By SEMA News Editors

I-CAR--one of the leading providers of automotive collision repair industry education and credentialing, technical information and services, and talent crisis solutions--has announced that its innovative new I-CAR Academy Program is now available to collision repair facilities. This announcement comes ahead of I-CAR's collision repair program at the 2024 SEMA Show, November 5-8, Las Vegas (more details on that program, below).

The I-CAR Academy program is a revolutionary entry-level collision repair curriculum and the first industry-neutral, comprehensive early career program to educate and recognize new technicians and the schools and repair centers that train these new industry entrants. 

I-CAR Academy was specifically designed to kickstart a technician's education journey when they begin their career. The program provides a solid foundation for the I-CAR Professional Level curriculum and, ultimately, Platinum Technician recognition, as well as a strong base for OEM and supplier training. I-CAR Academy's launch in shops marks the first time a consistent entry-level curriculum is available to both schools and repair facilities, enabling a smoother transition to the workforce. The I-CAR Academy program for shops differs from the school version by offering additional training and best practices for shop leadership on creating a differentiated culture and delivering effective mentoring, which is critical to technician development, progression and retention. In addition, I-CAR Academy for schools was launched this summer, marking a significant step in providing a structured entry-point for students into the collision repair industry. This initiative complements the shop-based program by offering schools a tailored curriculum to better prepare students for their future careers.

"As our industry continues navigating through the talent crisis, I-CAR Academy offers an industry-wide solution at the most critical time in a technician's career: the beginning," said I-CAR President and CEO John Van Alstyne. "Our industry is in dire need of technicians. For some, the right starting point is at school, while others excel beginning their career in a shop. Regardless of where a technician enters the industry, they can count on I-CAR Academy to provide them with a solid and relevant foundation from which to build their future." 

For more information on the I-CAR Academy, visit i-car.com/academyshops or read the I-CAR announcement here.

I-CAR at SEMA 2024: A Commitment to Collision Repair Excellence

I-CAR is poised to make a significant impact at the 2024 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. As a cornerstone event for the automotive aftermarket, SEMA provides the perfect stage for I-CAR to demonstrate its dedication to empowering collision repair professionals and advancing the industry. 

With a robust 15-year history of participation, I-CAR has become an indispensable resource for the collision repair community. The organization's steadfast dedication to supporting industry professionals is reflected in its comprehensive range of offerings, including talent development programs, educational initiatives, technical information and industry-leading technical services. 

I-CAR's "I Count on I-CAR" campaign highlights the organization's commitment to delivering exceptional value to both industry stakeholders and consumers. As a leading not-for-profit organization, I-CAR is dedicated to enhancing the quality and efficiency of automotive collision repair through innovative education, training, and technical resources. 

Learn With I-CAR at SEMA

At the 2024 SEMA Show, I-CAR will present a series of specialized courses designed to advance professional skills and knowledge. These in-person learning opportunities include: 

• "MIG Welding Technology & Applications": This course explores advanced MIG welding techniques and applications, covering the latest advancements in welding technology and their effective use in collision repair. 
• "Electric Vehicle (EV) Overview & Considerations": Participants will gain a thorough understanding of EV technology, including unique repair considerations and best practices for handling these increasingly common vehicles. 
• "Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Overview & Considerations": This session provides an in-depth look at ADAS technology, focusing on repair and calibration techniques necessary for accurate and safe vehicle repairs. 

Engage With I-CAR at SEMA

The SEMA Show Collision Repair and Refinish Stage (view it on the floorplan here) will be a dynamic center for engagement and interaction. Subject matter experts from I-CAR will deliver informative presentations and panel discussions throughout each day on crucial industry topics, emerging trends and the future of collision repair. Attendees will have the chance to engage with these experts through interactive Q&A sessions, enhancing their understanding of key issues. 

Additionally, hands-on welding demonstrations will be conducted by experienced welding experts. These practical sessions are designed to showcase advanced welding techniques and offer interactive learning experiences. Plus, a highlight of the I-CAR experience will be virtual reality demos of new methods of learning technology.

Connect With I-CAR at SEMA

Network with I-CAR members and the team and share your perspectives on the future of collision repair. This is a prime opportunity to expand your professional network and collaborate with peers who are equally passionate about advancing the industry. Collision careers are empowering the collision-repair industry to attract and retain skilled technicians through a dynamic platform, including website, social media and digital advertising. With recent enhancements like detailed career paths, engaging videos and downloadable resources for counselors, educators, parents, shops, and schools, I-CAR and the Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF) are reaching more future technicians than ever before.

To fully experience I-CAR's offerings at SEMA, visit Booth #33139 in the Upper South Hall. Explore new initiatives like I-CAR Academy, a comprehensive training program for entry-level technicians, and discover enhancements to the "myI-CAR" digital platform, featuring the latest tools and resources for professional development. 

To address the industry's talent crisis and become part of the solution, consider partnering with Collision Careers. Visit collisioncareers.com to learn how your organization can make a difference by supporting our initiatives and expanding your reach within the industry.

Join I-CAR at the SEMA Show to reaffirm your commitment to industry excellence and stay at the forefront of automotive collision repair! Find more information and register at semashow.com.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The staff of State Assemblymember Lisa Calderon, who represents California's 56th Assembly District, which includes SEMA's headquarters in Diamond Bar, recently visited the SEMA Garage to better understand the garage's critical role in the automotive specialty-equipment industry. The SEMA Garage's Emissions Compliance Center, recognized by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) as a Certification-Ready Automotive Emissions Testing Laboratory, provides essential services for manufacturers developing emissions-compliant aftermarket parts.

SEMA's impact on Assemblymember Calderon's district is significant. There are 46 SEMA member companies in the 56th Assembly District, contributing $784.48 million in total economic output, supporting 2,730 jobs and generating $240.43 million in wages and benefits. As the representative of this vital economic hub, Calderon's engagement with SEMA helps ensure that lawmakers understand the importance of a streamlined emissions compliance process to support industry innovation and growth.

"We are grateful to Assemblymember Calderon's team for taking the time to visit the SEMA Garage and learn more about our work to support the aftermarket industry," said Christian Robinson, SEMA's senior director of state government affairs and grassroots. "Their engagement is key to ensuring that the laws and regulations affecting our industry promote innovation, protect small businesses, and support the local economy."

SEMA, through its garage, works closely with CARB to issue Executive Orders (EOs), which certify that aftermarket parts meet California's strict emissions regulations, allowing their legal sale and use across all 50 states. Over the last seven years, SEMA has facilitated 50% of all aftermarket EOs issued by CARB, completing over 700 applications for member companies. The SEMA Garage plays a vital role in this process, offering affordable emissions testing and compliance assistance.

For more information, or to host your own lawmakers on a visit to your facility, contact Christian Robinson at christianr@sema.org.
 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The staff of State Assemblymember Lisa Calderon, who represents California's 56th Assembly District, which includes SEMA's headquarters in Diamond Bar, recently visited the SEMA Garage to better understand the garage's critical role in the automotive specialty-equipment industry. The SEMA Garage's Emissions Compliance Center, recognized by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) as a Certification-Ready Automotive Emissions Testing Laboratory, provides essential services for manufacturers developing emissions-compliant aftermarket parts.

SEMA's impact on Assemblymember Calderon's district is significant. There are 46 SEMA member companies in the 56th Assembly District, contributing $784.48 million in total economic output, supporting 2,730 jobs and generating $240.43 million in wages and benefits. As the representative of this vital economic hub, Calderon's engagement with SEMA helps ensure that lawmakers understand the importance of a streamlined emissions compliance process to support industry innovation and growth.

"We are grateful to Assemblymember Calderon's team for taking the time to visit the SEMA Garage and learn more about our work to support the aftermarket industry," said Christian Robinson, SEMA's senior director of state government affairs and grassroots. "Their engagement is key to ensuring that the laws and regulations affecting our industry promote innovation, protect small businesses, and support the local economy."

SEMA, through its garage, works closely with CARB to issue Executive Orders (EOs), which certify that aftermarket parts meet California's strict emissions regulations, allowing their legal sale and use across all 50 states. Over the last seven years, SEMA has facilitated 50% of all aftermarket EOs issued by CARB, completing over 700 applications for member companies. The SEMA Garage plays a vital role in this process, offering affordable emissions testing and compliance assistance.

For more information, or to host your own lawmakers on a visit to your facility, contact Christian Robinson at christianr@sema.org.
 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

The staff of State Assemblymember Lisa Calderon, who represents California's 56th Assembly District, which includes SEMA's headquarters in Diamond Bar, recently visited the SEMA Garage to better understand the garage's critical role in the automotive specialty-equipment industry. The SEMA Garage's Emissions Compliance Center, recognized by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) as a Certification-Ready Automotive Emissions Testing Laboratory, provides essential services for manufacturers developing emissions-compliant aftermarket parts.

SEMA's impact on Assemblymember Calderon's district is significant. There are 46 SEMA member companies in the 56th Assembly District, contributing $784.48 million in total economic output, supporting 2,730 jobs and generating $240.43 million in wages and benefits. As the representative of this vital economic hub, Calderon's engagement with SEMA helps ensure that lawmakers understand the importance of a streamlined emissions compliance process to support industry innovation and growth.

"We are grateful to Assemblymember Calderon's team for taking the time to visit the SEMA Garage and learn more about our work to support the aftermarket industry," said Christian Robinson, SEMA's senior director of state government affairs and grassroots. "Their engagement is key to ensuring that the laws and regulations affecting our industry promote innovation, protect small businesses, and support the local economy."

SEMA, through its garage, works closely with CARB to issue Executive Orders (EOs), which certify that aftermarket parts meet California's strict emissions regulations, allowing their legal sale and use across all 50 states. Over the last seven years, SEMA has facilitated 50% of all aftermarket EOs issued by CARB, completing over 700 applications for member companies. The SEMA Garage plays a vital role in this process, offering affordable emissions testing and compliance assistance.

For more information, or to host your own lawmakers on a visit to your facility, contact Christian Robinson at christianr@sema.org.
 

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA has launched Drive The Vote, a campaign to mobilize voters among its 7,000 member companies and the millions of American automotive enthusiasts, with resources to enable their participation in the 2024 general election. 

SEMA is providing vetted links to important voter information, questions to ask candidates during campaign events and social-media assets and sample messages to encourage their employees, customers and community members to register to vote. Industry members planning to attend the 2024 SEMA Show, which begins on Election Day, Tuesday, November 5, are encouraged to vote early using the resources provided through Drive The Vote.

"Voting is an essential activity for our nation and for ensuring the automotive aftermarket industry has a say in the business undertaken by our lawmakers at the state and federal levels," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "SEMA's Drive The Vote campaign empowers our members and those around them with the information they need to vote in their community for the candidates who best speak for their values. And, because the 2024 SEMA Show starts on Election Day, we're encouraging those traveling to Las Vegas to review these resources, so they know how to vote early."

For more information, visit sema.org/vote.

By the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA has launched Drive The Vote, a campaign to mobilize voters among its 7,000 member companies and the millions of American automotive enthusiasts, with resources to enable their participation in the 2024 general election. 

SEMA is providing vetted links to important voter information, questions to ask candidates during campaign events and social-media assets and sample messages to encourage their employees, customers and community members to register to vote. Industry members planning to attend the 2024 SEMA Show, which begins on Election Day, Tuesday, November 5, are encouraged to vote early using the resources provided through Drive The Vote.

"Voting is an essential activity for our nation and for ensuring the automotive aftermarket industry has a say in the business undertaken by our lawmakers at the state and federal levels," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "SEMA's Drive The Vote campaign empowers our members and those around them with the information they need to vote in their community for the candidates who best speak for their values. And, because the 2024 SEMA Show starts on Election Day, we're encouraging those traveling to Las Vegas to review these resources, so they know how to vote early."

For more information, visit sema.org/vote.

By Ashley Reyes   

As part of the 2024 SEMA Show's initiative to provide attendees with a diverse learning program, the trade show will offer numerous panels and lectures that will benefit automotive professionals across various market segments. 

Powered by SEMA's councils and networks--SEMA's specialized communities that support specific segments of the automotive aftermarket--these seminars will highlight the latest industry trends and best practices that Showgoers can use to reach new levels of business and career success.  

Education sessions powered by SEMA's councils and networks are listed below. (All times PST). To view the full 2024 SEMA Show Education Program, which includes 80 seminars across seven learning tracks, as well as education sessions led by I-CAR, Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) and Tire Industry Association (TIA), visit www.semashow.com/education.   

• Empower Yourself: Harnessing the Potential of AI for Women in the Automotive Specialty-Equipment Market, Powered by SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN)  
  • Tuesday, Nov. 5, 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., Location: W309  
  • Tailored for beginners, this course aims to provide a basic understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) (and its different forms), its capabilities and how it can be leveraged to increase your team's output. This course focuses on using real-world case studies in an interactive session to provide the tools needed to apply AI technologies to each participant's company.  

• Truck and Off-Road Builders Panel, Powered by Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA)  
  • Tuesday, Nov. 5, 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., Location: W316   
  • Truck and off-road accessories are one of the most lucrative and influential segments as the popularity of modifying and accessorizing vehicles continues to rise. Connect with shop owners and managers as they discuss current and future trends in the truck and off-road industry.  

• Hot-Rod Builders' Panel, Powered by Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA)  
  • Tuesday, Nov. 5, 1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m., Location: W309  
  • Join top-tier builders for an informative and lively discussion on the current state of the hot-rod segment. Engage with panelists in a casual setting as they share insights into the latest trends, look at the future of the industry and offer strategies to help current and prospective shop owners navigate the business of building hot rods. 

• Education of Restoration, Powered by Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO)  
  • Wednesday, Nov. 6, 9:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m., Location: W316  
  • Explore how Gen X and Millennials are impacting the restoration market. Learn how to expand your business to engage this new generation of enthusiasts restoring the vehicles of their youth. 

• Attracting and Retaining Young Talent in the Automotive Industry, Powered by Future Leaders Network (FLN)  
  • Wednesday, Nov. 6, 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., Location: W316  
  • FLN recognizes what young recruits can bring to the table for any growing business. This timely panel discussion will address ways to attract new young talent and, more importantly, how to retain young employees as valuable assets to your organization.

• The SEMA Women's Leadership Symposium: Connecting Women, Empowering Futures, Powered by SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN)  
  • Wednesday, Nov. 6, 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., Location: W326 (Fee-based/registration required)  
  • This five-hour event includes skill-building workshops, fireside chats, the Circle of Women networking luncheon and a C-suite-level insights panel offering firsthand knowledge on leadership development for women in leading roles. This includes the first-ever "Shining the Spotlight on Women" program honoring women who strive and succeed at the cutting edge of the automotive industry's many disciplines, such as engineering, design, leadership and innovation.  

• Wheels Up at 10: Vehicle Applications, Powered by Wheel, Tire, Suspension and Brake Council (WTSBC)  
  • Thursday, Nov. 7, 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m., Location: S226  
  • Learn how to find tire load at a given air pressure and calculate tire-rim widths, lower your vehicle, perform an alignment, use camber plates if needed based on the amount lowered, and execute brake upgrades and their overall effect on performance.  

• ETTN Lunch and Learn: Practical Use of Alternative, Synthetic and Hydrogen Fuels  
  • Thursday, Nov. 7, 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m., Location: N239  
  • Join a panel of industry experts as they share their expertise on topics related to the use of alternative fuels in internal-combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Topics include: using hydrogen for ICE conversions, alternative-fuel storage and distribution and meeting emissions standards with alternative fuels. A Q&A session will follow the presentations on each topic.  

• Five Successful Strategies Restylers Use to Grow Business, Powered by Professional Restylers Organization (PRO)
  • Thursday, Nov. 7, 1:00 p.m. –2:00 p.m., Location: W316
  • The top five tips for running successful operations in the restyling industry will be discussed with insights into effective processes and procedures.

Still need a 2024 SEMA Show badge? Attendee, buyer, and media registration for the 2024 SEMA Show is open at semashow.com/register. Registration is only $60 for qualified attendees who register by Friday, September 27.  

By Ashley Reyes   

As part of the 2024 SEMA Show's initiative to provide attendees with a diverse learning program, the trade show will offer numerous panels and lectures that will benefit automotive professionals across various market segments. 

Powered by SEMA's councils and networks--SEMA's specialized communities that support specific segments of the automotive aftermarket--these seminars will highlight the latest industry trends and best practices that Showgoers can use to reach new levels of business and career success.  

Education sessions powered by SEMA's councils and networks are listed below. (All times PST). To view the full 2024 SEMA Show Education Program, which includes 80 seminars across seven learning tracks, as well as education sessions led by I-CAR, Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) and Tire Industry Association (TIA), visit www.semashow.com/education.   

• Empower Yourself: Harnessing the Potential of AI for Women in the Automotive Specialty-Equipment Market, Powered by SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN)  
  • Tuesday, Nov. 5, 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., Location: W309  
  • Tailored for beginners, this course aims to provide a basic understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) (and its different forms), its capabilities and how it can be leveraged to increase your team's output. This course focuses on using real-world case studies in an interactive session to provide the tools needed to apply AI technologies to each participant's company.  

• Truck and Off-Road Builders Panel, Powered by Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA)  
  • Tuesday, Nov. 5, 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., Location: W316   
  • Truck and off-road accessories are one of the most lucrative and influential segments as the popularity of modifying and accessorizing vehicles continues to rise. Connect with shop owners and managers as they discuss current and future trends in the truck and off-road industry.  

• Hot-Rod Builders' Panel, Powered by Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA)  
  • Tuesday, Nov. 5, 1:00 p.m.–2:00 p.m., Location: W309  
  • Join top-tier builders for an informative and lively discussion on the current state of the hot-rod segment. Engage with panelists in a casual setting as they share insights into the latest trends, look at the future of the industry and offer strategies to help current and prospective shop owners navigate the business of building hot rods. 

• Education of Restoration, Powered by Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO)  
  • Wednesday, Nov. 6, 9:00 a.m.–10:00 a.m., Location: W316  
  • Explore how Gen X and Millennials are impacting the restoration market. Learn how to expand your business to engage this new generation of enthusiasts restoring the vehicles of their youth. 

• Attracting and Retaining Young Talent in the Automotive Industry, Powered by Future Leaders Network (FLN)  
  • Wednesday, Nov. 6, 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., Location: W316  
  • FLN recognizes what young recruits can bring to the table for any growing business. This timely panel discussion will address ways to attract new young talent and, more importantly, how to retain young employees as valuable assets to your organization.

• The SEMA Women's Leadership Symposium: Connecting Women, Empowering Futures, Powered by SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN)  
  • Wednesday, Nov. 6, 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., Location: W326 (Fee-based/registration required)  
  • This five-hour event includes skill-building workshops, fireside chats, the Circle of Women networking luncheon and a C-suite-level insights panel offering firsthand knowledge on leadership development for women in leading roles. This includes the first-ever "Shining the Spotlight on Women" program honoring women who strive and succeed at the cutting edge of the automotive industry's many disciplines, such as engineering, design, leadership and innovation.  

• Wheels Up at 10: Vehicle Applications, Powered by Wheel, Tire, Suspension and Brake Council (WTSBC)  
  • Thursday, Nov. 7, 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m., Location: S226  
  • Learn how to find tire load at a given air pressure and calculate tire-rim widths, lower your vehicle, perform an alignment, use camber plates if needed based on the amount lowered, and execute brake upgrades and their overall effect on performance.  

• ETTN Lunch and Learn: Practical Use of Alternative, Synthetic and Hydrogen Fuels  
  • Thursday, Nov. 7, 11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m., Location: N239  
  • Join a panel of industry experts as they share their expertise on topics related to the use of alternative fuels in internal-combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. Topics include: using hydrogen for ICE conversions, alternative-fuel storage and distribution and meeting emissions standards with alternative fuels. A Q&A session will follow the presentations on each topic.  

• Five Successful Strategies Restylers Use to Grow Business, Powered by Professional Restylers Organization (PRO)
  • Thursday, Nov. 7, 1:00 p.m. –2:00 p.m., Location: W316
  • The top five tips for running successful operations in the restyling industry will be discussed with insights into effective processes and procedures.

Still need a 2024 SEMA Show badge? Attendee, buyer, and media registration for the 2024 SEMA Show is open at semashow.com/register. Registration is only $60 for qualified attendees who register by Friday, September 27.  

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA's market research team this week released a report highlighting national trends in vehicle lifecycle and the implications for the automotive aftermarket. Among the key trends discussed in the report is that Americans are keeping their motor vehicles longer, partly because of increased dependability, but also because of the prohibitive cost of buying replacements. The average U.S. vehicle age is now at 12.6 years, its highest number in more than a decade.

The research also reveals trends across four categories of vehicles (Classic, Aged, Core and Modern), highlighting age, popularity, usage and consumer spending habits. For accessorizing, pickups and muscle cars are the top choices for enthusiasts. Meanwhile, vehicles in the Aged category are driving spending for performance products, as a way to refresh their older vehicle. Aftermarket product spending for Modern and Core vehicles was primarily--59% and 54%--on accessory and appearance products, while 63% of spending on Classic vehicles was for performance and handling products.

SEMA business members can download the new "SEMA Vehicle Lifecycles Report" for free at www.sema.org/research. To learn more about SEMA membership, visit www.sema.org/membership. 

For more information, contact Gavin Knapp, director of SEMA market research, at gavink@sema.org.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) is hosting a General Membership Meeting and Panel Discussion on September 25, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. PDT/1:00 p.m. EDT.

Open to SEMA member businesses that serve the motorsports market, the meeting will provide updates on MPMC's member benefits, followed by a panel discussion on how to prepare for and benefit from the 2025 Media Trade Conference.

Taking place January 21–23, 2025, in Orlando, Florida, the Media Trade Conference will establish valuable connections between motorsports parts manufacturers and media through three days of one-on-one, 30-minute meetings. During the panel discussion, the MPMC select committee will share how manufacturers and media can plan for effective meetings, how to make the most of networking on-site and best practices for event preparation. 

Whether you are a manufacturer that is already registered for the Media Trade Conference or a media member thinking of registering, this meeting will cover everything you need to know about the event and how to establish valuable relationships that have mutually beneficial results. Don't miss out!

Register here!