By Ashley Reyes

Applications for the 2026 SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) Professional Development Program, happening May 14-15 at the SEMA Garage Detroit, close Friday, April 13, at www.sema.org/fln-pdp. The program is open to all SEMA members.
 

To advance in your career, it's important to know how to communicate with confidence, present yourself professionally, and navigate workplace challenges effectively. Through the Professional Development Program, you'll learn directly from Dale Carnegie certified trainers as they walk you through the communication skills necessary to optimize your performance, lead with conviction and positively impact your company's bottom line.
 

In just two days, you'll become an active practitioner of the communication principles outlined in the Dale Carnegie book How to Win Friends and Influence People.

What You'll Gain:

• Elevate your communication skills through interactive lessons.   
• Take part in group exercises that will teach you to communicate professionally and confidently in various business situations. 
• Gain strategies to build relationships and deal with difficult people in multiple scenarios.  
• Strengthen your ability to gain cooperation and influence people, including direct reports, laterally and upward. 
• Find out how to use emotional controls to sustain success.  
• Learn how to navigate challenging situations through effective communication.  

"After attending the Professional Development Program, I feel more capable with communication, both with staff at work and with family at home," said 2024 PDP participant Jordon Mosher of Diode Dynamics. "This training opened my eyes to the fact that my communication style can be much more refined to more clearly communicate with those around me."

Unlike other professional development programs, the FLN Professional Development Program offers quality networking and conversations targeted to automotive aftermarket professionals. You'll exchange experiences, learn from others and establish friendships with those who have similar passions and goals. 

Apply for the FLN Professional Development Program at sema.org/fln-pdp. 

By Ashley Reyes

To help restoration parts manufacturers showcase their newest innovations to classic car builders and consumers, the SEMA Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) invites its manufacturing members to enter the Hot Products Showcase, taking place April 22-25, at the Spring Carlisle Show in Carlisle, Pennsylvania.
 

If your company manufactures products that are used to build or restore classic vehicles, the Hot Products Showcase is your opportunity to highlight them in a high-traffic area of the Spring Carlisle Show--for free. By entering the Showcase--located next to the grandstands--you increase brand visibility within the restoration community, place your products in front of consumers actively looking to build or restore and will compete for a Best New Product Award.  
 

Why Enter the Showcase?  

1. Boost Visibility: Share what products are new and exciting from your brand.  
2. Facilitate Coverage: Help media at the show identify your company's latest innovations.
3. Maximize ROI: Get free product exposure just for being an ARMO member.
4. Get Noticed Early: Showcase your new products ahead of the 2026 SEMA Show.   
5. Win an Award: Your product could win a Best New Product Award in the following categories: Exterior, Interior, Engine, Accessory Item, Drivetrain/Brakes/Suspension and People's Choice.  

Available to ARMO members only, the entry form is quick to complete and tailored to highlight key details that matter most to consumers and media. Even if you are not attending the Spring Carlisle Show, all you need to do is ship your product to the Show with a return label, and ARMO takes care of the rest. Manufacturers attending the Show can simply drop off the product at the Hot Products Showcase tent.

Enter your products into the ARMO Hot Products Showcase here.

Not an ARMO member? Learn more and join here.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA has opened applications for its nine council and network select committees at www.sema.org/volunteer.   
 

The strength of SEMA lies in its year-round commitment to the industry's future. This momentum is powered by staff and volunteers dedicated to fostering the success of the entire automotive aftermarket.
 

While staff manage day-to-day operations, council and network select committee volunteers are a huge part of the association's success, donating their time behind-the-scenes to advocate, protect and promote specific industry segments and professional communities.

What's Involved  

Becoming a select committee volunteer is your chance to influence progress in your market segment, help guide SEMA programs and initiatives and support the industry causes and issues you care about. Volunteering with other industry leaders, you'll help build programs, events and educational opportunities that are valuable to members--all while having fun with like-minded peers.
 

What's in It for You

Volunteering on a select committee is a great way to build leadership skills, expand your professional network and gain early insight into trends and insights that affect your segment. You'll also gain satisfaction from knowing that your contributions are driving real change, supporting the industry and making a lasting impact.

From tracks to shops, select committee volunteers are committed to their community's success. Pictured are the Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) and Wheel, Tire, Suspension & Brake Council (WTSBC) select committees at their long-range planning meeting.

Why Volunteering Matters

The decisions made by committee members impact everything from council and network signature programs and networking events to educational webinars and business resources. By joining a select committee, you're actively participating in the decision-making process and advocating for the growth of and success of your community.
 

Apply Now and Turn Your Passion Into Impact

Whether you possess strong aftermarket knowledge, thrive as a collaborator, or have ideas for enhancing SEMA's current programs, your help is wanted. Volunteering doesn't require you to be an industry veteran--only a passion for making a real difference.   
 

As a select committee volunteer, you'll play an essential role strengthening your community and ensuring that SEMA's programs reflect the needs and values of its members. Learn more and apply here.

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Show organizers know travel costs can add up, which is why they've partnered with several airlines to offer exclusive discounts for attendees heading to the 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6, in Las Vegas.

With these deals from exclusive SEMA Show partners--detailed below--attendees can take advantage of airfare savings while planning their trip to the industry's premier automotive aftermarket event.

Airline Discount Codes for 2026 SEMA Show Attendees

All codes are valid for travel dates October 27 through November 9, 2026.

Can't view the table? Scroll to the bottom of it for the text-only details.

Alaska Airlines
7% off published fares 
October 27 - November 9, 2026 
CMO943
1-800-445-4435 (fee applies to phone reservations)
alaskaair.com

United Airlines
2%, 5%, or 7% discounts*
October 27 - November 9, 2026
ZS5W757550
(800) 426-1122**
Click here to book on the United website.

Delta Air Lines
3%, 5%, or 8% discounts*
October 27 - November 9, 2026
NY4K4
(800) 328-1111***
Click here to book on the Delta Air Lines website.

Don't forget to book your hotel through the SEMA Show's official provider, onPeak, to secure the best rates, flexible booking options and rewards points. Skipping the official block could mean leaving money--and perks like MGM Collection with Marriott Bonvoy rewards points--on the table, so lock in your room early to make the most of your 2026 SEMA Show experience. Book here or click the button below:

*Depending on fare class, applicable in most regions.
 

**United Airlines' Meetings Reservation Desk from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. CT, Monday–Friday (closed for major U.S. holidays) at 800-426-1122 for booking assistance. Booking fees are waived for United Meetings reservations. International customers may contact their local United® Reservation Desk.
 

***You may also call Delta Meeting Network® at 800-328-1111, Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. (EST) and refer to Meeting Event Code NY4K4. Please note there is no service fee for reservations booked and ticketed via the Delta Airlines' reservation 800 number.

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA and PRI are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jim Michaelian, the longtime President and CEO of the Grand Prix Association of Long Beach. 
 

Michaelian was a cornerstone of the Grand Prix Association since its founding in 1975, playing a pivotal role in growing the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach into one of the most prestigious and culturally significant events in global motorsports. His dedication to the sport, his precision in event management, and his unwavering commitment to the Southern California racing community made him a titan of the industry. 
 

More than just a savvy executive, Michaelian was a competitive sports car racer and a true enthusiast. He possessed a unique perspective that allowed him to see the sport from every angle, understanding that at its heart, racing is about people--the drivers, the teams and most importantly, the fans. 
 

Mike Spagnola, CEO of SEMA and PRI, shared the following tribute: 

"The racing world has lost a true pioneer and a dear friend. Jim Michaelian didn't just run a race; he curated an experience that defined the spirit of American motorsports for generations. His impact on the industry, and specifically on the performance and racing community here in Southern California, is immeasurable. Jim was a man of immense integrity and vision, and his presence in the paddock and the boardroom will be profoundly missed. Our thoughts are with his family and the entire Grand Prix Association team.
 

"Jim's legacy will live on every time a green flag drops on the streets of Long Beach. SEMA and PRI join the entire automotive world in honoring his remarkable life and his indelible contributions to the sport we love." 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA urges California enthusiasts and small businesses to speak up early and help move SB 1392 forward. 

A new version of "Leno's Law" has been introduced in California as Senate Bill (SB) 1392, authored by Sen. Dave Cortese with Sen. Shannon Grove returning as the main coauthor. This bipartisan effort is backed by legendary car enthusiast Jay Leno and supported by SEMA. 
 

SB 1392 provides a clear, limited pathway for qualifying collector vehicles to receive relief from the state's biennial smog check requirement. The bill is narrowly designed: it applies only to collector vehicles, requires collector-vehicle insurance with proof at registration, and phases in eligibility in a controlled way--starting with certain older model years and expanding gradually over time. 
 

This exemption is crucial as it addresses the challenges classic car owners face, including the difficulty and expense of finding smog stations equipped to test older vehicles. For many enthusiasts, keeping older vehicles compliant has become more difficult and more expensive as fewer shops maintain the specialized equipment needed to test older vehicles. Currently, only 7% of California smog checks are performed on pre-OBD-II vehicles, and many STAR-certified stations test fewer than one of these vehicles per day. Classic cars are typically driven only on special occasions, weekends or to car shows, minimizing their environmental impact compared to daily-driven vehicles. SB 1392 offers a practical update to reflect how collector vehicles are actually used: typically sparingly, carefully maintained and often for community events. 
 

SEMA urges California enthusiasts and small businesses to speak up early and help move SB 1392 forward. 
 

Take action now: Visit semahq.org and sign up for updates straight to your inbox.
 

"Few things in our divided nation unite us in the way our love of cars and trucks do. Our vehicles are a bridge between generations, a driver of economic empowerment and the source of a rich culture and heritage that transcends demographics," said Mike Spagnola, SEMA CEO. "Leno's Law is an important cultivator for our shared car culture, an update to existing law that empowers the next generation to enjoy for decades to come the vehicles that are most meaningful to them, while providing Californians with the assurances that existing laws and policies regarding smog emissions are appropriately updated to best serve all communities. SEMA strongly urges passage of Leno's Law, and thanks Senators Cortese and Grove for their bipartisan work to unite Californians under our love of motor vehicles." 
 

SEMA, based in Diamond Bar, California, represents nearly 1,100 member businesses in California. This thriving aftermarket industry significantly contributes to California's economy, generating more than $40 billion in economic impact, supporting approximately 150,000 jobs, $14 billion in wages and benefits, and $6 billion in taxes. 
 

For updates on "Leno's Law," sign up to be a SEMA Action Member orcontact Victor Muñoz, SEMA senior manager for state government affairs, at victorm@sema.org. 

This story was originally published on February 24, 2026.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA urges California enthusiasts and small businesses to speak up early and help move SB 1392 forward. 

A new version of "Leno's Law" has been introduced in California as Senate Bill (SB) 1392, authored by Sen. Dave Cortese with Sen. Shannon Grove returning as the main coauthor. This bipartisan effort is backed by legendary car enthusiast Jay Leno and supported by SEMA. 
 

SB 1392 provides a clear, limited pathway for qualifying collector vehicles to receive relief from the state's biennial smog check requirement. The bill is narrowly designed: it applies only to collector vehicles, requires collector-vehicle insurance with proof at registration, and phases in eligibility in a controlled way--starting with certain older model years and expanding gradually over time. 
 

This exemption is crucial as it addresses the challenges classic car owners face, including the difficulty and expense of finding smog stations equipped to test older vehicles. For many enthusiasts, keeping older vehicles compliant has become more difficult and more expensive as fewer shops maintain the specialized equipment needed to test older vehicles. Currently, only 7% of California smog checks are performed on pre-OBD-II vehicles, and many STAR-certified stations test fewer than one of these vehicles per day. Classic cars are typically driven only on special occasions, weekends or to car shows, minimizing their environmental impact compared to daily-driven vehicles. SB 1392 offers a practical update to reflect how collector vehicles are actually used: typically sparingly, carefully maintained and often for community events. 
 

SEMA urges California enthusiasts and small businesses to speak up early and help move SB 1392 forward. 
 

Take action now: Visit semahq.org and sign up for updates straight to your inbox.
 

"Few things in our divided nation unite us in the way our love of cars and trucks do. Our vehicles are a bridge between generations, a driver of economic empowerment and the source of a rich culture and heritage that transcends demographics," said Mike Spagnola, SEMA CEO. "Leno's Law is an important cultivator for our shared car culture, an update to existing law that empowers the next generation to enjoy for decades to come the vehicles that are most meaningful to them, while providing Californians with the assurances that existing laws and policies regarding smog emissions are appropriately updated to best serve all communities. SEMA strongly urges passage of Leno's Law, and thanks Senators Cortese and Grove for their bipartisan work to unite Californians under our love of motor vehicles." 
 

SEMA, based in Diamond Bar, California, represents nearly 1,100 member businesses in California. This thriving aftermarket industry significantly contributes to California's economy, generating more than $40 billion in economic impact, supporting approximately 150,000 jobs, $14 billion in wages and benefits, and $6 billion in taxes. 
 

For updates on "Leno's Law," sign up to be a SEMA Action Member orcontact Victor Muñoz, SEMA senior manager for state government affairs, at victorm@sema.org. 

This story was originally published on February 24, 2026.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA urges California enthusiasts and small businesses to speak up early and help move SB 1392 forward. 

A new version of "Leno's Law" has been introduced in California as Senate Bill (SB) 1392, authored by Sen. Dave Cortese with Sen. Shannon Grove returning as the main coauthor. This bipartisan effort is backed by legendary car enthusiast Jay Leno and supported by SEMA. 
 

SB 1392 provides a clear, limited pathway for qualifying collector vehicles to receive relief from the state's biennial smog check requirement. The bill is narrowly designed: it applies only to collector vehicles, requires collector-vehicle insurance with proof at registration, and phases in eligibility in a controlled way--starting with certain older model years and expanding gradually over time. 
 

This exemption is crucial as it addresses the challenges classic car owners face, including the difficulty and expense of finding smog stations equipped to test older vehicles. For many enthusiasts, keeping older vehicles compliant has become more difficult and more expensive as fewer shops maintain the specialized equipment needed to test older vehicles. Currently, only 7% of California smog checks are performed on pre-OBD-II vehicles, and many STAR-certified stations test fewer than one of these vehicles per day. Classic cars are typically driven only on special occasions, weekends or to car shows, minimizing their environmental impact compared to daily-driven vehicles. SB 1392 offers a practical update to reflect how collector vehicles are actually used: typically sparingly, carefully maintained and often for community events. 
 

SEMA urges California enthusiasts and small businesses to speak up early and help move SB 1392 forward. 
 

Take action now: Visit semahq.org and sign up for updates straight to your inbox.
 

"Few things in our divided nation unite us in the way our love of cars and trucks do. Our vehicles are a bridge between generations, a driver of economic empowerment and the source of a rich culture and heritage that transcends demographics," said Mike Spagnola, SEMA CEO. "Leno's Law is an important cultivator for our shared car culture, an update to existing law that empowers the next generation to enjoy for decades to come the vehicles that are most meaningful to them, while providing Californians with the assurances that existing laws and policies regarding smog emissions are appropriately updated to best serve all communities. SEMA strongly urges passage of Leno's Law, and thanks Senators Cortese and Grove for their bipartisan work to unite Californians under our love of motor vehicles." 
 

SEMA, based in Diamond Bar, California, represents nearly 1,100 member businesses in California. This thriving aftermarket industry significantly contributes to California's economy, generating more than $40 billion in economic impact, supporting approximately 150,000 jobs, $14 billion in wages and benefits, and $6 billion in taxes. 
 

For updates on "Leno's Law," sign up to be a SEMA Action Member orcontact Victor Muñoz, SEMA senior manager for state government affairs, at victorm@sema.org. 

This story was originally published on February 24, 2026.

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Live Presented by AutoZone wrapped another standout year at the 2025 SEMA Show (November 4–7 in Las Vegas), drawing record online engagement and giving fans unprecedented access to the Show floor, outdoor activations, and industry icons. With 31 hours of live programming streamed across YouTube and Meta, the broadcast captured the best of the SEMA Show--from the latest builds and trending products to can't-miss interviews and high-energy demos.

Returning host Chris Jacobs led the on-site team alongside Alliyah Becerra, JC Fernandez, and 14-year-old newcomer Elija Isra, whose debut added fresh energy and perspective to the coverage.

Highlights from the 2025 Broadcast

• Battle of the Builders, Up Close: Viewers followed the competitors from concept to reveal, with behind-the-scenes access to their stories and craftsmanship.
• Outdoor Action Like Never Before: New all-access cameras brought every burnout, drift, and stunt to life from Hoonigan Burnyard, HorsePower Rodeo, Nitro Circus, OPTIMA Unleashed, and SPARQ Slide City.
• High-Impact Segments: Fast-paced coverage matched the energy of the Show, spotlighting more vehicles, tech, and trends in real time.
• Legends Live On Air: Industry icons, including Antron Brown, Chip Foose, Dave Kindig, Jay Leno, Gabriel "Fluffy" Iglesias, and the Ringbrothers, among countless others, headlined this year's lineup.
• Record Reveal Count: More manufacturers than ever chose SEMA Live for their global debuts.
• First-Ever SEMA Cruise Broadcast: The full Friday SEMA Cruise aired live from 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. PST, closing out the week with thousands of custom builds parading before fans as they traverse Las Vegas roads.

From in-depth storytelling to unscripted moments, SEMA Live presented by AutoZone once again proved to be the ultimate way to experience the SEMA Show, whether on-site or streaming from around the world. Catch the highlights for yourself: here are the four SEMA Live segments from this year's broadcast, featuring unforgettable reveals, on-site action, and interviews straight from the Show floor.

2025 SEMA Show: Tuesday, November 4

2025 SEMA Show: Wednesday, November 5

2025 SEMA Show: Thursday, November 6

2025 SEMA Show: Friday, November 7

2025 SEMA Show - SEMA Cruise: Friday, November 7

Subscribe to SEMA News using the "Stay tuned" widget at the bottom of the webpage for more 2025 SEMA Show coverage, or visit semashow.com.

This story was originally published on November 11, 2025.

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA Live Presented by AutoZone wrapped another standout year at the 2025 SEMA Show (November 4–7 in Las Vegas), drawing record online engagement and giving fans unprecedented access to the Show floor, outdoor activations, and industry icons. With 31 hours of live programming streamed across YouTube and Meta, the broadcast captured the best of the SEMA Show--from the latest builds and trending products to can't-miss interviews and high-energy demos.

Returning host Chris Jacobs led the on-site team alongside Alliyah Becerra, JC Fernandez, and 14-year-old newcomer Elija Isra, whose debut added fresh energy and perspective to the coverage.

Highlights from the 2025 Broadcast

• Battle of the Builders, Up Close: Viewers followed the competitors from concept to reveal, with behind-the-scenes access to their stories and craftsmanship.
• Outdoor Action Like Never Before: New all-access cameras brought every burnout, drift, and stunt to life from Hoonigan Burnyard, HorsePower Rodeo, Nitro Circus, OPTIMA Unleashed, and SPARQ Slide City.
• High-Impact Segments: Fast-paced coverage matched the energy of the Show, spotlighting more vehicles, tech, and trends in real time.
• Legends Live On Air: Industry icons, including Antron Brown, Chip Foose, Dave Kindig, Jay Leno, Gabriel "Fluffy" Iglesias, and the Ringbrothers, among countless others, headlined this year's lineup.
• Record Reveal Count: More manufacturers than ever chose SEMA Live for their global debuts.
• First-Ever SEMA Cruise Broadcast: The full Friday SEMA Cruise aired live from 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. PST, closing out the week with thousands of custom builds parading before fans as they traverse Las Vegas roads.

From in-depth storytelling to unscripted moments, SEMA Live presented by AutoZone once again proved to be the ultimate way to experience the SEMA Show, whether on-site or streaming from around the world. Catch the highlights for yourself: here are the four SEMA Live segments from this year's broadcast, featuring unforgettable reveals, on-site action, and interviews straight from the Show floor.

2025 SEMA Show: Tuesday, November 4

2025 SEMA Show: Wednesday, November 5

2025 SEMA Show: Thursday, November 6

2025 SEMA Show: Friday, November 7

2025 SEMA Show - SEMA Cruise: Friday, November 7

Subscribe to SEMA News using the "Stay tuned" widget at the bottom of the webpage for more 2025 SEMA Show coverage, or visit semashow.com.

This story was originally published on November 11, 2025.