SEMA Member News—November/December 2015

SBN Select Committee News

Gear-up Girl is among several programs to be held at the 2015 SEMA Show designed specifically for women participants. The dynamic mixer brings together generations of professionals with female students. (Registration for this event is open to women only.)

It’s been a busy year for the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN), and the group is very pleased to welcome its incoming select committee members. Taking the reins as chair is Erin Gilhuly of Toyota Motor Sales. The new chair-elect is Camee Edelbrock of ProMedia. Both have served on the select committee for a number of years and are excited to bring new programs to the membership.

The new SBN select committee members are:

• Coelette Chenier, marketing coordinator for Trans American Auto Parts
• Lana Chrisman, vice president at McLeod Racing
• Tiffany Dorin, national accounts manager for MagnaFlow
• Erika Klein, e-commerce product development manager at Auto Anything

They will be joining incumbent committee members Joann Bortles of Crazy Horse Custom Painting, Jenna Jefferies from K&N Engineering, Julia Johnson of Skyline College, Sherry Kollien of Ford Motor Company, Jennifer LaFever from Roush Yates Engine, and Jacqueline Parral of Family Events.

2015 SEMA Show Events

Two unique networking events are planned by the SBN for this year’s SEMA Show: Gear-Up Girl and the SBN networking reception.

Gear-up Girl is designed to connect women students with industry-leading women professionals. Register for the event on the SEMA Show dashboard, or contact Bryan Harrison, SEMA director of networks, at bryanh@sema.org. (Registration is open to women only.) Gear-Up Girl will be held Monday, November 2, 3:30-5:00 p.m. in room N242 of the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC).

Attendees may also wish to join SBN members at the SBN Networking Reception for a unique opportunity to meet with industry professionals in a relaxed atmosphere while learning about and tasting a unique selection of wines. The reception will take place on Wednesday, November 4, 5:00-7:00 p.m., in the Westgate Paradise Center, north of the Westgate Resort & Casino. To register visit: http://pages.message.sema.org/council-reception-sbn.

Women Driven

In conjunction with SEMA Education, a series of seminars titled Women Driven will focus on a wide variety of topics, including the following listed below.

Women Driven: Communication Roadmap for Men and Women, Powered by SBN (Registration Code: WD1)
Author Joanne Lipman of The Wall Street Journal will attend the SEMA Show to discuss the demystifying of women in the workplace and share advice for the men who work with them. Monday, November 2, 10:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m., LVCC, Upper North Hall, room N258.

Women Driven: Leveraging Differences to Drive Success: 5 Best Practices for Building a Diverse Workforce, Powered by SBN (Registration Code: WD2)
Savvy companies are making efforts to look more like the community around them. If you employ only those who identify with a small portion of the market, you don’t have access to the insights, experiences and world views of the full marketplace. Learn five best practices for building a diverse workforce. Tuesday, November 3, 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m., LVCC, Upper North Hall, room N256.

Women Driven: Women in Business Shattering the Glass Ceiling, Powered by the SBN (Registration Code: WD3)
The last decade has witnessed a growing awareness of the value women bring to the workplace. Hear from a panel of successful women in the automotive industry and participate in an open dialog on the qualities and strategies it takes to excel in business. Panel members include Freda Pratt-Boyer, president of the Tire Industry Association, and Michelle Krebs, director of automotive relations for Auto Trader. (Registration is open to women only.) Wednesday, November 4, 1:00 p.m.–2:30 p.m. LVCC, Upper North Hall, room N219.

Keynote and Coffee: Marketing to Millennial Women, Powered by the SBN
Bridget Brennan, CEO of Female Factor, explores how the millennial generation’s unique perception of the world (and themselves) impacts brand preferences, marketing responses and choice of sales channel. Attendees will learn about the cultural forces that have shaped millennial women and how to apply this knowledge to marketing and sales efforts. Wednesday, November 4, 8:00 a.m.–9:00 a.m., LVCC, Upper North Hall, room N219. Register for all these SBN events on the SEMA Show dashboard.

In Other News…

SBN is pleased to announce that it is once again sponsoring an all-girl team in the Hot Rodders of Tomorrow Engine Build Challenge. Team Edelbrock from Belvidere North High School in Belvidere, Illinois, qualified with a time of 28:49 and will be competing at the 2015 SEMA Show. Team Edelbrock is also the first all-girl team with a female coach.

SEMA Member News—November/December 2015

MRN at the SEMA Show

The Manufacturers’ Representative Network will once again host a collection of business-critical discussions moderated by industry experts exclusively for manufacturers’ representatives on Sunday, November 1. The Rep Roundtable provides attendees with the opportunity to learn practical solutions to real-world manufacturers’ rep opportunities.

The SEMA Manufacturers’ Representative Network (MRN) will host a collection of business-critical discussions moderated by industry experts exclusively for manufacturers’ representatives on Sunday, November 1, 3:30 p.m.–6:00 p.m., Las Vegas Convention Center, Upper North Hall, N256. The Rep Roundtable, powered by the MRN, will provide attendees with the opportunity to ask questions and receive practical solutions to real-world manufacturer rep opportunities and issues. The cost is $25 for SEMA members and $35 for non-members. The topics and speakers will include the following:

How to Handle Private-Equity Acquisitions and Management

Speaker: Mitch Williams
Synopsis: What actions should a rep take when a private-equity firm is acquiring one of his manufacturers? What should he do if he is terminated after a private-equity acquisition? How can he protect himself in the future?

Three Biggest Challenges Facing Reps Today and Tomorrow

Speaker: Clay Taylor, ESQ
Synopsis: What are the challenges facing reps today and in the future? How a rep can strategically plan to face these challenges?

How to Be a Great Rep in the E-Commerce Market

Speaker: Bernard Bolisig
Synopsis: Five things a rep can do to increase his value to the e-commerce customer. How a rep can help non-e-commerce customers enter e-commerce. Future trends in the e-commerce market that a rep should know to increase sales.

Wealth Management for Reps

Speaker: Andrew D. Horowitz
Synopsis: How should a rep without access to company investment plans prepare financially for the future? Discover investment tools a rep can use and how to find a wealth-management professional.

Tools and Trends for a Mobile Workforce

Speaker: Tyler Tanaka
Synopsis: Learn about mobile apps for better communication and digital business trends that manufacturers’ reps should stay on top of, including mobile apps for travel and for better organization.

Improving Your Rep Team’s Communication, Training and Overall Goals

Speaker: Nikki Weiss
Synopsis: Find out how everyone in your rep organization can help improve the overall team, the importance of continuous training with your rep team and improving communication with your rep team and manufacturers.

Education Sessions Offered by the SDC for MRN Members

The Internet and electronic cataloging have changed the market structure and the way companies sell to consumers. The key is great data, and manufacturers’ reps need to be knowledgeable and helpful to their clients. The SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) has educational sessions that can aid all members of the MRN. This program is designed for real-world small-business people. Rather than focusing on information that goes over the heads of attendees, it will provide practical, feet-on-the-street information that any accessory reseller can use. The topics include:

How Great Data Improves Your Business: Introduction to PIES and ACES

Just getting started with product data? The SDC’s introductory course will explain the industry data standards in easy-to-understand terms, giving you the confidence to begin managing your product data like a pro.

How SEMA Can Help You Create Great Data to Sell More Parts

This seminar for data managers and company executives teaches more about getting the most out of your data sets. SDC staff will discuss how to improve the quality of your data with the goal of helping your customers sell more parts.

E-commerce Solved: Nineteen Things an E-Commerce Site Should Have and How to Make the SDC Work for You

E-commerce requires more than just putting up a site and dumping some products on a page. There are strategies that make e-commerce sites work and best practices you need to apply. In the accessory industry, you must have the 19 things the SDC will discuss. As a SEMA member, you have an additional powerful tool that will put your e-commerce site light years ahead of competitors: the SEMA Data Co-op. How does the SDC help you? Find out in this program what powerful tools have been put in place to make you successful.

SEMA Member News—November/December 2015

MRN at the SEMA Show

The Manufacturers’ Representative Network will once again host a collection of business-critical discussions moderated by industry experts exclusively for manufacturers’ representatives on Sunday, November 1. The Rep Roundtable provides attendees with the opportunity to learn practical solutions to real-world manufacturers’ rep opportunities.

The SEMA Manufacturers’ Representative Network (MRN) will host a collection of business-critical discussions moderated by industry experts exclusively for manufacturers’ representatives on Sunday, November 1, 3:30 p.m.–6:00 p.m., Las Vegas Convention Center, Upper North Hall, N256. The Rep Roundtable, powered by the MRN, will provide attendees with the opportunity to ask questions and receive practical solutions to real-world manufacturer rep opportunities and issues. The cost is $25 for SEMA members and $35 for non-members. The topics and speakers will include the following:

How to Handle Private-Equity Acquisitions and Management

Speaker: Mitch Williams
Synopsis: What actions should a rep take when a private-equity firm is acquiring one of his manufacturers? What should he do if he is terminated after a private-equity acquisition? How can he protect himself in the future?

Three Biggest Challenges Facing Reps Today and Tomorrow

Speaker: Clay Taylor, ESQ
Synopsis: What are the challenges facing reps today and in the future? How a rep can strategically plan to face these challenges?

How to Be a Great Rep in the E-Commerce Market

Speaker: Bernard Bolisig
Synopsis: Five things a rep can do to increase his value to the e-commerce customer. How a rep can help non-e-commerce customers enter e-commerce. Future trends in the e-commerce market that a rep should know to increase sales.

Wealth Management for Reps

Speaker: Andrew D. Horowitz
Synopsis: How should a rep without access to company investment plans prepare financially for the future? Discover investment tools a rep can use and how to find a wealth-management professional.

Tools and Trends for a Mobile Workforce

Speaker: Tyler Tanaka
Synopsis: Learn about mobile apps for better communication and digital business trends that manufacturers’ reps should stay on top of, including mobile apps for travel and for better organization.

Improving Your Rep Team’s Communication, Training and Overall Goals

Speaker: Nikki Weiss
Synopsis: Find out how everyone in your rep organization can help improve the overall team, the importance of continuous training with your rep team and improving communication with your rep team and manufacturers.

Education Sessions Offered by the SDC for MRN Members

The Internet and electronic cataloging have changed the market structure and the way companies sell to consumers. The key is great data, and manufacturers’ reps need to be knowledgeable and helpful to their clients. The SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) has educational sessions that can aid all members of the MRN. This program is designed for real-world small-business people. Rather than focusing on information that goes over the heads of attendees, it will provide practical, feet-on-the-street information that any accessory reseller can use. The topics include:

How Great Data Improves Your Business: Introduction to PIES and ACES

Just getting started with product data? The SDC’s introductory course will explain the industry data standards in easy-to-understand terms, giving you the confidence to begin managing your product data like a pro.

How SEMA Can Help You Create Great Data to Sell More Parts

This seminar for data managers and company executives teaches more about getting the most out of your data sets. SDC staff will discuss how to improve the quality of your data with the goal of helping your customers sell more parts.

E-commerce Solved: Nineteen Things an E-Commerce Site Should Have and How to Make the SDC Work for You

E-commerce requires more than just putting up a site and dumping some products on a page. There are strategies that make e-commerce sites work and best practices you need to apply. In the accessory industry, you must have the 19 things the SDC will discuss. As a SEMA member, you have an additional powerful tool that will put your e-commerce site light years ahead of competitors: the SEMA Data Co-op. How does the SDC help you? Find out in this program what powerful tools have been put in place to make you successful.

SEMA Member News—November/December 2015

MRN at the SEMA Show

The Manufacturers’ Representative Network will once again host a collection of business-critical discussions moderated by industry experts exclusively for manufacturers’ representatives on Sunday, November 1. The Rep Roundtable provides attendees with the opportunity to learn practical solutions to real-world manufacturers’ rep opportunities.

The SEMA Manufacturers’ Representative Network (MRN) will host a collection of business-critical discussions moderated by industry experts exclusively for manufacturers’ representatives on Sunday, November 1, 3:30 p.m.–6:00 p.m., Las Vegas Convention Center, Upper North Hall, N256. The Rep Roundtable, powered by the MRN, will provide attendees with the opportunity to ask questions and receive practical solutions to real-world manufacturer rep opportunities and issues. The cost is $25 for SEMA members and $35 for non-members. The topics and speakers will include the following:

How to Handle Private-Equity Acquisitions and Management

Speaker: Mitch Williams
Synopsis: What actions should a rep take when a private-equity firm is acquiring one of his manufacturers? What should he do if he is terminated after a private-equity acquisition? How can he protect himself in the future?

Three Biggest Challenges Facing Reps Today and Tomorrow

Speaker: Clay Taylor, ESQ
Synopsis: What are the challenges facing reps today and in the future? How a rep can strategically plan to face these challenges?

How to Be a Great Rep in the E-Commerce Market

Speaker: Bernard Bolisig
Synopsis: Five things a rep can do to increase his value to the e-commerce customer. How a rep can help non-e-commerce customers enter e-commerce. Future trends in the e-commerce market that a rep should know to increase sales.

Wealth Management for Reps

Speaker: Andrew D. Horowitz
Synopsis: How should a rep without access to company investment plans prepare financially for the future? Discover investment tools a rep can use and how to find a wealth-management professional.

Tools and Trends for a Mobile Workforce

Speaker: Tyler Tanaka
Synopsis: Learn about mobile apps for better communication and digital business trends that manufacturers’ reps should stay on top of, including mobile apps for travel and for better organization.

Improving Your Rep Team’s Communication, Training and Overall Goals

Speaker: Nikki Weiss
Synopsis: Find out how everyone in your rep organization can help improve the overall team, the importance of continuous training with your rep team and improving communication with your rep team and manufacturers.

Education Sessions Offered by the SDC for MRN Members

The Internet and electronic cataloging have changed the market structure and the way companies sell to consumers. The key is great data, and manufacturers’ reps need to be knowledgeable and helpful to their clients. The SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) has educational sessions that can aid all members of the MRN. This program is designed for real-world small-business people. Rather than focusing on information that goes over the heads of attendees, it will provide practical, feet-on-the-street information that any accessory reseller can use. The topics include:

How Great Data Improves Your Business: Introduction to PIES and ACES

Just getting started with product data? The SDC’s introductory course will explain the industry data standards in easy-to-understand terms, giving you the confidence to begin managing your product data like a pro.

How SEMA Can Help You Create Great Data to Sell More Parts

This seminar for data managers and company executives teaches more about getting the most out of your data sets. SDC staff will discuss how to improve the quality of your data with the goal of helping your customers sell more parts.

E-commerce Solved: Nineteen Things an E-Commerce Site Should Have and How to Make the SDC Work for You

E-commerce requires more than just putting up a site and dumping some products on a page. There are strategies that make e-commerce sites work and best practices you need to apply. In the accessory industry, you must have the 19 things the SDC will discuss. As a SEMA member, you have an additional powerful tool that will put your e-commerce site light years ahead of competitors: the SEMA Data Co-op. How does the SDC help you? Find out in this program what powerful tools have been put in place to make you successful.

SEMA Member News—November/December 2015

ETTN Explores Today and Tomorrow

As reported in the April 2015 issue of SEMA News, CU-ICAR offers SEMA members data analysis for problem solving, including analysis of pre-catalyst and post-cat emissions data and analysis of combustion and calibration for aftermarket performance parts makers seeking CARB certification.

Welcome to the new Emerging Trends and Technology Network (ETTN), an organization where engineers, programmers, designers and those affected by the fast pace of ever-changing automotive technology can come together as a community. The mission of ETTN is to “identify, understand and communicate emerging trends and technologies to help members improve.” There is a real need within SEMA for individuals to understand and be prepared for upcoming changes to the industry, most of which are based on technological advancements.

As SEMA News reported in a recent story, today’s cars, trucks and the auto industry and performance aftermarket as a whole are being reinvented, restructured and re-envisioned. Cars are quickly moving from standalone mechanical products to smart electronic products and connected smart products. Not since the beginning of the industry has there been such disruption in how cars are designed, developed, customized, sold, serviced and owned.

Vehicles are being designed to drive themselves, avoid accidents and connect to their owners’ digital lifestyles. They produce lower emissions, go faster and are safer, smarter and cooler than ever. The disruptive technologies leading the auto industry and aftermarket product revolution are also creating many new and exciting business opportunities and careers in science, technology, engineering and math that did not exist in the industry just six years ago—roughly one or two high-school or college generations.

New talent pipelines, career paths and skill sets are required to fuel technological advances and connect the next generation of drivers and workers to digital tech in their cars. Innovation is the number-one driver for creating a competitive advantage and staying relevant with advancing vehicle technology in areas such as gaming, apps and software development for design, manufacturing, production and marketing.

“SEMA’s roots are in making cars faster and cooler,” said SEMA Vice President of Vehicle Technology John Waraniak. “SEMA companies need to be tracking how their products and the vehicle systems they are integrated with are becoming smarter and more connected. The number of cars connected to the Internet worldwide will grow to more than 52 million by 2020, compared with 36 million today. Vehicle technology is the top selling point for 39% of car buyers—more than twice the 14% who care most about horsepower and handling, according to a survey last year from Accenture.”

Waraniak pointed out that drivers are demanding that their cars keep them constantly connected. The hottest trends that offer SEMA members new opportunities for growth and new challenges are connected and self-driving vehicle technologies as well as powertrain developments to achieve greater fuel efficiency and reduced emissions while still delivering performance. Seventy-nine percent of automotive CEOs surveyed in PricewaterhouseCooper’s annual automotive report believe that advanced vehicle technology will transform their businesses over the next five years.

The SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) is a great example of how members are using the latest business technology to increase sales. The SDC is operating a centralized product data service for manufacturers. It organizes, houses and then distributes online product catalog information to WDs and retailers to drive sales growth.

This year, ETTN is introducing several new initiatives. The aim is for the network to become a “service provider” for the other SEMA councils and networks, helping them through technology issues that affect their memberships. All councils and networks, regardless of their constituencies or the focus of their diverse businesses, can take advantage of opportunities within the challenges of rapidly changing technology.

Keep an eye out for upcoming ETTN technology roundtables. These roundtables will address the most important and urgent challenges facing SEMA-member companies and their employees. These are proposed projects, so please reach out if any of them are attractive to you. And please join the conversation on social media at www.facebook.com/semaettn.

ETTN Networking Event

The ETTN will hold a social/networking event at the New Products Showcase on Thursday, November 5, starting at 4:00 p.m. The Showcase will be located this year on the Skybridge between Central and South Halls of the Las Vegas Convention Center. This event is another in ETTN’s series of gatherings designed to build a community for automotive specialty-equipment engineers and product developers. Food and beverages will be served, and attendees will receive the latest details about the SEMA Garage and its associated emissions lab. Don’t be left out!

SEMA Member News—November/December 2015

ETTN Explores Today and Tomorrow

As reported in the April 2015 issue of SEMA News, CU-ICAR offers SEMA members data analysis for problem solving, including analysis of pre-catalyst and post-cat emissions data and analysis of combustion and calibration for aftermarket performance parts makers seeking CARB certification.

Welcome to the new Emerging Trends and Technology Network (ETTN), an organization where engineers, programmers, designers and those affected by the fast pace of ever-changing automotive technology can come together as a community. The mission of ETTN is to “identify, understand and communicate emerging trends and technologies to help members improve.” There is a real need within SEMA for individuals to understand and be prepared for upcoming changes to the industry, most of which are based on technological advancements.

As SEMA News reported in a recent story, today’s cars, trucks and the auto industry and performance aftermarket as a whole are being reinvented, restructured and re-envisioned. Cars are quickly moving from standalone mechanical products to smart electronic products and connected smart products. Not since the beginning of the industry has there been such disruption in how cars are designed, developed, customized, sold, serviced and owned.

Vehicles are being designed to drive themselves, avoid accidents and connect to their owners’ digital lifestyles. They produce lower emissions, go faster and are safer, smarter and cooler than ever. The disruptive technologies leading the auto industry and aftermarket product revolution are also creating many new and exciting business opportunities and careers in science, technology, engineering and math that did not exist in the industry just six years ago—roughly one or two high-school or college generations.

New talent pipelines, career paths and skill sets are required to fuel technological advances and connect the next generation of drivers and workers to digital tech in their cars. Innovation is the number-one driver for creating a competitive advantage and staying relevant with advancing vehicle technology in areas such as gaming, apps and software development for design, manufacturing, production and marketing.

“SEMA’s roots are in making cars faster and cooler,” said SEMA Vice President of Vehicle Technology John Waraniak. “SEMA companies need to be tracking how their products and the vehicle systems they are integrated with are becoming smarter and more connected. The number of cars connected to the Internet worldwide will grow to more than 52 million by 2020, compared with 36 million today. Vehicle technology is the top selling point for 39% of car buyers—more than twice the 14% who care most about horsepower and handling, according to a survey last year from Accenture.”

Waraniak pointed out that drivers are demanding that their cars keep them constantly connected. The hottest trends that offer SEMA members new opportunities for growth and new challenges are connected and self-driving vehicle technologies as well as powertrain developments to achieve greater fuel efficiency and reduced emissions while still delivering performance. Seventy-nine percent of automotive CEOs surveyed in PricewaterhouseCooper’s annual automotive report believe that advanced vehicle technology will transform their businesses over the next five years.

The SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) is a great example of how members are using the latest business technology to increase sales. The SDC is operating a centralized product data service for manufacturers. It organizes, houses and then distributes online product catalog information to WDs and retailers to drive sales growth.

This year, ETTN is introducing several new initiatives. The aim is for the network to become a “service provider” for the other SEMA councils and networks, helping them through technology issues that affect their memberships. All councils and networks, regardless of their constituencies or the focus of their diverse businesses, can take advantage of opportunities within the challenges of rapidly changing technology.

Keep an eye out for upcoming ETTN technology roundtables. These roundtables will address the most important and urgent challenges facing SEMA-member companies and their employees. These are proposed projects, so please reach out if any of them are attractive to you. And please join the conversation on social media at www.facebook.com/semaettn.

ETTN Networking Event

The ETTN will hold a social/networking event at the New Products Showcase on Thursday, November 5, starting at 4:00 p.m. The Showcase will be located this year on the Skybridge between Central and South Halls of the Las Vegas Convention Center. This event is another in ETTN’s series of gatherings designed to build a community for automotive specialty-equipment engineers and product developers. Food and beverages will be served, and attendees will receive the latest details about the SEMA Garage and its associated emissions lab. Don’t be left out!

SEMA Member News—November/December 2015

ETTN Explores Today and Tomorrow

As reported in the April 2015 issue of SEMA News, CU-ICAR offers SEMA members data analysis for problem solving, including analysis of pre-catalyst and post-cat emissions data and analysis of combustion and calibration for aftermarket performance parts makers seeking CARB certification.

Welcome to the new Emerging Trends and Technology Network (ETTN), an organization where engineers, programmers, designers and those affected by the fast pace of ever-changing automotive technology can come together as a community. The mission of ETTN is to “identify, understand and communicate emerging trends and technologies to help members improve.” There is a real need within SEMA for individuals to understand and be prepared for upcoming changes to the industry, most of which are based on technological advancements.

As SEMA News reported in a recent story, today’s cars, trucks and the auto industry and performance aftermarket as a whole are being reinvented, restructured and re-envisioned. Cars are quickly moving from standalone mechanical products to smart electronic products and connected smart products. Not since the beginning of the industry has there been such disruption in how cars are designed, developed, customized, sold, serviced and owned.

Vehicles are being designed to drive themselves, avoid accidents and connect to their owners’ digital lifestyles. They produce lower emissions, go faster and are safer, smarter and cooler than ever. The disruptive technologies leading the auto industry and aftermarket product revolution are also creating many new and exciting business opportunities and careers in science, technology, engineering and math that did not exist in the industry just six years ago—roughly one or two high-school or college generations.

New talent pipelines, career paths and skill sets are required to fuel technological advances and connect the next generation of drivers and workers to digital tech in their cars. Innovation is the number-one driver for creating a competitive advantage and staying relevant with advancing vehicle technology in areas such as gaming, apps and software development for design, manufacturing, production and marketing.

“SEMA’s roots are in making cars faster and cooler,” said SEMA Vice President of Vehicle Technology John Waraniak. “SEMA companies need to be tracking how their products and the vehicle systems they are integrated with are becoming smarter and more connected. The number of cars connected to the Internet worldwide will grow to more than 52 million by 2020, compared with 36 million today. Vehicle technology is the top selling point for 39% of car buyers—more than twice the 14% who care most about horsepower and handling, according to a survey last year from Accenture.”

Waraniak pointed out that drivers are demanding that their cars keep them constantly connected. The hottest trends that offer SEMA members new opportunities for growth and new challenges are connected and self-driving vehicle technologies as well as powertrain developments to achieve greater fuel efficiency and reduced emissions while still delivering performance. Seventy-nine percent of automotive CEOs surveyed in PricewaterhouseCooper’s annual automotive report believe that advanced vehicle technology will transform their businesses over the next five years.

The SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) is a great example of how members are using the latest business technology to increase sales. The SDC is operating a centralized product data service for manufacturers. It organizes, houses and then distributes online product catalog information to WDs and retailers to drive sales growth.

This year, ETTN is introducing several new initiatives. The aim is for the network to become a “service provider” for the other SEMA councils and networks, helping them through technology issues that affect their memberships. All councils and networks, regardless of their constituencies or the focus of their diverse businesses, can take advantage of opportunities within the challenges of rapidly changing technology.

Keep an eye out for upcoming ETTN technology roundtables. These roundtables will address the most important and urgent challenges facing SEMA-member companies and their employees. These are proposed projects, so please reach out if any of them are attractive to you. And please join the conversation on social media at www.facebook.com/semaettn.

ETTN Networking Event

The ETTN will hold a social/networking event at the New Products Showcase on Thursday, November 5, starting at 4:00 p.m. The Showcase will be located this year on the Skybridge between Central and South Halls of the Las Vegas Convention Center. This event is another in ETTN’s series of gatherings designed to build a community for automotive specialty-equipment engineers and product developers. Food and beverages will be served, and attendees will receive the latest details about the SEMA Garage and its associated emissions lab. Don’t be left out!

SEMA Member News—November/December 2015

WTC and TIA: Partners in Education

The WTC select committee enjoyed its time meeting with the rest of the WTC membership at the council’s annual reception.

A common interest exists between the Tire Industry Association (TIA) and the SEMA Wheel & Tire Council (WTC). That commonality is fully expressed each year in the South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC), when the hall serves as the temporary home to the Global Tire Expo and the Wheels & Accessories section of the SEMA Show. In addition to the resources available on the Show floor, TIA and WTC have collaborated to present a joint educational seminar entitled “Aftermarket Wheels and Tires—Right Sale, Right Fit.” The seminar will be held on Wednesday, November 4, 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m., in LVCC room N252.

Focusing on the importance of how an informed sales and installation team inspires confidence in customers, experts from TIA and WTC will present new and updated resources to support sales-counter staff and installation technicians in making the sale and completing the installation. Attendees will be able to equip their sales staffs with the data-driven knowledge they need to educate customers on the effects of various plus-sizing decisions on vehicle dynamics and provide techs with the resources they need to correctly and quickly install aftermarket wheel-and-tire packages while maintaining TPMS integrity and accuracy.

The speakers will include Wayne Williams of Exsell Marketing, who is the chair-elect of WTC, and Sean MacKinnon, director of automotive training development for TIA.

WTC Resources to Protect Your Trademark, Patent and Copyright

WTC members have a unique opportunity to schedule a free, one-on-one meeting with an intellectual property rights, customs or antitrust attorney on Tuesday and Wednesday of the SEMA Show. Private meetings are available in 20-minute segments to bring your specific questions and concerns to experts in these fields. The topics available for discussion include:

• Counterfeit, unlawful knock-offs and legal imitations
• Applying for a patent or registering trademarks and copyrights
• Strategies for enforcing your rights in the United States and overseas
• New procedures for working with customs and the local ports
• Working with law enforcement to stop criminal activity
• Designing and implementing resale and minimum advertised price programs

Don’t let this chance slip by. To inquire about available appointments, contact Ashley Ailsworth via e-mail at ashleya@sema.org or by phone at 202-783-6007 x19. To make the most of this opportunity, specify your area of interest when you schedule your appointment(s) so that you can be paired with an attorney specializing in that discipline.

Industry Reception

WTC members are invited to the council’s industry reception at the Renaissance Hotel pool on Tuesday, November 3, 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. Mix, mingle, eat and drink with your colleagues from the wheel and tire industry, and recognize the achievements of one very special professional who will be receiving the WTC Hall of Fame award that night.

The SEMA WTC Hall of Fame was originally founded to honor and recognize outstanding industry veterans in the wheel and tire market whose creativity, integrity and accomplishments have enhanced the status of the industry on a national level while significantly contributing to its growth. Last year, two special individuals were honored with the award—Joe Schaefer of Konig American, and David Insull of American Tire Distributors. To view past award recipients, visit www.sema.org/wtc-award-winners. Each of the award winners has been nominated and voted upon by the council members themselves.

WTC members know the value of making connections to launch a career or grow a business, which is why the primary focus of the annual reception is networking. Above all, the reception provides a relaxed atmosphere in which attendees can catch up with old friends, explore new opportunities and strengthen existing partnerships. This is the place to be for individuals in the market, so mark your Show schedule and stop by on Tuesday evening.

SEMA Member News—November/December 2015

WTC and TIA: Partners in Education

The WTC select committee enjoyed its time meeting with the rest of the WTC membership at the council’s annual reception.

A common interest exists between the Tire Industry Association (TIA) and the SEMA Wheel & Tire Council (WTC). That commonality is fully expressed each year in the South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC), when the hall serves as the temporary home to the Global Tire Expo and the Wheels & Accessories section of the SEMA Show. In addition to the resources available on the Show floor, TIA and WTC have collaborated to present a joint educational seminar entitled “Aftermarket Wheels and Tires—Right Sale, Right Fit.” The seminar will be held on Wednesday, November 4, 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m., in LVCC room N252.

Focusing on the importance of how an informed sales and installation team inspires confidence in customers, experts from TIA and WTC will present new and updated resources to support sales-counter staff and installation technicians in making the sale and completing the installation. Attendees will be able to equip their sales staffs with the data-driven knowledge they need to educate customers on the effects of various plus-sizing decisions on vehicle dynamics and provide techs with the resources they need to correctly and quickly install aftermarket wheel-and-tire packages while maintaining TPMS integrity and accuracy.

The speakers will include Wayne Williams of Exsell Marketing, who is the chair-elect of WTC, and Sean MacKinnon, director of automotive training development for TIA.

WTC Resources to Protect Your Trademark, Patent and Copyright

WTC members have a unique opportunity to schedule a free, one-on-one meeting with an intellectual property rights, customs or antitrust attorney on Tuesday and Wednesday of the SEMA Show. Private meetings are available in 20-minute segments to bring your specific questions and concerns to experts in these fields. The topics available for discussion include:

• Counterfeit, unlawful knock-offs and legal imitations
• Applying for a patent or registering trademarks and copyrights
• Strategies for enforcing your rights in the United States and overseas
• New procedures for working with customs and the local ports
• Working with law enforcement to stop criminal activity
• Designing and implementing resale and minimum advertised price programs

Don’t let this chance slip by. To inquire about available appointments, contact Ashley Ailsworth via e-mail at ashleya@sema.org or by phone at 202-783-6007 x19. To make the most of this opportunity, specify your area of interest when you schedule your appointment(s) so that you can be paired with an attorney specializing in that discipline.

Industry Reception

WTC members are invited to the council’s industry reception at the Renaissance Hotel pool on Tuesday, November 3, 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. Mix, mingle, eat and drink with your colleagues from the wheel and tire industry, and recognize the achievements of one very special professional who will be receiving the WTC Hall of Fame award that night.

The SEMA WTC Hall of Fame was originally founded to honor and recognize outstanding industry veterans in the wheel and tire market whose creativity, integrity and accomplishments have enhanced the status of the industry on a national level while significantly contributing to its growth. Last year, two special individuals were honored with the award—Joe Schaefer of Konig American, and David Insull of American Tire Distributors. To view past award recipients, visit www.sema.org/wtc-award-winners. Each of the award winners has been nominated and voted upon by the council members themselves.

WTC members know the value of making connections to launch a career or grow a business, which is why the primary focus of the annual reception is networking. Above all, the reception provides a relaxed atmosphere in which attendees can catch up with old friends, explore new opportunities and strengthen existing partnerships. This is the place to be for individuals in the market, so mark your Show schedule and stop by on Tuesday evening.

SEMA Member News—November/December 2015

WTC and TIA: Partners in Education

The WTC select committee enjoyed its time meeting with the rest of the WTC membership at the council’s annual reception.

A common interest exists between the Tire Industry Association (TIA) and the SEMA Wheel & Tire Council (WTC). That commonality is fully expressed each year in the South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC), when the hall serves as the temporary home to the Global Tire Expo and the Wheels & Accessories section of the SEMA Show. In addition to the resources available on the Show floor, TIA and WTC have collaborated to present a joint educational seminar entitled “Aftermarket Wheels and Tires—Right Sale, Right Fit.” The seminar will be held on Wednesday, November 4, 10:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m., in LVCC room N252.

Focusing on the importance of how an informed sales and installation team inspires confidence in customers, experts from TIA and WTC will present new and updated resources to support sales-counter staff and installation technicians in making the sale and completing the installation. Attendees will be able to equip their sales staffs with the data-driven knowledge they need to educate customers on the effects of various plus-sizing decisions on vehicle dynamics and provide techs with the resources they need to correctly and quickly install aftermarket wheel-and-tire packages while maintaining TPMS integrity and accuracy.

The speakers will include Wayne Williams of Exsell Marketing, who is the chair-elect of WTC, and Sean MacKinnon, director of automotive training development for TIA.

WTC Resources to Protect Your Trademark, Patent and Copyright

WTC members have a unique opportunity to schedule a free, one-on-one meeting with an intellectual property rights, customs or antitrust attorney on Tuesday and Wednesday of the SEMA Show. Private meetings are available in 20-minute segments to bring your specific questions and concerns to experts in these fields. The topics available for discussion include:

• Counterfeit, unlawful knock-offs and legal imitations
• Applying for a patent or registering trademarks and copyrights
• Strategies for enforcing your rights in the United States and overseas
• New procedures for working with customs and the local ports
• Working with law enforcement to stop criminal activity
• Designing and implementing resale and minimum advertised price programs

Don’t let this chance slip by. To inquire about available appointments, contact Ashley Ailsworth via e-mail at ashleya@sema.org or by phone at 202-783-6007 x19. To make the most of this opportunity, specify your area of interest when you schedule your appointment(s) so that you can be paired with an attorney specializing in that discipline.

Industry Reception

WTC members are invited to the council’s industry reception at the Renaissance Hotel pool on Tuesday, November 3, 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m. Mix, mingle, eat and drink with your colleagues from the wheel and tire industry, and recognize the achievements of one very special professional who will be receiving the WTC Hall of Fame award that night.

The SEMA WTC Hall of Fame was originally founded to honor and recognize outstanding industry veterans in the wheel and tire market whose creativity, integrity and accomplishments have enhanced the status of the industry on a national level while significantly contributing to its growth. Last year, two special individuals were honored with the award—Joe Schaefer of Konig American, and David Insull of American Tire Distributors. To view past award recipients, visit www.sema.org/wtc-award-winners. Each of the award winners has been nominated and voted upon by the council members themselves.

WTC members know the value of making connections to launch a career or grow a business, which is why the primary focus of the annual reception is networking. Above all, the reception provides a relaxed atmosphere in which attendees can catch up with old friends, explore new opportunities and strengthen existing partnerships. This is the place to be for individuals in the market, so mark your Show schedule and stop by on Tuesday evening.