SEMA Member News—September/October 2015

MPMC Open Meeting at the SEMA Garage

The MPMC select committee holds regular meetings to seek solutions to emerging industry challenges.

On May 28, 2015, the MPMC hosted its open general membership meeting at the SEMA Garage. The half-day event provided a venue for local members and the select committee to connect face-to-face about SEMA’s Board initiatives and the hot-button issues faced by motorsports parts manufacturers. Members gathered for breakfast and an introduction by MPMC Chair Rich Barsamian, who gave local members a fantastic primer on how to get involved in the MPMC and stressed the potential of the member connection to SEMA.

Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO, was present to review SEMA’s board initiatives. Kersting highlighted the push for next-generation involvement, the Board’s efforts to be abreast of trends in technology, consumer awareness and the effort to do more outside of the industry to promote growth. Attending members had an exclusive opportunity to then have an open question-and-answer session with Kersting, which was valuable for SEMA staff, the general membership attendees and the select committee.

The next event on the agenda was a Garage tour with Mike Spagnola, SEMA vice president of OEM and product development. Spagnola gave a comprehensive overview of the Garage and all its current efforts to be an open resource to all members. Attendees toured the photo coves, the installation center and the emissions lab, and they saw the 3D printing tools provided by the Garage. Compliance Center Manager Peter Treydte followed up with an introduction on the state of emissions in the industry and how the SEMA Garage is making an effort to make the emissions-testing process less painful and more efficient than ever before.

After the tour, Barsamian and Chair-Elect Chris Douglas gave the attendees an overview of MPMC activities and projects, including council events at the SEMA Show and the importance of continued outreach to prospective members. Barsamian and Douglas thanked everyone for their volunteerism and closed their discussion by noting how active participation makes the council, SEMA and the motorsports manufacturing industry operate at their absolute best.

Data was a notably hot topic over the course of the morning, coming up in nearly every agenda topic. Gavin Knapp, SEMA’s senior manager of market research, was present to give a presentation on the market research department and extended himself to the membership as the point person for all data and market research concerns. Allen Horwitz of the SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) presented the data issues facing manufacturers and discussed how the SDC is available to help member companies standardize their data process to expand their impact in the industry and increase sales.

The open general membership meeting closed after lunch that afternoon, and all the members who participated left with insights on SEMA and the efforts of the MPMC. The event gave attending members a firsthand look at what it means to be a council member and the opportunity to have their concerns addressed, ideas heard and the chance to network with other member companies and the industry leaders on the select committee.

For more information on the next MPMC general membership meeting, please visit www.SEMA.org/mpmc, and stay tuned for more opportunities to connect.

Introducing Three New Leaders

SEMA Member News had the opportunity to reach out to new MPMC members to hear their insight on what it means to be a part of the MPMC. Here are some excerpts from their interviews, which give their perspectives on council membership.

SEMA Member News: What advice do you have for members who want to get more involved?

Ben Knaus, Hellwig Products: The biggest piece of advice is just to talk to other people who are involved. Everyone I have met in MPMC has always been more than helpful with advice and knowledge. I realized by jumping into conversations and asking questions that you learn a ton that can help you and your company.

SMN: Why do you feel that it’s important to serve on the select committee?

Sean Crawford, Performance Motorsports International: Motorsports parts manufacturers face regular challenges with sanctioning-body rules, government regulations and an always-changing business landscape. It’s important that those of us who are involved and passionate about this industry coordinate our efforts to keep the motorsports industry moving in a positive direction.

SMN: What is most exciting to you about MPMC?

Ed “Blake” Burgy, Flaming River: There are two key things that I truly enjoy about serving on a council: the great networking opportunities and the feeling that you are giving back to the industry as a whole and contributing to something greater than yourself or even your company.

SEMA Member News—September/October 2015

MPMC Open Meeting at the SEMA Garage

The MPMC select committee holds regular meetings to seek solutions to emerging industry challenges.

On May 28, 2015, the MPMC hosted its open general membership meeting at the SEMA Garage. The half-day event provided a venue for local members and the select committee to connect face-to-face about SEMA’s Board initiatives and the hot-button issues faced by motorsports parts manufacturers. Members gathered for breakfast and an introduction by MPMC Chair Rich Barsamian, who gave local members a fantastic primer on how to get involved in the MPMC and stressed the potential of the member connection to SEMA.

Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO, was present to review SEMA’s board initiatives. Kersting highlighted the push for next-generation involvement, the Board’s efforts to be abreast of trends in technology, consumer awareness and the effort to do more outside of the industry to promote growth. Attending members had an exclusive opportunity to then have an open question-and-answer session with Kersting, which was valuable for SEMA staff, the general membership attendees and the select committee.

The next event on the agenda was a Garage tour with Mike Spagnola, SEMA vice president of OEM and product development. Spagnola gave a comprehensive overview of the Garage and all its current efforts to be an open resource to all members. Attendees toured the photo coves, the installation center and the emissions lab, and they saw the 3D printing tools provided by the Garage. Compliance Center Manager Peter Treydte followed up with an introduction on the state of emissions in the industry and how the SEMA Garage is making an effort to make the emissions-testing process less painful and more efficient than ever before.

After the tour, Barsamian and Chair-Elect Chris Douglas gave the attendees an overview of MPMC activities and projects, including council events at the SEMA Show and the importance of continued outreach to prospective members. Barsamian and Douglas thanked everyone for their volunteerism and closed their discussion by noting how active participation makes the council, SEMA and the motorsports manufacturing industry operate at their absolute best.

Data was a notably hot topic over the course of the morning, coming up in nearly every agenda topic. Gavin Knapp, SEMA’s senior manager of market research, was present to give a presentation on the market research department and extended himself to the membership as the point person for all data and market research concerns. Allen Horwitz of the SEMA Data Co-op (SDC) presented the data issues facing manufacturers and discussed how the SDC is available to help member companies standardize their data process to expand their impact in the industry and increase sales.

The open general membership meeting closed after lunch that afternoon, and all the members who participated left with insights on SEMA and the efforts of the MPMC. The event gave attending members a firsthand look at what it means to be a council member and the opportunity to have their concerns addressed, ideas heard and the chance to network with other member companies and the industry leaders on the select committee.

For more information on the next MPMC general membership meeting, please visit www.SEMA.org/mpmc, and stay tuned for more opportunities to connect.

Introducing Three New Leaders

SEMA Member News had the opportunity to reach out to new MPMC members to hear their insight on what it means to be a part of the MPMC. Here are some excerpts from their interviews, which give their perspectives on council membership.

SEMA Member News: What advice do you have for members who want to get more involved?

Ben Knaus, Hellwig Products: The biggest piece of advice is just to talk to other people who are involved. Everyone I have met in MPMC has always been more than helpful with advice and knowledge. I realized by jumping into conversations and asking questions that you learn a ton that can help you and your company.

SMN: Why do you feel that it’s important to serve on the select committee?

Sean Crawford, Performance Motorsports International: Motorsports parts manufacturers face regular challenges with sanctioning-body rules, government regulations and an always-changing business landscape. It’s important that those of us who are involved and passionate about this industry coordinate our efforts to keep the motorsports industry moving in a positive direction.

SMN: What is most exciting to you about MPMC?

Ed “Blake” Burgy, Flaming River: There are two key things that I truly enjoy about serving on a council: the great networking opportunities and the feeling that you are giving back to the industry as a whole and contributing to something greater than yourself or even your company.

SEMA Member News—September/October 2015

SEMA Middle East Program Expands Horizons for TORA Members

TORA select committee member Brant Combs (right) speaks with a buyer at Custom Show Emirates.

This past spring, 41 SEMA-member companies participated in SEMA’s four-day Middle East program in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE). The program featured an all-day measuring session with commonly customized vehicles not sold in the United States as well as a chance for participants to exhibit at the trade-only section of the Custom Show Emirates, network with international buyers and explore local shops. Among the participants were several active Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) members, who shared a few of their takeaways from the experience.

SEMA Member News: How did this program help you expand your global network?

Kathryn Reinhardt, MagnaFlow: This trip can open new doors to distributors you never knew existed. It can give you firsthand visibility of the consumer market and see the vehicles in action. It can also give you the confidence you need to export into a part of the world that you may not have thought you could reach.

Troy Wirtz, Dee Zee Inc: This was Dee Zee’s third year of participation. I’m confident that the shows and efforts from the SEMA staff are why Dee Zee is experiencing the success it is in the Middle East. Each year has brought on new prospects, but I’m particularly happy with how our existing relationships have grown. When you are partnering with someone on the other side of the world, trust has to be established for both parties. Global expansion is important to Dee Zee, and SEMA is a great organization to help meet these efforts!

SMN: What’s your take on the truck and off-road market in this region?

Brant Combs, ATC Truck Covers: We discovered that there is a significant American truck market for the 4x4 and off-road segment, and a couple of our products would work well there. The SEMA Middle East Conference set up introductions to the best buyers in the area for those products.

SMN: Were there any cultural challenges for doing business in the Middle East?

Brandon Seadorf, Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge/Allow USA: This was my first trip to the Middle East, and it was interesting how easy it was to work with customers and prospects there. The people are extremely nice and welcoming. The cities were safe, and it seems that the consumers and businesses embrace American products. Almost everyone I communicated with spoke great English, so there were no communication barriers at all.

Melanie White, Hellwig Products: There were a few social norms I had to change. I typically reach out to shake a hand, and there was once where a gentleman held his hand back and I caught the cue before I held out my hand. Other than that, it really was like doing business in the United States as a woman. If you have the answers to their questions or can take care of their business needs, being male or female isn’t an issue.

SMN: What do you think is a key for success in the Middle Eastern market?

Ruby Stratz, Keystone Automotive Operations: Based on my experience, the relationship with our customers is the key to success in this region. The Middle East is a fast-moving market with great opportunity for our industry.

SMN: What was the most beneficial part of your experience?

Erika Garcia, Bolt Locks: The SEMA team did a great job of organizing a schedule that allowed us to learn more about the Middle East market. The jobber visits were my favorite part. They helped us understand how there are a lot of businesses that are hungry for finding the latest technologies and high-quality, American-made products. The measuring session was also very important for us, as we can expand our product offering to include vehicles that are not offered in America.

Robert Park, Rigid Industries: Participating in SEMA’s international shows allows us to meet a lot of the local distributors and dealers all in one place. It helps us ensure we are aligning ourselves with the
right partners.

SMN: Would you recommend this program to other members?

Brad Otoupalik, K&N Engineering: The SEMA Middle East trip and show in Abu Dhabi exceeded my expectations once again. Linda Spencer and SEMA have created a really unique vehicle to help U.S. companies, regardless if they are new to the market or are experienced. For those that are not taking advantage of the unique opportunity provided—you are being passed by competitors who are!

Next year’s Middle East trip will take place March 29–April 2, 2016. Registration for manufacturers will open in November 2015. For more information, visit www.sema.org/middleeast.

SEMA Member News—September/October 2015

SEMA Middle East Program Expands Horizons for TORA Members

TORA select committee member Brant Combs (right) speaks with a buyer at Custom Show Emirates.

This past spring, 41 SEMA-member companies participated in SEMA’s four-day Middle East program in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE). The program featured an all-day measuring session with commonly customized vehicles not sold in the United States as well as a chance for participants to exhibit at the trade-only section of the Custom Show Emirates, network with international buyers and explore local shops. Among the participants were several active Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) members, who shared a few of their takeaways from the experience.

SEMA Member News: How did this program help you expand your global network?

Kathryn Reinhardt, MagnaFlow: This trip can open new doors to distributors you never knew existed. It can give you firsthand visibility of the consumer market and see the vehicles in action. It can also give you the confidence you need to export into a part of the world that you may not have thought you could reach.

Troy Wirtz, Dee Zee Inc: This was Dee Zee’s third year of participation. I’m confident that the shows and efforts from the SEMA staff are why Dee Zee is experiencing the success it is in the Middle East. Each year has brought on new prospects, but I’m particularly happy with how our existing relationships have grown. When you are partnering with someone on the other side of the world, trust has to be established for both parties. Global expansion is important to Dee Zee, and SEMA is a great organization to help meet these efforts!

SMN: What’s your take on the truck and off-road market in this region?

Brant Combs, ATC Truck Covers: We discovered that there is a significant American truck market for the 4x4 and off-road segment, and a couple of our products would work well there. The SEMA Middle East Conference set up introductions to the best buyers in the area for those products.

SMN: Were there any cultural challenges for doing business in the Middle East?

Brandon Seadorf, Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge/Allow USA: This was my first trip to the Middle East, and it was interesting how easy it was to work with customers and prospects there. The people are extremely nice and welcoming. The cities were safe, and it seems that the consumers and businesses embrace American products. Almost everyone I communicated with spoke great English, so there were no communication barriers at all.

Melanie White, Hellwig Products: There were a few social norms I had to change. I typically reach out to shake a hand, and there was once where a gentleman held his hand back and I caught the cue before I held out my hand. Other than that, it really was like doing business in the United States as a woman. If you have the answers to their questions or can take care of their business needs, being male or female isn’t an issue.

SMN: What do you think is a key for success in the Middle Eastern market?

Ruby Stratz, Keystone Automotive Operations: Based on my experience, the relationship with our customers is the key to success in this region. The Middle East is a fast-moving market with great opportunity for our industry.

SMN: What was the most beneficial part of your experience?

Erika Garcia, Bolt Locks: The SEMA team did a great job of organizing a schedule that allowed us to learn more about the Middle East market. The jobber visits were my favorite part. They helped us understand how there are a lot of businesses that are hungry for finding the latest technologies and high-quality, American-made products. The measuring session was also very important for us, as we can expand our product offering to include vehicles that are not offered in America.

Robert Park, Rigid Industries: Participating in SEMA’s international shows allows us to meet a lot of the local distributors and dealers all in one place. It helps us ensure we are aligning ourselves with the
right partners.

SMN: Would you recommend this program to other members?

Brad Otoupalik, K&N Engineering: The SEMA Middle East trip and show in Abu Dhabi exceeded my expectations once again. Linda Spencer and SEMA have created a really unique vehicle to help U.S. companies, regardless if they are new to the market or are experienced. For those that are not taking advantage of the unique opportunity provided—you are being passed by competitors who are!

Next year’s Middle East trip will take place March 29–April 2, 2016. Registration for manufacturers will open in November 2015. For more information, visit www.sema.org/middleeast.

SEMA Member News—September/October 2015

SEMA Middle East Program Expands Horizons for TORA Members

TORA select committee member Brant Combs (right) speaks with a buyer at Custom Show Emirates.

This past spring, 41 SEMA-member companies participated in SEMA’s four-day Middle East program in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE). The program featured an all-day measuring session with commonly customized vehicles not sold in the United States as well as a chance for participants to exhibit at the trade-only section of the Custom Show Emirates, network with international buyers and explore local shops. Among the participants were several active Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) members, who shared a few of their takeaways from the experience.

SEMA Member News: How did this program help you expand your global network?

Kathryn Reinhardt, MagnaFlow: This trip can open new doors to distributors you never knew existed. It can give you firsthand visibility of the consumer market and see the vehicles in action. It can also give you the confidence you need to export into a part of the world that you may not have thought you could reach.

Troy Wirtz, Dee Zee Inc: This was Dee Zee’s third year of participation. I’m confident that the shows and efforts from the SEMA staff are why Dee Zee is experiencing the success it is in the Middle East. Each year has brought on new prospects, but I’m particularly happy with how our existing relationships have grown. When you are partnering with someone on the other side of the world, trust has to be established for both parties. Global expansion is important to Dee Zee, and SEMA is a great organization to help meet these efforts!

SMN: What’s your take on the truck and off-road market in this region?

Brant Combs, ATC Truck Covers: We discovered that there is a significant American truck market for the 4x4 and off-road segment, and a couple of our products would work well there. The SEMA Middle East Conference set up introductions to the best buyers in the area for those products.

SMN: Were there any cultural challenges for doing business in the Middle East?

Brandon Seadorf, Omix-ADA/Rugged Ridge/Allow USA: This was my first trip to the Middle East, and it was interesting how easy it was to work with customers and prospects there. The people are extremely nice and welcoming. The cities were safe, and it seems that the consumers and businesses embrace American products. Almost everyone I communicated with spoke great English, so there were no communication barriers at all.

Melanie White, Hellwig Products: There were a few social norms I had to change. I typically reach out to shake a hand, and there was once where a gentleman held his hand back and I caught the cue before I held out my hand. Other than that, it really was like doing business in the United States as a woman. If you have the answers to their questions or can take care of their business needs, being male or female isn’t an issue.

SMN: What do you think is a key for success in the Middle Eastern market?

Ruby Stratz, Keystone Automotive Operations: Based on my experience, the relationship with our customers is the key to success in this region. The Middle East is a fast-moving market with great opportunity for our industry.

SMN: What was the most beneficial part of your experience?

Erika Garcia, Bolt Locks: The SEMA team did a great job of organizing a schedule that allowed us to learn more about the Middle East market. The jobber visits were my favorite part. They helped us understand how there are a lot of businesses that are hungry for finding the latest technologies and high-quality, American-made products. The measuring session was also very important for us, as we can expand our product offering to include vehicles that are not offered in America.

Robert Park, Rigid Industries: Participating in SEMA’s international shows allows us to meet a lot of the local distributors and dealers all in one place. It helps us ensure we are aligning ourselves with the
right partners.

SMN: Would you recommend this program to other members?

Brad Otoupalik, K&N Engineering: The SEMA Middle East trip and show in Abu Dhabi exceeded my expectations once again. Linda Spencer and SEMA have created a really unique vehicle to help U.S. companies, regardless if they are new to the market or are experienced. For those that are not taking advantage of the unique opportunity provided—you are being passed by competitors who are!

Next year’s Middle East trip will take place March 29–April 2, 2016. Registration for manufacturers will open in November 2015. For more information, visit www.sema.org/middleeast.

SEMA Member News—September/October 2015

HRIA Cruises Through Summer

Carmen Bélanger-Martin is the president of AM Hot Rod Glass.

This summer was a busy one for the Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA), with the usual council events plus a few changes.

The new select committee terms began on July 1. In this year’s election, HRIA welcomed back four incumbents: Scott Bowers (Ron Francis Wiring), B.J. Elmore (Ridetech), Jeff Major (Bed Wood and Parts) and Angela Schoof (TEN: The Enthusiast Network). In addition to these veteran HRIA leaders, Carmen Bélanger-Martin of AM Hot Rod Glass joined the team. Before jumping into her first meeting, Bélanger-Martin took a few minutes to catch up with SEMA Member News.

SEMA Member News: Tell us something about your industry experience.

Carmen Bélanger-Martin: In 2006, I started Aero Marine in a 5,800-sq.-ft. building with one customer, Skater Powerboats. I focused on building optically clear, 3/4-in. acrylic windshields with a vision of drivers being able to visually navigate the waters at 150 mph or greater. In 2007, I was approached to build custom-car windshields and roof panels by Ryan Friedlinghaus, Galpin and John Fraizer of FXperts as well as Sony/Paramount and Disney studios for TV and motion pictures. As Aero Marine grew, I launched AM Hot Rod Glass—windshields for hot rods, Bonneville land-speed cars, automotive prototyping and weight reduction.

I am a fabricator. My hands still touch/build every product we produce. I am strong and persistent, with a progressive perspective on the automotive industry that’s respected by my clients. After nine years of dedicated work, my goal to become the first female acrylic/polycarbonate Department of Transportation glazer in the United States was becoming a real possibility.

SMN: Why do you feel it’s important to serve on the select committee?

CBM: I want to bring a different perspective to the committee and communicate with my HRIA peers and committee members, to become a voice for them and advocate for developing issues that are related to our manufacturing processes.

SMN: What advice do you have for members who want to get more involved in the group?

CBM: Do it! Do it! Take the chance and figure out how to make it work within your already-filled schedule. This is very necessary and important to your growth within the industry. I see more and more of my client builders taking a serious look at the HRIA and wanting to become more active within the association.

HRIA Open General Membership Meetings

The annual HRIA open general membership meeting at the Goodguys PPG Nationals in Columbus, Ohio, took place on July 9 and gave attendees a chance to connect with each other, meet the council leadership and learn more about industry developments. Members who attended got a first look at the council’s newly released annual report and offered feedback about their own challenges and opportunities, which gave the council leadership some direction for future discussions and initiatives.

This July 24 featured SEMA’s yearly Installation Gala, when the new Board of Directors members formally took their positions and the HRIA Pinewood Builders Challenge cars made their debut. Members look forward to this event each year for the networking opportunities and the pinewood drag races that benefit SEMA Cares charities. The event was held at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles.

The annual HRIA Pinewood Builders Challenge showcases the skills of nationally known hot-rod builders and also raises money for SEMA Cares charities benefiting Child Help and Victory Junction facilities. Invited participants build small-scale pinewood cars to be raced at the annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Races. Hot-rod builders, being who they are, are not your typical pinewood racers. Perhaps it’s the knowledge that the auction proceeds go toward helping children, or perhaps they just want to build the best car they can, regardless of the scale. Whatever their motivation, the HRIA Pinewood Builders Challenge seems to bring out their best. This year, upward of 20 builders competed.

While the pinewood cars were displayed at the Installation Gala, the actual race took place for the first time at the NSRA Street Rod Nationals in Louisville, Kentucky, during the first week of August. The next stop for the vehicles will be the SEMA Show, where they will be showcased in the HRIA booth in Hot Rod Alley and will then be auctioned off for charity at the HRIA industry awards reception on Wednesday, November 4.

The next chance for HRIA members to connect will be at the SEMA Show. Details about the booth location and reception will be available soon. Don’t miss these community-building opportunities. For more information, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.

SEMA Member News—September/October 2015

HRIA Cruises Through Summer

Carmen Bélanger-Martin is the president of AM Hot Rod Glass.

This summer was a busy one for the Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA), with the usual council events plus a few changes.

The new select committee terms began on July 1. In this year’s election, HRIA welcomed back four incumbents: Scott Bowers (Ron Francis Wiring), B.J. Elmore (Ridetech), Jeff Major (Bed Wood and Parts) and Angela Schoof (TEN: The Enthusiast Network). In addition to these veteran HRIA leaders, Carmen Bélanger-Martin of AM Hot Rod Glass joined the team. Before jumping into her first meeting, Bélanger-Martin took a few minutes to catch up with SEMA Member News.

SEMA Member News: Tell us something about your industry experience.

Carmen Bélanger-Martin: In 2006, I started Aero Marine in a 5,800-sq.-ft. building with one customer, Skater Powerboats. I focused on building optically clear, 3/4-in. acrylic windshields with a vision of drivers being able to visually navigate the waters at 150 mph or greater. In 2007, I was approached to build custom-car windshields and roof panels by Ryan Friedlinghaus, Galpin and John Fraizer of FXperts as well as Sony/Paramount and Disney studios for TV and motion pictures. As Aero Marine grew, I launched AM Hot Rod Glass—windshields for hot rods, Bonneville land-speed cars, automotive prototyping and weight reduction.

I am a fabricator. My hands still touch/build every product we produce. I am strong and persistent, with a progressive perspective on the automotive industry that’s respected by my clients. After nine years of dedicated work, my goal to become the first female acrylic/polycarbonate Department of Transportation glazer in the United States was becoming a real possibility.

SMN: Why do you feel it’s important to serve on the select committee?

CBM: I want to bring a different perspective to the committee and communicate with my HRIA peers and committee members, to become a voice for them and advocate for developing issues that are related to our manufacturing processes.

SMN: What advice do you have for members who want to get more involved in the group?

CBM: Do it! Do it! Take the chance and figure out how to make it work within your already-filled schedule. This is very necessary and important to your growth within the industry. I see more and more of my client builders taking a serious look at the HRIA and wanting to become more active within the association.

HRIA Open General Membership Meetings

The annual HRIA open general membership meeting at the Goodguys PPG Nationals in Columbus, Ohio, took place on July 9 and gave attendees a chance to connect with each other, meet the council leadership and learn more about industry developments. Members who attended got a first look at the council’s newly released annual report and offered feedback about their own challenges and opportunities, which gave the council leadership some direction for future discussions and initiatives.

This July 24 featured SEMA’s yearly Installation Gala, when the new Board of Directors members formally took their positions and the HRIA Pinewood Builders Challenge cars made their debut. Members look forward to this event each year for the networking opportunities and the pinewood drag races that benefit SEMA Cares charities. The event was held at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles.

The annual HRIA Pinewood Builders Challenge showcases the skills of nationally known hot-rod builders and also raises money for SEMA Cares charities benefiting Child Help and Victory Junction facilities. Invited participants build small-scale pinewood cars to be raced at the annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Races. Hot-rod builders, being who they are, are not your typical pinewood racers. Perhaps it’s the knowledge that the auction proceeds go toward helping children, or perhaps they just want to build the best car they can, regardless of the scale. Whatever their motivation, the HRIA Pinewood Builders Challenge seems to bring out their best. This year, upward of 20 builders competed.

While the pinewood cars were displayed at the Installation Gala, the actual race took place for the first time at the NSRA Street Rod Nationals in Louisville, Kentucky, during the first week of August. The next stop for the vehicles will be the SEMA Show, where they will be showcased in the HRIA booth in Hot Rod Alley and will then be auctioned off for charity at the HRIA industry awards reception on Wednesday, November 4.

The next chance for HRIA members to connect will be at the SEMA Show. Details about the booth location and reception will be available soon. Don’t miss these community-building opportunities. For more information, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.

SEMA Member News—September/October 2015

HRIA Cruises Through Summer

Carmen Bélanger-Martin is the president of AM Hot Rod Glass.

This summer was a busy one for the Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA), with the usual council events plus a few changes.

The new select committee terms began on July 1. In this year’s election, HRIA welcomed back four incumbents: Scott Bowers (Ron Francis Wiring), B.J. Elmore (Ridetech), Jeff Major (Bed Wood and Parts) and Angela Schoof (TEN: The Enthusiast Network). In addition to these veteran HRIA leaders, Carmen Bélanger-Martin of AM Hot Rod Glass joined the team. Before jumping into her first meeting, Bélanger-Martin took a few minutes to catch up with SEMA Member News.

SEMA Member News: Tell us something about your industry experience.

Carmen Bélanger-Martin: In 2006, I started Aero Marine in a 5,800-sq.-ft. building with one customer, Skater Powerboats. I focused on building optically clear, 3/4-in. acrylic windshields with a vision of drivers being able to visually navigate the waters at 150 mph or greater. In 2007, I was approached to build custom-car windshields and roof panels by Ryan Friedlinghaus, Galpin and John Fraizer of FXperts as well as Sony/Paramount and Disney studios for TV and motion pictures. As Aero Marine grew, I launched AM Hot Rod Glass—windshields for hot rods, Bonneville land-speed cars, automotive prototyping and weight reduction.

I am a fabricator. My hands still touch/build every product we produce. I am strong and persistent, with a progressive perspective on the automotive industry that’s respected by my clients. After nine years of dedicated work, my goal to become the first female acrylic/polycarbonate Department of Transportation glazer in the United States was becoming a real possibility.

SMN: Why do you feel it’s important to serve on the select committee?

CBM: I want to bring a different perspective to the committee and communicate with my HRIA peers and committee members, to become a voice for them and advocate for developing issues that are related to our manufacturing processes.

SMN: What advice do you have for members who want to get more involved in the group?

CBM: Do it! Do it! Take the chance and figure out how to make it work within your already-filled schedule. This is very necessary and important to your growth within the industry. I see more and more of my client builders taking a serious look at the HRIA and wanting to become more active within the association.

HRIA Open General Membership Meetings

The annual HRIA open general membership meeting at the Goodguys PPG Nationals in Columbus, Ohio, took place on July 9 and gave attendees a chance to connect with each other, meet the council leadership and learn more about industry developments. Members who attended got a first look at the council’s newly released annual report and offered feedback about their own challenges and opportunities, which gave the council leadership some direction for future discussions and initiatives.

This July 24 featured SEMA’s yearly Installation Gala, when the new Board of Directors members formally took their positions and the HRIA Pinewood Builders Challenge cars made their debut. Members look forward to this event each year for the networking opportunities and the pinewood drag races that benefit SEMA Cares charities. The event was held at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel in Los Angeles.

The annual HRIA Pinewood Builders Challenge showcases the skills of nationally known hot-rod builders and also raises money for SEMA Cares charities benefiting Child Help and Victory Junction facilities. Invited participants build small-scale pinewood cars to be raced at the annual SEMA Pinewood Drag Races. Hot-rod builders, being who they are, are not your typical pinewood racers. Perhaps it’s the knowledge that the auction proceeds go toward helping children, or perhaps they just want to build the best car they can, regardless of the scale. Whatever their motivation, the HRIA Pinewood Builders Challenge seems to bring out their best. This year, upward of 20 builders competed.

While the pinewood cars were displayed at the Installation Gala, the actual race took place for the first time at the NSRA Street Rod Nationals in Louisville, Kentucky, during the first week of August. The next stop for the vehicles will be the SEMA Show, where they will be showcased in the HRIA booth in Hot Rod Alley and will then be auctioned off for charity at the HRIA industry awards reception on Wednesday, November 4.

The next chance for HRIA members to connect will be at the SEMA Show. Details about the booth location and reception will be available soon. Don’t miss these community-building opportunities. For more information, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org.

SEMA Member News—September/October 2015

SEMA Town Hall Meetings

Bring Your Voice and Build Your Future

SEMA member Jonathan Mill of Keyway Innovations asks a question at the SEMA Garage Town Hall meeting.

SEMA held two successful Town Hall meetings in 2015, giving members and prospective members a chance to catch up with each other and the state of the association. The first SEMA Town Hall was held in 2011, in an effort to keep an ear to the ground for feedback and challenges in the industry. Since then, the association has held 14 of these meetings at various locations around the country, finding it an effective way to listen and respond face-to-face.

Association staff typically works hand-in-hand with key leaders from member companies to bring relevant and engaging events to attendees. These meetings are informal, each having unique discussion topics but with a few common threads: discussing the current state of the industry, gathering feedback from members and providing quality regional networking opportunities. They are open to all members as well as individuals in the automotive aftermarket who haven’t joined but want to learn more.

The first Town Hall of the year was held on January 23 at the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California. More than 110 SEMA members joined local business leaders, the SEMA Board of Directors and staff for the evening. In addition to networking and strengthening business relationships, attendees also toured the SEMA Garage—Industry Innovations Center and learned how to get the most from the product-development and marketing tools at their disposal.

An engaging discussion followed tours of the Garage. Topics of conversation centered on next-gen initiatives, connecting through council and network groups, SEMA’s partnership with Clemson University’s International Center for Automotive Research and legislative resources available to members.

Panelists Doug Evans (Luken Communications LLC), Tim Martin (K&N Engineering Inc.) and Nate Shelton (Driven Performance Brands) shared information about SEMA involvement from a Board of Directors perspective. The panelists familiarized the group with the association’s youth engagement efforts, including supporting shop classes in high schools and collaborating with the Alex Xydias Center for Automotive Arts in Pomona, California. They also shared that the Hot Rodders of Tomorrow engine-building contest has been incorporated into both the SEMA and PRI Shows, giving talented students many opportunities to interact with industry veterans.

The evening included a special viewing of the trailer for the SEMA Ignited Battle of the Builders special, which first aired on the Velocity Network on March 8.

A second Town Hall also served as the association’s 2015 general membership meeting. For this event, SEMA partnered with Turn 14 Distribution Inc. in Montgomeryville, Pennsylvania, where the meeting was held on June 4. More than 100 individuals attended. For the first time, SEMA team members sat on the panel alongside Chairman of the Board Nate Shelton. Young Executives Network members and past Launch Pad winners Ian Lehn (Boostane) and Jonathan Mill (Keyway Innovations) moderated while Shelton, Chris Kersting (SEMA president and CEO), Mike Spagnola (SEMA vice president, OEM and product development) and Steve McDonald (SEMA vice president, government affairs) answered questions about the SEMA Data Co-op, consumer awareness, the SEMA Garage and other hot topics. Attendees were among the first to receive the news of Congress’s introduction of a bill allowing limited production of turnkey replica cars. U.S. Representative Brendan Boyle (PA-13) was also in attendance to give his constituents insight on industry issues from his perspective on Capitol Hill.

“Hosting the SEMA Town Hall was certainly one of the best events we’ve been involved with,” reflected Daryl Sampson, director of marketing at Turn 14 Distribution. “As a warehouse distributor (WD), having the event at our facility allowed us to network with a cross section of industry people that we normally wouldn’t have the opportunity to. They included customers, retailers, other WDs and manufacturers. The SEMA Town Hall is an asset to our industry. It gives everyone involved the opportunity to learn more about our industry and its members in an intimate setting.”

The 2016 Town Hall series schedule will be released later this fall, and all members and prospective members are invited to attend. Member participation is key to the success of each Town Hall meeting, and this truly is one of the best platforms for members to express their thoughts. By attending the events and sharing your challenges, you have the opportunity to join a community and help SEMA plan for the future. Plus, you might just meet someone who could help you build your business.

Visit www.sema.org/townhall for more information, or contact A.J. Carney at andreac@sema.org.

SEMA Member News—September/October 2015

SEMA Town Hall Meetings

Bring Your Voice and Build Your Future

SEMA member Jonathan Mill of Keyway Innovations asks a question at the SEMA Garage Town Hall meeting.

SEMA held two successful Town Hall meetings in 2015, giving members and prospective members a chance to catch up with each other and the state of the association. The first SEMA Town Hall was held in 2011, in an effort to keep an ear to the ground for feedback and challenges in the industry. Since then, the association has held 14 of these meetings at various locations around the country, finding it an effective way to listen and respond face-to-face.

Association staff typically works hand-in-hand with key leaders from member companies to bring relevant and engaging events to attendees. These meetings are informal, each having unique discussion topics but with a few common threads: discussing the current state of the industry, gathering feedback from members and providing quality regional networking opportunities. They are open to all members as well as individuals in the automotive aftermarket who haven’t joined but want to learn more.

The first Town Hall of the year was held on January 23 at the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California. More than 110 SEMA members joined local business leaders, the SEMA Board of Directors and staff for the evening. In addition to networking and strengthening business relationships, attendees also toured the SEMA Garage—Industry Innovations Center and learned how to get the most from the product-development and marketing tools at their disposal.

An engaging discussion followed tours of the Garage. Topics of conversation centered on next-gen initiatives, connecting through council and network groups, SEMA’s partnership with Clemson University’s International Center for Automotive Research and legislative resources available to members.

Panelists Doug Evans (Luken Communications LLC), Tim Martin (K&N Engineering Inc.) and Nate Shelton (Driven Performance Brands) shared information about SEMA involvement from a Board of Directors perspective. The panelists familiarized the group with the association’s youth engagement efforts, including supporting shop classes in high schools and collaborating with the Alex Xydias Center for Automotive Arts in Pomona, California. They also shared that the Hot Rodders of Tomorrow engine-building contest has been incorporated into both the SEMA and PRI Shows, giving talented students many opportunities to interact with industry veterans.

The evening included a special viewing of the trailer for the SEMA Ignited Battle of the Builders special, which first aired on the Velocity Network on March 8.

A second Town Hall also served as the association’s 2015 general membership meeting. For this event, SEMA partnered with Turn 14 Distribution Inc. in Montgomeryville, Pennsylvania, where the meeting was held on June 4. More than 100 individuals attended. For the first time, SEMA team members sat on the panel alongside Chairman of the Board Nate Shelton. Young Executives Network members and past Launch Pad winners Ian Lehn (Boostane) and Jonathan Mill (Keyway Innovations) moderated while Shelton, Chris Kersting (SEMA president and CEO), Mike Spagnola (SEMA vice president, OEM and product development) and Steve McDonald (SEMA vice president, government affairs) answered questions about the SEMA Data Co-op, consumer awareness, the SEMA Garage and other hot topics. Attendees were among the first to receive the news of Congress’s introduction of a bill allowing limited production of turnkey replica cars. U.S. Representative Brendan Boyle (PA-13) was also in attendance to give his constituents insight on industry issues from his perspective on Capitol Hill.

“Hosting the SEMA Town Hall was certainly one of the best events we’ve been involved with,” reflected Daryl Sampson, director of marketing at Turn 14 Distribution. “As a warehouse distributor (WD), having the event at our facility allowed us to network with a cross section of industry people that we normally wouldn’t have the opportunity to. They included customers, retailers, other WDs and manufacturers. The SEMA Town Hall is an asset to our industry. It gives everyone involved the opportunity to learn more about our industry and its members in an intimate setting.”

The 2016 Town Hall series schedule will be released later this fall, and all members and prospective members are invited to attend. Member participation is key to the success of each Town Hall meeting, and this truly is one of the best platforms for members to express their thoughts. By attending the events and sharing your challenges, you have the opportunity to join a community and help SEMA plan for the future. Plus, you might just meet someone who could help you build your business.

Visit www.sema.org/townhall for more information, or contact A.J. Carney at andreac@sema.org.