SEMA Member News—January 2020

WTC Takes Center Stage at the SEMA Show

WTC leadership all gathered during their reception held at the Renaissance Hotel pool deck.

Twenty-one years ago, a collection of SEMA-member companies representing various facets of the custom wheel industry banded together to form the Wheel Industry Council (WIC). At the time, WIC was described as a forum in which wheel and tire professionals could network, identify and work on resolving areas of mutual concern, and form mutually beneficial alliances.

A few years later, to build on the obvious link between wheels and tires and the synergistic relationship between the two segments, the name was changed to the Wheel & Tire Council (WTC). In the years since, WTC has provided various networking and segment-specific educational opportunities during the SEMA Show. Last year, the council ramped up its profile big-time, literally taking center stage in partnership with SEMA Show Education at the Education Stage, hosted by Myles Kovacs, president and co-founder of DUB magazine.

The first-time event was located in Lower South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center. It featured daily interviews live from the Show floor with top industry professionals and personalities. Topics ranged from wheel and tire trends and best business practices to marketing and sales.

Headliners included Mike Lusso of Hennessey Industries; Gary Ruede of Discount Tire; and Wade Kawasaki and Marla Moore of Legendary Companies. Other special guests included Brittany and Kevin Williams of Lite Brite Studios; Bud Brutsman of DCII; Ken Johnson of MuscleKingz; and Jamie Jiang, of Fury OffRoad Tires. SEMA Hall of Famer and renowned builder Chip Foose joined Kovacs on Thursday to close out the Stage in a special interview and autograph-signing session.

Celebration and Conversation

One of the best-attended WTC Receptions, the night was packed with conversation and celebration under the stars as the WTC gave an awards presentation.

Hundreds of WTC members also took time out on Tuesday evening to celebrate the industry. The relaxed atmosphere at the annual awards reception, held poolside at the Renaissance Hotel, was the perfect setting for members to network, catch up with friends over food and beverages, talk shop with colleagues, and reminisce about special Show attractions.

It was also the setting for the induction of the newest member to the WTC Hall of Fame: Tim Dietz, quality manager, technical sales for Standards Testing Laboratories. In presenting the award, WTC Chair-Elect Todd Steen said: “Tim is very deserving of this award, because he is a trusted supporter of the industry and has been an incredibly strong advocate for SEMA. He’s also served multiple terms as a WTC select committee member, where his passion for both the business and this council has continually challenged us to be better.”

To wrap up the activity-filled week, WTC once again hosted Coffee & Conversation in Lower South Hall on Thursday morning. With bagels and cups of java to help jumpstart the day, members and exhibitors engaged in conversation, learned about WTC initiatives and resources, and caught up on the latest wheel and tire trends. It was a fitting way to bring down the curtain on another successful run of council-sponsored activities.

SEMA Member News—January 2020

WTC Takes Center Stage at the SEMA Show

WTC leadership all gathered during their reception held at the Renaissance Hotel pool deck.

Twenty-one years ago, a collection of SEMA-member companies representing various facets of the custom wheel industry banded together to form the Wheel Industry Council (WIC). At the time, WIC was described as a forum in which wheel and tire professionals could network, identify and work on resolving areas of mutual concern, and form mutually beneficial alliances.

A few years later, to build on the obvious link between wheels and tires and the synergistic relationship between the two segments, the name was changed to the Wheel & Tire Council (WTC). In the years since, WTC has provided various networking and segment-specific educational opportunities during the SEMA Show. Last year, the council ramped up its profile big-time, literally taking center stage in partnership with SEMA Show Education at the Education Stage, hosted by Myles Kovacs, president and co-founder of DUB magazine.

The first-time event was located in Lower South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center. It featured daily interviews live from the Show floor with top industry professionals and personalities. Topics ranged from wheel and tire trends and best business practices to marketing and sales.

Headliners included Mike Lusso of Hennessey Industries; Gary Ruede of Discount Tire; and Wade Kawasaki and Marla Moore of Legendary Companies. Other special guests included Brittany and Kevin Williams of Lite Brite Studios; Bud Brutsman of DCII; Ken Johnson of MuscleKingz; and Jamie Jiang, of Fury OffRoad Tires. SEMA Hall of Famer and renowned builder Chip Foose joined Kovacs on Thursday to close out the Stage in a special interview and autograph-signing session.

Celebration and Conversation

One of the best-attended WTC Receptions, the night was packed with conversation and celebration under the stars as the WTC gave an awards presentation.

Hundreds of WTC members also took time out on Tuesday evening to celebrate the industry. The relaxed atmosphere at the annual awards reception, held poolside at the Renaissance Hotel, was the perfect setting for members to network, catch up with friends over food and beverages, talk shop with colleagues, and reminisce about special Show attractions.

It was also the setting for the induction of the newest member to the WTC Hall of Fame: Tim Dietz, quality manager, technical sales for Standards Testing Laboratories. In presenting the award, WTC Chair-Elect Todd Steen said: “Tim is very deserving of this award, because he is a trusted supporter of the industry and has been an incredibly strong advocate for SEMA. He’s also served multiple terms as a WTC select committee member, where his passion for both the business and this council has continually challenged us to be better.”

To wrap up the activity-filled week, WTC once again hosted Coffee & Conversation in Lower South Hall on Thursday morning. With bagels and cups of java to help jumpstart the day, members and exhibitors engaged in conversation, learned about WTC initiatives and resources, and caught up on the latest wheel and tire trends. It was a fitting way to bring down the curtain on another successful run of council-sponsored activities.

SEMA Member News—January 2020

Experiencing the Excitement of a New Alliance

The TORA Reception features an evening of food, refreshments and excitement.

From the moment the doors to the SEMA Show swing wide, the buzz throughout the exhibit halls is always one of excitement and anticipation. For truck-accessory and off-road aficionados, there was more reason than ever to rejoice, as it marked the first time that the two allied market segments were joined together at the Show as the Truck Accessory and Off-Road Alliance (TORA).

As in past years, council members and others interested in learning more about TORA (formerly known as LTAA) had opportunities to hobnob with council leaders and connect with colleagues, and they also got to experience the excitement of the new alliance.

Networking, Honoring Industry Leaders

Light-truck and off-road accessories are the main attraction in Upper South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center during the SEMA Show. It’s also where the TORA exhibit shines brightly, each year displaying decked-out feature vehicles and hosting a Happy Hour on Tuesday afternoon.

“The SEMA Show is the perfect opportunity for truck and off-road manufacturers to debut new products and for distributors, retailers and media to learn about them,” said Erika Marquez, council chair. “The Upper South Hall wouldn’t be complete without TORA’s presence, and the TORA Happy Hour always draws a good crowd. It’s the best opportunity for members and nonmembers to network with other industry people, meet select committee members, ask questions, get involved and have a cold beer—all in a relaxing and friendly environment surrounded by two of the best feature vehicles that not only represent the heart of our council but are also a way to feature the latest products from the truck and off-road industry.”

Companies can purchase a pinewood car to race during the reception to help support SEMA Cares charities.

The TORA Happy Hour isn’t the only place where the council puts its best foot forward. The council’s annual awards reception was held outside in front of South Hall on Wednesday evening, November 6, immediately following Show closing for the day. The event drew a jam-packed and exuberant crowd and featured the popular Pinewood Derby competition, proceeds of which were donated to SEMA Cares, and an awards ceremony.

“The TORA reception is one of the best-attended events during the Show and continues to grow every year,” Marquez said. “It’s a great networking opportunity and also where attendees have the opportunity to support SEMA Cares. And it’s where TORA celebrates industry achievements by recognizing member excellence.”

Awards were presented in four categories: Retailer of the Year, Influencer of the Year, Ron Webster Memorial Award, and TORA Hall of Fame. Randy Bookhalt of Eastern Truck and Accessories took top honors as Retailer of the Year, and the TORA Influencer of the Year award was presented to Jason Sakurai of Roadhouse Marketing.

The Ron Webster Memorial Award for Engineering Excellence is named in honor of the late founder of Guidon Truck Covers, also a founding member of the Truck Cap Industry Association/Truck Cap & Accessory Alliance (TCIA/TCAA, now TORA). The 2019 recipient of the award was John Engen of Decked.

The TORA Hall of Fame honor is presented to an outstanding individual whose creativity, dignity, integrity, industriousness and accomplishments have enhanced the growth and stature of the industry. The 2019 inductee was Joel Ayres, executive director of the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation.

Ayres’ lifelong involvement in the industry includes decades as a volunteer leader, not only as an active member of LTAA and TORA but also as far back as TCAA, and he has also served on the SEMA Board of Directors. His induction is a fitting tribute to his many contributions.

SEMA Member News—January 2020

Experiencing the Excitement of a New Alliance

The TORA Reception features an evening of food, refreshments and excitement.

From the moment the doors to the SEMA Show swing wide, the buzz throughout the exhibit halls is always one of excitement and anticipation. For truck-accessory and off-road aficionados, there was more reason than ever to rejoice, as it marked the first time that the two allied market segments were joined together at the Show as the Truck Accessory and Off-Road Alliance (TORA).

As in past years, council members and others interested in learning more about TORA (formerly known as LTAA) had opportunities to hobnob with council leaders and connect with colleagues, and they also got to experience the excitement of the new alliance.

Networking, Honoring Industry Leaders

Light-truck and off-road accessories are the main attraction in Upper South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center during the SEMA Show. It’s also where the TORA exhibit shines brightly, each year displaying decked-out feature vehicles and hosting a Happy Hour on Tuesday afternoon.

“The SEMA Show is the perfect opportunity for truck and off-road manufacturers to debut new products and for distributors, retailers and media to learn about them,” said Erika Marquez, council chair. “The Upper South Hall wouldn’t be complete without TORA’s presence, and the TORA Happy Hour always draws a good crowd. It’s the best opportunity for members and nonmembers to network with other industry people, meet select committee members, ask questions, get involved and have a cold beer—all in a relaxing and friendly environment surrounded by two of the best feature vehicles that not only represent the heart of our council but are also a way to feature the latest products from the truck and off-road industry.”

Companies can purchase a pinewood car to race during the reception to help support SEMA Cares charities.

The TORA Happy Hour isn’t the only place where the council puts its best foot forward. The council’s annual awards reception was held outside in front of South Hall on Wednesday evening, November 6, immediately following Show closing for the day. The event drew a jam-packed and exuberant crowd and featured the popular Pinewood Derby competition, proceeds of which were donated to SEMA Cares, and an awards ceremony.

“The TORA reception is one of the best-attended events during the Show and continues to grow every year,” Marquez said. “It’s a great networking opportunity and also where attendees have the opportunity to support SEMA Cares. And it’s where TORA celebrates industry achievements by recognizing member excellence.”

Awards were presented in four categories: Retailer of the Year, Influencer of the Year, Ron Webster Memorial Award, and TORA Hall of Fame. Randy Bookhalt of Eastern Truck and Accessories took top honors as Retailer of the Year, and the TORA Influencer of the Year award was presented to Jason Sakurai of Roadhouse Marketing.

The Ron Webster Memorial Award for Engineering Excellence is named in honor of the late founder of Guidon Truck Covers, also a founding member of the Truck Cap Industry Association/Truck Cap & Accessory Alliance (TCIA/TCAA, now TORA). The 2019 recipient of the award was John Engen of Decked.

The TORA Hall of Fame honor is presented to an outstanding individual whose creativity, dignity, integrity, industriousness and accomplishments have enhanced the growth and stature of the industry. The 2019 inductee was Joel Ayres, executive director of the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation.

Ayres’ lifelong involvement in the industry includes decades as a volunteer leader, not only as an active member of LTAA and TORA but also as far back as TCAA, and he has also served on the SEMA Board of Directors. His induction is a fitting tribute to his many contributions.

SEMA Member News—January 2020

PRO Celebrates in High Style

PRO Chair Dino Perfetti (left) and Chair-elect Josh Poulson address attendees during the reception held at the Westgate pool deck.

The Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) put its best foot forward during an event-filled week at the 2019 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. From the council’s awards reception and the new PRO Cup Challenge to a breakfast membership meeting, seminars and Happy Hour, the restyling community had ample occasions to link up and celebrate another successful year.

Honoring Top Performers

PRO began the week in festive fashion with its 28th annual awards reception. Held poolside at the Westgate Resort & Casino on Tuesday evening, November 5, the relaxed atmosphere gave the lively crowd an opportunity to kick back and mingle with friends and colleagues while enjoying hors d’oeuvres and liquid libations.

Following welcome remarks from SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting, the evening’s program—hosted by PRO Chair Dino Perfetti and Chair-Elect Josh Poulson—went into full swing. First up, the inaugural PRO Cup Challenge, a new competition that pitted four restylers against one another to test their abilities to create marketable and creative accessory packages that can be easily replicated by other restylers nationwide.

The participating restylers were Cristina Jorge of Specialty Auto Treatments, Josh Poulson of Auto Additions, Brandon McNew of Altered Garage, and Dino Perfetti of Automotive Concepts. Two of their vehicles were displayed in the PRO booth in North Hall, and the other two were exhibited in the North Hall Lobby.

Earlier in the day, a judging panel viewed the builds and, during the reception, presented the PRO Cup Challenge trophy to Automotive Concepts for its Subaru Forester Base Camp edition, an outdoor lifestyle package. (A Fan Favorite award was presented later in the week; see below.)

Next on the program was the presentation of council awards. Joe Hair of Integrity Customs was named PRO Restyler of Year. Manufacturer of the Year went to AddOnAuto, a division of Reynolds & Reynolds. Perfetti—already in high spirits after winning the competition trophy—also received the Nat Danas Person of the Year award. The Jim Borré Lifetime Achievement award, presented by Ron Leslie of Katzkin Leather, paid tribute to the late Ralph Jorge, founder of Specialty Auto Treatments in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

Connecting On and Off the Show Floor

PRO leadership celebrate the achievements made by immediate past chair Ellen McKoy (center) by presenting her with the Chairman’s Gavel Award.

PRO has long set its sights on education, hosting seminars at the SEMA Show for many years. For 2019, the council presented two seminars on Wednesday. The sessions drew standing-room-only crowds.

“Accelerate Sales and Profits in a Challenging Market” focused on the shrinking of dealership margins and ways in which to rejuvenate sales and maximize gross profit. During the second session, “Up Your Game: Harness Your Marketing and Sales Skills,” a panel of industry pros shared insights into the new SEMA Accessory Sales Professional certificate program as well as practical tips on how to develop a successful dealer-direct sales strategy.

At the early-bird Breakfast with PRO on Thursday morning, more than two dozen members and newcomers gathered for conversations and an update on council initiatives. Discussions covered a range of topics, including the PRO Cup Challenge, the SEMA Accessory Sales Professional certificate exam and other council resources.

To round out the activity-filled week, the council once again hosted its annual Happy Hour in the PRO booth. Previously held on Wednesday afternoon of SEMA Show week, the networking mixer was moved to Thursday to allow Showgoers ample opportunity to vote for fan-favorite vehicles competing in the PRO Cup Challenge.

As members and nonmembers mingled and enjoyed cold beverages, it was soon time to announce which vehicle had been chosen to receive the Fan Favorite award. The honor went to the restyled Hyundai Palisade built by Specialty Auto Treatments. A delighted Cristina Jorge graciously accepted the award on behalf of her company. And thus PRO closed out yet another SEMA Show on a high note.

SEMA Member News—January 2020

PRO Celebrates in High Style

PRO Chair Dino Perfetti (left) and Chair-elect Josh Poulson address attendees during the reception held at the Westgate pool deck.

The Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) put its best foot forward during an event-filled week at the 2019 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. From the council’s awards reception and the new PRO Cup Challenge to a breakfast membership meeting, seminars and Happy Hour, the restyling community had ample occasions to link up and celebrate another successful year.

Honoring Top Performers

PRO began the week in festive fashion with its 28th annual awards reception. Held poolside at the Westgate Resort & Casino on Tuesday evening, November 5, the relaxed atmosphere gave the lively crowd an opportunity to kick back and mingle with friends and colleagues while enjoying hors d’oeuvres and liquid libations.

Following welcome remarks from SEMA President and CEO Chris Kersting, the evening’s program—hosted by PRO Chair Dino Perfetti and Chair-Elect Josh Poulson—went into full swing. First up, the inaugural PRO Cup Challenge, a new competition that pitted four restylers against one another to test their abilities to create marketable and creative accessory packages that can be easily replicated by other restylers nationwide.

The participating restylers were Cristina Jorge of Specialty Auto Treatments, Josh Poulson of Auto Additions, Brandon McNew of Altered Garage, and Dino Perfetti of Automotive Concepts. Two of their vehicles were displayed in the PRO booth in North Hall, and the other two were exhibited in the North Hall Lobby.

Earlier in the day, a judging panel viewed the builds and, during the reception, presented the PRO Cup Challenge trophy to Automotive Concepts for its Subaru Forester Base Camp edition, an outdoor lifestyle package. (A Fan Favorite award was presented later in the week; see below.)

Next on the program was the presentation of council awards. Joe Hair of Integrity Customs was named PRO Restyler of Year. Manufacturer of the Year went to AddOnAuto, a division of Reynolds & Reynolds. Perfetti—already in high spirits after winning the competition trophy—also received the Nat Danas Person of the Year award. The Jim Borré Lifetime Achievement award, presented by Ron Leslie of Katzkin Leather, paid tribute to the late Ralph Jorge, founder of Specialty Auto Treatments in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

Connecting On and Off the Show Floor

PRO leadership celebrate the achievements made by immediate past chair Ellen McKoy (center) by presenting her with the Chairman’s Gavel Award.

PRO has long set its sights on education, hosting seminars at the SEMA Show for many years. For 2019, the council presented two seminars on Wednesday. The sessions drew standing-room-only crowds.

“Accelerate Sales and Profits in a Challenging Market” focused on the shrinking of dealership margins and ways in which to rejuvenate sales and maximize gross profit. During the second session, “Up Your Game: Harness Your Marketing and Sales Skills,” a panel of industry pros shared insights into the new SEMA Accessory Sales Professional certificate program as well as practical tips on how to develop a successful dealer-direct sales strategy.

At the early-bird Breakfast with PRO on Thursday morning, more than two dozen members and newcomers gathered for conversations and an update on council initiatives. Discussions covered a range of topics, including the PRO Cup Challenge, the SEMA Accessory Sales Professional certificate exam and other council resources.

To round out the activity-filled week, the council once again hosted its annual Happy Hour in the PRO booth. Previously held on Wednesday afternoon of SEMA Show week, the networking mixer was moved to Thursday to allow Showgoers ample opportunity to vote for fan-favorite vehicles competing in the PRO Cup Challenge.

As members and nonmembers mingled and enjoyed cold beverages, it was soon time to announce which vehicle had been chosen to receive the Fan Favorite award. The honor went to the restyled Hyundai Palisade built by Specialty Auto Treatments. A delighted Cristina Jorge graciously accepted the award on behalf of her company. And thus PRO closed out yet another SEMA Show on a high note.

SEMA Member News—January 2020

MPMC Shines at PRI Trade Show

MPMC calls the PRI Trade Show home, given that its membership is comprised solely of manufacturers that make products used in sanctioned racing applications.

Indianapolis has a rich motorsports heritage that is indelibly linked to the Indy 500, the world’s oldest major auto race. So it’s fitting that the foremost trade event for the motorsports and racing industry—the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Trade Show—has made Indianapolis its home for many years.

It’s also makes perfect sense that SEMA’s Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) calls the PRI Trade Show home, given that its membership is comprised solely of manufacturers that make products used in sanctioned racing applications. Over the years, MPMC has had a track record of hosting successful events during the PRI Trade Show, and 2019 was no exception.

Connecting with Colleagues

The 33rd annual PRI Trade Show took place at the Indiana Convention Center December 12–14. To kick off its event-filled week in Indianapolis, the council hosted its first MPMC Happy Hour on Wednesday, the day prior to the show’s opening.

In years past, MPMC conducted a general membership meeting on Wednesday afternoon. The meetings sometimes featured speakers, presentations and open-forum discussions—the latter yielding some valuable feedback leading to SEMA resources to address Prop. 65 and best practices for the Executive Order process.

According to council leadership, the group felt that it was time for a change. Sights were set on a more informal networking format, which turned out to be quite successful. The Happy Hour not only gave select committee members a chance to more easily engage and talk shop with individual members but also allowed for casual conversation, idea sharing and building new connections within the motorsports community.

Empowering Through Knowledge

In 2019, MPMC-powered seminars were presented as part of the PRI education program.

Prior to 2019, MPMC hosted seminars as standalone events during the show. Last year, however, MPMC-powered seminars were presented as part of the PRI education program. The two sessions, presented by industry experts, offered attendees valuable insider tips and takeaways.

During the first session, titled “Sponsorship Proposals,” presenters Chris Meyer, vice president of marketing and client services at marketing agency Charge, and Ken Ung, president and founder of Charge, shared practical pointers on how brands and properties can create exposure, build business value around racing and prepare for sponsorship success.

An all-female panel of industry professionals tackled the topic of “Opportunities for Women in Motorsports” during MPMC’s second seminar. The session was led by Jeanette DesJardins of Car Chix and Crank It Media. Panelists included NASCAR Truck Series driver Natalie Decker, drag racer Lea Ochs, and off-road racers Sarah Burgess and daughter Bridget Burgess. During the discussion, the women shared insights into their achievements, aspirations, challenges, triumphs and efforts to engage and raise awareness among young women interested in pursuing careers in motorsports.

Celebrating the Motorsports Industry

The Performance Industry Reception, hosted by MPMC, is a long-standing PRI Trade Show highlight—a time when hundreds of motorsports professionals, including exhibitors, media, council members and nonmembers alike, gather on Friday evening to celebrate the performance industry.

In keeping with tradition, the reception offered a fun and relaxing atmosphere in which guests enjoyed refreshments and hors d’oeuvres, networked with colleagues, made new connections and interacted with council members to learn what SEMA and MPMC have to offer.

It was, said MPMC Chair Rob Fisher, the perfect place to mark the end of yet another highly successful PRI Show and the important role MPMC played in delivering value to those who participated in council events.

“Our goal was to create something special with value-added benefit for exhibitors and attendees,” he said. “Hosting events and seminars during the week was a perfect way to accomplish our goal.”

SEMA Member News—January 2020

MPMC Shines at PRI Trade Show

MPMC calls the PRI Trade Show home, given that its membership is comprised solely of manufacturers that make products used in sanctioned racing applications.

Indianapolis has a rich motorsports heritage that is indelibly linked to the Indy 500, the world’s oldest major auto race. So it’s fitting that the foremost trade event for the motorsports and racing industry—the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Trade Show—has made Indianapolis its home for many years.

It’s also makes perfect sense that SEMA’s Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) calls the PRI Trade Show home, given that its membership is comprised solely of manufacturers that make products used in sanctioned racing applications. Over the years, MPMC has had a track record of hosting successful events during the PRI Trade Show, and 2019 was no exception.

Connecting with Colleagues

The 33rd annual PRI Trade Show took place at the Indiana Convention Center December 12–14. To kick off its event-filled week in Indianapolis, the council hosted its first MPMC Happy Hour on Wednesday, the day prior to the show’s opening.

In years past, MPMC conducted a general membership meeting on Wednesday afternoon. The meetings sometimes featured speakers, presentations and open-forum discussions—the latter yielding some valuable feedback leading to SEMA resources to address Prop. 65 and best practices for the Executive Order process.

According to council leadership, the group felt that it was time for a change. Sights were set on a more informal networking format, which turned out to be quite successful. The Happy Hour not only gave select committee members a chance to more easily engage and talk shop with individual members but also allowed for casual conversation, idea sharing and building new connections within the motorsports community.

Empowering Through Knowledge

In 2019, MPMC-powered seminars were presented as part of the PRI education program.

Prior to 2019, MPMC hosted seminars as standalone events during the show. Last year, however, MPMC-powered seminars were presented as part of the PRI education program. The two sessions, presented by industry experts, offered attendees valuable insider tips and takeaways.

During the first session, titled “Sponsorship Proposals,” presenters Chris Meyer, vice president of marketing and client services at marketing agency Charge, and Ken Ung, president and founder of Charge, shared practical pointers on how brands and properties can create exposure, build business value around racing and prepare for sponsorship success.

An all-female panel of industry professionals tackled the topic of “Opportunities for Women in Motorsports” during MPMC’s second seminar. The session was led by Jeanette DesJardins of Car Chix and Crank It Media. Panelists included NASCAR Truck Series driver Natalie Decker, drag racer Lea Ochs, and off-road racers Sarah Burgess and daughter Bridget Burgess. During the discussion, the women shared insights into their achievements, aspirations, challenges, triumphs and efforts to engage and raise awareness among young women interested in pursuing careers in motorsports.

Celebrating the Motorsports Industry

The Performance Industry Reception, hosted by MPMC, is a long-standing PRI Trade Show highlight—a time when hundreds of motorsports professionals, including exhibitors, media, council members and nonmembers alike, gather on Friday evening to celebrate the performance industry.

In keeping with tradition, the reception offered a fun and relaxing atmosphere in which guests enjoyed refreshments and hors d’oeuvres, networked with colleagues, made new connections and interacted with council members to learn what SEMA and MPMC have to offer.

It was, said MPMC Chair Rob Fisher, the perfect place to mark the end of yet another highly successful PRI Show and the important role MPMC played in delivering value to those who participated in council events.

“Our goal was to create something special with value-added benefit for exhibitors and attendees,” he said. “Hosting events and seminars during the week was a perfect way to accomplish our goal.”

SEMA Member News—January 2020

HRIA in the Limelight

The HRIA Reception celebrates the progress and strength of the hot-rod industry.

It’s hard to miss all the hot-rod-related activities during the SEMA Show. From Hot Rod Alley to the Hot Rod Builder’s Panel to the Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) reception, a spotlight shone brightly on HRIA throughout the 2019 Show, both on and off the exhibit floor.

As seasoned Showgoers know, Hot Rod Alley and the Restoration Marketplace are cheek-by-jowl adjacent to one another in Central Hall. In a booth adjoining the two niche-market sections, a feature vehicle display known as Central Park is traditionally shared by HRIA and the Automotive Restoration Market Organization.

While the display area is always a central gathering spot for HRIA members to relax and mingle with select committee members, colleagues and SEMA staff, the prime focal points are six featured vehicles. The three hot rods chosen for display didn’t just represent the best of the best but also shone a light on the talented builders who created them and helped to raise the profile of the products in Hot Rod Alley and the hot-rod industry overall.

Saluting Leaders

HRIA booth shared with ARMO creates inviting space for SEMA members to learn more about the council and how to get involved.

One of the most highly anticipated council receptions is the event hosted by HRIA on Wednesday evening of the SEMA Show. The lively, fun-filled reception, held at the Westgate Paradise Center, brought together more than 400 hot rodders for a night of celebration and good fellowship.

In keeping with HRIA tradition, the evening began with an honor guard trooping of the colors, followed by the national anthem. As guests gathered to greet friends, enjoy snacks and beverages, and take in the display of knockout rods, emcee Tim Strange of Strange Motion Rod and Custom took the stage to kick off the awards program.

Three awards were presented last year: Hall of Fame, Industry Recognition and Business of the Year. The awards recognize industry leaders for their exceptional achievements and outstanding contributions to the growth and progress of the hot-rod industry.

As an enthusiastic crowd looked on, the three honorees were announced. Troy Trepanier of Rad Rides by Troy was honored as the newest inductee into the HRIA Hall of Fame. John McLeod of Classic Instruments received the Industry Recognition Award; and American Autowire was named HRIA Business of the Year.

Becoming a Builder

Another high-profile HRIA tradition is the ever-popular Hot Rod Builder’s Panel, held on Thursday afternoon. For those who dream of one day having their rods featured at the Show or competing in the Battle of the Builders, the event is a good place to get insider tips, learn about trends and interact with the experts.

The panel was moderated by Tim Strange and included veteran street-rod journalist Brian Brennan of Street Rodder as well as some of the industry’s top builders: Bobby Alloway of Alloway’s Hot Rod Shop; Kyle Tucker of Detroit Speed; and Rad Rides’ Troy Trepanier. As always, the event was well attended, and the guests eagerly soaked up all the stories and information that was shared.

SEMA Member News—January 2020

HRIA in the Limelight

The HRIA Reception celebrates the progress and strength of the hot-rod industry.

It’s hard to miss all the hot-rod-related activities during the SEMA Show. From Hot Rod Alley to the Hot Rod Builder’s Panel to the Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) reception, a spotlight shone brightly on HRIA throughout the 2019 Show, both on and off the exhibit floor.

As seasoned Showgoers know, Hot Rod Alley and the Restoration Marketplace are cheek-by-jowl adjacent to one another in Central Hall. In a booth adjoining the two niche-market sections, a feature vehicle display known as Central Park is traditionally shared by HRIA and the Automotive Restoration Market Organization.

While the display area is always a central gathering spot for HRIA members to relax and mingle with select committee members, colleagues and SEMA staff, the prime focal points are six featured vehicles. The three hot rods chosen for display didn’t just represent the best of the best but also shone a light on the talented builders who created them and helped to raise the profile of the products in Hot Rod Alley and the hot-rod industry overall.

Saluting Leaders

HRIA booth shared with ARMO creates inviting space for SEMA members to learn more about the council and how to get involved.

One of the most highly anticipated council receptions is the event hosted by HRIA on Wednesday evening of the SEMA Show. The lively, fun-filled reception, held at the Westgate Paradise Center, brought together more than 400 hot rodders for a night of celebration and good fellowship.

In keeping with HRIA tradition, the evening began with an honor guard trooping of the colors, followed by the national anthem. As guests gathered to greet friends, enjoy snacks and beverages, and take in the display of knockout rods, emcee Tim Strange of Strange Motion Rod and Custom took the stage to kick off the awards program.

Three awards were presented last year: Hall of Fame, Industry Recognition and Business of the Year. The awards recognize industry leaders for their exceptional achievements and outstanding contributions to the growth and progress of the hot-rod industry.

As an enthusiastic crowd looked on, the three honorees were announced. Troy Trepanier of Rad Rides by Troy was honored as the newest inductee into the HRIA Hall of Fame. John McLeod of Classic Instruments received the Industry Recognition Award; and American Autowire was named HRIA Business of the Year.

Becoming a Builder

Another high-profile HRIA tradition is the ever-popular Hot Rod Builder’s Panel, held on Thursday afternoon. For those who dream of one day having their rods featured at the Show or competing in the Battle of the Builders, the event is a good place to get insider tips, learn about trends and interact with the experts.

The panel was moderated by Tim Strange and included veteran street-rod journalist Brian Brennan of Street Rodder as well as some of the industry’s top builders: Bobby Alloway of Alloway’s Hot Rod Shop; Kyle Tucker of Detroit Speed; and Rad Rides’ Troy Trepanier. As always, the event was well attended, and the guests eagerly soaked up all the stories and information that was shared.