By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) has two great opportunities for manufacturers attending the 2026 Spring Carlisle Show, April 22-26, in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, to build their brand, promote their products and grow their professional connections.

ARMO Hot Products Showcase

The ARMO Hot Products Showcase is the ideal opportunity for ARMO members to showcase their new products to the right audience at the Spring Carlisle Show –– at no extra cost to members.

By having your product featured in the Hot Products Showcase tent –– located in a high-traffic area by the grandstands –– companies can expose their product to thousands of restoration and classic car enthusiasts looking to build or restore their vehicles.

Signing up is simple: Fill out the form to let ARMO know which product you're showcasing. Ship the product to the Show with a return label, or drop off the product in person at the Hot Products Showcase tent. ARMO will take care of the rest.

Enter your product today. Not yet an ARMO member? You can apply to join.

Networking Happy Hour for Restoration Parts Manufacturers

ARMO also invites all restoration parts manufacturers to attend its networking Happy Hour, taking place Thursday, April 23, at 5:00 p.m. inside the Hot Products Showcase tent.

The Happy Hour offers a valuable chance to catch up with other members, grab a bite to eat and a beverage and check out the hot new products on display. Members and non-members alike will learn about ARMO's initiatives designed to help its members succeed in the industry, meet members of the select committee and discover how to get more involved with the council.

By SEMA News Editors

The following candidates are vying for a seat on the SEMA Board of Directors:
 

Board Seat Candidates (1 Seat)

• Mike Anderson, Collision Advice
• Jeff Hermann, MagnaFlow

Voting will take place online May 4 through May 26 and is open to current SEMA-member companies. Votes must be cast by each company's primary contact. Details on the upcoming election will be sent to the member company's designated primary contact. Winners will be announced by June 9.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Good news: the U.S. House Natural Resources Committee recently held a hearing on H.R. 7979 the Public Lands Access Restoration Act (PLARA), a SEMA and ORBA-supported bill that would restore the presumption that public lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) are open for all different types of recreation, including motorized use, unless there is a reason for a designated closure. 

Your help is still needed: send a letter to your U.S. Representative in support of H.R. 7979.  

The bill seeks to restore a long-standing "open unless posted closed" policy for lands managed by the Forest Service and BLM, reversing more restrictive access policies that have been in place since 2005.  

U.S. Representatives Jeff Crank (R-CO) and Mike Kennedy (R-UT) recently introduced the Public Lands Access Restoration Act to restore recreational access to public lands unless the land managers are able to justify closures based on resource protection or public safety reasons. The bill increases transparency and accountability in how access decisions are made on BLM and Forrest Service lands and establishes a clearer review process for restricting recreation, with the goal of balancing conservation priorities with recreational use. 

SEMA and ORBA strongly support H.R. 7979 and included the following remark in the official press release announcing Reps. Crank and Kennedy's introduction of the bill. 

"On behalf of motorized recreational businesses and the millions of off-road enthusiasts who support the industry, SEMA and ORBA thank Reps. Crank and Kennedy for introducing the Public Lands Access Restoration Act," said Karen Bailey-Chapman, the senior vice president of Government and Public Affairs for SEMA. "This bill offers an important policy shift to ensure that BLM- and Forest Service-managed lands are open to motorized vehicles unless there is a justifiable resource protection or public safety need to prohibit motorized access. We strongly support the return to an 'open unless posted closed' policy on public lands."

PLARA would restore and expand recreational access to public lands, which is critical to the local economies of communities throughout the country that depend on recreational tourism. If enacted into law, this bill will support tourism, outdoor businesses and the broader recreation economy, particularly in rural areas that rely heavily on public land use.  

The introduction of PLARA adds to ongoing congressional efforts to address access and infrastructure challenges on federal lands, building on recent bipartisan interest in outdoor recreation policy. As the bill moves forward, stakeholders across the recreation and conservation communities are expected to engage closely on its implications for access, land management, and resource protection. 

Questions? Want to invite the SEMA team to go off-roading? Contact Juan Mejia, SEMA's Senior Manager of Government Affairs, at juanm@sema.org  

This story was originally published on Tuesday, March 31.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | Reinhardt and Co

By Ashley Reyes
 

The SEMA Scholarship Program supports career development and access to the automotive industry by offering financial awards of up to $5,000 to students preparing for automotive careers. Volunteer judges play a vital role in reviewing scholarship applications and selecting deserving recipients.
 

Judges will review inspiring stories and accomplishments that highlight the talent and determination of the industry's next generation. These stories showcase students' passion for the aftermarket and the skills and perspectives shaping its future.
 

Volunteer hours are flexible and can be completed remotely on your schedule. Judging runs from late April through May. Learn more and apply to volunteer.

Learn more about the SEMA Scholarship Program at sema.org/scholarships.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA and PRI are building up its capacity to advocate for the motorsports community, adding two new strategic roles on its Washington, D.C., government affairs team to bring more focus to racing and its legislative and regulatory issues.

"The addition of these positions is a strategic investment back into the motorsports community, which is a significant economic driver and a jewel in the crown of American culture," said Karen Bailey-Chapman, SEMA senior vice president for public and government affairs. "When SEMA and PRI support racetracks, we're supporting community, innovation and our nation's competitive spirit; these new roles are in service to that calling."

SEMA is promoting Tierra Hubbard to director of government affairs for racing. In this new role, Hubbard will lead advocacy on racing-specific issues at local, state and federal levels, including developing and executing proactive legislative strategies to advance positive, racing-friendly policies at all levels of government. Hubbard, previously SEMA senior manager for state government affairs, has played a pivotal role in both organizations' national Right-to-Race campaign, helping deliver meaningful wins on the eastern half of the U.S.

"Tierra is one of the hardest-working and most effective advocates in our organization, and she's earned the respect of lawmakers and the racing community alike. Over the past year, she has led the charge on our Right-to-Race efforts, helping drive meaningful progress in multiple states and building the coalitions needed to sustain that momentum," said SEMA Senior Director for State Government Affairs Christian Robinson. "We are thrilled to see her step into this new role, where her leadership and work ethic will continue to deliver results for the motorsports community."

"Working with SEMA and PRI on motorsports initiatives has been incredibly rewarding, and because of my father's passion for racing, it serves as a personal reminder of why racetracks mean so much to communities across the country," said Hubbard. "I'm excited to get on the road, meet with track owners, drivers, pit crews and fans, and continue advancing the Right-to-Race campaign to protect and preserve this cultural treasure for generations to come."

Hubbard, a native of Minnesota, holds a degree in political science and criminal justice from George Washington University.

Lifelong motorsports enthusiast and seasoned political operative Coby Lobaugh is joining SEMA as grassroots manager for racing. This new position will help engage the motorsports community in advocacy efforts. Lobaugh brings with him a lengthy track record of success in managing digital advocacy campaigns for political candidates, not-for-profit organizations and members of the U.S. Congress.

In this new role, Lobaugh will support the efforts of SEMA and PRI to activate and educate track owners, drivers, fans and local communities on key legislative priorities.

"We're thrilled to add Coby to the PRI Government Affairs team and believe he adds a potent mix of motorsports enthusiasm and digital communications acumen," said SEMA Political Director Lauren Wilbor. "This is a critical step as PRI continues to build up our capacity to advocate for the nation's motorsports industry and its $69 billion annual economic impact, while engaging and mobilizing the people with whom the racetrack is a second home."

Lobaugh joins PRI from Judicial Watch, where he created content and oversaw broadcast productions reaching the organization's more than 7-million audience members. He also served as digital director for Rep. Mike Lawler's successful electoral campaign in New York, and built a compelling and engaging online communications platform for Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.). Lobaugh's passion for cars and automotive culture is well-documented, including stints as a contributor and photographer for Viper Quarterly Magazine, an enthusiast-focused publication devoted to Dodge's iconic sports car.

"Anyone who loves cars knows and appreciates what PRI is doing to preserve American car culture and protect our nation's motorsports industry," Lobaugh said. "It's exciting to have this opportunity to work directly with those who pour their hearts and souls into racing and motorsports and ensure that this vibrant part of our nation's heritage continues to flourish."

Lobaugh is a Texas native and holds a degree in broadcast production from Sam Houston State University.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA and PRI are building up its capacity to advocate for the motorsports community, adding two new strategic roles on its Washington, D.C., government affairs team to bring more focus to racing and its legislative and regulatory issues.

"The addition of these positions is a strategic investment back into the motorsports community, which is a significant economic driver and a jewel in the crown of American culture," said Karen Bailey-Chapman, SEMA senior vice president for public and government affairs. "When SEMA and PRI support racetracks, we're supporting community, innovation and our nation's competitive spirit; these new roles are in service to that calling."

SEMA is promoting Tierra Hubbard to director of government affairs for racing. In this new role, Hubbard will lead advocacy on racing-specific issues at local, state and federal levels, including developing and executing proactive legislative strategies to advance positive, racing-friendly policies at all levels of government. Hubbard, previously SEMA senior manager for state government affairs, has played a pivotal role in both organizations' national Right-to-Race campaign, helping deliver meaningful wins on the eastern half of the U.S.

"Tierra is one of the hardest-working and most effective advocates in our organization, and she's earned the respect of lawmakers and the racing community alike. Over the past year, she has led the charge on our Right-to-Race efforts, helping drive meaningful progress in multiple states and building the coalitions needed to sustain that momentum," said SEMA Senior Director for State Government Affairs Christian Robinson. "We are thrilled to see her step into this new role, where her leadership and work ethic will continue to deliver results for the motorsports community."

"Working with SEMA and PRI on motorsports initiatives has been incredibly rewarding, and because of my father's passion for racing, it serves as a personal reminder of why racetracks mean so much to communities across the country," said Hubbard. "I'm excited to get on the road, meet with track owners, drivers, pit crews and fans, and continue advancing the Right-to-Race campaign to protect and preserve this cultural treasure for generations to come."

Hubbard, a native of Minnesota, holds a degree in political science and criminal justice from George Washington University.

Lifelong motorsports enthusiast and seasoned political operative Coby Lobaugh is joining SEMA as grassroots manager for racing. This new position will help engage the motorsports community in advocacy efforts. Lobaugh brings with him a lengthy track record of success in managing digital advocacy campaigns for political candidates, not-for-profit organizations and members of the U.S. Congress.

In this new role, Lobaugh will support the efforts of SEMA and PRI to activate and educate track owners, drivers, fans and local communities on key legislative priorities.

"We're thrilled to add Coby to the PRI Government Affairs team and believe he adds a potent mix of motorsports enthusiasm and digital communications acumen," said SEMA Political Director Lauren Wilbor. "This is a critical step as PRI continues to build up our capacity to advocate for the nation's motorsports industry and its $69 billion annual economic impact, while engaging and mobilizing the people with whom the racetrack is a second home."

Lobaugh joins PRI from Judicial Watch, where he created content and oversaw broadcast productions reaching the organization's more than 7-million audience members. He also served as digital director for Rep. Mike Lawler's successful electoral campaign in New York, and built a compelling and engaging online communications platform for Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.). Lobaugh's passion for cars and automotive culture is well-documented, including stints as a contributor and photographer for Viper Quarterly Magazine, an enthusiast-focused publication devoted to Dodge's iconic sports car.

"Anyone who loves cars knows and appreciates what PRI is doing to preserve American car culture and protect our nation's motorsports industry," Lobaugh said. "It's exciting to have this opportunity to work directly with those who pour their hearts and souls into racing and motorsports and ensure that this vibrant part of our nation's heritage continues to flourish."

Lobaugh is a Texas native and holds a degree in broadcast production from Sam Houston State University.

By Ashley Reyes

On Tuesday, April 28, at 10:00 a.m. PT/1:00 p.m. ET, the SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) will host a General Membership Meeting and Panel Discussion on "Building Your Future Workforce: Practical Hiring Pathways for Automotive Businesses."
 

Designed to address the urgent need for sustainable talent pipelines in the industry, this session will help automotive businesses strengthen their future workforce by understanding proven talent pathways, including hands-on training, certified education and institutional college programs, as well as helping students and parents see that there is more than one road to success.
 

Moderated by Kevin Webb, owner at Hot Rod Custom Garage, the session will feature panelists George Arrants, vice president at ASE Education Foundation; Cindy Barlow, director of industry relations at Wyotech; and Aaron Valencia, executive director and founder at Los Angels Career Center. Together, they will help shop owners understand what students value today, how to communicate career progression clearly, and how to build a culture that supports long-term retention and growth.
 

Discussion topics include:

• Talent pipeline challenges and growth strategies
• Multiple entry ways into the industry
• The early engagement and mentorship model
• Career profession and retention strategies
• Aligning shop culture with next-generation workforce expectations
• Action steps for partnership and hiring within 90 days
• Executing a long-term industry-to-education vision

Whether you're looking to attract, develop or retain the next generation of talent at your business, this event will help you understand the training pathways available today, how to connect with emerging talent and actionable steps you can take immediately to begin building a stronger workforce pipeline.
 

Register.

By SEMA News Editors

Travel costs can stack up quickly for business travel, but SEMA Show organizers are helping attendees stay on budget with exclusive hotel rates, added perks and a streamlined booking experience for 2026.

SEMA Show's block of Las Vegas hotels offers options across every price tier, with the best nightly rates — plus exclusive perks and a simple, affordable booking process.

Hotel reservations for the 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6, Las Vegas, can be made online at semashow.com/hotel.

See the top five benefits of booking your 2026 SEMA Show hotel through our only official partner, onPeak, below:

Deep Value and Discounts 

SEMA negotiates the lowest available nightly rates -- often below hotel rack rates. Skip the hours of searching online and book directly through onPeak--but don't wait! Visit semashow.com/hotel as early as possible to lock in the best available rates. 

Even better, organizers will price-match if you find a lower rate -- so there's no downside to booking within the official SEMA Show hotel block.

Earn Hotel Rewards Points 

Hotel rewards points add up quickly, especially during trade show travel. Reservations made through official SEMA Show hotels are eligible for loyalty programs. Simply enter your rewards number when booking, and you're set.

For example, SEMA Showgoers who are already Marriott Bonvoy members (a free program) can earn points by following these steps:

• Book your SEMA Show hotel through onPeak, the official housing provider. Select a Marriott or MGM property.
• Enter your unique Marriott Bonvoy number in the "Hotel Rewards" section upon check-out. 
• IMPORTANT: Provide your Marriott Bonvoy number again at the front desk during check-in.

Fully Flexible Booking

Plans change. There are no change fees and no full prepayment required at the time of booking -- unlike many other booking channels. You can modify or cancel your reservation without penalty through October 8.

Easy Group Bookings 

Book your entire group -- large or small -- in real time with immediate confirmations. Reserve rooms now and assign guests later.

You can select rooms based on preferred travel dates and manage payments for the full group or assign individual payment methods.

A Sustainable Hotel Stay 

The official SEMA Show hotel provider, onPeak, offers resources to support more sustainable travel. View hotel sustainability plans at onpeak.com/sustainability and explore additional travel tips at blog.onpeak.com.

The 2026 SEMA Show is set for November 3-6, in Las Vegas. Interested exhibitors can buy a booth and learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor. Attendee and buyer registration opens in Spring 2026; to sign up for notifications, visit here. For more information, visit semashow.com. 

By SEMA News Editors

The exhibitor space rental agreement (ESRA) for the 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6 in Las Vegas, is open. Exhibitors may still apply, but priority booth selection has concluded.

Securing booth space early is the first step toward maximizing ROI at the SEMA Show--an unrivaled opportunity for aftermarket companies to drive sales, meet new customers and elevate brand visibility.

Exhibiting at the SEMA Show delivers measurable value for businesses:

Increase Brand Awareness

Whether established or emerging, exhibiting at SEMA is a high-impact investment that accelerates brand growth.

"SEMA is a big deal for us," said Melissa Parra of Speedmaster.

Connect With Customers

Meet face-to-face with existing customers and build stronger relationships with new buyers on the Show floor.

"It's great, especially for our international folks and all our B2B partners. We get to have that face-to-face time. Those in-person meetings are just invaluable for us," said Cassie Jordy of Bestop.

Expand Sales Channels

Open doors to new markets through connections with retailers, distributors and partners across the globe.

"When we first started coming [to the SEMA Show], we were a small company. It’s helped get us in front of buyers that we would not have had that face-to-face opportunity and connection with otherwise," said Tiffanie Hartenstein of Oracle Lighting.

Launch New Products

Exhibitors display their latest innovations in front of a massive, engaged audience ready to discover what's next.

"No where else can we get to this many of our dealers and our consumers and show them new products they get to touch and feel," said John Meyers of Kicker.

Secure booth space and drive real results at the 2026 SEMA Show.

The booth plotting process is a little different this year. Questions? Read this article or contact SEMA at 240-ASK-SEMA (240-275-7362) or via email at customercare@sema.org.  

The 2026 SEMA Show is set for November 3-6, in Las Vegas. Interested exhibitors can buy a booth and learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor. Attendee and buyer registration opens in Spring 2026; to sign up for notifications, visit here. For more information, visit semashow.com. 

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Show exhibitors are invited to an exclusive, multi-day program--complimentary and built to help companies maximize return on their SEMA Show investment.

Registration is now open for the SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit, which returns to Las Vegas in June, at the Las Vegas Convention Center South Hall Skybridge. View the agenda and register at semashow.com/exhibitor-summit.
 

The Exhibitor Summit--which takes place Wednesday, June 10 and Thursday, June 11, with hotel check-out Friday, June 12--is an exhibitor's strategic head start. Whether a company is a first-timer or a seasoned exhibitor, this event is where exhibitors can refine their plan, cut unnecessary costs and unlock true SEMA Show success. The program will cover how to:
 

• Boost ROI: Work directly with experts to plan, budget and optimize SEMA Show investments.
• Drive Traffic: Learn proven strategies to attract buyers and generate leads.
• Save Money: Learn insider strategies to cut costs on drayage, electrical and rigging.
• Perfect Your Launch: Get a step-by-step roadmap for product launches and media engagement.
• Promote Your Brand: Explore sponsorship and marketing opportunities to increase brand visibility.
• Network: Build direct relationships with the SEMA team and fellow industry leaders.

Preview the New LVCC

In addition, this year's Summit delivers an all-access preview of the newly remodeled Las Vegas Convention Center, now featuring a modernized campus designed to elevate the exhibitor and attendee experience with:
 

• A reimagined Central Hall Grand Lobby that features a striking glass curtain wall and abundant natural light.
• New digital signage creating high-visibility branding opportunities in the Grand Lobby.
• A climate-controlled concourse that connects the North and South Halls.
• A new East entrance, state-of-the-art boardroom and modern administrative offices redefine the South Hall.
• The extended West Hall ribbon roof brings bold cohesion across the campus.

Register to join this event in Las Vegas this June, and the SEMA team will have the rest covered. Exhibitors enjoy complimentary event registration, a two-night hotel stay (for up to two representatives from each exhibiting company) and select meals--all courtesy of SEMA.

Have questions about the Exhibitor Summit? Contact SEMA Show Management at 909-396-0289 or email regmgr@sema.org.

2026 SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit

Who's Invited: 2026 SEMA Show exhibitors
What: Hands-on program designed to help exhibitors maximize ROI
When: June 10-12 (travel day is Friday, June 12)
Where: Las Vegas Convention Center South Hall Skybridge, Las Vegas, Nevada
Cost: Free registration, a two-night hotel stay (for up to two representatives per company) and select meals.
Find out more.

In related news, SEMA has launched a new customer management system ahead of this year's SEMA Show, November 3-6, 2026, in Las Vegas. Read more about that.

To improve how SEMA engages with exhibitors and serves the industry year-round, the association has migrated to a new customer management system powered by Salesforce.