Compiled by SEMA Editors

Daniel Ingber

SEMA Hires Daniel Ingber as Chief Corporate Counsel

SEMA has announced the hiring of Daniel Ingber as chief corporate counsel. He will be based in the Washington, D.C., office and, in addition to other duties, will undertake control of SEMA’s in-house legal operation, currently overseen by Ashley Ailsworth. Ingber previously served as litigation counsel for Feld Entertainment Inc., where he worked on many issues related to the organization’s Monster Jam Monster Truck business unit. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Pennsylvania, earned a masters from Johns Hopkins and his law degree from the University of Chicago. In addition to his varied employment in the business world, he also served as a law clerk for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit. Ingber will begin work December 14, and report to Russ Deane and Steve McDonald.

Rob Eberhart

R&R Marketing Consultants Adds Director of Retail

R&R Marketing Consultants Inc. has announced that Rob Eberhart has joined its team. Eberhart has more than 20 years’ experience in the automotive aftermarket. He began his career at Reliable Automotive as the sales manager for the Sears Automotive Catalog. He then moved to Arrow Speed Warehouse where he worked in phone sales, outside sales, e-commerce and national accounts. During his tenure at Arrow, he developed and launched the StreetSideAuto.com website. Recently, he worked for DCi as its director of internet solutions, where he developed its eStore program, enabling jobbers and national retailers to sell performance parts and truck accessories online with a turnkey program.

Gold Eagle Co. Acquires eCommerce Brand TriNova

Gold Eagle Co. has acquired TriNova—an eCommerce consumer packaged-goods brand in household, automotive, boating and leather appearance care. Gold Eagle is looking to bolster its established national retail presence with stronger eCommerce, while also expanding its reach in the home category. As part of the aquisition, Gold Eagle will welcome key TriNova staff who bring strong expertise in digital marketing and ecommerce. Steve Wimmer, brand manager at TriNova, will join Gold Eagle as senior marketing manager to continue to drive the growth of the brand. In addition, the TriNova team at Gold Eagle will expand in the coming months. The acquisition comes on the heels of Gold Eagle’s state-of-the-art corporate headquarters renovation.

“The House of Muscle’s” host Mike Musto will travel the United States and beyond showcasing how musclecars—and their die-hard owners—help shape the face of today’s automotive culture.

Mike Musto’s “The House of Muscle” Comes to Motor Trend OnDemand

TEN: The Enthusiast Network’s new Motor Trend OnDemand show, “The House of Muscle,” premiered December 1, 2016. “The House of Muscle” takes a deep look inside the world’s continued obsession with musclecars. Each month, the show’s host, YouTube sensation Mike Musto, will travel the United States and beyond showcasing how these automobiles—and their die-hard owners—help shape the face of today’s automotive culture. Every car has a past, and every owner a story. From homebuilt customs to priceless rolling works of art, Musto not only profiles the cars and their place in history, he takes these amazing machines on a no-holds-barred test drive. The first few episodes will take viewers on a 2,500-mile road trip from Los Angeles to Detroit via lots of Dodge musclecars—and one special van. Then, Musto will introduce viewers to a one-off private fleet of Chevy Novas before getting behind the wheel of an old-school Plymouth Belvedere.

David H. Williams

David H. Williams Named Director of OE Sales, Marketing and Strategic Planning for DENSO Products and Services Americas

DENSO Products and Services Americas Inc. has promoted David H. Williams to director of original equipment sales, marketing and strategic planning. In the newly created position, Williams oversees all aspects of DENSO’s original equipment service sales, product development and original equipment service parts while continuing to manage the company’s marketing and strategic planning departments. Previously, he served as global business unit manager at Barksdale Controls Inc., and truck product marketing manager at Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A. Inc.

Bob Brannon (second from left) was named Powell/Schelbe/Knight/Brannon Inc. 2016 Rep Agent of the Year.

CRP Automotive Presents Bob Brannon With 2016 Rep Agent of the Year Award

CRP Automotive has named Bob Brannon of Powell/Schelbe/Knight/Brannon Inc. (PSKB) as its 2016 Rep Agent of the Year. Brannon is a partner at PSKB—a sales and marketing company that represents CRP Automotive brands in the southeastern United States. Brannon was cited for the annual award for helping to deliver exceptional sales and market growth for the CRP brands, especially the Pentosin fluids line, which have been instrumental in developing CRP Automotive’s business with Advance Auto Parts.

National Auto Body Council to Hold Annual Golf Fundraiser

The National Auto Body Council (NABC) has announced its Annual Golf Fundraiser, Wednesday, January 11, in Palm Springs, California, at the Tahquitz Creek Golf Resort. Fees for early bird registration (before December 9) are $700 for a foursome and $185 for individual players. Registration deadline is December 29. Hertz Corp. returns for the seventh year as presenting sponsor for NABC’s Golf Fundraiser, and will also provide a vehicle for the Recycled Rides presentation to a local Palm Springs family, immediately following golf. Other industry leaders that have signed up as sponsors include: AR Direct, Axalta Coating Systems, Caliber Collision, Dent Concepts, Enterprise Rent-a-Car, Insurance Auto Auctions, Partners Supply, PPG Automotive Refinish, and The Collision Centers of New York.

Dan Clarke (right), Permatex senior product manager, received the Best Merchandising/Advertising Award for its recently launched Fast Orange Grease X Mechanic’s Laundry Detergent.

Permatex Wins Best Merchandising/Advertising Award for Fast Orange Grease X Mechanic’s Laundry Detergent

Permatex received the Best Merchandising/Advertising Award for its recently launched Fast Orange Grease X Mechanic’s Laundry Detergent. The award was presented by the Import Vehicle Community as part its 2016 Import Products and Marketing Awards at AAPEX program, The award was presented during the 2016 Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) Show last month in Las Vegas.

Nelson Global Products Announces Changes in Executive Leadership

Nelson Global Products Inc. has announced Steve Scgalski as the chief executive officer effective immediately. Scgalski, who currently serves as chief operating officer and president of Nelson’s On and Off Highway business will succeed Sergio Carvalho, who resigned earlier in November due to personal reasons. Scgalski’s experience includes more than 30 years in industrial manufacturing and emissions technology with global leadership positions at EMCON Technologies, ArvinMeritor and Arvin Industries.

Warn Industries’ Bryon Borntrager, engineering manager and WECIP member, presented Debra Mason, executive director at the Clackamas Service Center, a check for $11,086 on November 16.

Warn Industries Employees Donate More than $11,000 to Clackamas-Based Charity

The employees of Warn Industries via the Warn Employee Community Impact Project (WECIP) donated $11,086 to the Clackamas Service Center—a local, non-profit charitable organization that offers food and other resources to support the path toward self-sufficiency to people in Clackamas County, Oregon—on November 16, 2016. This contribution was supported in part through a matching grant initiative by the philanthropic arm of Warn Industries’ parent company, Dover Corp. The Dover Foundation helps to support not-for-profit organizations, causes and/or projects that benefit the local communities in which its operating companies are located. The Clackamas Service Center has used the funds to pay for renovations and bathroom upgrades at the facility.

Prestone Appoints Randy Fisher New Vice President of Marketing

Prestone Products Corp. has hired automotive and aftermarket industry veteran Randy Fisher as its vice president of marketing. Fisher joins Prestone with more than 20 years of industry experience and will oversee the brand’s marketing strategy as the company plans for its 90th anniversary taking place next year. He will be responsible for Prestone’s brand awareness, channel marketing and consumer engagement initiatives in North America. He will manage strategic partnerships, public relations, digital content planning and traditional marketing. Fisher previously served as a marketing consultant for Prestone beginning in July 2016, playing an integral role in Prestone’s inaugural SEMA Show appearance in November. Prior to working for Prestone, he was the marketing director for Royal Purple for nearly five years.

Frank Buscemi

Marx Group Establishes New Leadership Structure, Names Frank Buscemi President/CEO and Creative Director, Forms Alliance with Near Perfect Media

Marx Group has announced the appointment of Frank Buscemi as president/CEO and creative director, effective December 1, 2016. In conjunction with the move, the agency has formed an alliance with Near Perfect Media in Birmingham, Michigan, to establish a full-scale Detroit-area office. Tom Marx, who founded Marx Group in 1984, will remain as chairman and chief strategy officer. Devin Hart, currently Co-CEO of Marx Group, will become a member of the Marx Group board of directors, while continuing to be managing partner of Hart Marx Advisors, focusing on mergers and acquisitions in the industry. Marx will remain as a partner of Hart Marx Advisors. Marx Group and Hart Marx Advisors will maintain its headquarters and production facilities in San Rafael, California. Through the alliance, Near Perfect Media will establish additional offices in conjunction with current Marx Group locations around the country and will also serve as the Detroit office for the Marx Group. Buscemi brings more than 20 years of experience in global marketing communications, primarily in the automotive industry to his new role. As a lifelong Detroit area resident, he’s worked in both corporate and agency management settings with several global, tier-1 automotive suppliers and aftermarket companies, including TI Automotive, ZF, Continental and Nexteer, among others. He joined Near Perfect Media in 2016.

Jason Pecikonis and his crew at Timeless Kustoms in Camarillo, California, turned a ’65 Mustang owned by Chris Marechal into “Vicious Mustang.”

“Vicious Mustang,” a PPG-painted Supercar, Debuted at 2016 SEMA Show

For the 2016 SEMA Show at the Las Vegas Convention Center, Jason Pecikonis and his crew at Timeless Kustoms in Camarillo, California, turned a ’65 Mustang owned by Chris Marechal into “Vicious Mustang.” What started out as a simple coupe ended up a 1,000hp road machine with a performance-focused build, bright-red interior and a PPG silver-gray paint job. Pecikonis and his team converted the Mustang coupe to a sleek fastback using existing body parts and advanced fabrication skills. They then focused on creating race-ready performance and raw power. The car’s engine, a Ford Performance 5.1L Aluminator, is based on a Mustang GT350R engine and was enhanced with two turbochargers and a supercharger. Drivetrain, suspension and mechanical systems were designed to accommodate the car’s muscle.

Have some company news you would like to share? Let us know and the news may appear in an upcoming issue of SEMA eNews. Send your items for consideration to editors@sema.org.

This year, the SEMA Board of Directors has an opening for chairman-elect, one seat in the Manufacturers category and one seat in the Distributor/Retailer category.

The following is a message from SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting:

As a member of the association, your recommendation is needed for industry leaders to serve on the SEMA Board of Directors. Our industry has many individuals who would be an asset to the SEMA Board, but oftentimes those individuals aren’t immediately apparent to the Nominating Committee when selecting the final candidates.

Please take a moment to tell us about whom you would recommend as a potential nominee for a board member position. We also ask that you include information to help the Nominating Committee know more about the nominee’s qualifications, such as background, experience and achievements from a leadership standpoint.

For this year’s election, the following seats are open:

• Chairman-elect
• One seat in the Manufacturers category
• One seat in the Distributor/Retailer category

Nominations for the 2017 SEMA Board of Directors are due Thursday, January 5, 2017. Please complete and submit the nomination form, and be sure to include the qualification information noted above.

A strong board means wise leadership and an association that serves its members well. We urge you to take part in the nominations process.

Thank you for your attention to this important request.

Chris Kersting, CAE
SEMA President & CEO

This year, the SEMA Board of Directors has an opening for chairman-elect, one seat in the Manufacturers category and one seat in the Distributor/Retailer category.

The following is a message from SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting:

As a member of the association, your recommendation is needed for industry leaders to serve on the SEMA Board of Directors. Our industry has many individuals who would be an asset to the SEMA Board, but oftentimes those individuals aren’t immediately apparent to the Nominating Committee when selecting the final candidates.

Please take a moment to tell us about whom you would recommend as a potential nominee for a board member position. We also ask that you include information to help the Nominating Committee know more about the nominee’s qualifications, such as background, experience and achievements from a leadership standpoint.

For this year’s election, the following seats are open:

• Chairman-elect
• One seat in the Manufacturers category
• One seat in the Distributor/Retailer category

Nominations for the 2017 SEMA Board of Directors are due Thursday, January 5, 2017. Please complete and submit the nomination form, and be sure to include the qualification information noted above.

A strong board means wise leadership and an association that serves its members well. We urge you to take part in the nominations process.

Thank you for your attention to this important request.

Chris Kersting, CAE
SEMA President & CEO

By Linda Spencer

A ’16 Australian-spec Ford Ranger will be featured in a December 12–14 measuring session at the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California.

A ’16 Australian-spec Ford Ranger will be featured in a December 12–14 measuring session at the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California. SEMA members are invited to sign up to measure the 3.2L diesel-powered RHD 4x4 double-cab pickup, which is available globally but not sold in the United States.   

Members unable to attend the December measuring session are welcome to come to the SEMA Garage for a separate measuring session at a later date. The truck can also travel to members’ facilities, if needed.

Ford Ranger details:

• Coming to the United States? The Ford Ranger is expected to be produced in the United States for the first time in 2018, although Ford has not provided definitive confirmation. The UAW plant manager in Wayne, Michigan, was recently quoted in the press as stating that a decision had been made to build the Ford Ranger and a new Bronco at the plant, located within 30 minutes of Detroit.
• Plant Locations: The Ford Ranger is built in Thailand, South Africa and Argentina.
• Global Sales: Ford Ranger global sales totaled 208,251 in 2015, according to IHS. Sales since the midsize pickup was introduced in 2011 totals 662,831. South Africa was the No. 1 market in 2015 with Australia, Thailand, Argentina and Brazil joining in the top five countries in terms of sales (see charts below).
• Engines: 2.5L (gasoline) and diesel versions: 2.2L and 3.2L.
• Drivetrain: 2x4 and 4x4.
• Competitors: Other midsize pickups, such as the Chevy Colorado, Toyota HiLux, Mitsubishi L200 and the Nissan Navara.

Ford Ranger Sales

Top 10 Countries (Sales: 2011–2015 and 2015)

Source: SEMA calculations from IHS statistics.

European Ford Ranger Sales

Source: SEMA calculations from IHS statistics.

Register now to measure the latest truck temporarily imported by SEMA in order to create new export-ready products. A ’16 Toyota HiLux and a ’14 Mitsubishi L200 are also available at the SEMA Garage.

For questions about measuring the Ford Ranger or the other international vehicles, contact Jim Moore at jimm@sema.org. For information on SEMA’s international programs, contact Linda Spencer at lindas@sema.org.

By Linda Spencer

A ’16 Australian-spec Ford Ranger will be featured in a December 12–14 measuring session at the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California.

A ’16 Australian-spec Ford Ranger will be featured in a December 12–14 measuring session at the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California. SEMA members are invited to sign up to measure the 3.2L diesel-powered RHD 4x4 double-cab pickup, which is available globally but not sold in the United States.   

Members unable to attend the December measuring session are welcome to come to the SEMA Garage for a separate measuring session at a later date. The truck can also travel to members’ facilities, if needed.

Ford Ranger details:

• Coming to the United States? The Ford Ranger is expected to be produced in the United States for the first time in 2018, although Ford has not provided definitive confirmation. The UAW plant manager in Wayne, Michigan, was recently quoted in the press as stating that a decision had been made to build the Ford Ranger and a new Bronco at the plant, located within 30 minutes of Detroit.
• Plant Locations: The Ford Ranger is built in Thailand, South Africa and Argentina.
• Global Sales: Ford Ranger global sales totaled 208,251 in 2015, according to IHS. Sales since the midsize pickup was introduced in 2011 totals 662,831. South Africa was the No. 1 market in 2015 with Australia, Thailand, Argentina and Brazil joining in the top five countries in terms of sales (see charts below).
• Engines: 2.5L (gasoline) and diesel versions: 2.2L and 3.2L.
• Drivetrain: 2x4 and 4x4.
• Competitors: Other midsize pickups, such as the Chevy Colorado, Toyota HiLux, Mitsubishi L200 and the Nissan Navara.

Ford Ranger Sales

Top 10 Countries (Sales: 2011–2015 and 2015)

Source: SEMA calculations from IHS statistics.

European Ford Ranger Sales

Source: SEMA calculations from IHS statistics.

Register now to measure the latest truck temporarily imported by SEMA in order to create new export-ready products. A ’16 Toyota HiLux and a ’14 Mitsubishi L200 are also available at the SEMA Garage.

For questions about measuring the Ford Ranger or the other international vehicles, contact Jim Moore at jimm@sema.org. For information on SEMA’s international programs, contact Linda Spencer at lindas@sema.org.

By Linda Spencer

A ’16 Australian-spec Ford Ranger will be featured in a December 12–14 measuring session at the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California.

A ’16 Australian-spec Ford Ranger will be featured in a December 12–14 measuring session at the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California. SEMA members are invited to sign up to measure the 3.2L diesel-powered RHD 4x4 double-cab pickup, which is available globally but not sold in the United States.   

Members unable to attend the December measuring session are welcome to come to the SEMA Garage for a separate measuring session at a later date. The truck can also travel to members’ facilities, if needed.

Ford Ranger details:

• Coming to the United States? The Ford Ranger is expected to be produced in the United States for the first time in 2018, although Ford has not provided definitive confirmation. The UAW plant manager in Wayne, Michigan, was recently quoted in the press as stating that a decision had been made to build the Ford Ranger and a new Bronco at the plant, located within 30 minutes of Detroit.
• Plant Locations: The Ford Ranger is built in Thailand, South Africa and Argentina.
• Global Sales: Ford Ranger global sales totaled 208,251 in 2015, according to IHS. Sales since the midsize pickup was introduced in 2011 totals 662,831. South Africa was the No. 1 market in 2015 with Australia, Thailand, Argentina and Brazil joining in the top five countries in terms of sales (see charts below).
• Engines: 2.5L (gasoline) and diesel versions: 2.2L and 3.2L.
• Drivetrain: 2x4 and 4x4.
• Competitors: Other midsize pickups, such as the Chevy Colorado, Toyota HiLux, Mitsubishi L200 and the Nissan Navara.

Ford Ranger Sales

Top 10 Countries (Sales: 2011–2015 and 2015)

Source: SEMA calculations from IHS statistics.

European Ford Ranger Sales

Source: SEMA calculations from IHS statistics.

Register now to measure the latest truck temporarily imported by SEMA in order to create new export-ready products. A ’16 Toyota HiLux and a ’14 Mitsubishi L200 are also available at the SEMA Garage.

For questions about measuring the Ford Ranger or the other international vehicles, contact Jim Moore at jimm@sema.org. For information on SEMA’s international programs, contact Linda Spencer at lindas@sema.org.

By Linda Spencer

A ’16 Australian-spec Ford Ranger will be featured in a December 12–14 measuring session at the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California.

A ’16 Australian-spec Ford Ranger will be featured in a December 12–14 measuring session at the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California. SEMA members are invited to sign up to measure the 3.2L diesel-powered RHD 4x4 double-cab pickup, which is available globally but not sold in the United States.   

Members unable to attend the December measuring session are welcome to come to the SEMA Garage for a separate measuring session at a later date. The truck can also travel to members’ facilities, if needed.

Ford Ranger details:

• Coming to the United States? The Ford Ranger is expected to be produced in the United States for the first time in 2018, although Ford has not provided definitive confirmation. The UAW plant manager in Wayne, Michigan, was recently quoted in the press as stating that a decision had been made to build the Ford Ranger and a new Bronco at the plant, located within 30 minutes of Detroit.
• Plant Locations: The Ford Ranger is built in Thailand, South Africa and Argentina.
• Global Sales: Ford Ranger global sales totaled 208,251 in 2015, according to IHS. Sales since the midsize pickup was introduced in 2011 totals 662,831. South Africa was the No. 1 market in 2015 with Australia, Thailand, Argentina and Brazil joining in the top five countries in terms of sales (see charts below).
• Engines: 2.5L (gasoline) and diesel versions: 2.2L and 3.2L.
• Drivetrain: 2x4 and 4x4.
• Competitors: Other midsize pickups, such as the Chevy Colorado, Toyota HiLux, Mitsubishi L200 and the Nissan Navara.

Ford Ranger Sales

Top 10 Countries (Sales: 2011–2015 and 2015)

Source: SEMA calculations from IHS statistics.

European Ford Ranger Sales

Source: SEMA calculations from IHS statistics.

Register now to measure the latest truck temporarily imported by SEMA in order to create new export-ready products. A ’16 Toyota HiLux and a ’14 Mitsubishi L200 are also available at the SEMA Garage.

For questions about measuring the Ford Ranger or the other international vehicles, contact Jim Moore at jimm@sema.org. For information on SEMA’s international programs, contact Linda Spencer at lindas@sema.org.

By SEMA Editors

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

Mechanical Designer: Advanced Flow Engineering Inc. is hiring a mechanical designer responsible for designing, drawing/drafting and developing new products, as well as modifying the design of existing products. The successful candidate must have an associates degree, 2–5 years’ experience as a mechanical draftsman or automotive parts designer, and intermediate to advanced knowledge of general automotive mechanics and SolidWorks CAD.

Data Content Publishing Specialist: DCi is hiring a data content publishing specialist to collect and enter data into in-house software, quality check others’ data-entry work and research and resolve data issues reported by clients or other departments. The successful candidate will have a minimum of a high school diploma and automotive knowledge.

Sales Associate: ProMedia Events & Publishing is hiring a sales associate for Race Pages, Fastest Street Car, NMRA, NMCA and NMCA WEST. This position includes event sponsorship, web sales and providing customer service. The ideal candidate is an automotive enthusiast and has some sales experience. A college degree is a plus but not required. 

Lead Installer/Shop Foreman: An established truck and automotive accessory retailer in South Florida is looking for a hard-working, self-motivated industry professional to be their lead installer and shop foreman. Responsibilities include installing lift kits on all makes and models of trucks and SUVs, wheel and tire installation and aftermarket performance parts installation. The successful candidate must have at least three years’ related experience, extensive knowledge of the automotive aftermarket and be ASE certified in suspension and steering.

Strengthen Your Company Through Community

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

Visit YEN's website

Aaron Aldrich of Any Level Lift was named the 2016 SEMA Launch Pad winner, with his all-adjustable suspension system for trucks and off-road vehicles.

Aaron Aldrich Discusses Launch Pad Experience

Aaron Aldrich of Any Level Lift was named the 2016 SEMA Launch Pad winner with his all-adjustable suspension system for trucks and off-road vehicles. Presented by the Young Executives Network (YEN), the winner was determined by a panel of industry judges after each contestant pitched their products or services to the panel in front of a live audience Wednesday, November 2, during the 2016 SEMA Show.

Each contestant was an automotive industry entrepreneur under the age of 40 looking to launch his or her business to the next level. Applications were accepted in the spring of 2016 with a record number of applications turned in from young entrepreneurs nationwide. A task force narrowed down the contest to 13 semi-finalists who were flown out to Las Vegas during the SEMA Exhibitor Summit last summer to film their pitch videos, which the public would vote on for the final top 10 contestants. The top 10 finalists included:

• Aaron Aldrich, Any Level Lift
• Richard Baverstock, Mogol Inc.
• Matt Corish, V12LS.com
• John Paul Guswelle, Metal Conditioner2
• Amanda Holbert, PlasmaGlide LLC
• Bryce Hudson, Grip Clean
• Wesley Jurica, Gigabit Games
• Kevin Patrick, Exomotive
• Sarah Powell, Turnberry Innovations
• Irina Slavina, Hudway LLC

Meet the Winner!

Aldrich is new to the automotive aftermarket industry, establishing Any Level Lift LLC earlier this year. He developed a passion for lifted trucks growing up in a small town in New York, and graduated from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute with a mechanical engineering degree. He normally designs servicing equipment for the U.S. Navy’s submarines and aircraft carriers; however, after building and testing a prototype of the Any Level Lift and issuing three related patents, he decided to take a leave of absence to bring the Any Level Lift to market.

The patented Any Level Lift is the industry’s first all-adjustable suspension system, offering 16 in. of ride height adjustment without impact to ride quality, steering alignment or axle positioning. The Any Level Lift bridges the gap between work and play.

As the winner, Aldrich received the grand-prize package consisting of a one-year complimentary SEMA membership; multiple features in SEMA media and news outlets; exhibit space at the 2017 SEMA Show; access and discounted rates on SEMA services, such as the photography studio and SEMA Data Co-op; and finally industry sponsorship packages.

SEMA News: How do you think the SEMA Launch Pad prize package will benefit your business?

Aaron Aldrich: The SEMA Launch Pad prize package has so many elements that will benefit my new business. There is a good reason the competition is entitled “Launch Pad,” because the prize package is certainly tailored to provide one. The free booth at next year’s Show is huge. As a first-time exhibitor with my own booth at this year’s Show, I know first-hand how much money and effort goes into setting up a booth at SEMA. Not having to worry about that will help me focus on product development. Also, Any Level Lift is a new name in the industry; the exposure from the news and magazine articles will help get our name out there, showcase our technology and build our brand.

SN: What does it mean to you to be named the winner of the 2016 SEMA Launch Pad?

AA: My first reaction to this question was that winning the 2016 SEMA Launch Pad Competition means validation of my product, and it means that if you have a dream, a plan and determination, you can make anything happen. However, when I step back and really think about how I feel about winning, winning means I’ve got a huge weight on my shoulders. I am indebted to all the folks who believe in me, the people who voted, my family and friends who helped build our prototypes and came to the Show to man the booth, the judges who chose me and my product over the other outstanding competitors, and the people who can’t wait to buy a kit. I owe it to these folks to keep grinding and deliver a suspension system that is going to change the game. What I thought was hard work before was really just the beginning. The hard part is ahead, and that is turning this dream into a profitable business.

SN: Talk about the SEMA Launch Pad competition—what was your experience as a competitor?

AA: I didn’t know about SEMA Launch Pad until a few days before the application was due. I had recently signed on as a SEMA member and read an article in SEMA News about a competition for young entrepreneurs and innovators. I couldn’t help but think it was written for me. I spent a couple hours thinking about some of the responses to the questions in the application and submitted. It wasn’t long until I found out I was a semi-finalist and was flying out to Vegas to attend the Exhibitor Summit, which was a huge help to me as a first-time exhibitor and a great way to meet the other competitors and start building some lasting friendships.

While at the Summit, we were filmed for the video that was posted on Facebook for voting over the summer. I had never been interviewed on camera so I was nervous going in, but I love to talk about the Any Level Lift, so it turned out to be pretty fun. The Facebook voting competition was set up to give us some marketing experience. The competition was tight with things changing each week. Luckily, the timing was right when we debuted our second prototype, and that helped get us some votes and solidify my spot in the top 10.

Fast forward to the SEMA Show…after countless hours working on the ’17 Super Duty we had on display in our booth, I had very little time to prep for my SEMA Launch Pad pitch. I found myself in the back of the room 30 minutes before taking the stage going over in my head all the things I wanted to say and trying to think through responses to some of the questions I would get from the judges. Two minutes isn’t much time, so I focused on two things: illustrating the problems with lifted trucks and a quick video showing the solution. After fielding a few questions from the judges, I left the stage feeling relieved because that stage certainly wasn’t my comfort zone. After everyone had finished their pitches and the judges returned from deliberation, I remember standing back up on that stage with everyone waiting to hear the outcome and thinking about how great the rest of the competitors did, and how proud I was to be standing beside such innovative, driven and talented folks. The judges provided each of us some constructive feedback before Clarence Barnes, our host, announced the winner…“Aaron Aldrich, Any Level Lift.” What an amazing moment and an awesome experience. Put your applications in next year!

SN: What’s next for you and Any Level Lift?

AA: I was so focused on getting to the SEMA Show and building the Show truck that I had very little time to formulate a go-forward plan coming out of the Show. Exhibiting at the SEMA Show and the exposure from the SEMA Launch Pad competition has resulted in several industry connections presenting a few different directions that we could head. For now, I am going to focus on refining a couple things on the latest design to streamline manufacturing and installation, work through the legal and administrative side of things and set up a system to take pre-orders. Hopefully at next year’s SEMA Show you will see several trucks rockin’ the Any Level Lift!

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Strengthen Your Company Through Community

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

Visit YEN's website

Aaron Aldrich of Any Level Lift was named the 2016 SEMA Launch Pad winner, with his all-adjustable suspension system for trucks and off-road vehicles.

Aaron Aldrich Discusses Launch Pad Experience

Aaron Aldrich of Any Level Lift was named the 2016 SEMA Launch Pad winner with his all-adjustable suspension system for trucks and off-road vehicles. Presented by the Young Executives Network (YEN), the winner was determined by a panel of industry judges after each contestant pitched their products or services to the panel in front of a live audience Wednesday, November 2, during the 2016 SEMA Show.

Each contestant was an automotive industry entrepreneur under the age of 40 looking to launch his or her business to the next level. Applications were accepted in the spring of 2016 with a record number of applications turned in from young entrepreneurs nationwide. A task force narrowed down the contest to 13 semi-finalists who were flown out to Las Vegas during the SEMA Exhibitor Summit last summer to film their pitch videos, which the public would vote on for the final top 10 contestants. The top 10 finalists included:

• Aaron Aldrich, Any Level Lift
• Richard Baverstock, Mogol Inc.
• Matt Corish, V12LS.com
• John Paul Guswelle, Metal Conditioner2
• Amanda Holbert, PlasmaGlide LLC
• Bryce Hudson, Grip Clean
• Wesley Jurica, Gigabit Games
• Kevin Patrick, Exomotive
• Sarah Powell, Turnberry Innovations
• Irina Slavina, Hudway LLC

Meet the Winner!

Aldrich is new to the automotive aftermarket industry, establishing Any Level Lift LLC earlier this year. He developed a passion for lifted trucks growing up in a small town in New York, and graduated from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute with a mechanical engineering degree. He normally designs servicing equipment for the U.S. Navy’s submarines and aircraft carriers; however, after building and testing a prototype of the Any Level Lift and issuing three related patents, he decided to take a leave of absence to bring the Any Level Lift to market.

The patented Any Level Lift is the industry’s first all-adjustable suspension system, offering 16 in. of ride height adjustment without impact to ride quality, steering alignment or axle positioning. The Any Level Lift bridges the gap between work and play.

As the winner, Aldrich received the grand-prize package consisting of a one-year complimentary SEMA membership; multiple features in SEMA media and news outlets; exhibit space at the 2017 SEMA Show; access and discounted rates on SEMA services, such as the photography studio and SEMA Data Co-op; and finally industry sponsorship packages.

SEMA News: How do you think the SEMA Launch Pad prize package will benefit your business?

Aaron Aldrich: The SEMA Launch Pad prize package has so many elements that will benefit my new business. There is a good reason the competition is entitled “Launch Pad,” because the prize package is certainly tailored to provide one. The free booth at next year’s Show is huge. As a first-time exhibitor with my own booth at this year’s Show, I know first-hand how much money and effort goes into setting up a booth at SEMA. Not having to worry about that will help me focus on product development. Also, Any Level Lift is a new name in the industry; the exposure from the news and magazine articles will help get our name out there, showcase our technology and build our brand.

SN: What does it mean to you to be named the winner of the 2016 SEMA Launch Pad?

AA: My first reaction to this question was that winning the 2016 SEMA Launch Pad Competition means validation of my product, and it means that if you have a dream, a plan and determination, you can make anything happen. However, when I step back and really think about how I feel about winning, winning means I’ve got a huge weight on my shoulders. I am indebted to all the folks who believe in me, the people who voted, my family and friends who helped build our prototypes and came to the Show to man the booth, the judges who chose me and my product over the other outstanding competitors, and the people who can’t wait to buy a kit. I owe it to these folks to keep grinding and deliver a suspension system that is going to change the game. What I thought was hard work before was really just the beginning. The hard part is ahead, and that is turning this dream into a profitable business.

SN: Talk about the SEMA Launch Pad competition—what was your experience as a competitor?

AA: I didn’t know about SEMA Launch Pad until a few days before the application was due. I had recently signed on as a SEMA member and read an article in SEMA News about a competition for young entrepreneurs and innovators. I couldn’t help but think it was written for me. I spent a couple hours thinking about some of the responses to the questions in the application and submitted. It wasn’t long until I found out I was a semi-finalist and was flying out to Vegas to attend the Exhibitor Summit, which was a huge help to me as a first-time exhibitor and a great way to meet the other competitors and start building some lasting friendships.

While at the Summit, we were filmed for the video that was posted on Facebook for voting over the summer. I had never been interviewed on camera so I was nervous going in, but I love to talk about the Any Level Lift, so it turned out to be pretty fun. The Facebook voting competition was set up to give us some marketing experience. The competition was tight with things changing each week. Luckily, the timing was right when we debuted our second prototype, and that helped get us some votes and solidify my spot in the top 10.

Fast forward to the SEMA Show…after countless hours working on the ’17 Super Duty we had on display in our booth, I had very little time to prep for my SEMA Launch Pad pitch. I found myself in the back of the room 30 minutes before taking the stage going over in my head all the things I wanted to say and trying to think through responses to some of the questions I would get from the judges. Two minutes isn’t much time, so I focused on two things: illustrating the problems with lifted trucks and a quick video showing the solution. After fielding a few questions from the judges, I left the stage feeling relieved because that stage certainly wasn’t my comfort zone. After everyone had finished their pitches and the judges returned from deliberation, I remember standing back up on that stage with everyone waiting to hear the outcome and thinking about how great the rest of the competitors did, and how proud I was to be standing beside such innovative, driven and talented folks. The judges provided each of us some constructive feedback before Clarence Barnes, our host, announced the winner…“Aaron Aldrich, Any Level Lift.” What an amazing moment and an awesome experience. Put your applications in next year!

SN: What’s next for you and Any Level Lift?

AA: I was so focused on getting to the SEMA Show and building the Show truck that I had very little time to formulate a go-forward plan coming out of the Show. Exhibiting at the SEMA Show and the exposure from the SEMA Launch Pad competition has resulted in several industry connections presenting a few different directions that we could head. For now, I am going to focus on refining a couple things on the latest design to streamline manufacturing and installation, work through the legal and administrative side of things and set up a system to take pre-orders. Hopefully at next year’s SEMA Show you will see several trucks rockin’ the Any Level Lift!

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