From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Editor's Note: This story was originally published on March 23, 2026. A more recent story is available.

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

Editor's Note: This story was originally published on March 23, 2026. A more recent story is available.

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

Editor's Note: 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 is now open online. For more information, visit semashow.com. SEMA Fest has been confirmed for Friday, November 6, 2026, and industry members will get the lowest rate on tickets through the registration portal and Attendee Resource Center. Sign up for updates at semafest.com.   

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

   

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

This article was originally published on November 11, 2025.

By SEMA News Editors

Editor's Note: 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 is now open online. For more information, visit semashow.com. SEMA Fest has been confirmed for Friday, November 6, 2026, and industry members will get the lowest rate on tickets through the registration portal and Attendee Resource Center. Sign up for updates at semafest.com.   

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

   

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

This article was originally published on November 11, 2025.

By SEMA News Editors 

SEMA is expanding the SEMA Show's powersports presence by launching a dedicated Powersports/Side-by-Side (SxS)/Lifestyle section at the 2026 SEMA Show, held November 3-6 in Las Vegas. This strategic expansion creates a unified home for the rapidly growing intersection of the automotive and powersports communities.
 

The initiative is a direct response to clear market demand and the evolving habits of the modern enthusiast. SEMA research confirms that the crossover between these worlds is seamless: the vast majority of enthusiasts do not limit themselves to a single vehicle type, often owning a combination of modified trucks, SUVs and various recreational powersports vehicles.
 

"This expansion is a bold step forward in SEMA's mission to serve the entire enthusiast ecosystem," said SEMA Vice President of Events Tom Gattuso. "Powersports has always been an integral part of SEMA's DNA, and we are now providing this community with the dedicated platform it deserves. By integrating powersports and related lifestyle products into our Show floor, we are creating a more powerful, unified resource for the aftermarket. This move celebrates the natural synergy between automotive and outdoor recreation, ensuring our members have the advocacy, resources and product discovery platform they need to thrive in a modern, evolving market."

A Dynamic Activation in the West Hall 

The Powersports/SxS/Lifestyle section will be anchored in the West Hall, utilizing a layout designed for long-term growth. The location offers unique access to adjacent parking lots for dynamic outdoor activations and vehicle demonstrations.
 

The Show floor will undergo an evolution to group Trucks, Off-Road and Powersports together, reflecting the "total package" approach enthusiasts take toward their adventure builds. The section will highlight a diverse range of categories, including:
 

• Motorcycles and dirt bikes
• Side-by-Sides
• Trailers and tow vehicles
• Related adventure lifestyle gear and accessories

New and returning manufacturers are already showing excitement for the expanded section.

"We're proud to represent KYT Helmets at SEMA 2026," said TJ Jira, CEO of KYT Americas. "We believe it's an opportunity to elevate powersports and bring more visibility to our brand in the market."
 

An Integrated Attendee Experience
 

For attendees, the new layout enhances business opportunities by placing complementary products in a single, high-energy destination.
 

"Attendees can expect an immersive and highly interactive experience that mirrors how they actually live and work," said SEMA Trade Show Director Andy Tompkins. "By grouping powersports and lifestyle gear alongside our world-class truck and off-road sections, we are providing an unmatched opportunity to see the latest in the adventure market."

Market-Aligned Synergy

SEMA's membership is already a powerhouse in the powersports sector. According to SEMA Research, 60% of specialty-equipment manufacturers already produce products for at least one type of powersports or recreational vehicle, while 47% of retailers and installers sell to these segments.

Beyond the Show floor, SEMA offers members tools to modernize their businesses, including data resources, technical services and a powerful unified voice to protect the industry's future. Through the acquisition of the Off-Road Business Association (ORBA), SEMA has strengthened its presence in Washington, D.C., and Sacramento, California, to fight for land-use protection and motorized recreation access--issues that are critical to the survival of the powersports industry.

The new section allows the entire ecosystem to gather, learn about the latest products, take part in cutting-edge education to grow businesses and careers, and unite to solve opportunities and challenges facing the powersports marketplace.
 

Important Deadlines

Interested exhibitors can learn more and reserve a booth at www.semashow.com/powersports, or by contacting Mike Ausec, industry sales director, powersports and lifestyle, at mikea@sema.org or 714-213-1584.
 

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

Mojave Desert, Nevada.

Last year, SEMA announced its acquisition of the Off-Road Business Association (ORBA), an organization dedicated to representing businesses and professionals in the off-road and powersports industries, including motorcycles, ATVs, side-by-sides and snowmobiles. Ever since, SEMA and ORBA have been working harmoniously to advocate for policies that protect motorized access to roads and trails on government-owned lands. Below are the latest policy updates on areas of key interest to the motorized recreation community.

Western Mojave Faces 2,200-Mile OHV Closure; Off-Road Community Pushes Back

Off-road advocates push back hard on possible closures with the help of SEMA and ORBA.

SEMA and ORBA, along with a broad coalition of stakeholders, issued a statement decrying a federal court ruling that will result in the closure of approximately 2,200 miles of designated OHV routes across the Western Mohave planning area. Click here to read it. This is a ruling that, if upheld, would result in a significant loss of motorized access for families, recreationists, and public lands enthusiasts from across California and throughout the United States.

The letter, sent under the Ecologic Partners Coalition banner, highlights not only the consequences of the closures but also the order's reliance on flawed assumptions about desert tortoise mortality. The coalition, which is comprised of SEMA, ORBA, American Sand Association and AMA District 37, points to decades of scientific evidence that the court failed to take into account, specifically how predator subsidy effects, disease dynamics, and landscape-scale habitat pressures from utility-scale renewable energy projects and other industrial development are the primary and most significant contributors to desert tortoise population trends.

The letter also reaffirms the significant role the off-road community plays in environmental stewardship and protection through volunteer trail maintenance, habitat restoration projects, educational programs and conservation initiatives designed to protect sensitive species while maintaining responsible public access. 

The Fight for Moab's Trails: Interior to Review ORBA-led Appeal for Reopening Trails

BLM previously closed 300+ miles; 150 miles could reopen with SEMA and ORBA support.
 

In a positive development, the Secretary of the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) has formally taken jurisdiction over ORBA's appeal of the U.S. Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) 2023 Labyrinth Rims/Gemini Bridges Travel Management Plan, which closed down more than 300 miles of trails to motorized vehicles near Moab, Utah.

• In 2025, the BLM proposed to reopen nearly 150 miles of trails in Labyrinth Rims/Gemini Bridges. SEMA and ORBA supported this action (read SEMA's official comment here).

Previously, ORBA's appeal of the plan was assigned to the IBLA. This is an important step forward and is consistent with the Interior Department's efforts to restore trail access at Labyrinth/Gemini Bridges. 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | WildSnap

By SEMA News Editors

Mojave Desert, Nevada.

Last year, SEMA announced its acquisition of the Off-Road Business Association (ORBA), an organization dedicated to representing businesses and professionals in the off-road and powersports industries, including motorcycles, ATVs, side-by-sides and snowmobiles. Ever since, SEMA and ORBA have been working harmoniously to advocate for policies that protect motorized access to roads and trails on government-owned lands. Below are the latest policy updates on areas of key interest to the motorized recreation community.

Western Mojave Faces 2,200-Mile OHV Closure; Off-Road Community Pushes Back

Off-road advocates push back hard on possible closures with the help of SEMA and ORBA.

SEMA and ORBA, along with a broad coalition of stakeholders, issued a statement decrying a federal court ruling that will result in the closure of approximately 2,200 miles of designated OHV routes across the Western Mohave planning area. Click here to read it. This is a ruling that, if upheld, would result in a significant loss of motorized access for families, recreationists, and public lands enthusiasts from across California and throughout the United States.

The letter, sent under the Ecologic Partners Coalition banner, highlights not only the consequences of the closures but also the order's reliance on flawed assumptions about desert tortoise mortality. The coalition, which is comprised of SEMA, ORBA, American Sand Association and AMA District 37, points to decades of scientific evidence that the court failed to take into account, specifically how predator subsidy effects, disease dynamics, and landscape-scale habitat pressures from utility-scale renewable energy projects and other industrial development are the primary and most significant contributors to desert tortoise population trends.

The letter also reaffirms the significant role the off-road community plays in environmental stewardship and protection through volunteer trail maintenance, habitat restoration projects, educational programs and conservation initiatives designed to protect sensitive species while maintaining responsible public access. 

The Fight for Moab's Trails: Interior to Review ORBA-led Appeal for Reopening Trails

BLM previously closed 300+ miles; 150 miles could reopen with SEMA and ORBA support.
 

In a positive development, the Secretary of the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) has formally taken jurisdiction over ORBA's appeal of the U.S. Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) 2023 Labyrinth Rims/Gemini Bridges Travel Management Plan, which closed down more than 300 miles of trails to motorized vehicles near Moab, Utah.

• In 2025, the BLM proposed to reopen nearly 150 miles of trails in Labyrinth Rims/Gemini Bridges. SEMA and ORBA supported this action (read SEMA's official comment here).

Previously, ORBA's appeal of the plan was assigned to the IBLA. This is an important step forward and is consistent with the Interior Department's efforts to restore trail access at Labyrinth/Gemini Bridges. 

Image courtesy of Shutterstock | WildSnap

By SEMA News Editors

RANDYS Worldwide (RANDYS) has appointed David Buckley as its new CEO, the company announced.
 

Effective March 9, 2026, Buckley succeeds Kevin Kaestner, who is retiring after leading RANDYS for 18 years. Kaestner will remain involved with RANDYS in an advisory capacity, supporting the company's ongoing merger and acquisition strategy. 
 

Founded in 1982, RANDYS is a national supplier of drivetrain, suspension, towing and undercar products for the vehicle aftermarket and offers broad vehicle fitment coverage, supporting drivetrain, suspension and towing components across light trucks, pickup trucks, SUVs and CUVs. Through its family of brands--including Yukon Gear & Axle, USA Standard Gear, Zumbrota Drivetrain, ICON Vehicle Dynamics, Carli Suspension, Cognito Motorsports, Dynatrac, Van Compass, Adams Drivetrain, North America Powertrain and BulletProof Hitches--the company serves customers across all major aftermarket channels.  
 

Buckley brings nearly 40 years of leadership experience across manufacturing, distribution and engineering in the automotive, energy and aerospace and defense sectors. Most recently, he served as CEO of Race Winning Brands and has led a number of successful organizations throughout his career, the company said.
 

"RANDYS Worldwide has built a remarkable 40-plus-year legacy grounded in engineering excellence, strong customer relationships and a genuine passion for the automotive world," Buckley said. "I am honored to join the company and build on the strength of its brands and its team. I look forward to working closely with Greenbriar, our employees and our customers as we continue to grow the business." 
 

"RANDYS has built an exceptional platform through sustained investment in its market-leading brands, distinctive omnichannel model and talented team. We are grateful for Kevin's years of leadership and role in positioning the company for continued success," said Matt Burke, managing director of Greenbriar Equity Group, parent company of RANDYS. "David brings deep industry expertise, a strong track record of operational leadership and a commitment to the values that define RANDYS.  We look forward to partnering with him as the company enters its next phase of growth."
 

"It has been a privilege to lead RANDYS through a period of meaningful growth and transformation. Together, we expanded our capabilities, strengthened our brands and positioned the company as a leader in the vehicle aftermarket," said Kaestner. I am especially proud of the team and culture we have built. David brings tremendous experience and leadership, and I am confident he will continue advancing the Company's strategy while honoring its legacy." 
 

For more information, visit randysworldwide.com.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA-member company employees have an exclusive opportunity to reduce their student debt through the SEMA Loan Forgiveness Program. Applications are open now and close Friday, April 3, at sema.org/loan-forgiveness. 

What is the SEMA Loan Forgiveness Program?

The Loan Forgiveness Program is a benefit of SEMA membership that issues financial awards up to $2,000 to help employees of SEMA-member businesses pay off their education loans from a college, university or career technical/trade school.
 

What are the eligibility requirements?
 

• Currently employed by a SEMA-member business.
• Demonstrate passion for the automotive hobby and career.
• Possess a degree or certificate from a college, university or career technical/trade school in the United States or Canada.
• Have a minimum of $2,000 in outstanding student loans.
   

What are the benefits of being selected?
 

The SEMA Loan Forgiveness Program presents individuals with the opportunity to focus more on excelling in their careers, rather than be burdened by financial strain. It also empowers them to pursue their passions more freely, while saving money out-of-pocket in the long run.
 

How to Apply
 

Interested applicants can review and complete the loan forgiveness application at www.sema.org/loan-forgiveness before the April 3 deadline. Use program key "SEMA" to access the application. If you know someone who may qualify, SEMA encourages you to share this opportunity with them.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named April Wong, marketing specialist at Unicorn Tire, as the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member. Get to know Wong 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? 

April Wong: I've been with my current company for nearly three years, and what I enjoy most is the team around me. They make me feel like family. Working in marketing allows me to juggle many different tasks, so every day is unique. I love that my role lets me handle exciting projects, from social media and content creation to event planning, sponsorships and even modeling at events, which makes the work both dynamic and fun.

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

AW: The biggest challenge is managing the sheer variety of projects that come my way. From surprise tasks to event modeling, e-commerce, social media campaigns, builds, content, graphic design and coordinating with sponsors and vendors. At times, it can feel overwhelming, but navigating these challenges has helped me sharpen my organizational skills, prioritize effectively and stay adaptable under pressure.

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

AW: I'm going on three years in the industry, and this is my first industry role. It's been an incredible learning experience, allowing me to grow professionally while contributing to the company's marketing and branding initiatives.

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

AW: Adaptability, ability to work well under pressure and empathy have been crucial in my career. Adaptability allows me to pivot quickly when unexpected projects or challenges arise. Working well under pressure ensures I can deliver high-quality results even in fast-paced environments. Empathy helps me understand colleagues, clients and audiences, fostering stronger relationships and collaboration both personally and professionally.
 

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

AW: Being a woman in the automotive and motorsports industry can be challenging, especially when it comes to breaking through stereotypes and showing that you can handle the work just as well as anyone else. One thing I'm really proud of is building our whole sponsor program from the ground up. I coordinated partnerships, managed communications and made sure everything lined up with our marketing goals. Seeing it all come together successfully has been such a rewarding experience and really shows why I love being in this industry.
 

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

AW: My biggest role model is the owner of our company. She's a true girl boss and the epitome of breaking through stereotypes in this industry. Watching how she leads, makes decisions and handles challenges has been so inspiring. She's shown me what's possible and encouraged me to trust myself, take ownership of projects and push myself to grow every day.
 

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

AW: "Adaptability is your greatest asset." This advice has shaped both my career and personal life. In marketing, especially in the tire industry, strategies, trends and consumer behaviors are constantly shifting. Being adaptable has allowed me to pivot when needed, stay ahead of trends and take on challenges with confidence. Personally, it's taught me to embrace change rather than fear it, leading to growth in all areas of my life.
 

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

AW: I honestly didn't know where I was going to end up. I've always loved makeup and fashion, but cars have been a passion too. I used to own a Miata and would go to car shows with friends all the time. What keeps me in this industry is how fun and laid-back it can be, but also how hype it is. The adrenaline. The energy. The events. I love being part of that excitement and the creative, fast-paced environment.
 

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

AW: The most influential person in my career has been my mom. She immigrated here from China, and knowing the sacrifices she made pushes me to chase the opportunities she wanted but never had. She's always supported me, encouraged me to follow my passions and taught me to work hard and stay confident. Her guidance has shaped not only my career but also how I approach challenges and opportunities in life.

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.