By SEMA News Editors

Hotel reservations for the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7, Las Vegas, are now open through the official hotel block and housing partner, onPeak. SEMA and onPeak have negotiated the best possible rates, giving Showgoers cost-saving benefits alongside a myriad of benefits, like fully flexible booking, possible hotel rewards points and group reservations at the best hotels in Las Vegas. SEMA Showgoers can only get the discounted rates when booking through the only official hotel provider, onPeak, here.

Following is a sampling of the discounts you can expect to find in the SEMA Show hotel block for the 2025 event.

Save more than $100 a night by staying at these hotels:

• Aria
• Caesars Palace
• Embassy Suites Convention Center
• Encore at Wynn
• Fontainebleau
• Harrah’s
• Horseshoe
• MGM Grand
• New York New York
• Park MGM
• Renaissance
• Springhill Suites Convention Center
• The Cosmopolitan
• The Cromwell
• The Palazzo
• The Venetian
• Trump
• Vdara
• Waldorf Astoria
• Wynn

Save more than 50% per night at these hotels:

• Aria
• Encore at Wynn
• Fontainebleau
• Horseshoe
• MGM Grand
• Park MGM
• The Palazzo
• The Venetian
• Wynn

In addition, when you book in the official SEMA Show hotel block, not only do you benefit from cost-saving rates, exclusive amenities, and outstanding service, but you are also showing support for the SEMA Show. The more rooms booked in the block, the more we can negotiate lower room rates and more concessions, which allows the SEMA Show management team to meet the needs of attendees better.

These discounts can only be secured via the SEMA Show and onPeak booking site here. Registration for the 2025 SEMA Show will open on Monday, April 28.

Keep an eye on SEMA News and semashow.com for the latest deadlines, updates and opportunities for the 2025 SEMA Show.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Scholarship Program is seeking passionate individuals to volunteer as SEMA Scholarship judges. Signups are open now through March 21 at this link.

The SEMA Scholarship Program supports career development and access into the automotive industry by offering financial awards to students preparing for careers in the automotive field.  

Volunteer judges play a vital role in reviewing scholarship applications and assisting with selecting deserving winners. It's a rewarding opportunity to make a difference and read inspiring stories from passionate students who are eager to enter the automotive aftermarket.     

Hours are flexible and can be performed around the volunteer's schedule. If selected, judging begins on March 31 and continues until May 23. Learn more and apply to volunteer here.   

To learn more about the SEMA Scholarship program, visit sema.org/scholarships. 

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Sheena Dixon, category manager at AutoZone, as the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member.  

Get to know Dixon in her interview with SEMA News below.  

SEMA News: How many years have you been with your current company and what do you enjoy most about working there?  

Sheena Dixon: I am a seven-year AutoZoner. The first line of AutoZone's pledge and values is that AutoZoners always put customers first. Finding ways to better service our customers and their needs is the most fulfilling part of my job.

SEMA: What is the most challenging part of running your business or job?  

SD: The most challenging part of running my category is controlling the unknown. There are so many factors, such as weather, inflation and lack of discretionary income, which all could affect the performance of my business. However, the key to success is being able to pivot and find ways to drive the business, with the end goal to always satisfy the customer.

SEMA: How many years have you been in the industry and what was your first industry job?  

SD: I have been in the retail business for more than 20 years. After college, I started on the supplier side as an account manager for a heating company. When I first started out, the importance of building your brand and networking was never part of my vocabulary. I have later learned these concepts are particularly important in whatever career path you chose. Your brand will follow you forever.

SEMA: What are three qualities that got you to where you are today?  

SD: "Just be yourself," is what my dad has always taught me, and I have carried his saying with me in everything that I do. Another quality that I value is humility. Others see humility as weakness. I, however, embrace it. Finally, there's ambition. If you can see, you can achieve it.

SEMA: Being a woman in the industry, what have been your biggest challenges and accomplishments?  

SD: Biggest challenge with being a woman in the industry is constantly having to prove your worth. There is nothing more insulting than people who automatically assume that you lack automotive knowledge just because you are a woman. I deal with this challenge daily.

SEMA: Who are your role models or mentors in the industry?  

SD: I have taken on many mentors, both males and females, throughout my years in the industry. All my mentors are people that I grew to trust and respect before they became my mentor. I have learned that not every mentor is created equal. My advice is to find a mentor that truly has your best interest at heart.

SEMA: What is the best career advice you have received?  

SD: "Build your brand," is the best career advice that I have ever received. How you represent yourself to your peers, your vendor partners and your friends and family are especially important. Perception is reality.

SEMA: Have you always wanted to work in the automotive industry? What keeps you here?  

SD: Never in a million years did I ever imagine that I would work in the automotive industry. Prior to AutoZone, anything automotive was daunting to me. Fortunately, there are organizations like SBN, Women in Auto Care and WOCAN, that provide safe spaces for women to learn, grow and become experts in their craft.

SEMA: Who was the most influential person on your career/goals?  

SD: Until I met Rosa Laxamana later in my career, I had never met someone who was so genuine and kind, yet firm and assertive. Rosa thrived on helping others succeed and I admire her for that. The retail industry, in general, can be extremely competitive and not everyone wants to see you be successful. Individuals like Rosa exemplify everything that I strive to be every day: a better version of myself.

Fill out a #SheIsSEMA spotlight form to submit a self-nomination or nominate a colleague and highlight how you or she is contributing to the specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are automatically eligible to be considered for SBN's #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year award, featured on SBN's social media, SEMA News and recognized on the sema.org/she-is-sema website.  

By Ellen McKoy

Are you concerned about government regulations that may have a far-reaching impact on the future of the aftermarket industry? Want to engage with automotive enthusiasts to expand your company's reach and boost your brand?

Suppose you answered yes to either or both of these questions. In that case, the new SEMA+ individual membership program presents a value-added opportunity to connect with consumers and support SEMA's legislative agenda.

Some may recall that in 2021, the SEMA Board of Directors approved a landmark new membership category: SEMA Individual Membership (SIM), and for the first time in the association's history, individuals were allowed to join SEMA.

Fast forward to 2024, and SEMA+ was rolled out prior to the SEMA Show in November. In rebranding and reimagining the membership program, SEMA aimed to bring greater value to both consumers and the industry. In keeping with its mission, SEMA+ is centered on harnessing the passion and power of a broad-based enthusiast community, uniting their voices on issues that affect the industry and fostering connectivity to SEMA.

"Investing in SEMA+ is an investment in the future of our industry," said AJ Carney, SEMA director of membership. "By welcoming car and truck enthusiasts into the SEMA community, we unite a collective voice that strengthens our foundation."

Crafting Connections, Amplifying Advocacy

That collective voice includes businesses, employees, industry pros, everyday consumers and die-hard enthusiasts who share a common passion for the automotive lifestyle and for preserving the right to customize their vehicles. The dues are just $40. Membership includes access to legislative alerts, a dedicated industry newsletter, industry and lifestyle discounts from participating benefit partners and engagement through social media platforms.

For SEMA business members, the program offers an opportunity to interact directly with end users. Case in point: The benefit partner component puts the participating companies front and center. The current list runs the gamut, from recognized industry brands to well-known providers of lifestyle, entertainment and travel services, among others.

By providing a direct connection to end users who buy their products or services, business members gain an effective marketing edge, which in turn helps to build brand recognition and consumer awareness of both the industry and the association.

For Trim Illusion, SEMA+ offers a direct pipeline to consumers while building its brands and supporting SEMA's advocacy agenda. 

"What I like about SEMA+ is that it engages both enthusiasts and manufacturers looking to create consumer awareness," said Trim Illusion's President Colby McLaughlin. "Being a benefit partner is great marketing for your brand and your business. It's a great way to bring enthusiasts into SEMA and get your brand in front of consumers year-round." 

A proponent of SEMA's legislative advocacy, McLauglin also sees SEMA+ as a way to educate and engage. "Whether you're in the business or an enthusiast, being aware of legislation that could impact your hobby or your company is very important. SEMA+ provides the infrastructure that makes it easy for everybody to have a voice and help SEMA be more successful in its advocacy efforts that benefit our industry," he said.

At the same time, by providing a forum that cultivates and encourages consumer engagement, both SEMA+ and SEMA are able to marshal grassroots support, creating a unified voice to address a challenging regulatory landscape and amplify the association's advocacy agenda.

"Whether you're a manufacturer, retailer, installer, builder, enthusiast or consumer, SEMA+ offers something for everyone," said Carney. "It's an individual membership that unites us and ensures our industry thrives for generations to come. Together, we share ideas and build connections, ensuring the automotive aftermarket remains strong, dynamic and ready for any challenges ahead."

To learn more about SEMA+ or to join, visit sema.org/plus and click "join." Questions? Email AJ Carney at ajc@sema.org.
 

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

By SEMA News Editors

USAC Announces Hall of Fame Class of 2025

The United States Auto Club (USAC) has announced the USAC Hall of Fame Class of 2025.

USAC's 12th Hall of Fame class includes driver and car owner Jack Bowsher, driver Dave Darland, car owner and official Bob Estes, car owner and crew chief Bob Hampshire, promoters Roger and Linda Holdeman, official Tommy Hunt and driver Gordon Johncock.

The official 2025 USAC Hall of Fame induction ceremony will take place at USAC headquarters in Speedway, Indiana, on Wednesday, July 2, during the BC39 festivities for the USAC NOS Energy Drink National Championship at The Dirt Track at Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

For more information, including a biography on each inductee, visit usacracing.com.

IMS Museum Announces Chuck Jones Named to Board Ahead of April Reopening

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS) Museum has announced Chuck Jones as the new chairman of the Museum's board of directors. Jones currently serves as the chief design officer at GE HealthCare and was the recipient of the White House-sponsored Smithsonian National Design Award. He is also a noted vintage Indy car restoration expert and racer, and has served on the IMS Museum board since 2019. He succeeds Rob Dyson in the position, ushering in a new era called "The Stories Behind the Spectacle Capital" campaign.

The announcement comes before the reimagined IMS Museum, which will reopen to the public on Wednesday, April 2. The facility has been closed since November 2023 while undergoing a transformation of its space and experiences. 

General admission tickets for the IMS Museum are officially on sale beginning Tuesday, March 4, at imsmuseum.org. With exciting, educational and interactive new exhibits, the Museum brings the thrill of the Indianapolis 500 and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway to life.

To ensure an enjoyable experience for all guests, the Museum has moved to a timed ticket entry system. Guests should plan to arrive no more than 15 minutes before their timed entry reservation.

With a general admission ticket, visitors will have full access to all exhibits and display areas of the Museum–40,000 sq. ft. of additional space–including the lower level, an area previously restricted to only select tours, and the newly added mezzanine featuring artifacts on view for the first time.

"The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum is excited to welcome guests back to our reimagined space when we reopen in April," IMS Museum President Joe Hale said. "Guests will not only enjoy visiting some of their favorite objects but will be able to explore significantly more exhibit space and have fun testing their skills in our immersive Qualifying Zone."

For more information, including ticket pricing and available memberships, visit the IMS announcement here.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

Utah Salt Flats Racing Association Introduces New Presidential Cabinet

Utah Salt Flats Racing Association has elected new officers, from left to right: Justin McAllister, Shayla McAllister, Dennis Sullivan, Vern Taylor and James Reeser.

The Utah Salt Flats Racing Association (USFRA)—the organization founded in 1976 to preserve the Bonneville Salt Flats in Wendover, Utah, and motorsports events at the historic venue—has appointed a new presidential cabinet following elections.

The new USFRA officers are Dennis Sullivan (president), Justin McAllister (vice president), Shayla McAllister (treasury), Vern Taylor (Sargent of Arms) and James Reeser (secretary).

In addition, USFRA has announced the 39th annual World of Speed is set for September 5-8, 2025, at the Bonneville Salt Flats. Participant event registration is available online here. USFRA will also host a test and tune event on June 27-29.

For more information, visit saltflats.com.

Image courtesy of USFRA

For more racing news, visit performanceracing.com/industry-news.

From SEMA's Washington, D.C., office

Announced earlier this week, SEMA is requesting industry members sign a letter to federal lawmakers to demand Congressional action on unfair electric vehicle (EV) mandates. This letter explains why Congress should pass a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution to overturn the United States Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Clean Air Act waiver for California's Advanced Clean Cars II (ACC II) regulation. (Have questions about the CRA process? Learn more here).

In short, Congress now has an opportunity to stop California's disastrous regulation, which requires 100% of new cars, SUVs and small trucks sold in California and 11 other states to be zero-emissions vehicles (ZEV) by 2035, pushing aside other viable technologies and innovations in the aftermarket. 

Click below to act now and add your name to the list! 

SIGN THE LETTER TO LAWMAKERS HERE. 

Congress is owed the opportunity to determine whether a single state should be empowered to enact a heavy-handed policy that would have broad, national implications for the economy, the entire automotive-aftermarket industry and consumers. 

If not stopped by Congress, the Clean Air Act waiver that the EPA granted in December would enable California to implement its EV mandates and ban internal-combustion-engine vehicles. Congress, though, can use the CRA to nullify the waivers, thus preserving vehicle choice for consumers and halting a policy that would have a disastrous effect on the automotive aftermarket industry. 

To sign your name to this important cause, complete SEMA's quick form here.

Want more information or to help spread the word? Read and share this new infographic on Congress' new tool to end EV mandates (and what you can do about it). 

From SEMA's Washington, D.C., office

Announced earlier this week, SEMA is requesting industry members sign a letter to federal lawmakers to demand Congressional action on unfair electric vehicle (EV) mandates. This letter explains why Congress should pass a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution to overturn the United States Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Clean Air Act waiver for California's Advanced Clean Cars II (ACC II) regulation. (Have questions about the CRA process? Learn more here).

In short, Congress now has an opportunity to stop California's disastrous regulation, which requires 100% of new cars, SUVs and small trucks sold in California and 11 other states to be zero-emissions vehicles (ZEV) by 2035, pushing aside other viable technologies and innovations in the aftermarket. 

Click below to act now and add your name to the list! 

SIGN THE LETTER TO LAWMAKERS HERE. 

Congress is owed the opportunity to determine whether a single state should be empowered to enact a heavy-handed policy that would have broad, national implications for the economy, the entire automotive-aftermarket industry and consumers. 

If not stopped by Congress, the Clean Air Act waiver that the EPA granted in December would enable California to implement its EV mandates and ban internal-combustion-engine vehicles. Congress, though, can use the CRA to nullify the waivers, thus preserving vehicle choice for consumers and halting a policy that would have a disastrous effect on the automotive aftermarket industry. 

To sign your name to this important cause, complete SEMA's quick form here.

Want more information or to help spread the word? Read and share this new infographic on Congress' new tool to end EV mandates (and what you can do about it). 

By SEMA News Editors

I-CAR Announces Key Initiatives to Advance Industry Standards Ahead of 2025 National Conference

I-CAR--the provider of technical educational programming, related technical services and industry talent solutions in collision repair--has announced key initiatives ahead of its 2025 national conference, February 27-28 in Houston, Texas.

These initiatives are designed to enhance collision repair education and related standards for complete, safe, quality repairs and that will tackle the technician shortage that continues to affect the entire industry. Among these are enhancements to its I-CAR Academy entry-level curriculum for schools and shops and the addition of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) learning requirements to its Gold Class and Platinum recognition programs. These efforts are further underscored by the achievement of 10,000 Gold Class shops in 2024, updated consumer promotional materials for Gold Class repair facilities, and the debut of the "I Count on I-CAR" marketing campaign. I-CAR ended 2024 with 10,014 Gold Class shops across the United States, a testament to the industry's collective commitment to excellence in the face of the ongoing technical tsunami of continuous advancement in vehicle and repair technologies. As modern vehicles become increasingly complex, expanding the Gold Class network ensures more communities have access to expertly trained repair professionals who prioritize safety, quality and continuous education. This growth aligns with I-CAR's mission to equip technicians with the knowledge and skills to navigate emerging technologies and safeguard the driving public with complete, safe and quality repairs. This shop milestone also serves as the halfway point to I-CAR's longer-term goal of 20,000 Gold Class Shops, growing from 2,661 Gold Class shops in 2012.

"Achieving this milestone reflects our industry's shared vision, aligning advanced vehicle technology with repair expertise to help ensure driver safety on the road," said John Van Alstyne, CEO and president of I-CAR.

For more information, read the I-CAR announcement here.

Two Leading Ladies in the Driven Brands Collision Group Network Speak to Driven Brands Employees During Recent Event 

Last month, the Women's Employee Resource Group (ERG) at Driven Brands hosted a powerful virtual event featuring a panel of accomplished female franchise owners, all from the Driven Brands Collision Group, made up of Abra, CARSTAR and Fix Auto USA. The event showcased their inspiring journeys, leadership experiences and the impact they've made in the automotive industry.  

Laura Kottschade, the proud owner of Jerry's Abra Auto Body & Glass in Mankato, Minnesota, shared how she has continued her family's 50-year legacy in the business. Kottschade discussed her rise from working in the parts room to owning the franchise, as well as her community-focused efforts, including raising over $3,800 for Alzheimer's research just last year and supporting first responders with hands-on training events. Her dedication to her business and community earned her the Abra Community Champion award in 2024 at the annual conference.   

"Being part of this panel was an incredible opportunity to share my journey and connect with other women who are making a difference in this industry," said Kottschade. "It's important to show the impact women can have in collision repair, and how we're breaking barriers and changing the landscape." 

Wendy Murray, who operates six successful locations across CARSTAR and Fix Auto USA alongside her son, Kyle, highlighted the importance of family in her business. Murray, whose family has been deeply rooted in the network since 2014, discussed how she continues to empower women in business and create opportunities for success within the industry. She also serves on the CARSTAR advisory council and the Edge Performance Group, helping to shape the future of the industry. 

"Being on this panel allowed me to reflect on how far we've come as women in collision repair," said Murray. "It's inspiring to see so many women breaking into leadership roles and proving that success in this industry is about skill, determination, and passion." 

The Driven Brands Women's Employee Resource Group aims to connect employees across Driven to create a community where everyone can learn, develop, innovate, and network. It's open to women and allies across the company. The ERG has hosted panel discussions, networking events, and volunteer activities. It's a grassroots organization led by employees. 

For more information, visit drivenbrands.com. 

D Lot Designer Display and Charity Auto Returns to Detroit Autorama Hot Rod Show

The D Lot Designer's Display and Charity Auction will be back at the Detroit Autorama Hot Rod Show, February 28 through March 2, 2025, at Huntington Place in Detoroit, Michigan, with more than $50,000 in prizes available for auction and raffle. The D Lot has raised more than $250,000 for charitable causes, generating more than 200,000 meals for the hungry and helping valuable wishes for children in need become a reality. Proceeds from the 2025 D Lot online auction will benefit Make-A-Wish Michigan.

The D Lot was created more than 10 years ago by Murray Pfaff of Pfaff Designs and is now considered one of the largest displays at the Detroit Autorama.

This year's The D Lot display includes:

• Previous Make-A-Wish recipient Josh Agnello shows off his '68 Ford Galaxie Wish Car gifted to him 18 years ago.
• Slot Mods shows off its new mega-slot car rally track flanked by two classic rally cars: Murray Pfaff's '68 Saab and Matt Lifter's iconic Mini Cooper.
• Darell Johnston of Carolina Speed & Metal debuts two incredible builds, which were submitted for the Ridler Award competition: Sal Vicari's magnificent '39 Lincoln Zephyr Fastback and Darell's own vibrant '70 Plymouth 'cuda.
• Other cars include Szott Automotive's Panther Pink electric Dodge Charger Daytona and Ted Johnson's Richard Petty edition '24 Mustang GT Convertible, both cars designed by Murray Pfaff.

Companies who contributed to The D Lot and make this event a success include its presenting sponsor--Pilot Transport; Primary sponsors--Auto Metal Direct, 3D car care products, POR-15; and participating sponsors Gearhead Homes, Painless Performance Products, Forgeline, Ididit, Vanguard Motors, U Coat-it, Diamond Back Tires, Axiom Graphics, MotorCity Auto Spa, Kicker, Phoenix Transmissions, Bilstein, WireCare, ALRO Metals Outlet, Slot Mods, California Car Cover, Hemmings and Pfaff Designs.

Tickets for the "Pick-A-Prize" raffle during the Detroit Autorama are $5 each with a chance to win items ranging from a hand-crafted gasser-styled pedal car, 52-in. toolbox, 65-in. smart TV, performance parts, tools, audio components and much more.

The D Lot online auction extends two to three weeks beyond the event and can be accessed here. Some of the items up for auction include a Detroit Historical Society Guided Tour for up to 10 People of The Secret Storage Facility, vehicle shipping anywhere in the lower 48 states from Pilot Transport, Certificate Towards the Purchase of any Phoenix Transmissions automatic transmission torque converter, certificate for $500 towards the purchase of any AMD products, $2,500 off Forgeline Wheels, and $2,500 off Schott Performance Wheels.

For more information and to participate in the silent auction, visit facebook.com/thedlot.

By SEMA News Editors

The SEMA Garage continues to host engaging, hands-on events in partnership with AUTEL. These two-day training sessions focus on advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and help participants gain valuable knowledge on fundamentals, calibration techniques and necessary reporting practices. As the number of ADAS-equipped vehicles continues to grow, mastering the proper calibration of these systems is becoming increasingly vital. 

SEMA Garage Detroit will host its next AUTEL ADAS training session on Tuesday, March 25, and Wednesday, March 26, at the facility located at 14655 Jib St, Plymouth, Michigan, 48170.

RSVP for the upcoming session on the Autel website here (simply navigate to the "Detroit" tab under the first event), and keep an eye out for additional sessions later this calendar year.

For more information, contact academy@autel.com or visit the Autel website here.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) is hosting a virtual General Membership Meeting on Thursday, March 6, at 10:00 a.m. PST/1:00 p.m. EST, during which select committee leaders will share updates about FLN's member benefits.

The meeting is open to current and prospective members and will enable attendees to discover resources designed to help young professionals succeed in the automotive specialty-equipment industry. Attendees will hear about networking events, volunteer opportunities, recognition programs and webinars designed to support professional growth. Additionally, details will be shared about the FLN Professional Development Programs taking place in May at the SEMA Garage in Detroit, Michigan.

FLN membership is free and open to individuals under the age of 40 who work for a SEMA member company. If this sounds like you, don't miss this opportunity to take action in the industry and grow your network by getting more involved.

Register here.