The deadline to submit nomination forms for SEMA's prestigious industry awards—Person of the Year, Rep Agency of the Year and WD of the Year—is Monday, July 8.

By SEMA Editors

Nominations are now being accepted for the SEMA Person of the Year, SEMA Rep Agency of the Year and the SEMA WD of the Year awards. Please take a moment to review the SEMA Awards website, which lists the criteria established for each award, as well as a listing of previous honorees for each award. To make a nomination now, visit the SEMA Awards website and click on the red nominate bar next to the corresponding award.  

Person of the Year: Created in 1969, SEMA's Person of the Year Award recognizes individuals for their distinguished service to the trade association and the specialty-equipment industry.

Rep Agency of the Year: The SEMA Rep Agency of the Year Award honors a manufacturer's rep agency for its contribution to the industry for the past 12 months (corresponding with the SEMA fiscal year, July 1–June 30). Criteria for the award includes product-line knowledge, communication of critical information between supplier and the client network, updated catalogs, databases and price sheets, and maintains continuous training and education programs.

WD of the Year: The award was established to honor a warehouse distributor for outstanding contribution to the automotive specialty-equipment industry during the past 12 months corresponding with SEMA's fiscal year.

All three of the prestigious SEMA industry awards are presented during the Industry Awards Banquet in front of thousands of industry leaders and professionals at the SEMA Show.

The deadline to submit SEMA Award nomination forms is Monday, July 8. Questions? Contact Arlene Wood at 909-978-6689 or e-mail ArleneW@SEMA.org.

	The deadline to submit nomination forms for SEMA's prestigious industry awards—Person of the Year, Rep Agency of the Year and WD of the Year—is Monday, July 8.

By SEMA Editors

Nominations are now being accepted for the SEMA Person of the Year, SEMA Rep Agency of the Year and the SEMA WD of the Year awards. Please take a moment to review the SEMA Awards website, which lists the criteria established for each award, as well as a listing of previous honorees for each award. To make a nomination now, visit the SEMA Awards website and click on the red nominate bar next to the corresponding award.  

Person of the Year: Created in 1969, SEMA's Person of the Year Award recognizes individuals for their distinguished service to the trade association and the specialty-equipment industry.

Rep Agency of the Year: The SEMA Rep Agency of the Year Award honors a manufacturer's rep agency for its contribution to the industry for the past 12 months (corresponding with the SEMA fiscal year, July 1–June 30). Criteria for the award includes product-line knowledge, communication of critical information between supplier and the client network, updated catalogs, databases and price sheets, and maintains continuous training and education programs.

WD of the Year: The award was established to honor a warehouse distributor for outstanding contribution to the automotive specialty-equipment industry during the past 12 months corresponding with SEMA's fiscal year.

All three of the prestigious SEMA industry awards are presented during the Industry Awards Banquet in front of thousands of industry leaders and professionals at the SEMA Show.

The deadline to submit SEMA Award nomination forms is Monday, July 8. Questions? Contact Arlene Wood at 909-978-6689 or e-mail ArleneW@SEMA.org.

	The deadline to submit nomination forms for SEMA's prestigious industry awards—Person of the Year, Rep Agency of the Year and WD of the Year—is Monday, July 8.

By SEMA Editors

Nominations are now being accepted for the SEMA Person of the Year, SEMA Rep Agency of the Year and the SEMA WD of the Year awards. Please take a moment to review the SEMA Awards website, which lists the criteria established for each award, as well as a listing of previous honorees for each award. To make a nomination now, visit the SEMA Awards website and click on the red nominate bar next to the corresponding award.  

Person of the Year: Created in 1969, SEMA's Person of the Year Award recognizes individuals for their distinguished service to the trade association and the specialty-equipment industry.

Rep Agency of the Year: The SEMA Rep Agency of the Year Award honors a manufacturer's rep agency for its contribution to the industry for the past 12 months (corresponding with the SEMA fiscal year, July 1–June 30). Criteria for the award includes product-line knowledge, communication of critical information between supplier and the client network, updated catalogs, databases and price sheets, and maintains continuous training and education programs.

WD of the Year: The award was established to honor a warehouse distributor for outstanding contribution to the automotive specialty-equipment industry during the past 12 months corresponding with SEMA's fiscal year.

All three of the prestigious SEMA industry awards are presented during the Industry Awards Banquet in front of thousands of industry leaders and professionals at the SEMA Show.

The deadline to submit SEMA Award nomination forms is Monday, July 8. Questions? Contact Arlene Wood at 909-978-6689 or e-mail ArleneW@SEMA.org.

Exhibitors of the 2013 SEMA Show have the opportunity to expand their reach at Show by offering products to builders through the Products for Project-Vehicle Builders List. Builders continuously look for the key pieces and products to add visual spice to their builds. The list helps connect manufacturers looking for extra product exposure with the pros that create trendsetting vehicles that capture the imaginations of media and buyers from around the world.

This type of product-placement opportunity is so valuable that manufacturers often offer builders products for free or at a greatly reduced rates. The intention of the list is to make builders aware of potential products available. All product-placement decisions and negotiations are the responsibility of the manufacturers and the builders. Participation in the list does not guarantee product placement at the 2013 SEMA Show.

To participate in the list, access the Products for Project-Vehicle Builders form.

The latest additions to the list will be included each week in SEMA eNews, when available. The list is open to exhibitors of the 2013 SEMA Show only and is intended to build awareness for SEMA Show exhibitors and their products.

For questions or additional information, contact Jason Catullo at jasonc@sema.org or call 909-978-6713.

Latest Additions

Engine/Underhood Components

AIRAID Filter Co.: Cold air intake systems, premium air filters, and PowerAid throttle body spacers for most popular domestic and import cars, light trucks and SUVs. Contact: Trent McGee, trent@airaid.com; 602-652-9732. Website: www.airaid.com. 

Diamond Eye Performance: Performance diesel exhaust and accessories for Ford, Dodge and Chevy/GM, and performance gas exhaust for Nissan Titan, Toyota Tundra and Ford F-150 Eco-Boost. Contact: Tom Terjeson, tomt@diamondeyemfg.com; 800-635-9950. Website: www.diamondeyeperformance.com.

Doug Thorley Headers: American-made performance exhaust headers, mid-pipes and exhaust systems. Premium-quality products available for classic cars and trucks, LS motor swaps and late-model cars and trucks. Contact: Troy Mastell tmastell@dougthorleyheaders.com; 951-273-3609. Website: www.dougthorleyheaders.com.

Eastwood Co.: Underhood paints, engine paints, battery maintainers. Contact: Brian Huck, bhuck@eastwood.com; 610-705-5420. Website: www.eastwood.com.

KRC Power Steering: Adjustable Assist Power Steering Pumps designed for racing & performance, front drive pulley kits and power steering pump and alternator mounting brackets. Contact: Roger Mealey, roger@krcpower.com; 770-422-5135. Website: www.krcpower.com.

SCT Performance: Complete line of Ford and GM vehicle performance programmers. Contact: Tim Roi, tim@sctflash.com; 407-774-2447, ext. 137.

ExteriorComponents/Accessories

Eastwood Co.: Paints: primers, base coat/clearcoat, single stage urethane paints, paint guns and all paint accessories used in painting projects. Glass polishing, headlight restoration, fender rollers. Contact: Brian Huck, bhuck@eastwood.com; 610-705-5420. Website: www.eastwood.com.

EGR Inc.: Full line of exterior accessories for trucks, SUVs and cars. Products include, but not limited to, No Drill Fender Flares, No Drill Hood Protectors, Side WindowVisors, and side steps. Contact: Bryan Speer, info@egrusa.com; 909-923-7075. Website: www.egrusa.com. 

Retrax Truck Bed Covers: Complete line of retractable pickup bed covers. Contact: Andy Nephew, anephew@retrax.com; 701-746-5596. Website: www.retrax.com.

Ranch Hand Truck Accessories: Front bumper replacements (traditional, bullnose, winch-ready), grille guards, back bumpers, running steps, steps, crossbox, headache rack systems for Chevrolet, Ford, GMC, Ram, Toyota and certain products available for Jeep. Contact: Cherise Ratliff, cratliff@ranchhand.com; 361-594-4608. Website: www.ranchhand.com.

Surco Products Inc.: Roof & Hitch Mounted Basket Racks. All racks have custom adapters to adapt to any factory rack. We also can provide roof rails for any bare roof application. Contact: Osnat Surkin, osnatsurkin@surcoinc.com; 310-323-2520. Website: www.surcoinc.com. 

Whistler: Tire-pressure monitoring system. Contact: JD Davis, jddavis@whistlergroup.com; 479-464-3522. Website: www.whistlergroup.com.

Interior Components/Accessories

BEDSLIDE/Takit Inc.: BEDSLIDE is simply a better way to access your truck bed by turning it into an easy-access drawer. The BEDSLIDE rolls all of your cargo out to you—saving time, effort and back pain. Available for SEMA project pickups, vans, SUVs and Jeeps. Contact: Jake Plappert, jake@takit.com; 239-340-9608. Website: www.bedslide.com.

Eastwood Co.: Sound deadening material, interior dye, paints, trim restoration solutions and much more. Contact: Brian Huck, bhuck@eastwood.com; 610-705-5420. Website: www.eastwood.com.

Vizualogic: Vizualogic's new Android SmartLogic headrest/tablet system: Kit would include "2" Perfect Match Replacement or Active Headrests. (We match the color, grain, and stitch of the factory headrest) with IR headphone option, "2" 7" five point capacitive touch screen tablets with Wi-Fi capabilities, front-facing camera, wireless FM modulator. Vehicle must be opened and attended to throughout the duration of the 2013 SEMA Show. System could also be used as an in-dash or console mount. Please submit complete build list, including renderings and/or pictures to walt@viualogic.com. Contact: Walt Detlefsen, walt@vizualogic.com; 951-272-1996.

Wet Okole Hawaii: Seat covers – Wet Okole manufactures custom-fit, waterproof Neoprene seat covers for most of today's vehicles. More than 40 colors and several styles to choose from. Standard, Solid, Piping, RealTree Camos. Contact: Steven Grew, steven.grew@wetokole.com; 714-434-9000. Website: www.wetokole.com.   

Whistler: High-performance laser radar detectors; power inverters. Contact: JD Davis, jddavis@whistlergroup.com; 479-464-3522. Website: www.whistlergroup.com.   

Suspension/Brake Components

MGP Caliper Covers: Standard, licensed and custom caliper covers. Custom paint and engraving options are also available for select candidates. Contact: Ben Wong, ben.wong@calipercovers.com; 877-995-0003. Website: www.calipercovers.com.

Eastwood Co.: Chassis paint, rust removal, blasting, powder coating, brake flaring tools, brake kits, hand and brake tools. Contact: Brian Huck, bhuck@eastwood.com; 610-705-5420. Website: www.eastwood.com.

Other Products/Services

SCT Performance: Custom-tuning assistance for project vehicles with unusual engine- and/or power-adder combinations. Contact: Tim Roi, tim@sctflash.com; 407-774-2447, ext. 137.      

Whistler: Diagnostic inspection camera. Contact: JD Davis, jddavis@whistlergroup.com; 479-464-3522. Website: www.whistlergroup.com. 

Previous Submissions

Engine/Underhood Components

Magnaflow: Performance exhaust systems, mufflers, tips, exhaust pipes, hot rod kits, glasspack, custom builder kits, diesel exhaust and catalytic converters. Contact: Kirsten Wright, kwright@magnaflow.com; 949-858-5900. Website: www.magnaflow.com.

ODYSSEY Battery by EnerSys: High-performance batteries. Contact: April Lowther, april.lowther@enersys.com; 610-208-1729.

Performance Distributors (D.U.I.): High-performance and racing ignition systems; alternators and batteries. Contact: Steve Davis, PerfDist@aol.com; 901-396-5782.

Perma-Cool Products: Cooling components: fans, oil & transmission coolers, oil filter mounts and adapters etc. Contact: Kevin Doyle, kdoyle@perma-cool.com; 909-391-3000. Website: www.perma-cool.com. 

ProCharger: Intercooled ProCharger supercharger systems. Contact: Cary Pangrac, cary.pangrac@procharger.com; 913-338-2886. Website: www.procharger.com.

Standard Motor Products: Components offered: High performance/racing spark plug wire sets; also offering battery cables. We supply wire sets to three major NASCAR engine builders. Contact: Brad Hopper, bhopper@smpcorp.com; 913-441-6500, ext. 7168. Website: www.BlueStreakwire.com.

VP Racing Fuels: Official Fuel of the NHRA and 60 other sanctioned bodies of racing around the globe is looking for opportunities with key builders this year. We will REQUIRE dyno testing showing performance gains before and after for consideration for sponsorship. Products options will be our new VP101 - Street Legal Performance Unleaded, VP Vintage - Leaded Storage Fuel for Muscle Cars and Vintage vehicles, MS109 - Racing Performance Unleaded, VPC9 - Unleaded Storage Fuel, C85 - Ethanol Based Racing Fuel, and Leaded Racing Fuels - VPC16, VPQ16, VPC12, VP110, etc. Product info and tech sheets available online. Contact: Brian Fox, brian@foxmarketing.net; 717-577-6449. Website: www.vpracingfuels.com. 

ExteriorComponents/Accessories

A.R.E. Accessories LLC: A.R.E. truck caps and hard tonneau covers. Each cap is custom built and painted to meet the customer’s specifications. A.R.E. matches the vehicle identification number, paint code and uses a state-of-the-art factory painting system. There are more than a dozen types of truck caps and tonneau covers, as well as commercial units for fleets, that match every lifestyle and truck need. Contact: Shari Arfons, shari@mcculloughpr.com; 330-244-9980. Website: www.4are.com.

BOLT Locks: BOLT locks feature Breakthrough One-Key Lock Technology, which permanently programs the lock to a vehicle’s ignition key. When owners insert their ignition key into the BOLT Lock cylinder, spring-loaded plate tumblers move up and down to uniquely code the cylinder to that specific key. They are available for owners of Ford, GM, Chrysler, Jeep, Toyota and Nissan vehicles and deliver added security and convenience. Contact: Shari Afrons, shari@mcculloughpr.com; 330-244-9980. Website: www.boltlock.com.

KC HiLiTES Inc.: Auxiliary lighting products. Contact: Ron Pryczynski, ron@kchilites.com; 928-635-2607. Website: www.kchilites.com.

Masterbuilt: Cargo carrier; motorcycle carrier. Contact: Danny East, deast@masterbuilt.com; 706-2566-3909. Website: www.masterbuilt.com.

Scorpion Truck Bed Linings: Bed Liners, rocker panel protection, under coating, wheel well protection and full body sprays. Contact: Dana Mitchell, dana@alsliner.com; 800-999-6841. Website: www.scorpioncoatings.com.

Interior Components/Accessories

Scorpion Truck Bed Linings: Interior heat and sound control, interior non-slip, easy to clean liners. Contact: Dana Mitchell, dana@alsliner.com; 800-999-6841. Website: www.scorpioncoatings.com.  

Suspension/Brake Components

Firestone Industrial Products: Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs kits and components, R4Tech suspension system, air accessory kits and component (air compressors, air tanks, gauges, etc). Contact: Todd Green, greentodd@fsip.com; 317-818-8661. Website: www.fsip.com. 

Wheels & Tires

Atturo Tire: Atturo Tires - AZ800, Trail Blade M/T and A/T. Contact: Michael Mathis, mmathis@atturo.com; 847-265-6146. Website: www.Atturo.com.

Other Products/Services

BOLT Locks: 1) The Padlock 2.0 is a chrome plated 5/16-inch hardened steel, spring loaded shackle lock inside a crush-resistant body shell. A stronger double ball bearing locking mechanism, it is the perfect lock for commercial and industrial applications. The automotive grade stainless steel lock keeps out weather and debris, ensuring a longer usage life. 2) The Receiver Lock is an auto-return spring and automatically locks when the key is removed. The solid stainless steel pin is durable and keeps out elements and debris. The six-plate tumbler sidebar prevents picking and bumping, guaranteeing your gear will be kept safe on your vehicle. 3) The Cable Lock is a six foot 1/4-inch coiled cable with a 1/16-inch black vinyl coating. The flexible cable is able to pin and loop over many items for added handiness and to keep items protected from picking and bumping. 4) BOLT also has Trailer Spare Tire Locks which fits the steel rim wheel to a studded mount. The locks are made with an electronic nickel plated carbon steel pin or shaft assembly for strength and durability. 5) The Toolbox Latch Retrofit Kit features a solid zinc core and an automotive-grade cylinder with patented six-plate tumbler sidebar to prevent picking and bumping. A stainless steel lock shutter keeps out grime and wetness. Contact: Shari Afrons, shari@mcculloughpr.com; 330-244-9980. Website: www.boltlock.com. 

Hornblasters Inc.: Loudest train horn kits ever made. On board air systems, air horns, and air suspension kits. Contact: Rigo, Rigo@HornBlasters.com; 813-783-8058, ext. 305. Website: www.HornBlasters.com.

Scorpion Truck Bed Linings: High-build polyurethane and polyurea coatings.. Contact: Dana Mitchell, dana@alsliner.com; 800-999-6841. Website: www.scorpioncoatings.com. 

Wavetrac Differentials: Wavetrac differential. Contact: Dana Clark, info@wavetrac.net; 949-362-8700. Website: www.wavetrac.net.

Exhibitors of the 2013 SEMA Show have the opportunity to expand their reach at Show by offering products to builders through the Products for Project-Vehicle Builders List. Builders continuously look for the key pieces and products to add visual spice to their builds. The list helps connect manufacturers looking for extra product exposure with the pros that create trendsetting vehicles that capture the imaginations of media and buyers from around the world.

This type of product-placement opportunity is so valuable that manufacturers often offer builders products for free or at a greatly reduced rates. The intention of the list is to make builders aware of potential products available. All product-placement decisions and negotiations are the responsibility of the manufacturers and the builders. Participation in the list does not guarantee product placement at the 2013 SEMA Show.

To participate in the list, access the Products for Project-Vehicle Builders form.

The latest additions to the list will be included each week in SEMA eNews, when available. The list is open to exhibitors of the 2013 SEMA Show only and is intended to build awareness for SEMA Show exhibitors and their products.

For questions or additional information, contact Jason Catullo at jasonc@sema.org or call 909-978-6713.

Latest Additions

Engine/Underhood Components

AIRAID Filter Co.: Cold air intake systems, premium air filters, and PowerAid throttle body spacers for most popular domestic and import cars, light trucks and SUVs. Contact: Trent McGee, trent@airaid.com; 602-652-9732. Website: www.airaid.com. 

Diamond Eye Performance: Performance diesel exhaust and accessories for Ford, Dodge and Chevy/GM, and performance gas exhaust for Nissan Titan, Toyota Tundra and Ford F-150 Eco-Boost. Contact: Tom Terjeson, tomt@diamondeyemfg.com; 800-635-9950. Website: www.diamondeyeperformance.com.

Doug Thorley Headers: American-made performance exhaust headers, mid-pipes and exhaust systems. Premium-quality products available for classic cars and trucks, LS motor swaps and late-model cars and trucks. Contact: Troy Mastell tmastell@dougthorleyheaders.com; 951-273-3609. Website: www.dougthorleyheaders.com.

Eastwood Co.: Underhood paints, engine paints, battery maintainers. Contact: Brian Huck, bhuck@eastwood.com; 610-705-5420. Website: www.eastwood.com.

KRC Power Steering: Adjustable Assist Power Steering Pumps designed for racing & performance, front drive pulley kits and power steering pump and alternator mounting brackets. Contact: Roger Mealey, roger@krcpower.com; 770-422-5135. Website: www.krcpower.com.

SCT Performance: Complete line of Ford and GM vehicle performance programmers. Contact: Tim Roi, tim@sctflash.com; 407-774-2447, ext. 137.

ExteriorComponents/Accessories

Eastwood Co.: Paints: primers, base coat/clearcoat, single stage urethane paints, paint guns and all paint accessories used in painting projects. Glass polishing, headlight restoration, fender rollers. Contact: Brian Huck, bhuck@eastwood.com; 610-705-5420. Website: www.eastwood.com.

EGR Inc.: Full line of exterior accessories for trucks, SUVs and cars. Products include, but not limited to, No Drill Fender Flares, No Drill Hood Protectors, Side WindowVisors, and side steps. Contact: Bryan Speer, info@egrusa.com; 909-923-7075. Website: www.egrusa.com. 

Retrax Truck Bed Covers: Complete line of retractable pickup bed covers. Contact: Andy Nephew, anephew@retrax.com; 701-746-5596. Website: www.retrax.com.

Ranch Hand Truck Accessories: Front bumper replacements (traditional, bullnose, winch-ready), grille guards, back bumpers, running steps, steps, crossbox, headache rack systems for Chevrolet, Ford, GMC, Ram, Toyota and certain products available for Jeep. Contact: Cherise Ratliff, cratliff@ranchhand.com; 361-594-4608. Website: www.ranchhand.com.

Surco Products Inc.: Roof & Hitch Mounted Basket Racks. All racks have custom adapters to adapt to any factory rack. We also can provide roof rails for any bare roof application. Contact: Osnat Surkin, osnatsurkin@surcoinc.com; 310-323-2520. Website: www.surcoinc.com. 

Whistler: Tire-pressure monitoring system. Contact: JD Davis, jddavis@whistlergroup.com; 479-464-3522. Website: www.whistlergroup.com.

Interior Components/Accessories

BEDSLIDE/Takit Inc.: BEDSLIDE is simply a better way to access your truck bed by turning it into an easy-access drawer. The BEDSLIDE rolls all of your cargo out to you—saving time, effort and back pain. Available for SEMA project pickups, vans, SUVs and Jeeps. Contact: Jake Plappert, jake@takit.com; 239-340-9608. Website: www.bedslide.com.

Eastwood Co.: Sound deadening material, interior dye, paints, trim restoration solutions and much more. Contact: Brian Huck, bhuck@eastwood.com; 610-705-5420. Website: www.eastwood.com.

Vizualogic: Vizualogic's new Android SmartLogic headrest/tablet system: Kit would include "2" Perfect Match Replacement or Active Headrests. (We match the color, grain, and stitch of the factory headrest) with IR headphone option, "2" 7" five point capacitive touch screen tablets with Wi-Fi capabilities, front-facing camera, wireless FM modulator. Vehicle must be opened and attended to throughout the duration of the 2013 SEMA Show. System could also be used as an in-dash or console mount. Please submit complete build list, including renderings and/or pictures to walt@viualogic.com. Contact: Walt Detlefsen, walt@vizualogic.com; 951-272-1996.

Wet Okole Hawaii: Seat covers – Wet Okole manufactures custom-fit, waterproof Neoprene seat covers for most of today's vehicles. More than 40 colors and several styles to choose from. Standard, Solid, Piping, RealTree Camos. Contact: Steven Grew, steven.grew@wetokole.com; 714-434-9000. Website: www.wetokole.com.   

Whistler: High-performance laser radar detectors; power inverters. Contact: JD Davis, jddavis@whistlergroup.com; 479-464-3522. Website: www.whistlergroup.com.   

Suspension/Brake Components

MGP Caliper Covers: Standard, licensed and custom caliper covers. Custom paint and engraving options are also available for select candidates. Contact: Ben Wong, ben.wong@calipercovers.com; 877-995-0003. Website: www.calipercovers.com.

Eastwood Co.: Chassis paint, rust removal, blasting, powder coating, brake flaring tools, brake kits, hand and brake tools. Contact: Brian Huck, bhuck@eastwood.com; 610-705-5420. Website: www.eastwood.com.

Other Products/Services

SCT Performance: Custom-tuning assistance for project vehicles with unusual engine- and/or power-adder combinations. Contact: Tim Roi, tim@sctflash.com; 407-774-2447, ext. 137.      

Whistler: Diagnostic inspection camera. Contact: JD Davis, jddavis@whistlergroup.com; 479-464-3522. Website: www.whistlergroup.com. 

Previous Submissions

Engine/Underhood Components

Magnaflow: Performance exhaust systems, mufflers, tips, exhaust pipes, hot rod kits, glasspack, custom builder kits, diesel exhaust and catalytic converters. Contact: Kirsten Wright, kwright@magnaflow.com; 949-858-5900. Website: www.magnaflow.com.

ODYSSEY Battery by EnerSys: High-performance batteries. Contact: April Lowther, april.lowther@enersys.com; 610-208-1729.

Performance Distributors (D.U.I.): High-performance and racing ignition systems; alternators and batteries. Contact: Steve Davis, PerfDist@aol.com; 901-396-5782.

Perma-Cool Products: Cooling components: fans, oil & transmission coolers, oil filter mounts and adapters etc. Contact: Kevin Doyle, kdoyle@perma-cool.com; 909-391-3000. Website: www.perma-cool.com. 

ProCharger: Intercooled ProCharger supercharger systems. Contact: Cary Pangrac, cary.pangrac@procharger.com; 913-338-2886. Website: www.procharger.com.

Standard Motor Products: Components offered: High performance/racing spark plug wire sets; also offering battery cables. We supply wire sets to three major NASCAR engine builders. Contact: Brad Hopper, bhopper@smpcorp.com; 913-441-6500, ext. 7168. Website: www.BlueStreakwire.com.

VP Racing Fuels: Official Fuel of the NHRA and 60 other sanctioned bodies of racing around the globe is looking for opportunities with key builders this year. We will REQUIRE dyno testing showing performance gains before and after for consideration for sponsorship. Products options will be our new VP101 - Street Legal Performance Unleaded, VP Vintage - Leaded Storage Fuel for Muscle Cars and Vintage vehicles, MS109 - Racing Performance Unleaded, VPC9 - Unleaded Storage Fuel, C85 - Ethanol Based Racing Fuel, and Leaded Racing Fuels - VPC16, VPQ16, VPC12, VP110, etc. Product info and tech sheets available online. Contact: Brian Fox, brian@foxmarketing.net; 717-577-6449. Website: www.vpracingfuels.com. 

ExteriorComponents/Accessories

A.R.E. Accessories LLC: A.R.E. truck caps and hard tonneau covers. Each cap is custom built and painted to meet the customer’s specifications. A.R.E. matches the vehicle identification number, paint code and uses a state-of-the-art factory painting system. There are more than a dozen types of truck caps and tonneau covers, as well as commercial units for fleets, that match every lifestyle and truck need. Contact: Shari Arfons, shari@mcculloughpr.com; 330-244-9980. Website: www.4are.com.

BOLT Locks: BOLT locks feature Breakthrough One-Key Lock Technology, which permanently programs the lock to a vehicle’s ignition key. When owners insert their ignition key into the BOLT Lock cylinder, spring-loaded plate tumblers move up and down to uniquely code the cylinder to that specific key. They are available for owners of Ford, GM, Chrysler, Jeep, Toyota and Nissan vehicles and deliver added security and convenience. Contact: Shari Afrons, shari@mcculloughpr.com; 330-244-9980. Website: www.boltlock.com.

KC HiLiTES Inc.: Auxiliary lighting products. Contact: Ron Pryczynski, ron@kchilites.com; 928-635-2607. Website: www.kchilites.com.

Masterbuilt: Cargo carrier; motorcycle carrier. Contact: Danny East, deast@masterbuilt.com; 706-2566-3909. Website: www.masterbuilt.com.

Scorpion Truck Bed Linings: Bed Liners, rocker panel protection, under coating, wheel well protection and full body sprays. Contact: Dana Mitchell, dana@alsliner.com; 800-999-6841. Website: www.scorpioncoatings.com.

Interior Components/Accessories

Scorpion Truck Bed Linings: Interior heat and sound control, interior non-slip, easy to clean liners. Contact: Dana Mitchell, dana@alsliner.com; 800-999-6841. Website: www.scorpioncoatings.com.  

Suspension/Brake Components

Firestone Industrial Products: Ride-Rite Air Helper Springs kits and components, R4Tech suspension system, air accessory kits and component (air compressors, air tanks, gauges, etc). Contact: Todd Green, greentodd@fsip.com; 317-818-8661. Website: www.fsip.com. 

Wheels & Tires

Atturo Tire: Atturo Tires - AZ800, Trail Blade M/T and A/T. Contact: Michael Mathis, mmathis@atturo.com; 847-265-6146. Website: www.Atturo.com.

Other Products/Services

BOLT Locks: 1) The Padlock 2.0 is a chrome plated 5/16-inch hardened steel, spring loaded shackle lock inside a crush-resistant body shell. A stronger double ball bearing locking mechanism, it is the perfect lock for commercial and industrial applications. The automotive grade stainless steel lock keeps out weather and debris, ensuring a longer usage life. 2) The Receiver Lock is an auto-return spring and automatically locks when the key is removed. The solid stainless steel pin is durable and keeps out elements and debris. The six-plate tumbler sidebar prevents picking and bumping, guaranteeing your gear will be kept safe on your vehicle. 3) The Cable Lock is a six foot 1/4-inch coiled cable with a 1/16-inch black vinyl coating. The flexible cable is able to pin and loop over many items for added handiness and to keep items protected from picking and bumping. 4) BOLT also has Trailer Spare Tire Locks which fits the steel rim wheel to a studded mount. The locks are made with an electronic nickel plated carbon steel pin or shaft assembly for strength and durability. 5) The Toolbox Latch Retrofit Kit features a solid zinc core and an automotive-grade cylinder with patented six-plate tumbler sidebar to prevent picking and bumping. A stainless steel lock shutter keeps out grime and wetness. Contact: Shari Afrons, shari@mcculloughpr.com; 330-244-9980. Website: www.boltlock.com. 

Hornblasters Inc.: Loudest train horn kits ever made. On board air systems, air horns, and air suspension kits. Contact: Rigo, Rigo@HornBlasters.com; 813-783-8058, ext. 305. Website: www.HornBlasters.com.

Scorpion Truck Bed Linings: High-build polyurethane and polyurea coatings.. Contact: Dana Mitchell, dana@alsliner.com; 800-999-6841. Website: www.scorpioncoatings.com. 

Wavetrac Differentials: Wavetrac differential. Contact: Dana Clark, info@wavetrac.net; 949-362-8700. Website: www.wavetrac.net.

Compiled by SEMA Staff

NEWS NUGGETS

TOP FUEL AND FUNNY CAR POINT LEADS CHANGE HANDS IN ENGLISHTOWN: The points battles are heating up as the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series heads into the summer months and Shawn Langdon (Top Fuel), Matt Hagan (Funny Car), Mike Edwards (Pro Stock) and Michael Ray (Pro Stock Motorcycle) all took home wins at the Toyota NHRA Summernationals. Langdon and Hagan also took over the points lead in their respective categories with the victories. Visit NHRA.com for more.

NEFF HOSTS NEW YORK CITY CHILDREN AT ENGLISHTOWN: Mike Neff hosted 17 youths from the Metro World Child organization from New York city during the Toyota NHRA Summernationals in Englishtown. The underprivileged children met John, Courtney and Brittany Force, Robert Hight, Tony Schumacher, Antron Brown, Jack Beckman and Ron Capps, and took a tour of the JFR pits. They also received suites passes, lunch and goodie bags.

“This is a great day and really helps you put everything in your life in perspective. I want to thank Raceway Park, especially Kim Beyer, Castrol, Don Schumacher Racing and the NHRA for making this happen. These kids might not be able to ever get out of the city, and showing them opportunities likes this could have a huge impact. Pastor Bill [Wilson]—the founder of Metro World Child—does some amazing things all around the world to help kids,” said Neff.

BERNSTEIN SIDELINED FOR RACES; TODD TO FILL IN: Top Fuel driver Brandon Bernstein will undergo a procedure to repair a herniated disc in his back following the Toyota NHRA Summernationals and will miss the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series events in Bristol and Epping, Morgan Lucas Racing announced. Bernstein will be replaced in the ProtectTheHarvest.com/MavTV dragster by six-time national event winner J.R. Todd.

"The bottom line is when my doctors told me my right foot could completely go numb and I could not have any feeling in my foot ever, that was when a red flag was raised: 'OK, I've got to do this now,'" Bernstein said. "Honestly, I would love to drive the rest of the season like this because I can deal with the pain, but when they told me that about my foot, I thought, 'that's not just my career; that's my quality of life.'"

COMING ATTRACTIONS

FORD NHRA THUNDER VALLEY NATIONALS, Bristol Dragway, June 14–16: The NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series will return to the hills of East Tennessee for the 13th annual Ford NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals presented by Tri-Cities Area Ford Dealers, June 14–16, at Bristol Dragway. Set for Father’s Day weekend, this event is the 10th of 24 races in the 2013 NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series season. Top Fuel, Funny Car and Pro Stock drivers will battle on the legendary dragstrip all weekend for the Wally trophy. Tony Schumacher (Top Fuel), Ron Capps (Funny Car) and Mike Edwards (Pro Stock) are the defending winners of the event that will be televised on ESPN2HD. For tickets, call Bristol Dragway at 423-989-6900 or visit www.bristoldragway.com.

AUTO-PLUS NHRA NEW ENGLAND NATIONALS, New England Dragway, June 20–23: The NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series arrives at New England Dragway for the inaugural NHRA New England Nationals, June 20–23. To kick off the weekend’s festivities, the stars of the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series, including 15-time Funny Car world champ John Force, his teammate 2009 Funny Car world champion Robert Hight, Rhode Island native Bob Tasca III and Top Fuel driver Shawn Langdon participate in the NHRA New England Nationals Fan Fest and Press Conference to be held in the heart of Boston—Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Wednesday, June 19, starting at 12:00 p.m.

HE SAID, SHE SAID

“Drag racing is a very streaky sport, just like any sport, when you get on a roll and you can start winning races you can build that confidence. When you build that confidence in yourself and in your team nothing can beat that. So going to the next race, coming off the two wins we have a lot of confidence.”

–Top Fuel points leader Shawn Langdon on advancing to three finals in the last four races and winning two of them.

INSIDE THE NUMBERS

40: Number of children who attended the event in Englishtown from local Boys and Girls Clubs who were guests of Kalitta Motorsports, Optima Batteries and Golden State Foods Foundations and took part in the Build-A-Bike program. Each child was able to build and customize a bike with the assistance of Kalitta Motorsports’ pit crew mechanics. Dave Grubnic led the children on a parade down the return round on Sunday prior to the first round of eliminations.

"When I was a kid growing up in Australia, I first started learning about tools and tinkering with things with my first bicycle," Grubnic said. "That is absolutely what eventually led to my interest in hot rods, racing and to becoming a Top Fuel dragster driver for Kalitta Motorsports and OPTIMA Batteries.”

DID YOU KNOW…

Alexis DeJoria took CNN reporter Rachel Nichols for the ride of her life when Alexis drove her down the track at nearly 150 mph in a two-seat Super Comp dragster-style car from the Doug Foley Drag Racing School. DeJoria hosted Nichols during media day at Old Bridge Township Raceway Park prior to the Toyota NHRA Summernationals.

Compiled by SEMA Staff

NEWS NUGGETS

TOP FUEL AND FUNNY CAR POINT LEADS CHANGE HANDS IN ENGLISHTOWN: The points battles are heating up as the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series heads into the summer months and Shawn Langdon (Top Fuel), Matt Hagan (Funny Car), Mike Edwards (Pro Stock) and Michael Ray (Pro Stock Motorcycle) all took home wins at the Toyota NHRA Summernationals. Langdon and Hagan also took over the points lead in their respective categories with the victories. Visit NHRA.com for more.

NEFF HOSTS NEW YORK CITY CHILDREN AT ENGLISHTOWN: Mike Neff hosted 17 youths from the Metro World Child organization from New York city during the Toyota NHRA Summernationals in Englishtown. The underprivileged children met John, Courtney and Brittany Force, Robert Hight, Tony Schumacher, Antron Brown, Jack Beckman and Ron Capps, and took a tour of the JFR pits. They also received suites passes, lunch and goodie bags.

“This is a great day and really helps you put everything in your life in perspective. I want to thank Raceway Park, especially Kim Beyer, Castrol, Don Schumacher Racing and the NHRA for making this happen. These kids might not be able to ever get out of the city, and showing them opportunities likes this could have a huge impact. Pastor Bill [Wilson]—the founder of Metro World Child—does some amazing things all around the world to help kids,” said Neff.

BERNSTEIN SIDELINED FOR RACES; TODD TO FILL IN: Top Fuel driver Brandon Bernstein will undergo a procedure to repair a herniated disc in his back following the Toyota NHRA Summernationals and will miss the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series events in Bristol and Epping, Morgan Lucas Racing announced. Bernstein will be replaced in the ProtectTheHarvest.com/MavTV dragster by six-time national event winner J.R. Todd.

"The bottom line is when my doctors told me my right foot could completely go numb and I could not have any feeling in my foot ever, that was when a red flag was raised: 'OK, I've got to do this now,'" Bernstein said. "Honestly, I would love to drive the rest of the season like this because I can deal with the pain, but when they told me that about my foot, I thought, 'that's not just my career; that's my quality of life.'"

COMING ATTRACTIONS

FORD NHRA THUNDER VALLEY NATIONALS, Bristol Dragway, June 14–16: The NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series will return to the hills of East Tennessee for the 13th annual Ford NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals presented by Tri-Cities Area Ford Dealers, June 14–16, at Bristol Dragway. Set for Father’s Day weekend, this event is the 10th of 24 races in the 2013 NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series season. Top Fuel, Funny Car and Pro Stock drivers will battle on the legendary dragstrip all weekend for the Wally trophy. Tony Schumacher (Top Fuel), Ron Capps (Funny Car) and Mike Edwards (Pro Stock) are the defending winners of the event that will be televised on ESPN2HD. For tickets, call Bristol Dragway at 423-989-6900 or visit www.bristoldragway.com.

AUTO-PLUS NHRA NEW ENGLAND NATIONALS, New England Dragway, June 20–23: The NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series arrives at New England Dragway for the inaugural NHRA New England Nationals, June 20–23. To kick off the weekend’s festivities, the stars of the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series, including 15-time Funny Car world champ John Force, his teammate 2009 Funny Car world champion Robert Hight, Rhode Island native Bob Tasca III and Top Fuel driver Shawn Langdon participate in the NHRA New England Nationals Fan Fest and Press Conference to be held in the heart of Boston—Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Wednesday, June 19, starting at 12:00 p.m.

HE SAID, SHE SAID

“Drag racing is a very streaky sport, just like any sport, when you get on a roll and you can start winning races you can build that confidence. When you build that confidence in yourself and in your team nothing can beat that. So going to the next race, coming off the two wins we have a lot of confidence.”

–Top Fuel points leader Shawn Langdon on advancing to three finals in the last four races and winning two of them.

INSIDE THE NUMBERS

40: Number of children who attended the event in Englishtown from local Boys and Girls Clubs who were guests of Kalitta Motorsports, Optima Batteries and Golden State Foods Foundations and took part in the Build-A-Bike program. Each child was able to build and customize a bike with the assistance of Kalitta Motorsports’ pit crew mechanics. Dave Grubnic led the children on a parade down the return round on Sunday prior to the first round of eliminations.

"When I was a kid growing up in Australia, I first started learning about tools and tinkering with things with my first bicycle," Grubnic said. "That is absolutely what eventually led to my interest in hot rods, racing and to becoming a Top Fuel dragster driver for Kalitta Motorsports and OPTIMA Batteries.”

DID YOU KNOW…

Alexis DeJoria took CNN reporter Rachel Nichols for the ride of her life when Alexis drove her down the track at nearly 150 mph in a two-seat Super Comp dragster-style car from the Doug Foley Drag Racing School. DeJoria hosted Nichols during media day at Old Bridge Township Raceway Park prior to the Toyota NHRA Summernationals.

Compiled by SEMA Staff

NEWS NUGGETS

TOP FUEL AND FUNNY CAR POINT LEADS CHANGE HANDS IN ENGLISHTOWN: The points battles are heating up as the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series heads into the summer months and Shawn Langdon (Top Fuel), Matt Hagan (Funny Car), Mike Edwards (Pro Stock) and Michael Ray (Pro Stock Motorcycle) all took home wins at the Toyota NHRA Summernationals. Langdon and Hagan also took over the points lead in their respective categories with the victories. Visit NHRA.com for more.

NEFF HOSTS NEW YORK CITY CHILDREN AT ENGLISHTOWN: Mike Neff hosted 17 youths from the Metro World Child organization from New York city during the Toyota NHRA Summernationals in Englishtown. The underprivileged children met John, Courtney and Brittany Force, Robert Hight, Tony Schumacher, Antron Brown, Jack Beckman and Ron Capps, and took a tour of the JFR pits. They also received suites passes, lunch and goodie bags.

“This is a great day and really helps you put everything in your life in perspective. I want to thank Raceway Park, especially Kim Beyer, Castrol, Don Schumacher Racing and the NHRA for making this happen. These kids might not be able to ever get out of the city, and showing them opportunities likes this could have a huge impact. Pastor Bill [Wilson]—the founder of Metro World Child—does some amazing things all around the world to help kids,” said Neff.

BERNSTEIN SIDELINED FOR RACES; TODD TO FILL IN: Top Fuel driver Brandon Bernstein will undergo a procedure to repair a herniated disc in his back following the Toyota NHRA Summernationals and will miss the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series events in Bristol and Epping, Morgan Lucas Racing announced. Bernstein will be replaced in the ProtectTheHarvest.com/MavTV dragster by six-time national event winner J.R. Todd.

"The bottom line is when my doctors told me my right foot could completely go numb and I could not have any feeling in my foot ever, that was when a red flag was raised: 'OK, I've got to do this now,'" Bernstein said. "Honestly, I would love to drive the rest of the season like this because I can deal with the pain, but when they told me that about my foot, I thought, 'that's not just my career; that's my quality of life.'"

COMING ATTRACTIONS

FORD NHRA THUNDER VALLEY NATIONALS, Bristol Dragway, June 14–16: The NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series will return to the hills of East Tennessee for the 13th annual Ford NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals presented by Tri-Cities Area Ford Dealers, June 14–16, at Bristol Dragway. Set for Father’s Day weekend, this event is the 10th of 24 races in the 2013 NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series season. Top Fuel, Funny Car and Pro Stock drivers will battle on the legendary dragstrip all weekend for the Wally trophy. Tony Schumacher (Top Fuel), Ron Capps (Funny Car) and Mike Edwards (Pro Stock) are the defending winners of the event that will be televised on ESPN2HD. For tickets, call Bristol Dragway at 423-989-6900 or visit www.bristoldragway.com.

AUTO-PLUS NHRA NEW ENGLAND NATIONALS, New England Dragway, June 20–23: The NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series arrives at New England Dragway for the inaugural NHRA New England Nationals, June 20–23. To kick off the weekend’s festivities, the stars of the NHRA Mello Yello Drag Racing Series, including 15-time Funny Car world champ John Force, his teammate 2009 Funny Car world champion Robert Hight, Rhode Island native Bob Tasca III and Top Fuel driver Shawn Langdon participate in the NHRA New England Nationals Fan Fest and Press Conference to be held in the heart of Boston—Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Wednesday, June 19, starting at 12:00 p.m.

HE SAID, SHE SAID

“Drag racing is a very streaky sport, just like any sport, when you get on a roll and you can start winning races you can build that confidence. When you build that confidence in yourself and in your team nothing can beat that. So going to the next race, coming off the two wins we have a lot of confidence.”

–Top Fuel points leader Shawn Langdon on advancing to three finals in the last four races and winning two of them.

INSIDE THE NUMBERS

40: Number of children who attended the event in Englishtown from local Boys and Girls Clubs who were guests of Kalitta Motorsports, Optima Batteries and Golden State Foods Foundations and took part in the Build-A-Bike program. Each child was able to build and customize a bike with the assistance of Kalitta Motorsports’ pit crew mechanics. Dave Grubnic led the children on a parade down the return round on Sunday prior to the first round of eliminations.

"When I was a kid growing up in Australia, I first started learning about tools and tinkering with things with my first bicycle," Grubnic said. "That is absolutely what eventually led to my interest in hot rods, racing and to becoming a Top Fuel dragster driver for Kalitta Motorsports and OPTIMA Batteries.”

DID YOU KNOW…

Alexis DeJoria took CNN reporter Rachel Nichols for the ride of her life when Alexis drove her down the track at nearly 150 mph in a two-seat Super Comp dragster-style car from the Doug Foley Drag Racing School. DeJoria hosted Nichols during media day at Old Bridge Township Raceway Park prior to the Toyota NHRA Summernationals.

By Bryan Harrison

	Alain Eboli

Alain Eboli is a graduate of Southern Polytechnic State University in Atlanta. He is a father of a four-year-old boy who also shares a strong interest in cars and trucks. Eboli's role is engineering manager for OMIX-ADA/Rugged Ridge/Alloy USA—an independent manufacturer of Jeep replacement parts and accessories.

How long have you been in the automotive aftermarket? What other industries have you worked in?

I have been with OMIX-ADA/Rugged Ridge/Alloy USA for about five years with a brief period of about six months where I worked for Newell Rubbermaid's Graco children's products brand. I returned to OMIX in August 2012 to fill the role of engineering manager. Prior to my initial employment with OMIX, I worked as a design engineer, designing LED billboard structures and other signage solutions for outdoor applications, stadiums and arenas.

What does it take to create innovative products?

It’s much easier to invent than it is to innovate. Creating innovative products starts with understanding the consumer and the problems they face. Arriving at the most elegant solution instead of settling for the easiest is difficult but can differentiate a good product from a great product.

Can you give me an example of where you didn’t “settle” for an easy solution and what the outcome was?

Currently, we are developing a product with a release lever that was noticed to be difficult to grab. Additional plastic housings were developed to provide a hand grip. This product could have done without this additional component; however, the user experience would have been compromised. The result is enhanced usability and a happier end user.

If you had to make a call between form and function for a specific vehicle accessory, which would you choose?

This depends on what type of problem the product is solving. In the off-road industry, it’s usually function before form because these products typically solve a functional problem. But this doesn’t mean a product can’t look good at the same time.

Do you find the off-road business to be a do-it-yourself or do-it-for-me market? What role does this play when designing product?

I believe the market is still very much a do-it-yourself market. The true off-road consumer typically doesn’t have a choice if something goes wrong on the trail. So they will be a lot more willing and capable to perform their own vehicle modifications. And although this type of consumer will often have high mechanical aptitude, the product should not take advantage of this.

What advice would you give SEMA companies in recruiting and maintaining young engineers and designers?

It is absolutely necessary for SEMA companies to offer young engineers opportunities for growth and development. Also, encourage them to understand the big picture of our industry. Nothing does this better than spending a few days at the SEMA Show.

Take me through the process from start to finish for a new product.

A new product usually starts with a consumer problem. With a clear understanding of the problem, ideation is used to explore any and all possible solutions. This usually results in a fuzzy concept for a product. Prototyping is the most effective way to bring a concept to life and refine it into its simplest form. Here ends the fun part. The rest of the process, which requires endless tweaks for cost, manufacturing, assembly, installation, usability, performance testing, etc. takes lots of focus and discipline.

How many new products does your company release each year?

Typically, OMIX-ADA/Rugged Ridge/Alloy USA show between 20–30 new products at the SEMA Show each year.

A grizzly bear and a bull shark: who wins a fight in three feet of water?

Grizzly bear. In this scenario, the bull shark is nothing more than an oversized salmon.

By Bryan Harrison

	Alain Eboli

Alain Eboli is a graduate of Southern Polytechnic State University in Atlanta. He is a father of a four-year-old boy who also shares a strong interest in cars and trucks. Eboli's role is engineering manager for OMIX-ADA/Rugged Ridge/Alloy USA—an independent manufacturer of Jeep replacement parts and accessories.

How long have you been in the automotive aftermarket? What other industries have you worked in?

I have been with OMIX-ADA/Rugged Ridge/Alloy USA for about five years with a brief period of about six months where I worked for Newell Rubbermaid's Graco children's products brand. I returned to OMIX in August 2012 to fill the role of engineering manager. Prior to my initial employment with OMIX, I worked as a design engineer, designing LED billboard structures and other signage solutions for outdoor applications, stadiums and arenas.

What does it take to create innovative products?

It’s much easier to invent than it is to innovate. Creating innovative products starts with understanding the consumer and the problems they face. Arriving at the most elegant solution instead of settling for the easiest is difficult but can differentiate a good product from a great product.

Can you give me an example of where you didn’t “settle” for an easy solution and what the outcome was?

Currently, we are developing a product with a release lever that was noticed to be difficult to grab. Additional plastic housings were developed to provide a hand grip. This product could have done without this additional component; however, the user experience would have been compromised. The result is enhanced usability and a happier end user.

If you had to make a call between form and function for a specific vehicle accessory, which would you choose?

This depends on what type of problem the product is solving. In the off-road industry, it’s usually function before form because these products typically solve a functional problem. But this doesn’t mean a product can’t look good at the same time.

Do you find the off-road business to be a do-it-yourself or do-it-for-me market? What role does this play when designing product?

I believe the market is still very much a do-it-yourself market. The true off-road consumer typically doesn’t have a choice if something goes wrong on the trail. So they will be a lot more willing and capable to perform their own vehicle modifications. And although this type of consumer will often have high mechanical aptitude, the product should not take advantage of this.

What advice would you give SEMA companies in recruiting and maintaining young engineers and designers?

It is absolutely necessary for SEMA companies to offer young engineers opportunities for growth and development. Also, encourage them to understand the big picture of our industry. Nothing does this better than spending a few days at the SEMA Show.

Take me through the process from start to finish for a new product.

A new product usually starts with a consumer problem. With a clear understanding of the problem, ideation is used to explore any and all possible solutions. This usually results in a fuzzy concept for a product. Prototyping is the most effective way to bring a concept to life and refine it into its simplest form. Here ends the fun part. The rest of the process, which requires endless tweaks for cost, manufacturing, assembly, installation, usability, performance testing, etc. takes lots of focus and discipline.

How many new products does your company release each year?

Typically, OMIX-ADA/Rugged Ridge/Alloy USA show between 20–30 new products at the SEMA Show each year.

A grizzly bear and a bull shark: who wins a fight in three feet of water?

Grizzly bear. In this scenario, the bull shark is nothing more than an oversized salmon.