolves around the automotive industry. Ideas for the automotive-driven projects are solely up to the creativity of the teachers applying for the grants and must be incorporated into their curriculum before the end of the 2018–2019 school year. This program directly supports SEMA’s youth engagement initiatives to inspire and ignite the next generation of automotive enthusiasts.

If you work with elementary schools or know an educator who may be interested in this program, help SEMA spread the word. Educators may apply for up to $1,000 in grants to fund their automotive inspired project. The application period will end Friday March 1.  

The industry can support this program by sharing the details with elementary schools and teachers in your local area. For more details, contact Katie Hurst, SEMA’s Youth Engagement Programs Manager.

How You Can Support SEMA’s Educator Grant Program
Thu, 02/14/2019 - 14:10

By Katie Hurst

SEMA has extended the association's new Elementary Educator Grant program, entitled The Automotive Aftermarket Grant Program. Through this program, the association will engage elementary school teachers and students across the nation in the automotive hobby, career pathing, lifestyle or all three.

SEMA is offering grants up to $1,000 to at least 50 elementary school teachers to support and fund the incorporation of a hands-on, interactive lesson plan or activity into their classroom that revolves around the automotive industry. Ideas for the automotive-driven projects are solely up to the creativity of the teachers applying for the grants and must be incorporated into their curriculum before the end of the 2018–2019 school year. This program directly supports SEMA’s youth engagement initiatives to inspire and ignite the next generation of automotive enthusiasts.

If you work with elementary schools or know an educator who may be interested in this program, help SEMA spread the word. Educators may apply for up to $1,000 in grants to fund their automotive inspired project. The application period will end Friday March 1.  

The industry can support this program by sharing the details with elementary schools and teachers in your local area. For more details, contact Katie Hurst, SEMA’s Youth Engagement Programs Manager.

SEMA CuS.T.E.M. Car Experience Program Picks Up Speed
Thu, 02/14/2019 - 13:50

By Katie Hurst

STEM Student ProgramThe middle school field trip program introduces students to the automotive customization hobby through STEM Education.

The SEMA CuS.T.E.M. Car Experience kicked off the 2019 tour at Championship Auto Shows Cavalcade of Customs in Cincinnati and World of Wheels Pittsburgh.

The middle school field trip program introduces students to the automotive customization hobby through STEM Education. Students learn about customization options with an emphasis on performance, design, safety and technology. The half-day field trips provide an interactive, hands-on automotive learning experience where students participate in a blue sky think tank and are encouraged to identify components of their dream vehicles, explore the show floor guided by a scavenger hunt and design their own custom vehicle.

In an effort to create a real-world atmosphere, students form their own fabrication company to design and build a custom vehicle. Using ideas from their think tank, inspiration from the show floor and a catalogue of upgrade customization options, the students select what is most important to them. With the use of a budgeting spreadsheet, the students are challenged to purchase and accessorize their vehicle with an eye on resell profitability. The students then pitch their customized vehicle to industry volunteer judges, "Shark-Tank" style style.

STEM Student ProgramIn just two events, more than 600 students and more than 80 instructors have participated in the SEMA CuS.T.E.M. Car Experience.

In just two events, more than 600 students and more than 80 instructors have participated in the SEMA CuS.T.E.M. Car Experience. In total, SEMA will host 10 events before the 2019 school year ends and will reach around 3,000 students.

Volunteer opportunities are available at each event. Volunteers will represent the automotive aftermarket industry, lend their expertise as students work through their projects and serve as judges during the pitches. If you are interested in getting involved and for more information, contact Katie Hurst at katieh@sema.org.

Additional 2019 Dates and Locations:

Championship Auto Shows

  • Kansas City, MO- February 22
  • Detroit, MI- March 1
  • Chicago, IL- March 8
  • Salt Lake City, UT- March 22

Barrett-Jackson Auctions

  • Palm Beach, FL- April 11

LeMey-America’s Car Museum

  • Tacoma, WA- April 19