SEMA Member News—January 2020

Young Innovators and Leaders in the Spotlight

The U.S. map let YEN members identify their region and post photos using a Polaroid camera.

For industry professionals 39 years of age or younger, the 2019 SEMA Show offered unique opportunities to cultivate and recognize young talent. Ranging from the Launch Pad hosted by the Young Executives Network (YEN) to the network’s awards reception, members of YEN were able to take advantage of networking and professional-development opportunities during the Show.

For starters, the annual SEMA Launch Pad, Powered by YEN, took place at the Westgate Theater in Las Vegas on Monday, November 4. Billed as the premier industry competition for young entrepreneurs, the eagerly awaited event was emceed by Discovery Channel’s Aaron Kaufman of Dallas-based ArcLight Fabrication.

From an initial field of 15 competitors, later narrowed to 10 semi-finalists, the Launch Pad gave the top five finalists a platform to pitch their business concepts to a panel of industry judges, along with a chance to win a prize package valued at $10,000. For 2019, Reid Lunde of Kaizen Speed took home the grand prize.

Other finalists included TJ Hammerle of Trac Top LLC; Riley Koidahl of The Paddock; Christopher Steven Owens of Last Drop Wrench; and Wesley Poole of Forged Authority. The judges were world champion drifter Vaughn Gittin Jr., president of RTR Vehicles; Sean Holman of MotorTrend Group and co-creator/co-host of “The Truck Show” podcast; Dan Kahn, president and CEO of Kahn Media; Wade Kawasaki, CEO of Legendary Companies; and Hellwig Products President Melanie White.

YEN Salutes Industry Leaders

With more than 400 attendees, the ’90s-themed YEN Reception reached beyond expectations and allowed members to freely network while enjoying light beverages.

What do you get when an enthusiastic crowd of about 500 young professionals gets together? The annual YEN Awards Reception, of course.

Presented at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino on Tuesday evening November 5, the reception was the group’s number-one networking experience. The high-energy event, which included drinks and appetizers, gave YENsters ample opportunities to make new acquaintances, build new connections, share stories and reconnect with colleagues and peers.

But the reception wouldn’t have been complete without an awards ceremony honoring industry leaders. For 2019, the Vanguard Award, which is presented to an individual, business, organization or sanctioning body that has had a positive effect on a young executive’s career within the automotive industry, went to Matthew Boice of Motor Trend. The Young Executive of the Year Award went to Matt Beenen of BullRight Industries.

“Since winning the 2018 Launch Pad competition, Matt Beenen has provided valuable feedback and insights to improve the program and better serve the competitors,” said YEN Chair-Elect Nick Caloroso. “Matt has stepped up to assist YEN with every opportunity presented to him. We are grateful for his contributions and honor him with this award.”

SEMA Member News—January 2020

Young Innovators and Leaders in the Spotlight

The U.S. map let YEN members identify their region and post photos using a Polaroid camera.

For industry professionals 39 years of age or younger, the 2019 SEMA Show offered unique opportunities to cultivate and recognize young talent. Ranging from the Launch Pad hosted by the Young Executives Network (YEN) to the network’s awards reception, members of YEN were able to take advantage of networking and professional-development opportunities during the Show.

For starters, the annual SEMA Launch Pad, Powered by YEN, took place at the Westgate Theater in Las Vegas on Monday, November 4. Billed as the premier industry competition for young entrepreneurs, the eagerly awaited event was emceed by Discovery Channel’s Aaron Kaufman of Dallas-based ArcLight Fabrication.

From an initial field of 15 competitors, later narrowed to 10 semi-finalists, the Launch Pad gave the top five finalists a platform to pitch their business concepts to a panel of industry judges, along with a chance to win a prize package valued at $10,000. For 2019, Reid Lunde of Kaizen Speed took home the grand prize.

Other finalists included TJ Hammerle of Trac Top LLC; Riley Koidahl of The Paddock; Christopher Steven Owens of Last Drop Wrench; and Wesley Poole of Forged Authority. The judges were world champion drifter Vaughn Gittin Jr., president of RTR Vehicles; Sean Holman of MotorTrend Group and co-creator/co-host of “The Truck Show” podcast; Dan Kahn, president and CEO of Kahn Media; Wade Kawasaki, CEO of Legendary Companies; and Hellwig Products President Melanie White.

YEN Salutes Industry Leaders

With more than 400 attendees, the ’90s-themed YEN Reception reached beyond expectations and allowed members to freely network while enjoying light beverages.

What do you get when an enthusiastic crowd of about 500 young professionals gets together? The annual YEN Awards Reception, of course.

Presented at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino on Tuesday evening November 5, the reception was the group’s number-one networking experience. The high-energy event, which included drinks and appetizers, gave YENsters ample opportunities to make new acquaintances, build new connections, share stories and reconnect with colleagues and peers.

But the reception wouldn’t have been complete without an awards ceremony honoring industry leaders. For 2019, the Vanguard Award, which is presented to an individual, business, organization or sanctioning body that has had a positive effect on a young executive’s career within the automotive industry, went to Matthew Boice of Motor Trend. The Young Executive of the Year Award went to Matt Beenen of BullRight Industries.

“Since winning the 2018 Launch Pad competition, Matt Beenen has provided valuable feedback and insights to improve the program and better serve the competitors,” said YEN Chair-Elect Nick Caloroso. “Matt has stepped up to assist YEN with every opportunity presented to him. We are grateful for his contributions and honor him with this award.”

SEMA Member News—January 2020

Shining a Light on Women in the Workplace

Network members enjoy their evening during the SBN Reception held in the beautiful Westgate Hotel ballroom.

Providing opportunities for professional women in the automotive specialty-equipment industry is a top priority for the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN). The SEMA Show affords SBN members multiple ways to hone leadership skills, encourage the advancement and growth of women in the industry, and inspire entry into the industry through education and mentoring.

Advancing Careers Through Networking

At the 2019 Show, SBN kicked off its women-centric initiatives on Monday afternoon with the ever-popular Gear-Up Girl women-only networking event. As in prior years, the gathering drew an enthusiastic standing-room-only crowd of more than 100 members who were welcomed by network chair Lana Chrisman.

During an awards ceremony at the event, two accomplished women were recognized for their dedication to supporting women in the industry. The Woman of Year award was presented to Emma LaFever of Roush Yates.

“SBN was honored to recognize Jennifer for her passion and support of women in the industry,” Chrisman said. “Jennifer exemplifies SheIsSEMA. She’s engaged, passionate about our industry, committed to education, and an exceptional volunteer who works hard to bring young women into SEMA.”

The Rising Star Award is presented to the SBN scholarship awardee. To pay tribute to race-car driver Jessi Combs, who passed away in a tragic accident in August 2019, SBN renamed the award in her name.

Gear-up Girl is a highly anticipated event sponsored by the SBN and SEMA Education to bring together students and female industry professionals.

“Jessi was a big supporter of the SBN, women, youth in the industry and our Gear-Up Girl event,” Chrisman said. “So it was fitting that we presented the Jessi Combs Rising Star award to our scholarship honoree Emma Powers in recognition of her interest in being part of our industry and her commitment to advancing her career.”

To encourage other young women to connect with industry-leading professional women, female students who participated in the SEMA Student Program were invited to attend Gear-Up Girl.

“SBN is focusing more on networking and engaging with and mentoring young women,” Chrisman said. “Gear-Up Girl gives female students a chance to meet and learn from successful women in our industry who want to support young women interested in pursuing careers in the aftermarket.”

Fostering Equality and Camaraderie

A new addition to last year’s SEMA Show, the U.S. map gave SBN Members the opportunity to proudly represent where they are from by posting photos to the map.

During the second leg of SBN’s Women Driven program, speaker, trainer and author Julie Kratz of Pivot Point shared stories, ideas and research from her book One: How Male Allies Support Women for Gender Equality. The Tuesday seminar, titled “Men as Allies: How Allies Partner for Equality,” touched on proven strategies for men and women to succeed together, including engaging allies in a diverse and inclusive workplace and utilizing tangible tools and strategies to facilitate interactive discussions on allies in the workplace.

In keeping with the collaborative theme, SBN’s Wednesday reception at the Westgate Resort & Casino set the stage for an evening of networking and camaraderie. During the much-anticipated event, conversation flowed as a capacity crowd of industry women shared stories and experiences, made new connections and learned more about SBN resources as select committee members mixed and mingled with the crowd.

SEMA Member News—January 2020

Shining a Light on Women in the Workplace

Network members enjoy their evening during the SBN Reception held in the beautiful Westgate Hotel ballroom.

Providing opportunities for professional women in the automotive specialty-equipment industry is a top priority for the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN). The SEMA Show affords SBN members multiple ways to hone leadership skills, encourage the advancement and growth of women in the industry, and inspire entry into the industry through education and mentoring.

Advancing Careers Through Networking

At the 2019 Show, SBN kicked off its women-centric initiatives on Monday afternoon with the ever-popular Gear-Up Girl women-only networking event. As in prior years, the gathering drew an enthusiastic standing-room-only crowd of more than 100 members who were welcomed by network chair Lana Chrisman.

During an awards ceremony at the event, two accomplished women were recognized for their dedication to supporting women in the industry. The Woman of Year award was presented to Emma LaFever of Roush Yates.

“SBN was honored to recognize Jennifer for her passion and support of women in the industry,” Chrisman said. “Jennifer exemplifies SheIsSEMA. She’s engaged, passionate about our industry, committed to education, and an exceptional volunteer who works hard to bring young women into SEMA.”

The Rising Star Award is presented to the SBN scholarship awardee. To pay tribute to race-car driver Jessi Combs, who passed away in a tragic accident in August 2019, SBN renamed the award in her name.

Gear-up Girl is a highly anticipated event sponsored by the SBN and SEMA Education to bring together students and female industry professionals.

“Jessi was a big supporter of the SBN, women, youth in the industry and our Gear-Up Girl event,” Chrisman said. “So it was fitting that we presented the Jessi Combs Rising Star award to our scholarship honoree Emma Powers in recognition of her interest in being part of our industry and her commitment to advancing her career.”

To encourage other young women to connect with industry-leading professional women, female students who participated in the SEMA Student Program were invited to attend Gear-Up Girl.

“SBN is focusing more on networking and engaging with and mentoring young women,” Chrisman said. “Gear-Up Girl gives female students a chance to meet and learn from successful women in our industry who want to support young women interested in pursuing careers in the aftermarket.”

Fostering Equality and Camaraderie

A new addition to last year’s SEMA Show, the U.S. map gave SBN Members the opportunity to proudly represent where they are from by posting photos to the map.

During the second leg of SBN’s Women Driven program, speaker, trainer and author Julie Kratz of Pivot Point shared stories, ideas and research from her book One: How Male Allies Support Women for Gender Equality. The Tuesday seminar, titled “Men as Allies: How Allies Partner for Equality,” touched on proven strategies for men and women to succeed together, including engaging allies in a diverse and inclusive workplace and utilizing tangible tools and strategies to facilitate interactive discussions on allies in the workplace.

In keeping with the collaborative theme, SBN’s Wednesday reception at the Westgate Resort & Casino set the stage for an evening of networking and camaraderie. During the much-anticipated event, conversation flowed as a capacity crowd of industry women shared stories and experiences, made new connections and learned more about SBN resources as select committee members mixed and mingled with the crowd.

SEMA Member News—January 2020

ETTN Puts Education Front and Center

Informative discussions among technical professionals created an engaging and successful Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) Lunch & Learn.

As the group within SEMA charged with identifying and sharing information and knowledge about the latest developments in automotive technology, the Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) made education the centerpiece of its weeklong activities at the SEMA Show.

ETTN sponsored five education sessions.

The Monday presentation, titled “3-D Printing in the Automotive Industry: How It Will Benefit Your Business Power,” focused on how additive manufacturing can help aftermarket companies bring products to market more quickly, reduce cost and advance productivity.

Members attending “Racing and Performance Forum: Keeping Technology at the Forefront,” presented on Tuesday, heard frontline leaders, experts and drivers discuss the latest technologies and innovations being used in racing and adapted to production vehicles as well as the relevance and importance of motorsports and technology to the future of the performance industry.

The third session, “Advanced Vehicle Technology: Practice, Policy and Challenges, was held on Wednesday. The panel discussion was centered on the practices, challenges, policies and product-liability considerations member companies—be they manufacturers, distributors or installers—need to be aware of to adapt and thrive in an ever-evolving automotive landscape.

Also on Wednesday, attendees had the opportunity to learn how new vehicle technologies such as advanced driver-assistance systems, autonomy, 3-D printing processes and other factors are changing the way cars are designed, manufactured and customized. “Automotive 4.0: New Technologies, New Opportunities” brought together leading tech experts who talked about how SEMA-member companies can compete in today’s rapidly evolving market.

Talking Trends, Saluting Leaders

ETTN Chair Ian Lehn (left) and Chair-elect Rob Simons (right) stand with Ryan Truax, founder of Advanced Fuel Dynamics, who won the 2019 ETTN Techie Award.

ETTN wrapped up the week with two activities on Thursday. The council-sponsored session, “Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Forum: Next-Gen Safety Performance,” examined new business opportunities for passive ADAS products as well as the challenges member companies encounter as a consequence of ADAS technologies, and it identified resources, practices and tools required to develop solutions.

The much-anticipated third annual ETTN Vehicle Tech Lunch & Learn offered a welcome respite from the Show. Members had a chance to learn about key network initiatives and member resources as well as volunteer opportunities through conversations with council leadership and SEMA staff. The casual setting, which included food and beverages, also gave technical, engineering and design pros the opportunity to share knowledge and talk about the latest trends in automotive technology.

But the highlight of the Lunch & Learn was the presentation of two awards. The ETTN Techie Award was presented to Ryan Truax, founder of Advanced Fuel Dynamics, which specializes in aftermarket flex-fuel systems.

In acknowledging Truax’s role in advancing automotive technology, SEMA Director of Councils and Networks Bryan Harrison said: “Ryan’s flex-fuel management technology is truly ground-breaking, and ETTN was honored to present him with the Techie Award in recognition of his innovation and significant contribution to reducing harmful emissions.”

The second award, for Ambassador of the Year, was presented to Chris Crecelius of Edelbrock Performance, who was lauded for his many contributions to the industry and
the network.

“ETTN was honored to present Chris with our Ambassador of the Year award,” said ETTN Chair Ian Lehn, president of Boostane. “A past select committee member and a constant champion for all things automotive and relevant to our initiatives, Chris is a great representation of why our continued success as a network for SEMA’s future is possible.”

SEMA Member News—January 2020

ETTN Puts Education Front and Center

Informative discussions among technical professionals created an engaging and successful Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) Lunch & Learn.

As the group within SEMA charged with identifying and sharing information and knowledge about the latest developments in automotive technology, the Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) made education the centerpiece of its weeklong activities at the SEMA Show.

ETTN sponsored five education sessions.

The Monday presentation, titled “3-D Printing in the Automotive Industry: How It Will Benefit Your Business Power,” focused on how additive manufacturing can help aftermarket companies bring products to market more quickly, reduce cost and advance productivity.

Members attending “Racing and Performance Forum: Keeping Technology at the Forefront,” presented on Tuesday, heard frontline leaders, experts and drivers discuss the latest technologies and innovations being used in racing and adapted to production vehicles as well as the relevance and importance of motorsports and technology to the future of the performance industry.

The third session, “Advanced Vehicle Technology: Practice, Policy and Challenges, was held on Wednesday. The panel discussion was centered on the practices, challenges, policies and product-liability considerations member companies—be they manufacturers, distributors or installers—need to be aware of to adapt and thrive in an ever-evolving automotive landscape.

Also on Wednesday, attendees had the opportunity to learn how new vehicle technologies such as advanced driver-assistance systems, autonomy, 3-D printing processes and other factors are changing the way cars are designed, manufactured and customized. “Automotive 4.0: New Technologies, New Opportunities” brought together leading tech experts who talked about how SEMA-member companies can compete in today’s rapidly evolving market.

Talking Trends, Saluting Leaders

ETTN Chair Ian Lehn (left) and Chair-elect Rob Simons (right) stand with Ryan Truax, founder of Advanced Fuel Dynamics, who won the 2019 ETTN Techie Award.

ETTN wrapped up the week with two activities on Thursday. The council-sponsored session, “Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Forum: Next-Gen Safety Performance,” examined new business opportunities for passive ADAS products as well as the challenges member companies encounter as a consequence of ADAS technologies, and it identified resources, practices and tools required to develop solutions.

The much-anticipated third annual ETTN Vehicle Tech Lunch & Learn offered a welcome respite from the Show. Members had a chance to learn about key network initiatives and member resources as well as volunteer opportunities through conversations with council leadership and SEMA staff. The casual setting, which included food and beverages, also gave technical, engineering and design pros the opportunity to share knowledge and talk about the latest trends in automotive technology.

But the highlight of the Lunch & Learn was the presentation of two awards. The ETTN Techie Award was presented to Ryan Truax, founder of Advanced Fuel Dynamics, which specializes in aftermarket flex-fuel systems.

In acknowledging Truax’s role in advancing automotive technology, SEMA Director of Councils and Networks Bryan Harrison said: “Ryan’s flex-fuel management technology is truly ground-breaking, and ETTN was honored to present him with the Techie Award in recognition of his innovation and significant contribution to reducing harmful emissions.”

The second award, for Ambassador of the Year, was presented to Chris Crecelius of Edelbrock Performance, who was lauded for his many contributions to the industry and
the network.

“ETTN was honored to present Chris with our Ambassador of the Year award,” said ETTN Chair Ian Lehn, president of Boostane. “A past select committee member and a constant champion for all things automotive and relevant to our initiatives, Chris is a great representation of why our continued success as a network for SEMA’s future is possible.”

SEMA Member News—January 2020

WTC Takes Center Stage at the SEMA Show

WTC leadership all gathered during their reception held at the Renaissance Hotel pool deck.

Twenty-one years ago, a collection of SEMA-member companies representing various facets of the custom wheel industry banded together to form the Wheel Industry Council (WIC). At the time, WIC was described as a forum in which wheel and tire professionals could network, identify and work on resolving areas of mutual concern, and form mutually beneficial alliances.

A few years later, to build on the obvious link between wheels and tires and the synergistic relationship between the two segments, the name was changed to the Wheel & Tire Council (WTC). In the years since, WTC has provided various networking and segment-specific educational opportunities during the SEMA Show. Last year, the council ramped up its profile big-time, literally taking center stage in partnership with SEMA Show Education at the Education Stage, hosted by Myles Kovacs, president and co-founder of DUB magazine.

The first-time event was located in Lower South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center. It featured daily interviews live from the Show floor with top industry professionals and personalities. Topics ranged from wheel and tire trends and best business practices to marketing and sales.

Headliners included Mike Lusso of Hennessey Industries; Gary Ruede of Discount Tire; and Wade Kawasaki and Marla Moore of Legendary Companies. Other special guests included Brittany and Kevin Williams of Lite Brite Studios; Bud Brutsman of DCII; Ken Johnson of MuscleKingz; and Jamie Jiang, of Fury OffRoad Tires. SEMA Hall of Famer and renowned builder Chip Foose joined Kovacs on Thursday to close out the Stage in a special interview and autograph-signing session.

Celebration and Conversation

One of the best-attended WTC Receptions, the night was packed with conversation and celebration under the stars as the WTC gave an awards presentation.

Hundreds of WTC members also took time out on Tuesday evening to celebrate the industry. The relaxed atmosphere at the annual awards reception, held poolside at the Renaissance Hotel, was the perfect setting for members to network, catch up with friends over food and beverages, talk shop with colleagues, and reminisce about special Show attractions.

It was also the setting for the induction of the newest member to the WTC Hall of Fame: Tim Dietz, quality manager, technical sales for Standards Testing Laboratories. In presenting the award, WTC Chair-Elect Todd Steen said: “Tim is very deserving of this award, because he is a trusted supporter of the industry and has been an incredibly strong advocate for SEMA. He’s also served multiple terms as a WTC select committee member, where his passion for both the business and this council has continually challenged us to be better.”

To wrap up the activity-filled week, WTC once again hosted Coffee & Conversation in Lower South Hall on Thursday morning. With bagels and cups of java to help jumpstart the day, members and exhibitors engaged in conversation, learned about WTC initiatives and resources, and caught up on the latest wheel and tire trends. It was a fitting way to bring down the curtain on another successful run of council-sponsored activities.

SEMA Member News—January 2020

WTC Takes Center Stage at the SEMA Show

WTC leadership all gathered during their reception held at the Renaissance Hotel pool deck.

Twenty-one years ago, a collection of SEMA-member companies representing various facets of the custom wheel industry banded together to form the Wheel Industry Council (WIC). At the time, WIC was described as a forum in which wheel and tire professionals could network, identify and work on resolving areas of mutual concern, and form mutually beneficial alliances.

A few years later, to build on the obvious link between wheels and tires and the synergistic relationship between the two segments, the name was changed to the Wheel & Tire Council (WTC). In the years since, WTC has provided various networking and segment-specific educational opportunities during the SEMA Show. Last year, the council ramped up its profile big-time, literally taking center stage in partnership with SEMA Show Education at the Education Stage, hosted by Myles Kovacs, president and co-founder of DUB magazine.

The first-time event was located in Lower South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center. It featured daily interviews live from the Show floor with top industry professionals and personalities. Topics ranged from wheel and tire trends and best business practices to marketing and sales.

Headliners included Mike Lusso of Hennessey Industries; Gary Ruede of Discount Tire; and Wade Kawasaki and Marla Moore of Legendary Companies. Other special guests included Brittany and Kevin Williams of Lite Brite Studios; Bud Brutsman of DCII; Ken Johnson of MuscleKingz; and Jamie Jiang, of Fury OffRoad Tires. SEMA Hall of Famer and renowned builder Chip Foose joined Kovacs on Thursday to close out the Stage in a special interview and autograph-signing session.

Celebration and Conversation

One of the best-attended WTC Receptions, the night was packed with conversation and celebration under the stars as the WTC gave an awards presentation.

Hundreds of WTC members also took time out on Tuesday evening to celebrate the industry. The relaxed atmosphere at the annual awards reception, held poolside at the Renaissance Hotel, was the perfect setting for members to network, catch up with friends over food and beverages, talk shop with colleagues, and reminisce about special Show attractions.

It was also the setting for the induction of the newest member to the WTC Hall of Fame: Tim Dietz, quality manager, technical sales for Standards Testing Laboratories. In presenting the award, WTC Chair-Elect Todd Steen said: “Tim is very deserving of this award, because he is a trusted supporter of the industry and has been an incredibly strong advocate for SEMA. He’s also served multiple terms as a WTC select committee member, where his passion for both the business and this council has continually challenged us to be better.”

To wrap up the activity-filled week, WTC once again hosted Coffee & Conversation in Lower South Hall on Thursday morning. With bagels and cups of java to help jumpstart the day, members and exhibitors engaged in conversation, learned about WTC initiatives and resources, and caught up on the latest wheel and tire trends. It was a fitting way to bring down the curtain on another successful run of council-sponsored activities.

SEMA Member News—January 2020

Experiencing the Excitement of a New Alliance

The TORA Reception features an evening of food, refreshments and excitement.

From the moment the doors to the SEMA Show swing wide, the buzz throughout the exhibit halls is always one of excitement and anticipation. For truck-accessory and off-road aficionados, there was more reason than ever to rejoice, as it marked the first time that the two allied market segments were joined together at the Show as the Truck Accessory and Off-Road Alliance (TORA).

As in past years, council members and others interested in learning more about TORA (formerly known as LTAA) had opportunities to hobnob with council leaders and connect with colleagues, and they also got to experience the excitement of the new alliance.

Networking, Honoring Industry Leaders

Light-truck and off-road accessories are the main attraction in Upper South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center during the SEMA Show. It’s also where the TORA exhibit shines brightly, each year displaying decked-out feature vehicles and hosting a Happy Hour on Tuesday afternoon.

“The SEMA Show is the perfect opportunity for truck and off-road manufacturers to debut new products and for distributors, retailers and media to learn about them,” said Erika Marquez, council chair. “The Upper South Hall wouldn’t be complete without TORA’s presence, and the TORA Happy Hour always draws a good crowd. It’s the best opportunity for members and nonmembers to network with other industry people, meet select committee members, ask questions, get involved and have a cold beer—all in a relaxing and friendly environment surrounded by two of the best feature vehicles that not only represent the heart of our council but are also a way to feature the latest products from the truck and off-road industry.”

Companies can purchase a pinewood car to race during the reception to help support SEMA Cares charities.

The TORA Happy Hour isn’t the only place where the council puts its best foot forward. The council’s annual awards reception was held outside in front of South Hall on Wednesday evening, November 6, immediately following Show closing for the day. The event drew a jam-packed and exuberant crowd and featured the popular Pinewood Derby competition, proceeds of which were donated to SEMA Cares, and an awards ceremony.

“The TORA reception is one of the best-attended events during the Show and continues to grow every year,” Marquez said. “It’s a great networking opportunity and also where attendees have the opportunity to support SEMA Cares. And it’s where TORA celebrates industry achievements by recognizing member excellence.”

Awards were presented in four categories: Retailer of the Year, Influencer of the Year, Ron Webster Memorial Award, and TORA Hall of Fame. Randy Bookhalt of Eastern Truck and Accessories took top honors as Retailer of the Year, and the TORA Influencer of the Year award was presented to Jason Sakurai of Roadhouse Marketing.

The Ron Webster Memorial Award for Engineering Excellence is named in honor of the late founder of Guidon Truck Covers, also a founding member of the Truck Cap Industry Association/Truck Cap & Accessory Alliance (TCIA/TCAA, now TORA). The 2019 recipient of the award was John Engen of Decked.

The TORA Hall of Fame honor is presented to an outstanding individual whose creativity, dignity, integrity, industriousness and accomplishments have enhanced the growth and stature of the industry. The 2019 inductee was Joel Ayres, executive director of the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation.

Ayres’ lifelong involvement in the industry includes decades as a volunteer leader, not only as an active member of LTAA and TORA but also as far back as TCAA, and he has also served on the SEMA Board of Directors. His induction is a fitting tribute to his many contributions.

SEMA Member News—January 2020

Experiencing the Excitement of a New Alliance

The TORA Reception features an evening of food, refreshments and excitement.

From the moment the doors to the SEMA Show swing wide, the buzz throughout the exhibit halls is always one of excitement and anticipation. For truck-accessory and off-road aficionados, there was more reason than ever to rejoice, as it marked the first time that the two allied market segments were joined together at the Show as the Truck Accessory and Off-Road Alliance (TORA).

As in past years, council members and others interested in learning more about TORA (formerly known as LTAA) had opportunities to hobnob with council leaders and connect with colleagues, and they also got to experience the excitement of the new alliance.

Networking, Honoring Industry Leaders

Light-truck and off-road accessories are the main attraction in Upper South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center during the SEMA Show. It’s also where the TORA exhibit shines brightly, each year displaying decked-out feature vehicles and hosting a Happy Hour on Tuesday afternoon.

“The SEMA Show is the perfect opportunity for truck and off-road manufacturers to debut new products and for distributors, retailers and media to learn about them,” said Erika Marquez, council chair. “The Upper South Hall wouldn’t be complete without TORA’s presence, and the TORA Happy Hour always draws a good crowd. It’s the best opportunity for members and nonmembers to network with other industry people, meet select committee members, ask questions, get involved and have a cold beer—all in a relaxing and friendly environment surrounded by two of the best feature vehicles that not only represent the heart of our council but are also a way to feature the latest products from the truck and off-road industry.”

Companies can purchase a pinewood car to race during the reception to help support SEMA Cares charities.

The TORA Happy Hour isn’t the only place where the council puts its best foot forward. The council’s annual awards reception was held outside in front of South Hall on Wednesday evening, November 6, immediately following Show closing for the day. The event drew a jam-packed and exuberant crowd and featured the popular Pinewood Derby competition, proceeds of which were donated to SEMA Cares, and an awards ceremony.

“The TORA reception is one of the best-attended events during the Show and continues to grow every year,” Marquez said. “It’s a great networking opportunity and also where attendees have the opportunity to support SEMA Cares. And it’s where TORA celebrates industry achievements by recognizing member excellence.”

Awards were presented in four categories: Retailer of the Year, Influencer of the Year, Ron Webster Memorial Award, and TORA Hall of Fame. Randy Bookhalt of Eastern Truck and Accessories took top honors as Retailer of the Year, and the TORA Influencer of the Year award was presented to Jason Sakurai of Roadhouse Marketing.

The Ron Webster Memorial Award for Engineering Excellence is named in honor of the late founder of Guidon Truck Covers, also a founding member of the Truck Cap Industry Association/Truck Cap & Accessory Alliance (TCIA/TCAA, now TORA). The 2019 recipient of the award was John Engen of Decked.

The TORA Hall of Fame honor is presented to an outstanding individual whose creativity, dignity, integrity, industriousness and accomplishments have enhanced the growth and stature of the industry. The 2019 inductee was Joel Ayres, executive director of the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation.

Ayres’ lifelong involvement in the industry includes decades as a volunteer leader, not only as an active member of LTAA and TORA but also as far back as TCAA, and he has also served on the SEMA Board of Directors. His induction is a fitting tribute to his many contributions.