By Della Domingo

	The 2013 SEMA Show featured 2,381 exhibiting companies representing all facets of the automotive specialty-equipment market.

The 2013 SEMA Show is history and has left no doubt that the automotive specialty-equipment industry is stronger than ever. While final attendance figures are being audited, organizers report that more than 126,000 credentials were issued prior to the event, with thousands more processed onsite. The numbers represented a 7% increase over the previous year, and the highest in SEMA Show history.

“A trade show is a reflection of the industry it serves,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. “The unprecedented participation levels this year indicate the industry is moving into growth mode. This was a record-breaking year, and we’re seeing companies ready and eager to do business.”

On the Show floor were 2,381 exhibiting companies representing all facets of the automotive specialty-equipment market, including accessory and appearance products, performance products, wheels, tires and suspension—basically anything and everything anyone could want to personalize the more than 200 million cars, trucks, SUVs and power-sport vehicles on and off the road. Representing mostly small businesses, the exhibitors turn to the SEMA Show to connect with more than 60,000 buyers from throughout the world.

“We’re seeing more exhibitors take part in programs such as the New Products Showcase,” said Kersting. “This is an indication to us that exhibitors are looking for and taking advantage of ways to get the most out of their Show experience. They are actively looking to connect with new and existing buyers.” More than 2,000 entries were submitted into the Showcase, with the best of the best receiving special recognition.

The SEMA Annual Market Report, available exclusively to SEMA members, estimates there were $31.32 billion in retail sales in 2012, up from less than $28 billion during the height of the recession in 2009. Based on the excitement and attendance at the 2013 SEMA Show, this year promises to continue that upward trend.

There was a lot of action off the Show floor as well.

Four new members of the SEMA Hall of Fame were honored at the annual SEMA Awards Banquet—George Barris, Eric Grant, Joe Schubeck and Wade Kawasaki. SEMA’s first president and founder of Isky Cams Ed Iskenderian was there to partake in the festivities, headlined by "American Idol"-winning singer Taylor Hicks. And more than 250 SEMA Global Media Awards were handed out to exhibitors whose products had the most potential in overseas markets, as determined by the dozens of top international journalists attending the SEMA Show.

“Now it’s time for everyone to go home, tally their orders and prepare for another great year of selling more parts,” Kersting said.

By Della Domingo

	The 2013 SEMA Show featured 2,381 exhibiting companies representing all facets of the automotive specialty-equipment market.

The 2013 SEMA Show is history and has left no doubt that the automotive specialty-equipment industry is stronger than ever. While final attendance figures are being audited, organizers report that more than 126,000 credentials were issued prior to the event, with thousands more processed onsite. The numbers represented a 7% increase over the previous year, and the highest in SEMA Show history.

“A trade show is a reflection of the industry it serves,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. “The unprecedented participation levels this year indicate the industry is moving into growth mode. This was a record-breaking year, and we’re seeing companies ready and eager to do business.”

On the Show floor were 2,381 exhibiting companies representing all facets of the automotive specialty-equipment market, including accessory and appearance products, performance products, wheels, tires and suspension—basically anything and everything anyone could want to personalize the more than 200 million cars, trucks, SUVs and power-sport vehicles on and off the road. Representing mostly small businesses, the exhibitors turn to the SEMA Show to connect with more than 60,000 buyers from throughout the world.

“We’re seeing more exhibitors take part in programs such as the New Products Showcase,” said Kersting. “This is an indication to us that exhibitors are looking for and taking advantage of ways to get the most out of their Show experience. They are actively looking to connect with new and existing buyers.” More than 2,000 entries were submitted into the Showcase, with the best of the best receiving special recognition.

The SEMA Annual Market Report, available exclusively to SEMA members, estimates there were $31.32 billion in retail sales in 2012, up from less than $28 billion during the height of the recession in 2009. Based on the excitement and attendance at the 2013 SEMA Show, this year promises to continue that upward trend.

There was a lot of action off the Show floor as well.

Four new members of the SEMA Hall of Fame were honored at the annual SEMA Awards Banquet—George Barris, Eric Grant, Joe Schubeck and Wade Kawasaki. SEMA’s first president and founder of Isky Cams Ed Iskenderian was there to partake in the festivities, headlined by "American Idol"-winning singer Taylor Hicks. And more than 250 SEMA Global Media Awards were handed out to exhibitors whose products had the most potential in overseas markets, as determined by the dozens of top international journalists attending the SEMA Show.

“Now it’s time for everyone to go home, tally their orders and prepare for another great year of selling more parts,” Kersting said.

By Della Domingo

	The 2013 SEMA Show featured 2,381 exhibiting companies representing all facets of the automotive specialty-equipment market.

The 2013 SEMA Show is history and has left no doubt that the automotive specialty-equipment industry is stronger than ever. While final attendance figures are being audited, organizers report that more than 126,000 credentials were issued prior to the event, with thousands more processed onsite. The numbers represented a 7% increase over the previous year, and the highest in SEMA Show history.

“A trade show is a reflection of the industry it serves,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. “The unprecedented participation levels this year indicate the industry is moving into growth mode. This was a record-breaking year, and we’re seeing companies ready and eager to do business.”

On the Show floor were 2,381 exhibiting companies representing all facets of the automotive specialty-equipment market, including accessory and appearance products, performance products, wheels, tires and suspension—basically anything and everything anyone could want to personalize the more than 200 million cars, trucks, SUVs and power-sport vehicles on and off the road. Representing mostly small businesses, the exhibitors turn to the SEMA Show to connect with more than 60,000 buyers from throughout the world.

“We’re seeing more exhibitors take part in programs such as the New Products Showcase,” said Kersting. “This is an indication to us that exhibitors are looking for and taking advantage of ways to get the most out of their Show experience. They are actively looking to connect with new and existing buyers.” More than 2,000 entries were submitted into the Showcase, with the best of the best receiving special recognition.

The SEMA Annual Market Report, available exclusively to SEMA members, estimates there were $31.32 billion in retail sales in 2012, up from less than $28 billion during the height of the recession in 2009. Based on the excitement and attendance at the 2013 SEMA Show, this year promises to continue that upward trend.

There was a lot of action off the Show floor as well.

Four new members of the SEMA Hall of Fame were honored at the annual SEMA Awards Banquet—George Barris, Eric Grant, Joe Schubeck and Wade Kawasaki. SEMA’s first president and founder of Isky Cams Ed Iskenderian was there to partake in the festivities, headlined by "American Idol"-winning singer Taylor Hicks. And more than 250 SEMA Global Media Awards were handed out to exhibitors whose products had the most potential in overseas markets, as determined by the dozens of top international journalists attending the SEMA Show.

“Now it’s time for everyone to go home, tally their orders and prepare for another great year of selling more parts,” Kersting said.

By Della Domingo

	The 2013 SEMA Show featured 2,381 exhibiting companies representing all facets of the automotive specialty-equipment market.

The 2013 SEMA Show is history and has left no doubt that the automotive specialty-equipment industry is stronger than ever. While final attendance figures are being audited, organizers report that more than 126,000 credentials were issued prior to the event, with thousands more processed onsite. The numbers represented a 7% increase over the previous year, and the highest in SEMA Show history.

“A trade show is a reflection of the industry it serves,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. “The unprecedented participation levels this year indicate the industry is moving into growth mode. This was a record-breaking year, and we’re seeing companies ready and eager to do business.”

On the Show floor were 2,381 exhibiting companies representing all facets of the automotive specialty-equipment market, including accessory and appearance products, performance products, wheels, tires and suspension—basically anything and everything anyone could want to personalize the more than 200 million cars, trucks, SUVs and power-sport vehicles on and off the road. Representing mostly small businesses, the exhibitors turn to the SEMA Show to connect with more than 60,000 buyers from throughout the world.

“We’re seeing more exhibitors take part in programs such as the New Products Showcase,” said Kersting. “This is an indication to us that exhibitors are looking for and taking advantage of ways to get the most out of their Show experience. They are actively looking to connect with new and existing buyers.” More than 2,000 entries were submitted into the Showcase, with the best of the best receiving special recognition.

The SEMA Annual Market Report, available exclusively to SEMA members, estimates there were $31.32 billion in retail sales in 2012, up from less than $28 billion during the height of the recession in 2009. Based on the excitement and attendance at the 2013 SEMA Show, this year promises to continue that upward trend.

There was a lot of action off the Show floor as well.

Four new members of the SEMA Hall of Fame were honored at the annual SEMA Awards Banquet—George Barris, Eric Grant, Joe Schubeck and Wade Kawasaki. SEMA’s first president and founder of Isky Cams Ed Iskenderian was there to partake in the festivities, headlined by "American Idol"-winning singer Taylor Hicks. And more than 250 SEMA Global Media Awards were handed out to exhibitors whose products had the most potential in overseas markets, as determined by the dozens of top international journalists attending the SEMA Show.

“Now it’s time for everyone to go home, tally their orders and prepare for another great year of selling more parts,” Kersting said.

By Della Domingo

	The 2013 SEMA Show featured 2,381 exhibiting companies representing all facets of the automotive specialty-equipment market.

The 2013 SEMA Show is history and has left no doubt that the automotive specialty-equipment industry is stronger than ever. While final attendance figures are being audited, organizers report that more than 126,000 credentials were issued prior to the event, with thousands more processed onsite. The numbers represented a 7% increase over the previous year, and the highest in SEMA Show history.

“A trade show is a reflection of the industry it serves,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. “The unprecedented participation levels this year indicate the industry is moving into growth mode. This was a record-breaking year, and we’re seeing companies ready and eager to do business.”

On the Show floor were 2,381 exhibiting companies representing all facets of the automotive specialty-equipment market, including accessory and appearance products, performance products, wheels, tires and suspension—basically anything and everything anyone could want to personalize the more than 200 million cars, trucks, SUVs and power-sport vehicles on and off the road. Representing mostly small businesses, the exhibitors turn to the SEMA Show to connect with more than 60,000 buyers from throughout the world.

“We’re seeing more exhibitors take part in programs such as the New Products Showcase,” said Kersting. “This is an indication to us that exhibitors are looking for and taking advantage of ways to get the most out of their Show experience. They are actively looking to connect with new and existing buyers.” More than 2,000 entries were submitted into the Showcase, with the best of the best receiving special recognition.

The SEMA Annual Market Report, available exclusively to SEMA members, estimates there were $31.32 billion in retail sales in 2012, up from less than $28 billion during the height of the recession in 2009. Based on the excitement and attendance at the 2013 SEMA Show, this year promises to continue that upward trend.

There was a lot of action off the Show floor as well.

Four new members of the SEMA Hall of Fame were honored at the annual SEMA Awards Banquet—George Barris, Eric Grant, Joe Schubeck and Wade Kawasaki. SEMA’s first president and founder of Isky Cams Ed Iskenderian was there to partake in the festivities, headlined by "American Idol"-winning singer Taylor Hicks. And more than 250 SEMA Global Media Awards were handed out to exhibitors whose products had the most potential in overseas markets, as determined by the dozens of top international journalists attending the SEMA Show.

“Now it’s time for everyone to go home, tally their orders and prepare for another great year of selling more parts,” Kersting said.

	Several SEMA-member companies will donate components for the Dart LS Next cast-iron block SEMA Scholarship Engine.

The SEMA Scholarship Committee has announced that its 2013–2014 SEMA engine project will feature a 700+ hp package based on a Dart LS Next cast-iron block. The engine will be offered on eBay beginning December 12, 2013, and the proceeds will benefit the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund, which aids young men and women seeking careers in the automotive industry.

Heading the SEMA build team is Dart’s Richard Maskin, who has been the engine builder/crew chief for several NHRA National Points Championship-winning efforts in Pro Stock. Maskin has developed a 434-cid engine combination that is dyno-proven to generate in excess of 700 hp utilizing a single four-barrel carburetor on pump gasoline.

Dart’s LS Next block evolved from the LS Series engine family introduced by General Motors in 1997. This aftermarket iteration incorporates a number of features, the most noticeable being a redesigned bottom end (non Y-block) with improved oil control and a reduction in windage. It also utilizes six head bolts per cylinder and four-bolt steel main caps. A pair of CNC-ported Dart Pro1 aluminum cylinder heads will be employed in the SEMA Scholarship engine.

Components from a number of respected aftermarket firms are being used in the build. They include: Allstar Performance, ARP, ATI, Callies, Champion, Clevite, Comp Cams, Dart, Diamond, Fel-Pro, Hedman Hedders, Holley, Joe Gibbs Driven, Melling, Meziere, Moroso, MSD, PowerMaster, Total Seal and Trend.

The engine will be finished to the requirements of the buyer, whether it’s to be used for racing or the street.

SEMA’s scholarships are awarded to university, two-year college and trade school students pursuing a career in the automotive industry. A Loan Forgiveness Program also is available to employees of SEMA-member companies to help retire student debt.

For information on how to apply for a SEMA scholarship, visit www.SEMA.org/scholarships.

The SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund is a recognized 501(3) charity, and the purchase price of the engine may be tax deductible (verify with your CPA or tax preparer). For additional information on the engine, or to get involved in the eBay sale, visit www.SEMAengine.com.

	Several SEMA-member companies will donate components for the Dart LS Next cast-iron block SEMA Scholarship Engine.

The SEMA Scholarship Committee has announced that its 2013–2014 SEMA engine project will feature a 700+ hp package based on a Dart LS Next cast-iron block. The engine will be offered on eBay beginning December 12, 2013, and the proceeds will benefit the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund, which aids young men and women seeking careers in the automotive industry.

Heading the SEMA build team is Dart’s Richard Maskin, who has been the engine builder/crew chief for several NHRA National Points Championship-winning efforts in Pro Stock. Maskin has developed a 434-cid engine combination that is dyno-proven to generate in excess of 700 hp utilizing a single four-barrel carburetor on pump gasoline.

Dart’s LS Next block evolved from the LS Series engine family introduced by General Motors in 1997. This aftermarket iteration incorporates a number of features, the most noticeable being a redesigned bottom end (non Y-block) with improved oil control and a reduction in windage. It also utilizes six head bolts per cylinder and four-bolt steel main caps. A pair of CNC-ported Dart Pro1 aluminum cylinder heads will be employed in the SEMA Scholarship engine.

Components from a number of respected aftermarket firms are being used in the build. They include: Allstar Performance, ARP, ATI, Callies, Champion, Clevite, Comp Cams, Dart, Diamond, Fel-Pro, Hedman Hedders, Holley, Joe Gibbs Driven, Melling, Meziere, Moroso, MSD, PowerMaster, Total Seal and Trend.

The engine will be finished to the requirements of the buyer, whether it’s to be used for racing or the street.

SEMA’s scholarships are awarded to university, two-year college and trade school students pursuing a career in the automotive industry. A Loan Forgiveness Program also is available to employees of SEMA-member companies to help retire student debt.

For information on how to apply for a SEMA scholarship, visit www.SEMA.org/scholarships.

The SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund is a recognized 501(3) charity, and the purchase price of the engine may be tax deductible (verify with your CPA or tax preparer). For additional information on the engine, or to get involved in the eBay sale, visit www.SEMAengine.com.

	Several SEMA-member companies will donate components for the Dart LS Next cast-iron block SEMA Scholarship Engine.

The SEMA Scholarship Committee has announced that its 2013–2014 SEMA engine project will feature a 700+ hp package based on a Dart LS Next cast-iron block. The engine will be offered on eBay beginning December 12, 2013, and the proceeds will benefit the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund, which aids young men and women seeking careers in the automotive industry.

Heading the SEMA build team is Dart’s Richard Maskin, who has been the engine builder/crew chief for several NHRA National Points Championship-winning efforts in Pro Stock. Maskin has developed a 434-cid engine combination that is dyno-proven to generate in excess of 700 hp utilizing a single four-barrel carburetor on pump gasoline.

Dart’s LS Next block evolved from the LS Series engine family introduced by General Motors in 1997. This aftermarket iteration incorporates a number of features, the most noticeable being a redesigned bottom end (non Y-block) with improved oil control and a reduction in windage. It also utilizes six head bolts per cylinder and four-bolt steel main caps. A pair of CNC-ported Dart Pro1 aluminum cylinder heads will be employed in the SEMA Scholarship engine.

Components from a number of respected aftermarket firms are being used in the build. They include: Allstar Performance, ARP, ATI, Callies, Champion, Clevite, Comp Cams, Dart, Diamond, Fel-Pro, Hedman Hedders, Holley, Joe Gibbs Driven, Melling, Meziere, Moroso, MSD, PowerMaster, Total Seal and Trend.

The engine will be finished to the requirements of the buyer, whether it’s to be used for racing or the street.

SEMA’s scholarships are awarded to university, two-year college and trade school students pursuing a career in the automotive industry. A Loan Forgiveness Program also is available to employees of SEMA-member companies to help retire student debt.

For information on how to apply for a SEMA scholarship, visit www.SEMA.org/scholarships.

The SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund is a recognized 501(3) charity, and the purchase price of the engine may be tax deductible (verify with your CPA or tax preparer). For additional information on the engine, or to get involved in the eBay sale, visit www.SEMAengine.com.

	Several SEMA-member companies will donate components for the Dart LS Next cast-iron block SEMA Scholarship Engine.

The SEMA Scholarship Committee has announced that its 2013–2014 SEMA engine project will feature a 700+ hp package based on a Dart LS Next cast-iron block. The engine will be offered on eBay beginning December 12, 2013, and the proceeds will benefit the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund, which aids young men and women seeking careers in the automotive industry.

Heading the SEMA build team is Dart’s Richard Maskin, who has been the engine builder/crew chief for several NHRA National Points Championship-winning efforts in Pro Stock. Maskin has developed a 434-cid engine combination that is dyno-proven to generate in excess of 700 hp utilizing a single four-barrel carburetor on pump gasoline.

Dart’s LS Next block evolved from the LS Series engine family introduced by General Motors in 1997. This aftermarket iteration incorporates a number of features, the most noticeable being a redesigned bottom end (non Y-block) with improved oil control and a reduction in windage. It also utilizes six head bolts per cylinder and four-bolt steel main caps. A pair of CNC-ported Dart Pro1 aluminum cylinder heads will be employed in the SEMA Scholarship engine.

Components from a number of respected aftermarket firms are being used in the build. They include: Allstar Performance, ARP, ATI, Callies, Champion, Clevite, Comp Cams, Dart, Diamond, Fel-Pro, Hedman Hedders, Holley, Joe Gibbs Driven, Melling, Meziere, Moroso, MSD, PowerMaster, Total Seal and Trend.

The engine will be finished to the requirements of the buyer, whether it’s to be used for racing or the street.

SEMA’s scholarships are awarded to university, two-year college and trade school students pursuing a career in the automotive industry. A Loan Forgiveness Program also is available to employees of SEMA-member companies to help retire student debt.

For information on how to apply for a SEMA scholarship, visit www.SEMA.org/scholarships.

The SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund is a recognized 501(3) charity, and the purchase price of the engine may be tax deductible (verify with your CPA or tax preparer). For additional information on the engine, or to get involved in the eBay sale, visit www.SEMAengine.com.

By SEMA Editors

Students preparing for careers in the automotive or auto parts industries may be eligible for financial awards of up to $5,000 through the 2014 SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund (SMSF).

Applications for automotive scholarships are now available through the 2014 SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund (SMSF). Students preparing for careers in the automotive or auto parts industries may be eligible for financial awards of up to $5,000.

The SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund is dedicated to fostering the next generation of automotive aftermarket industry leaders and innovators. Scholarship awards range from $2,000 to $3,000, with $5,000 going to the top student. Assistance is available for career paths in the automotive industry in accounting, engineering, race car driver/crew, administration, information technology, sales/marketing, advertising, manufacturing, technicians, design/graphics, photo/journalism and transportation.

“Students coming through the SEMA Scholarship Program have demonstrated great potential and share the enthusiasm and passion that has fueled our industry,” said Zane Clark, SEMA education director. “Our hope is that we’ll continue to attract highly qualified students who will contribute and make strong, positive impacts in our industry.”

Unlike financial aid and student loans, the SEMA Memorial Scholarship is a one-time award that does not have to be paid back. Awards are granted to eligible applicants based on academic achievements, work experience, community involvement, essay content and recommendations. Students may re-apply each year, provided that they still meet the eligibility criteria.

A loan forgiveness award is also available to recent graduates who are working for SEMA-member companies and paying off existing student loans. Details and applications for both the scholarship and the loan-forgiveness awards are available at www.sema.org/scholarships.

The application deadline for all SMSF awards is March 28, 2014. For additional details, visit www.sema.org/scholarships or contact Juliet Marshall at julietm@sema.org or 909-978-6655.