By SEMA News Editors 

The following message is for SEMA+ members. Not yet a member? Sign up here!  

Hey SEMA+ Member, 

We've got something special just for you! As a valued SEMA+ member, you can claim a FREE ticket to the Grand National Roadster Show this weekend--Friday through Sunday--at the Fairplex in Pomona, California. 

But hurry--tickets are limited! This is your chance to connect with fellow hot rod enthusiasts and check out the SEMA+ booth located in the Main Hall.  

Claim your ticket here. 

Important details: 

• Tickets are good for a single day only 
• One ticket per SEMA+ member 

We can't wait to see you there! 

Your SEMA+ Team

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Update on Tuesday, January 28:

The U.S. Senate on Tuesday confirmed former U.S. Rep. Sean Duffy to serve as Secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Duffy, who SEMA strongly endorsed for the role, was confirmed by a bipartisan 77-22 margin.

SEMA now continues to urge its members to put the full weight of the automotive aftermarket industry behind President Donald Trump's cabinet selections for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Interior. The two nominees--former U.S. Rep. Lee Zeldin (EPA) and former North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum (Interior)--each received bipartisan support as they advanced out of their respective U.S. Senate committees of jurisdiction en route to a full Senate vote.  

• The Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works approved Rep. Zeldin's nomination by a vote of 11 to 8.  
• The Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources approved Gov. Burgum's nomination by a vote of 18 to 2. 

SEMA members are encouraged to send letters of support for each of the nominees. Use our easy online tool to send your letter now. 

SEMA's strong support for each nominee is based on their extensive qualifications and the important role these departments play in regulating the automotive aftermarket, off-road and racing industries.  

The final step is for the U.S. Senate to hold a vote on each of their nominations. Senate approval requires a simple majority of the members who voted, after which the nominee is then confirmed and can start running their respective department. 

Click here to learn more about each nominee, why SEMA is supporting them, and to send a letter to your U.S. Senators.  

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Update on Tuesday, January 28:

The U.S. Senate on Tuesday confirmed former U.S. Rep. Sean Duffy to serve as Secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Duffy, who SEMA strongly endorsed for the role, was confirmed by a bipartisan 77-22 margin.

SEMA now continues to urge its members to put the full weight of the automotive aftermarket industry behind President Donald Trump's cabinet selections for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Interior. The two nominees--former U.S. Rep. Lee Zeldin (EPA) and former North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum (Interior)--each received bipartisan support as they advanced out of their respective U.S. Senate committees of jurisdiction en route to a full Senate vote.  

• The Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works approved Rep. Zeldin's nomination by a vote of 11 to 8.  
• The Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources approved Gov. Burgum's nomination by a vote of 18 to 2. 

SEMA members are encouraged to send letters of support for each of the nominees. Use our easy online tool to send your letter now. 

SEMA's strong support for each nominee is based on their extensive qualifications and the important role these departments play in regulating the automotive aftermarket, off-road and racing industries.  

The final step is for the U.S. Senate to hold a vote on each of their nominations. Senate approval requires a simple majority of the members who voted, after which the nominee is then confirmed and can start running their respective department. 

Click here to learn more about each nominee, why SEMA is supporting them, and to send a letter to your U.S. Senators.  

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

By Ashley Reyes

Signups are open for aftermarket companies and industry professionals to host a table at the SEMA Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN)/Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) Career Fair to be held at the SEMA Garage in Detroit, Michigan. The career fair will take place on February 22, from 9:00 a.m.–2:30 p.m. EST.  

The event is part of ETTN's and SAE's shared goal of connecting future engineers and automotive students with the industry's current workforce. During the event, participating companies will share advice and career opportunities with students looking to jumpstart their careers in the specialty-equipment industry, as well as provide feedback for those actively building vehicles for SAE Collegiate Design Competitions.

Hosting a table is free for SEMA members, and $500 for non-SEMA members. With so much industry talent gathered in one place, the career fair is a great way for aftermarket businesses to meet potential candidates, increase brand awareness and connect with the greater aftermarket community. The SEMA Garage team will also provide a tour of its facility showcasing the state-of-the-art equipment used to assist SEMA members with product development. Lunch will be provided.

Register today at this link.

By Ashley Reyes

Efficient delegation is more than just assigning tasks--it's a strategic tool that empowers teams, enhances collaboration and drives results. For both new and experienced leaders, knowing how to delegate efficiently can ensure that teams remain productive, engaged and aligned to achieve shared goals.

On Thursday, February 11, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. PST, the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) will host a free webinar, in which industry experts will explore strategies to delegate efficiently and maximize everyone's success. Moderated by educator, author and wellness specialist Jenna Sage, the webinar will feature speakers Matt Beenen, president and founder of Mountech; Dan Bubniak, EOS coach at Outpace Enterprises; and Tadd Crayton, vice president, chief sales and marketing officer at COBB Tuning. Together, they will equip leaders with the tools needed to delegate with confidence while fostering growth, efficiency, and collaboration.

Key topics include:  

• The importance of delegation as a strategic tool to focus on high-priority tasks and empower your team.
• How to identify what tasks to delegate and how to delegate them effectively.
• How to ensure the assigned work aligns with team members' strengths and priorities.
• Strategies for assigning the right people to the right tasks, setting clear expectations to ensure success, and building trust and accountability within your teams.

The webinar will offer an opportunity to engage with the speakers, who each bring extensive experience in driving growth and building high-performance teams.

Register now.

By SEMA News Editors

In partnership with Ford Motor Company, the SEMA Garage has announced a measuring session for the all-new '25 Ford Maverick!

In addition, SEMA Garage is excited to announce that the event will also showcase the Ford Bronco Raptor and Ford Ranger Raptor. Attendees will have the exclusive opportunity to interact with all of these incredible vehicles during the event next month. Click here to RSVP!

• 3D Scan and Measure
• Develop Products
• Test-Fit Prototypes
• Exclusive Close-Up Experience

February 10, 2025 & February 11, 2025
SEMA Garage Detroit, Michigan
14655 Jib St.
Plymouth, MI 48170
Click here to RSVP!

For more information, contact productdevelopment@sema.org.

By SEMA News Editors

SEMA is accepting submissions until January 31 for speakers for the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4–7, in Las Vegas. Innovative thought leaders and dynamic presenters who can share new skills and trends targeted at the automotive aftermarket are invited to apply at semashow.com/speakers.

Organizers are seeking experts who can facilitate new ideas, technologies and expertise at sessions that will help industry members take their businesses and careers to the next level.

Educational sessions are one of the key pillars of the SEMA Show, where thousands of industry professionals convene to learn new business strategies and best practices. The SEMA Show education program provides relevant, engaging and inspiring information on the industry's complex issues and topics.

Topics of focus for 2025 include:

• Aftermarket updates and future trends
• Emerging and executive leadership
• Legislative and regulatory
• Sales and marketing
• Small-business strategy
• Vehicle technology
• Industry segment-specific topics

Speaker proposals for the 2025 SEMA Show must be submitted by January 31 at semashow.com/speakers.

For more details, contact Gary Vigil, SEMA senior manager of professional development, at garyv@sema.org or 909-978-6738.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) named Brian Bossone, CEO of Boss One Media LLC, as the council's newest spotlight volunteer. Get to know Bossone in his interview with SEMA News below.  

SEMA News: What inspired you to pursue a career in the truck and off-road industry?   

Brian Bossone: I've been in the industry for 35 years, with the truck and off-road segment playing a significant role throughout my career. From parts sales to custom builds during the 20-plus years I owned my performance and installation center in Maryland, to working directly with manufacturers who have become marketing partners for our shows and streaming TV network, POWERtube TV, trucks have always been a big part of my professional journey. This will continue on with my involvement with TORA. 

SN: Why did you decide to volunteer for TORA?  

BB: I joined TORA to become more involved in the industry, support its growth and connect with like-minded professionals. Additionally, I aim to offer my services through POWERtube TV, providing builders and manufacturers a platform to showcase their products and services. With our multiple streaming platform partners on TV and mobile, we offer an elevated stage that goes beyond social media and YouTube, shining a spotlight on the incredibly talented individuals and the companies that support them. 

SN: What advice do you have for someone pursuing a career in the automotive aftermarket?   

BB: Surround yourself with smart, talented people in both business and life. Listen to them, learn from them and use their insights to shape your decisions and chart your path to success--whatever your goals may be! 

SN: What is your dream truck or off-road vehicle?    

BB: I'd like to build up a new Ford Bronco Raptor or Ram TRX. I own a modified Jeep Wrangler Rubicon and '53 Ford F-100 Pro Touring.

Fill out a TORA-member spotlight form to highlight how you or your company are contributing to the truck and off-road specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on TORA's social media, SEMA News and future TORA member updates.  

By Ashley Reyes

As towing best practices evolve to accommodate new vehicle modifications, understanding what may improve or hinder towing capability is essential. By staying informed on current standards, aftermarket companies can ensure that their products deliver optimal safety and performance. 

On Thursday, February 6, at 9:00 a.m. (PST), the SEMA Wheel, Tire, Suspension & Brake Council (WTSBC) will host a Coffee and Conversation virtual event. Attendees will engage with leading experts as they speak on a range of critical topics regarding towing best practices.

Connect with these industry experts in the conversation:

• John Rastetter, Tire Information Ambassador, Tire Rack
  • Expertise: Proper Tire Selection
• Ryan Rutledge, Director of Product Development, Air Lift Company
  • Expertise: Load Leveling
• Melanie White, CEO, Hellwig Products
  • Expertise: Sway Control

WTSBC Coffee and Conversations offer a fantastic opportunity to connect with professionals in the wheel, tire, suspension and brake sectors. You'll be able to share insights, discuss common challenges and build valuable relationships with industry peers.

Register here.

By Ashley Reyes

Attendees of the 2025 Grand National Roadster Show at the Pomona Fairplex (Pomona, California) will have an exciting opportunity to connect with a panel of hot-rod-industry experts as they discuss the evolution of automotive design during a panel discussion on Friday, January 31, from 1:00-2:00 p.m. PST in Building 9. 

Hosted by the SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance, the discussion will be moderated by award-winning automotive fabricator, entrepreneur and TV host Brad Fanshaw. He will be joined by an incredible group of panelists, including:  

• Eric Brockmeyer: Renowned automotive designer and award-winning car builder. 
• Larry Erickson: Magna Exteriors' global director of exteriors with 25 years of experience in production car design. 
• Dave Marek: Executive creative director for Acura, where he is responsible for designs of the Acura brand. 
• Sean Smith: Founder of Sean Smith Designs, a creative studio specializing in the bespoke automotive industry.

Attendees will hear from the panelists as they give a behind-the-scenes look into the world of automotive design and insights into their expertise in the hot-rod world. Registration is not required.