Last year's Young Executive Network (YEN) Reception featured a casino night.

Building connections and creating new partnerships is one of the main draws for both buyers and exhibitors during the 2014 SEMA Show. Many of these introductions happen at booths, but networking potential doesn’t end with the close of the Show each day.

SEMA’s councils and networks focus on facilitating additional opportunities throughout the week. These events are more than just parties or places to enjoy drinks and free snacks. They open doors to specific industry niches—street performance, hot rod, restoration, restyling, trucks, wheels and tires—or segments of people with similar interests.

A SEMA armband will identify the council and network leaders who can answer questions about the groups. Attendees might go to increase their own involvement in a particular segment or to explore and establish key relationships outside their niche, but either way, the experience can impact business for the year ahead.

Here are a few opportunities for attendees to consider:

• SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) Mixer at LVCC Room N242 – Monday, 12:00 p.m.–1:00 p.m.

• Young Executives Network (YEN) Mixer at LVCC Room N242 – Monday, 5:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.

• Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) Happy Hour at Booth #34183 – Tuesday, 4:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.

• Wheel & Tire Council (WTC) Reception at Renaissance Hotel Pool – Tuesday, 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.

• Joint Emerging Trends & Technology (ETTN)/YEN Reception at Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, Ballroom C – Tuesday, 5:00 p.m.–7:30 p.m.

• Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) Reception at Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, Ballrooms D&E – Tuesday, 5:15 p.m.–7:30 p.m.

• Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) Reception at Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, Ballrooms F&G – Tuesday, 5:30 p.m.–7:30 p.m.

• PRO Happy Hour at Booth #12561 – Wednesday, 4:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m.

• TORA Reception at Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, Ballroom C – Wednesday, 5:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m.

• Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) Reception at Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, Ballrooms A&B – Wednesday, 5:15 p.m.–8:30 p.m.

By Jason Catullo

The 2014 SEMA Show will feature the hottest vehicles in the world, outfitted with specialty-equipment tech and products that supply the enhanced performance, style and control that enthusiasts crave. Get a glimpse of a few vehicles project vehicles, unique rides and latest upgraded builds that attendees will see in person throughout the 2014 SEMA Show.

Register for the Show at www.SEMAShow.com. 

	’15 Dodge Challenger

Amsoil – ’15 Dodge Challenger

Amsoil (booth #24661) will debut an upfitted ’15 Dodge Challenger that includes modifications to the powertrain, chassis, interior and exterior. Powertrain mods include a McLeod Racing twin-disc clutch; Barton Industries short-throw shifter; Kooks long-tube headers; and MagnaFlow exhaust. Amsoil synthetic fluids are used throughout. The air suspension is made possible by Air Lift Performance.

The car rides on Forgeline 20-in. wheels and Nitto tires. The exterior sports a Vintage Race Rentals body kit and RM Motorsports hood extractors. Inside is custom leather trim and Oracle lighting.

Shelby 289 FIA Cobra

Champion Oil – Shelby 289 FIA Cobra

Champion Oil (booth #25021) will display a limited-edition 50th Anniversary Shelby 289 FIA Cobra at the 2014 SEMA Show. To celebrate the birth of the 289 Ford-powered roadsters, Shelby American will offer 50 limited-edition continuation (CSX7000) Shelby 289 FIA Cobras. Each will be painted “Viking Blue” with FIA stripes and roundels, feature a black FIA interior, special billet anniversary badges, original style wheels and additional options.

Shelby American introduced the FIA version of the small-block Cobra in 1964, which competed in the 1964 World Manufacturers Championship series against marquees, including Aston Martin, Jaguar and Corvette.

	ARK Performance – Hyundai Genesis AR550

ARK Performance – Genesis AR550 Sedan

Using Hyundai's "Tau" 5.0L V8 engine as the powertrain's foundation, the AR550 adds 130 hp via the addition of a Rotrex supercharger and ARK free-flow exhaust to help the engine breath. An all-new ARK-developed suspension setup reduces body roll and provides a sportier ride, and a Brembo Big Brake Kit with Nitto Tires ensures the car sticks to the road.

The vehicle will be revealed at Hyundai's press conference, November 4, at 9:00 a.m. (PST). "AR Line" exterior modifications include front and rear wide bumpers and fenders, a carbon-fiber splitter and rear diffuser and AR headlights. The business-jet-like interior is accomplished through Katzkin custom diamond-stitched seats and door panels.

Rhino Linings, Doetsch Off-Road – Jeep Trail Reaper

Rhino Linings, Doetsch Off-Road - Jeep Trail Reaper

Doetsch Off-Road is putting the final touches on the fan-designed custom Jeep Wrangler JK—known as Trail Reaper—in time for its official unveiling in the Rhino Linings (booth #33037) at the 2014 SEMA Show.

Some of the biggest names in the industry are involved with the build, including Rhino Linings, Doetsch Shocks, Bushwacker, TIS Wheels, Truck-Lite, TeraFlex, JcrOffroad, Rigid Industries, DayStar, Katzkin Automotive Leather, Rugged Ridge, Gibson Performance, Interco Tires, Warn, Airaid, Active Grafix and Gearshade.

	Royal Purple - Ringbrothers Latest Custom

Royal Purple - Ringbrothers Latest Custom

Royal Purple (booth #23057) will unveil its latest sponsored custom car built by Ringbrothers. The Ringbrothers will redefine the classic lines of a 1966 Chevelle to create what they call a “refined race car.”

Blending the raw utility of a race car with the refinement Ringbrothers is best known for, the latest build features extensive fabrication of interior and exterior panels including Ringbrothers’ signature use of aluminum and carbon fiber. Under hood, Royal Purple’s premium synthetics will provide lubrication for a Wegner Motorsports LS7 engine, producing almost 1,000 horsepower.

1960 Surrey DJ-3A

Omix-ADA Off Road Success Center Unique Jeeps

Omix-ADA will feature an array of unique and historic Jeeps from its corporate collection at its Off Road Success Center. In addition to the Omix-ADA Jeeps, the company will also be bringing two brand-new fully customized JK Wranglers; one as part of the company’s giveaway contest for SEMA attendees, and the other as part of a charitable donation benefitting SEMA Cares. 

	1967 CJ-6

Here is a look at just a few of the historic Jeeps from Omix-ADA's corporate collection

1960 Surrey DJ-3A – A unique version of the DJ Jeep, the Surrey features a turquoise paint scheme and striped canvas top with fringe. Surreys were primarily marketed toward luxury hotels and resorts for use as courtesy vehicles for guests.

1967 CJ-6 – This CJ-6 is an all-original, 14,000 mile, un-restored example of what was effectively a long-wheelbase version of the CJ-5. Featuring the original paint, top and tires, this Jeep was previously owned by a funeral home director just outside of Detroit, who used the vehicle as a volunteer ambulance during foul weather, when ordinary vehicles couldn’t pass.

1971 Hurst Jeepster Commando

1971 Hurst Jeepster Commando – One of 100 original Hurst-modified Jeepsters, this restored example features a red, white and blue paint scheme and a 160-hp V6 engine.

The SEMA Show, Tuesday–Friday, November 4–7, is the premier automotive specialty products trade event in the world. In addition to hot rides and new products, the annual Show draws the industry’s brightest minds to the Las Vegas Convention Center, and provides attendees with educational seminars, product demonstrations, special events, networking opportunities and more.

For more information or to register for the 2014 SEMA Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com. 

By Jason Catullo

The 2014 SEMA Show will feature the hottest vehicles in the world, outfitted with specialty-equipment tech and products that supply the enhanced performance, style and control that enthusiasts crave. Get a glimpse of a few vehicles project vehicles, unique rides and latest upgraded builds that attendees will see in person throughout the 2014 SEMA Show.

Register for the Show at www.SEMAShow.com. 

	’15 Dodge Challenger

Amsoil – ’15 Dodge Challenger

Amsoil (booth #24661) will debut an upfitted ’15 Dodge Challenger that includes modifications to the powertrain, chassis, interior and exterior. Powertrain mods include a McLeod Racing twin-disc clutch; Barton Industries short-throw shifter; Kooks long-tube headers; and MagnaFlow exhaust. Amsoil synthetic fluids are used throughout. The air suspension is made possible by Air Lift Performance.

The car rides on Forgeline 20-in. wheels and Nitto tires. The exterior sports a Vintage Race Rentals body kit and RM Motorsports hood extractors. Inside is custom leather trim and Oracle lighting.

Shelby 289 FIA Cobra

Champion Oil – Shelby 289 FIA Cobra

Champion Oil (booth #25021) will display a limited-edition 50th Anniversary Shelby 289 FIA Cobra at the 2014 SEMA Show. To celebrate the birth of the 289 Ford-powered roadsters, Shelby American will offer 50 limited-edition continuation (CSX7000) Shelby 289 FIA Cobras. Each will be painted “Viking Blue” with FIA stripes and roundels, feature a black FIA interior, special billet anniversary badges, original style wheels and additional options.

Shelby American introduced the FIA version of the small-block Cobra in 1964, which competed in the 1964 World Manufacturers Championship series against marquees, including Aston Martin, Jaguar and Corvette.

	ARK Performance – Hyundai Genesis AR550

ARK Performance – Genesis AR550 Sedan

Using Hyundai's "Tau" 5.0L V8 engine as the powertrain's foundation, the AR550 adds 130 hp via the addition of a Rotrex supercharger and ARK free-flow exhaust to help the engine breath. An all-new ARK-developed suspension setup reduces body roll and provides a sportier ride, and a Brembo Big Brake Kit with Nitto Tires ensures the car sticks to the road.

The vehicle will be revealed at Hyundai's press conference, November 4, at 9:00 a.m. (PST). "AR Line" exterior modifications include front and rear wide bumpers and fenders, a carbon-fiber splitter and rear diffuser and AR headlights. The business-jet-like interior is accomplished through Katzkin custom diamond-stitched seats and door panels.

Rhino Linings, Doetsch Off-Road – Jeep Trail Reaper

Rhino Linings, Doetsch Off-Road - Jeep Trail Reaper

Doetsch Off-Road is putting the final touches on the fan-designed custom Jeep Wrangler JK—known as Trail Reaper—in time for its official unveiling in the Rhino Linings (booth #33037) at the 2014 SEMA Show.

Some of the biggest names in the industry are involved with the build, including Rhino Linings, Doetsch Shocks, Bushwacker, TIS Wheels, Truck-Lite, TeraFlex, JcrOffroad, Rigid Industries, DayStar, Katzkin Automotive Leather, Rugged Ridge, Gibson Performance, Interco Tires, Warn, Airaid, Active Grafix and Gearshade.

	Royal Purple - Ringbrothers Latest Custom

Royal Purple - Ringbrothers Latest Custom

Royal Purple (booth #23057) will unveil its latest sponsored custom car built by Ringbrothers. The Ringbrothers will redefine the classic lines of a 1966 Chevelle to create what they call a “refined race car.”

Blending the raw utility of a race car with the refinement Ringbrothers is best known for, the latest build features extensive fabrication of interior and exterior panels including Ringbrothers’ signature use of aluminum and carbon fiber. Under hood, Royal Purple’s premium synthetics will provide lubrication for a Wegner Motorsports LS7 engine, producing almost 1,000 horsepower.

1960 Surrey DJ-3A

Omix-ADA Off Road Success Center Unique Jeeps

Omix-ADA will feature an array of unique and historic Jeeps from its corporate collection at its Off Road Success Center. In addition to the Omix-ADA Jeeps, the company will also be bringing two brand-new fully customized JK Wranglers; one as part of the company’s giveaway contest for SEMA attendees, and the other as part of a charitable donation benefitting SEMA Cares. 

	1967 CJ-6

Here is a look at just a few of the historic Jeeps from Omix-ADA's corporate collection

1960 Surrey DJ-3A – A unique version of the DJ Jeep, the Surrey features a turquoise paint scheme and striped canvas top with fringe. Surreys were primarily marketed toward luxury hotels and resorts for use as courtesy vehicles for guests.

1967 CJ-6 – This CJ-6 is an all-original, 14,000 mile, un-restored example of what was effectively a long-wheelbase version of the CJ-5. Featuring the original paint, top and tires, this Jeep was previously owned by a funeral home director just outside of Detroit, who used the vehicle as a volunteer ambulance during foul weather, when ordinary vehicles couldn’t pass.

1971 Hurst Jeepster Commando

1971 Hurst Jeepster Commando – One of 100 original Hurst-modified Jeepsters, this restored example features a red, white and blue paint scheme and a 160-hp V6 engine.

The SEMA Show, Tuesday–Friday, November 4–7, is the premier automotive specialty products trade event in the world. In addition to hot rides and new products, the annual Show draws the industry’s brightest minds to the Las Vegas Convention Center, and provides attendees with educational seminars, product demonstrations, special events, networking opportunities and more.

For more information or to register for the 2014 SEMA Show, visit www.SEMAShow.com. 

By Amanda Gubbins

On September 24, SEMA Education partnered with the automotive technology department at Cypress College (Cypress, California) for a Career Workshop, where nearly 200 students had a chance to interact with industry heavy-hitters in a variety of companies and fields, from engineering to manufacturing to sales and marketing.

The day opened with a presentation by Myles Kovacs, president and co-founder of DUB magazine, who shared some of the lessons about perseverance and hard work he learned throughout his career. 

“To me, the biggest thing and the reason why I [attended the workshop] was if I can make a difference in one person’s life to motivate them, put them on the right path, or mentor them, that’s what I feel like God put me here to do,” he reflected later.

Throughout the rest of the day, representatives from 11 other SEMA-member companies gave 30-minute presentations to small groups of students. The company representatives offered insights about their own careers, skills and qualities important in their positions, and broader tips for successfully navigating the transition from student to professional.

Ernie Silvers, president and CEO of Egge Machine Co., shared his experience in manufacturing, but also hoped the students would walk away with a bigger understanding. He focused much of his presentation on personal responsibility and the importance of learning, a message he summed up in the phrase, “Take control of your destiny.”

“The second half of my talk was more on taking initiative to control your own future. That’s where all of them plugged in because it’s all true for all of the students, regardless of what niche in their chosen field they’re going to go into,” Silvers said. “I like talking about taking personal responsibility, building the brand called ‘you’ and being responsible for your own learning, your own development,” he said.

Russ Bacarella, instructor of engine repair and engine machining at Cypress College, watched his students’ excitement grow throughout the day as they moved from workshop to workshop. He was thrilled at the level of engagement he observed.

“When they had the opportunity to ask questions, kids who would normally be passive or would not be really involved in some sort of lesson started asking questions. They saw something or they heard something that clicked in their mind that they wanted to be part of. It was really cool,” he reflected.

Ultimately, the school’s vision of broadening horizons was what prompted SEMA to become involved.

“We hoped students would be inspired to pursue whatever aspect of the automotive industry is most interesting to them,” said SEMA Education Director Zane Clark. “The fact that SEMA members came together to highlight the many career paths available to students was motivating and demonstrated the industry’s commitment to fostering the next generation of professionals and innovators." Clark continued, “Because of this commitment, SEMA will continue to identify opportunities that advocate automotive career paths for students.”

SEMA Education would like to thank each of the presenters who helped make the event a success:

• Dave Edmondson – Roadwire
• Rodney Esteban & Ed Rueda – The Hybrid Haven
• Ira Gabriel – SEMA
• Matt Gamble – Edelbrock LLC
• Steve Gibson – K&N Engineering Inc.
• Keith Kaucher and Tyler Fernandes – Kaucher Kustoms
• Myles Kovacs – DUB Publishing Inc.
• Jim Liaw – Formula Drift Holdings
• Greg Senser – Nitto Tire Inc.
• Ernie Silvers – Egge Machine Co. Inc.
• Mike Spagnola – SEMA 
• Tyler Tanaka – Cie Studios

By Amanda Gubbins

On September 24, SEMA Education partnered with the automotive technology department at Cypress College (Cypress, California) for a Career Workshop, where nearly 200 students had a chance to interact with industry heavy-hitters in a variety of companies and fields, from engineering to manufacturing to sales and marketing.

The day opened with a presentation by Myles Kovacs, president and co-founder of DUB magazine, who shared some of the lessons about perseverance and hard work he learned throughout his career. 

“To me, the biggest thing and the reason why I [attended the workshop] was if I can make a difference in one person’s life to motivate them, put them on the right path, or mentor them, that’s what I feel like God put me here to do,” he reflected later.

Throughout the rest of the day, representatives from 11 other SEMA-member companies gave 30-minute presentations to small groups of students. The company representatives offered insights about their own careers, skills and qualities important in their positions, and broader tips for successfully navigating the transition from student to professional.

Ernie Silvers, president and CEO of Egge Machine Co., shared his experience in manufacturing, but also hoped the students would walk away with a bigger understanding. He focused much of his presentation on personal responsibility and the importance of learning, a message he summed up in the phrase, “Take control of your destiny.”

“The second half of my talk was more on taking initiative to control your own future. That’s where all of them plugged in because it’s all true for all of the students, regardless of what niche in their chosen field they’re going to go into,” Silvers said. “I like talking about taking personal responsibility, building the brand called ‘you’ and being responsible for your own learning, your own development,” he said.

Russ Bacarella, instructor of engine repair and engine machining at Cypress College, watched his students’ excitement grow throughout the day as they moved from workshop to workshop. He was thrilled at the level of engagement he observed.

“When they had the opportunity to ask questions, kids who would normally be passive or would not be really involved in some sort of lesson started asking questions. They saw something or they heard something that clicked in their mind that they wanted to be part of. It was really cool,” he reflected.

Ultimately, the school’s vision of broadening horizons was what prompted SEMA to become involved.

“We hoped students would be inspired to pursue whatever aspect of the automotive industry is most interesting to them,” said SEMA Education Director Zane Clark. “The fact that SEMA members came together to highlight the many career paths available to students was motivating and demonstrated the industry’s commitment to fostering the next generation of professionals and innovators." Clark continued, “Because of this commitment, SEMA will continue to identify opportunities that advocate automotive career paths for students.”

SEMA Education would like to thank each of the presenters who helped make the event a success:

• Dave Edmondson – Roadwire
• Rodney Esteban & Ed Rueda – The Hybrid Haven
• Ira Gabriel – SEMA
• Matt Gamble – Edelbrock LLC
• Steve Gibson – K&N Engineering Inc.
• Keith Kaucher and Tyler Fernandes – Kaucher Kustoms
• Myles Kovacs – DUB Publishing Inc.
• Jim Liaw – Formula Drift Holdings
• Greg Senser – Nitto Tire Inc.
• Ernie Silvers – Egge Machine Co. Inc.
• Mike Spagnola – SEMA 
• Tyler Tanaka – Cie Studios

	“Overhaulin’’’ will film its season finale during the 2014 SEMA Show's inaugural event, SEMA Ignited.

SEMA Ignited attendees can be a part of the Velocity Network’s popular TV Show “Overhaulin’’’ season finale as a custom-built vehicle is unveiled during the inaugural event.
 
The vehicle will be built during the week of the 2014 SEMA Show in the “Overhaulin’’’ studio located in the Gold Pavilion (across the street from Paradise Road near the LVCC North Hall). After trade-show attendees watch the filming of the build, the final customized vehicle will then be unveiled at the brand-new SEMA Ignited event, which will be open to the public and give consumers a first-hand look at the vehicles and products behind the convention center walls.
 
In addition to the “Overhaulin’’’ vehicle unveiling, SEMA Ignited will include vehicles, celebrities, products, demonstrations and more from the 2014 SEMA Show. Visit www.semaignited.com for details.

	“Overhaulin’’’ will film its season finale during the 2014 SEMA Show's inaugural event, SEMA Ignited.

SEMA Ignited attendees can be a part of the Velocity Network’s popular TV Show “Overhaulin’’’ season finale as a custom-built vehicle is unveiled during the inaugural event.
 
The vehicle will be built during the week of the 2014 SEMA Show in the “Overhaulin’’’ studio located in the Gold Pavilion (across the street from Paradise Road near the LVCC North Hall). After trade-show attendees watch the filming of the build, the final customized vehicle will then be unveiled at the brand-new SEMA Ignited event, which will be open to the public and give consumers a first-hand look at the vehicles and products behind the convention center walls.
 
In addition to the “Overhaulin’’’ vehicle unveiling, SEMA Ignited will include vehicles, celebrities, products, demonstrations and more from the 2014 SEMA Show. Visit www.semaignited.com for details.

	“Overhaulin’’’ will film its season finale during the 2014 SEMA Show's inaugural event, SEMA Ignited.

SEMA Ignited attendees can be a part of the Velocity Network’s popular TV Show “Overhaulin’’’ season finale as a custom-built vehicle is unveiled during the inaugural event.
 
The vehicle will be built during the week of the 2014 SEMA Show in the “Overhaulin’’’ studio located in the Gold Pavilion (across the street from Paradise Road near the LVCC North Hall). After trade-show attendees watch the filming of the build, the final customized vehicle will then be unveiled at the brand-new SEMA Ignited event, which will be open to the public and give consumers a first-hand look at the vehicles and products behind the convention center walls.
 
In addition to the “Overhaulin’’’ vehicle unveiling, SEMA Ignited will include vehicles, celebrities, products, demonstrations and more from the 2014 SEMA Show. Visit www.semaignited.com for details.

By Della Domingo

	Legendary hot-rod engine builder Ed Pink will be presented the Robert E. Peterson Lifetime Achievement Award during the SEMA New Product Awards Breakfast.

Showgoers can kick off the 2014 SEMA Show by enjoying breakfast and honoring Ed Pink, legendary hot-rod engine builder. Secure tickets to the SEMA New Product Awards Breakfast, where Pink will be presented with the Robert E. Petersen Lifetime Achievement Award. Tickets to the breakfast are free, but because space is limited, they are required to attend.

The prestigious Robert E. Peterson Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented for the first time at the SEMA Show's opening breakfast. Previous award winners include: Dave McClelland, Wally Parks, Carroll Shelby, George Barris, Vic Edelbrock, Jack Roush, Ed Iskenderian, Jack Chisenhall, Bill Smith and Alex Xydias.

Pink, the legendary “Old Master” of engine builders, has enjoyed success with his Southern California business, Ed Pink Racing Engines, and individual achievements, including being inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America in 2012. His expertise in numerous motorsports disciplines has contributed to more than 500 wins and accomplishments in drag racing, midgets, silver crowns, hydro planes, desert racing, Indy cars, sports cars and drifting.

SEMA’s annual New Product Awards Breakfast recognizes outstanding achievements in the development of products being introduced to the automotive specialty-equipment market. Secure tickets to attend this annual SEMA event to learn what the best new products are, what vehicles are named SEMA Award winners and honor well-known industry professionals for their outstanding achievements.

By Della Domingo

	Legendary hot-rod engine builder Ed Pink will be presented the Robert E. Peterson Lifetime Achievement Award during the SEMA New Product Awards Breakfast.

Showgoers can kick off the 2014 SEMA Show by enjoying breakfast and honoring Ed Pink, legendary hot-rod engine builder. Secure tickets to the SEMA New Product Awards Breakfast, where Pink will be presented with the Robert E. Petersen Lifetime Achievement Award. Tickets to the breakfast are free, but because space is limited, they are required to attend.

The prestigious Robert E. Peterson Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented for the first time at the SEMA Show's opening breakfast. Previous award winners include: Dave McClelland, Wally Parks, Carroll Shelby, George Barris, Vic Edelbrock, Jack Roush, Ed Iskenderian, Jack Chisenhall, Bill Smith and Alex Xydias.

Pink, the legendary “Old Master” of engine builders, has enjoyed success with his Southern California business, Ed Pink Racing Engines, and individual achievements, including being inducted into the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America in 2012. His expertise in numerous motorsports disciplines has contributed to more than 500 wins and accomplishments in drag racing, midgets, silver crowns, hydro planes, desert racing, Indy cars, sports cars and drifting.

SEMA’s annual New Product Awards Breakfast recognizes outstanding achievements in the development of products being introduced to the automotive specialty-equipment market. Secure tickets to attend this annual SEMA event to learn what the best new products are, what vehicles are named SEMA Award winners and honor well-known industry professionals for their outstanding achievements.