Strengthen Your Company Through Community

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

Visit MPMC's website.

Votes Due Tomorrow for Robert E. Petersen Award

The slate is set, and votes for MPMC’s Robert E. Petersen Award will be accepted until 5:00 p.m. (PST), Friday, January 9. The award honors a member of the print, electronic or broadcast media whose work over the previous year had a significant impact on the motorsports industry.

Members eligible to vote received an e-mail invitation from Jim Skelly via Survey Monkey. Vote today to ensure that your voice is represented.

The award recipient will be honored during the MPMC media reception, Tuesday, January 20, at the Media Trade Conference in Santa Ana, California. For more information about the award or the voting process, contact Council Director Jim Skelly.

SEMA Networking Event Powered By SBN, YEN and MPMC

The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN), Young Executives Network (YEN) and Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) will hold their annual automotive industry networking mixer during the MPMC Media Trade Conference in the lounge of the Embassy Suites Santa Ana Orange County Airport North, Thursday, January 22.

This event is a great opportunity to meet and network with fellow young automotive executives, motorsports manufacturer managers and female industry professionals in an engaging and relaxed atmosphere.

The Karaoke machine will make a comeback for 2015, offering an opportunity to sound off your best vocals.

Please RSVP with SEMA's Senior Manager of Networks, Bryan Harrison, at BryanH@sema.org or 909-978-6691.

Date: Thursday, January 22, 2015
Time: 7:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m. (PST)
Location: Embassy Suites Santa Ana Orange County Airport North
Address: 1325 East Dyer Road, Santa Ana, California
Attire: Business Casual

*You don't have to be a part of the MPMC Media Trade Conference to attend this mixer.

Connect and Contribute to the Motorsports Manufacturing Industry

MPMC will host a general membership meeting, Monday, January 19, from 2:00 p.m.–4:30 p.m. in the La Jolla Room at the Embassy Suites Orange County Airport North in Santa Ana, California.

One hundred MPMC-member companies will already be on-site for the Media Trade Conference, providing the perfect opportunity to discuss the future of the council. Members are encouraged to bring feedback and ideas to share with council leadership. All employees of MPMC-member companies are invited to attend, even if they are not exhibiting at the Media Trade Conference. RSVP to reserve your spot.

The council will also host an awards reception for Media Trade Conference participants January 20, from 6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m. in the Pacific Ballroom, and an exhibitor appreciation reception January 22, from 6:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m., also in the Pacific Ballroom. For more information about these events, contact Jim Skelly.

All local members are invited to a networking reception co-hosted with the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network and Young Executives Network, January 22, 7:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m. This event is a great opportunity to meet and network with fellow young automotive executives, motorsports manufacturer managers and female industry professionals in an engaging and relaxed atmosphere. If you plan to attend, please RSVP with Bryan Harrison.

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Visit HRIA's website

Hot Rodders Discuss Industry Developments in Southern California

The Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) will hold its Long-Range Planning Meeting at the Sheraton Fairplex Conference Center in Pomona, California, Friday, January 23. The meeting is open to all hot-rod industry professionals. Non-HRIA members are welcome to attend.

The event will provide a chance to connect with other hot rodders, meet the council leadership and learn more about industry developments. Join HRIA from 9:00 a.m.–11:30 a.m. in Sonoma 2 and 3; lunch will be served for attendees. RSVP today. For more information, contact Council Director Jim Skelly.

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Visit SBN's website.

	Lori Huisman

SBN Member of the Month – Lori Huisman, Classic Design Concepts

SBN Member of the Month Lori Huisman is the president of Classic Design Concepts, based in Wixom, Michigan.

What does your company do?

Automotive styling and performance enhancements, primarily Mustang, Camaro and Challenger. We design and manufacture cold-air induction systems, aero packages, chin spoilers, deck spoilers, hoods and rockers. We also do show car builds, low- to medium-volume limited-edition vehicles, packages and components.

What is your position?

President.

What is the most satisfying aspect of your job?

The variety I encounter and manage on a daily basis.

How long have you been involved with the aftermarket industry?

25 years.

What brought you to the industry?

Location—I live in metro Detroit.

What are some of your major professional accomplishments?

I traveled to China in 2013 with the state of Michigan and Governor Snyder, researching export opportunities for Classic Design Concepts.

Are you a member of any other organizations?

Mustang Enthusiasts, Global Automotive Aftermarket, Buy Michigan Now, SEMA’s Professional Restylers Organization.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

Dream big and dare to fail.

What would someone meeting you for the first time be surprised to learn?

I participated in Track Time at Road America and loved it.

What is your dream car?

An ’06 DB9 convertible.

What is your favorite pastime?

Socializing.

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Visit WTC's website

Wheel and Tire Council to Host Open Meeting and Industry Discussion in Southern California

Members of the wheel and tire industry will gather at the SEMA Garage—Industry Innovations Center for an industry discussion, Thursday, February 5, 2015, from 8:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.

On the agenda is discussion of the “Ride Guide” promotional efforts and additional vehicle data being compiled, the latest news on Chinese tire tariffs, industry support of tire safety education and more.

This is members’ opportunity to let the council know what other challenges and opportunities they see in the wheel and tire industry. By participating in this open meeting, individuals can help determine the focus and direction of the council for the next year and beyond.

The meeting will include a networking lunch for attendees. All employees of WTC-member companies and any wheel and tire professionals interested in learning more about SEMA and the WTC are invited to attend the event. Register now.

For more information about WTC or this event, contact Senior Manager of Councils Clayton Drescher.

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Visit YEN's website

	Rich Barsamian

Rich Barsamian on Successfully Exhibiting at the MPMC Media Trade Conference

Join SEMA’s Young Executive Network (YEN), January 16, 2015, at 3:00 p.m. (EST) for a live chat with Advanced Clutch Technology (ACT) Vice President of Sales & Marketing and the 2014 SEMA Person of the Year, Rich Barsamian. A live chat is an open Q&A where you will have the chance to communicate directly with Barsamian. Questions can include how to maximize a manufacturer’s ROI at the Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) Media Trade Conference, how to become a successful SEMA volunteer or what are his favorite tips to develop meaningful business relationships.

Barsamian is known for his professional achievements in both the specialty-equipment market and within the association for nearly 30 years. Starting his career as a field merchandiser, he worked his way up the corporate ladder with some of the most recognizable names in our industry. Additionally, he has served on a number of committees, including chairman of YEN, a member of the SEMA Scholarship Committee and currently chair of MPMC.

On January 16, join SEMA’s YEN on our Facebook page live at 3:00 p.m. (EST) and ask Barsamian about his secrets to success. For more information, contact Bryan Harrison at 909-978-6691.

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Following are dates and locations for several upcoming SEMA-sponsored shows, webinars and activities.

For association-related travel, contact Manya Petropaki (manya.p@travelstoreusa.com) at Travel Store USA, 949-930-9268.

	The 2014 SEMA Annual Market Report is available free to SEMA Members.

By SEMA Editors

The specialty-equipment market experienced nearly a 7% growth in sales in 2013. The sales increase represents the fourth consecutive year of overall growth for the market. As 2014 comes to a close, how did your company fare in terms of sales when compared to 2013?

A look at the niches with significant growth is a useful tool to see the sections that enjoyed increases in 2013 and determine what may or may have not changed throughout 2014. According to the 2014 SEMA Annual Market Report, the niches with notable growth are: street performance, up almost 17%; light-truck accessories, which grew 8%; and restyling, improving by more than 6%.

Another positive market trend that will lead to potential opportunities for the specialty-equipment industry is the slow-but-steady increase in new vehicle sales. Starting in 2013, sales of new vehicles went up nearly 8%—with cars sales up almost 5% and light-truck sales more than 10%.

With 2014 in the past, how did these trends in 2013 impact your company’s bottom line in 2014? Want to make some comparisons specific to your segment? Use the information available in the 2014 SEMA Annual Market Report, which provides detailed insight on the compact-performance, street-performance, light-truck, off-road, restyling, restoration, street rod and custom, and racing niches.

The 2014 SEMA Annual Market Report is available free to SEMA Members.

The SEMA Annual Market Report is conducted yearly to help SEMA-member companies understand the industry and make informed business decisions. SEMA research reports are available to SEMA members at no cost, and to nonmembers at a nominal fee. SEMA research reports are listed and can be accessed at www.SEMA.org/research.

	The 2014 SEMA Annual Market Report is available free to SEMA Members.

By SEMA Editors

The specialty-equipment market experienced nearly a 7% growth in sales in 2013. The sales increase represents the fourth consecutive year of overall growth for the market. As 2014 comes to a close, how did your company fare in terms of sales when compared to 2013?

A look at the niches with significant growth is a useful tool to see the sections that enjoyed increases in 2013 and determine what may or may have not changed throughout 2014. According to the 2014 SEMA Annual Market Report, the niches with notable growth are: street performance, up almost 17%; light-truck accessories, which grew 8%; and restyling, improving by more than 6%.

Another positive market trend that will lead to potential opportunities for the specialty-equipment industry is the slow-but-steady increase in new vehicle sales. Starting in 2013, sales of new vehicles went up nearly 8%—with cars sales up almost 5% and light-truck sales more than 10%.

With 2014 in the past, how did these trends in 2013 impact your company’s bottom line in 2014? Want to make some comparisons specific to your segment? Use the information available in the 2014 SEMA Annual Market Report, which provides detailed insight on the compact-performance, street-performance, light-truck, off-road, restyling, restoration, street rod and custom, and racing niches.

The 2014 SEMA Annual Market Report is available free to SEMA Members.

The SEMA Annual Market Report is conducted yearly to help SEMA-member companies understand the industry and make informed business decisions. SEMA research reports are available to SEMA members at no cost, and to nonmembers at a nominal fee. SEMA research reports are listed and can be accessed at www.SEMA.org/research.

	The 2014 SEMA Annual Market Report is available free to SEMA Members.

By SEMA Editors

The specialty-equipment market experienced nearly a 7% growth in sales in 2013. The sales increase represents the fourth consecutive year of overall growth for the market. As 2014 comes to a close, how did your company fare in terms of sales when compared to 2013?

A look at the niches with significant growth is a useful tool to see the sections that enjoyed increases in 2013 and determine what may or may have not changed throughout 2014. According to the 2014 SEMA Annual Market Report, the niches with notable growth are: street performance, up almost 17%; light-truck accessories, which grew 8%; and restyling, improving by more than 6%.

Another positive market trend that will lead to potential opportunities for the specialty-equipment industry is the slow-but-steady increase in new vehicle sales. Starting in 2013, sales of new vehicles went up nearly 8%—with cars sales up almost 5% and light-truck sales more than 10%.

With 2014 in the past, how did these trends in 2013 impact your company’s bottom line in 2014? Want to make some comparisons specific to your segment? Use the information available in the 2014 SEMA Annual Market Report, which provides detailed insight on the compact-performance, street-performance, light-truck, off-road, restyling, restoration, street rod and custom, and racing niches.

The 2014 SEMA Annual Market Report is available free to SEMA Members.

The SEMA Annual Market Report is conducted yearly to help SEMA-member companies understand the industry and make informed business decisions. SEMA research reports are available to SEMA members at no cost, and to nonmembers at a nominal fee. SEMA research reports are listed and can be accessed at www.SEMA.org/research.

Earlier this year, antivirus king Symantec sent shockwaves through the business community with the statement that antivirus software was “dead”—leaving businesses wondering, now what? Symantec dropped the bombshell to make a point: These days, a PC armed with a good firewall and some topflight antivirus software is simply no match against a sophisticated, determined hacker.

The reason: The number of new viruses unleashed on the public everyday can be as many as 200,000, accruing to Kapersky Lab, a computer security firm.

Earlier this year, antivirus king Symantec sent shockwaves through the business community with the statement that antivirus software was “dead”—leaving businesses wondering, now what? Symantec dropped the bombshell to make a point: These days, a PC armed with a good firewall and some topflight antivirus software is simply no match against a sophisticated, determined hacker.

The reason: The number of new viruses unleashed on the public everyday can be as many as 200,000, accruing to Kapersky Lab, a computer security firm.

	Journalists attending the 2015 MPMC Media Trade Conference will receive their personalized schedules for the event by January 6, 2015.

By Monika Earle

Journalists who are already registered for this year’s MPMC Media Trade Conference will receive their personalized schedules by January 6, 2015, indicating which companies they will be meeting with in private, one-on-one meetings.

Journalists who have not yet registered may still do so at www.sema.org/mtcreg. The event taking place at the Embassy Suites Orange County Airport North on January 21-23, 2015 gives reporters a chance to meet with manufacturers and conduct quality interviews.

For questions about media participation, contact Della Domingo at dellad@sema.org, 909/978-6723. For exhibitor information, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org, 909/978-6690.

	Journalists attending the 2015 MPMC Media Trade Conference will receive their personalized schedules for the event by January 6, 2015.

By Monika Earle

Journalists who are already registered for this year’s MPMC Media Trade Conference will receive their personalized schedules by January 6, 2015, indicating which companies they will be meeting with in private, one-on-one meetings.

Journalists who have not yet registered may still do so at www.sema.org/mtcreg. The event taking place at the Embassy Suites Orange County Airport North on January 21-23, 2015 gives reporters a chance to meet with manufacturers and conduct quality interviews.

For questions about media participation, contact Della Domingo at dellad@sema.org, 909/978-6723. For exhibitor information, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org, 909/978-6690.

	Journalists attending the 2015 MPMC Media Trade Conference will receive their personalized schedules for the event by January 6, 2015.

By Monika Earle

Journalists who are already registered for this year’s MPMC Media Trade Conference will receive their personalized schedules by January 6, 2015, indicating which companies they will be meeting with in private, one-on-one meetings.

Journalists who have not yet registered may still do so at www.sema.org/mtcreg. The event taking place at the Embassy Suites Orange County Airport North on January 21-23, 2015 gives reporters a chance to meet with manufacturers and conduct quality interviews.

For questions about media participation, contact Della Domingo at dellad@sema.org, 909/978-6723. For exhibitor information, contact Jim Skelly at jimsk@sema.org, 909/978-6690.