By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) is accepting nominations for its prestigious MPMC Robert E. Petersen Media Award at this link.

The award honors a member of the print, online or broadcast media who has made a substantial contribution to the motorsports industry within the past year while maintaining an ongoing record of service and support to the motorsports sector.

"Media professionals play a vital role in sharing the stories of this great industry by creating meaningful content that informs, inspires, and showcases the passion and innovation of motorsports," said MPMC Council Director Marcy Yanus. "We encourage everyone to nominate a deserving journalist who has made a meaningful difference this year."

To qualify, nominees must be an automotive or motorsports journalist with work published in print or online media and must actively support the motorsports industry with positive content.

The winner will be announced and celebrated during the MPMC Reception at the 2025 Media Trade Conference, held January 21-23, 2025, held in Orlando, Florida.

Submit your nomination today.

By Ashley Reyes

As consumers increasingly turn to social media to engage with their favorite brands, aftermarket companies have an incredible opportunity to collaborate with content creators to boost business and marketing success. In fact, 85% of surveyed respondents from the "The State of Influencer Marketing 2024: Benchmark Report" consider influencer marketing an effective strategy—a significant increase from previous years.  

On January 7 at 10:00 a.m. (PDT), the SEMA Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) will host a live webinar on how to effectively work with content creators. Attendees will hear from industry leaders at DriveShop, an influencer marketing agency specializing in the automotive aftermarket, as they share the fundamentals of influencer marketing and how content creators can help brands reach highly targeted audiences and drive measurable results with engaging and impactful content.  

Topics include:  

• How to integrate content creators into an existing marketing strategy 
• How to identify the right creators to work with 
• How to get the most out of influencer partnerships 
• Common mistakes and pitfalls to avoid when choosing a content creator  

Presented by DriveShop CEO Derek Drake and Creator Engagement Director Lisa Cabalquinto, the "Content Creator Marketing for Aftermarket Brands" session will offer real examples of influencer marketing that are taking off in the aftermarket industry, as well as a Q&A with the speakers.  

Register here. 

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Jessica Blackshaw, vice president of operations at HAVEN Creative Agency, as the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member. 

Get to know Blackshaw 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? 

Jessica Blackshaw: I've been with HAVEN Creative for four years. One of the things I enjoy most about working here is the ability to make an impact quickly. Being part of a female-led organization is incredibly inspiring and empowering. Additionally, I love knowing that my work helps take some stress off our clients and partners, enabling them to be the best version of themselves. 

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

JB: The most challenging part of my job is managing multiple clients simultaneously, as there are always a million plates in the air at one time. My responsibility is to ensure that the team has everything they need to drive the project from start to finish, ensuring the train runs on time. Additionally, learning the ins and outs of each partner is like running multiple businesses at once, which can be demanding but also keeps the work exciting. 

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

JB: It's hard to pinpoint my exact start in the automotive industry because I grew up going to the racetrack with my dad. My first official job in the industry was as a marketing intern at Charlotte Motor Speedway. I was younger than most of the interns and had to beg them to give me a chance to show them what I could do. Fortunately, they did, and I worked most of the races for the following four years. 

Many might think the most exciting part of the internship was race day and being in the mix of the action. However, my favorite part was the calm before the storm--watching the haulers load in the day before to a quiet oval about to be filled with thousands of fans. I guess you could say I've always loved the behind-the-scenes operations that make the final product possible. 

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

JB: Three qualities that have gotten me to where I am today are my "get [stuff] done" attitude, commitment to bringing people along with me and dedication to delivering the best. 

First, my "get [stuff] done" attitude means that you can count on me if you want something done. I have an intrinsic drive to push through challenges and complete tasks efficiently and effectively. This quality has ensured I consistently meet deadlines and deliver results for my team and partners. 

Second, I believe that as a leader, one of the most important things you can do is bring people along the journey with you. I love pushing my team to be the best version of themselves. This has fostered a collaborative work environment where everyone feels motivated to contribute their best. I think this is best demonstrated in our culture of "making mavens," where we educate our peers and partners and empower them to be better communicators. Being able to help people along in the journey through our "making mavens" ethos has been an important factor in my career growth at HAVEN. 

Lastly, I am not satisfied unless I know I've done my absolute best for myself and whoever I am working with. 

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

JB: Being a woman in the industry, the biggest challenge I've faced is sometimes having to take a seat for myself at the table. There have been many situations where I wasn't the first choice that came to mind, but I proved myself to be the best choice through my dedication and hard work. 

My biggest accomplishment isn't just securing a seat at the table but excelling in any challenge I've been given to create opportunities for others. Once you get a seat, you must do your best to bring others along with you. 

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

JB: I have to say that, for the most part, the automotive industry has always welcomed me with open arms. However, there weren't many women paving the way for me as I was coming up. I got used to being one of the only females in the room, but it doesn't have to be that way. We all have a chance to show someone the way and give someone a chance to shine. 

One person who has been a huge influence on my growth is my other half at HAVEN, Jeni. I'm incredibly grateful that we found each other. Her support and guidance have been invaluable, helping me navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities. Her mentorship has shaped me and inspired me to mentor others, ensuring that more women have the support and encouragement they need to succeed. 

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

JB: The best career advice I have received actually comes from an author, Glennon Doyle, who said, "Stop asking people for directions to places they've never been." This quote has impacted my professional and personal life by encouraging me to live my most authentic life. Professionally, it has helped me trust my gut and make decisions based on my unique vision rather than seeking validation from others who may not understand my journey. 

In my personal life, it has empowered me to follow my own path and prioritize what truly matters to me, leading to a more authentic and fulfilling life. I'm super proud that I've created a career and life that represent who I truly am. 

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

JB: The automotive industry feels like it chose me more than I chose it. From a young age, I was in the world of motorsports and machinery, which ignited a passion that continues to drive me today. 

What keeps me here is the industry's constant state of change and evolution. I thrive on the excitement of never having two days alike. Whether it's new promotions, innovative products, advancements in safety features, or groundbreaking ideas, there's always something new and interesting to dive into. This constant change challenges me to stay adaptable and creative, which keeps my work fulfilling and engaging. 

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

JB: My dad has been the most influential person on my career and goals. He was a brilliant entrepreneur and my first business mentor from the day I was born. He ignited my entrepreneurial spirit and taught me to keep grinding, especially when things get tough. There isn't a single day when I don't wish I could pick up the phone and ask him for advice or just hear him tell me it's all going to work out. 

I am forever grateful for his guidance, simply through his actions and the way he tackled challenges head-on. His belief that I can achieve anything I set my mind to has been a driving force behind who I am today. 

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. 

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Future Leaders Network (FLN) has named Ryan DeBoe, project engineer, new product development at Rigid Industries, as the network's newest spotlight member. 

Get to know DeBoe in his interview with SEMA News below. 

SEMA News: What is the best advice you have ever received? 

Ryan DeBoe: Always be honest and speak your mind, but make sure you are respectful while you do. Then in turn, be sure to listen when others speak.

SN: What keeps you in the industry? 

RD: The passion. After working across various industries in the past, I have never seen more dedicated and passionate people working together to protect and improve an industry.

SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday? 

RD: Out on the trails or on the water. The Arizona heat can be brutal so either hiking, off-roading in my Jeep or on the lake.

SN: How do you prepare for an important meeting? 

RD: I create a list of main talking points. It is incredibly easy to get off-topic and allow conversations to spiral. Make sure you stick to the main topics that need to be discussed and resolved.

SN: If you could go to lunch with one industry leader, living or dead, who would it be? 

RD: A common answer I am sure, but Henry Ford. It would be interesting to hear his thoughts on the advancements and current condition of the automotive market, as well as the improvements in manufacturing assembly lines.

Fill out an FLN member spotlight form to be eligible to be featured on FLN's social media, SEMA News and FLN member updates. 

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) named Lou Lobsinger, national sales director at American Expedition Vehicles, as the council's newest spotlight volunteer. Get to know Lobsinger in his interview with SEMA News below. 

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

Lou Lobsinger: I've been in the racing and performance industry my entire career, but I only recently entered the off-road industry. You don't get to see so many epic mountain roads and trails in the racing industry!

SN: Why did you decide to volunteer for TORA?  

LL: It's important to me that my team here at AEV is aligned on industry initiatives and joining TORA is a great way to stay up to date.

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

LL: Always be asking good questions.

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

LL: My dream truck is the Truckhouse BCR. My daily driver is AEV JL370 392 Final Edition Wrangler.

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

By SEMA News Editors

Are you interested in learning more about ADAS operation and calibration? Join AUTEL for a 2-day, in-person training event at the SEMA Detroit Garage on January 14-15, 2025. This comprehensive program is designed for all experience levels, providing valuable insights and hands-on learning opportunities.

Click HERE to reserve your spot.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA has expressed its appreciation of the Supreme Court of the United States for granting a writ of certiorari for a critical question in the case of "Diamond Alternative Energy LLC v. EPA," which SEMA requested earlier this year via an amicus brief. In granting the writ, the court agreed to decide the important question of whether some business interests and trade organizations, including members of the automotive aftermarket, have standing to make a legal claim that California's Clean Air Act waiver allows the state to set rules that reduce demand for their products.

The court agreed to hear an appeal of a ruling by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit holding that the plaintiffs did not have a legal right to challenge the waiver.

Specifically, the case stems from a D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals panel's prior dismissal of a challenge to electric vehicle (EV) mandates on the grounds that the plaintiffs lacked standing. To sue in federal courts, there needs to be a concrete injury because of a defendant's actions. If the Supreme Court rules that the plaintiffs have standing, the D.C. Circuit would have to address the merits (i.e., whether the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) can let California regulate automotive carbon dioxide emissions). This is a fortuitous question, given President Joe Biden's anticipated extension of California's waiver through 2035.

The court declined to hear a challenge to the legality of the waiver itself. 

SEMA's amicus brief, filed in August, argued that California's non-technology-neutral regulation that limits sales of internal-combustion-engine (ICE) vehicles will have a devastating impact on the automotive aftermarket, effectively killing, rather than fostering innovation that can help produce cleaner, safer automobiles.

"SEMA is pleased that the nation's highest court acknowledges the significant public interest in the question raised in Diamond Alternative Energy LLC v. EPA: that California is wrong to pursue internal combustion engine bans, and that lower courts who have affirmed the state's ability to do so in fact ruled in error," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "SEMA looks forward to the Supreme Court's full review of this matter and is confident that justice will prevail on behalf of American innovation and ingenuity."

As an organization, SEMA champions a technology-neutral approach that fosters innovation and ingenuity and will continue its efforts to preserve Americans' rights to vehicle choice and the automotive aftermarket industry's ability to design, manufacture and bring to market products that help solve the carbon emissions challenge.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

SEMA has expressed its appreciation of the Supreme Court of the United States for granting a writ of certiorari for a critical question in the case of "Diamond Alternative Energy LLC v. EPA," which SEMA requested earlier this year via an amicus brief. In granting the writ, the court agreed to decide the important question of whether some business interests and trade organizations, including members of the automotive aftermarket, have standing to make a legal claim that California's Clean Air Act waiver allows the state to set rules that reduce demand for their products.

The court agreed to hear an appeal of a ruling by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit holding that the plaintiffs did not have a legal right to challenge the waiver.

Specifically, the case stems from a D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals panel's prior dismissal of a challenge to electric vehicle (EV) mandates on the grounds that the plaintiffs lacked standing. To sue in federal courts, there needs to be a concrete injury because of a defendant's actions. If the Supreme Court rules that the plaintiffs have standing, the D.C. Circuit would have to address the merits (i.e., whether the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) can let California regulate automotive carbon dioxide emissions). This is a fortuitous question, given President Joe Biden's anticipated extension of California's waiver through 2035.

The court declined to hear a challenge to the legality of the waiver itself. 

SEMA's amicus brief, filed in August, argued that California's non-technology-neutral regulation that limits sales of internal-combustion-engine (ICE) vehicles will have a devastating impact on the automotive aftermarket, effectively killing, rather than fostering innovation that can help produce cleaner, safer automobiles.

"SEMA is pleased that the nation's highest court acknowledges the significant public interest in the question raised in Diamond Alternative Energy LLC v. EPA: that California is wrong to pursue internal combustion engine bans, and that lower courts who have affirmed the state's ability to do so in fact ruled in error," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "SEMA looks forward to the Supreme Court's full review of this matter and is confident that justice will prevail on behalf of American innovation and ingenuity."

As an organization, SEMA champions a technology-neutral approach that fosters innovation and ingenuity and will continue its efforts to preserve Americans' rights to vehicle choice and the automotive aftermarket industry's ability to design, manufacture and bring to market products that help solve the carbon emissions challenge.

Sponsored by FiTech Fuel Injection

Unwrap Savings With FiTech's Hot Rod Holidays Sale 

The holidays are here and FiTech Fuel Injection is delivering a sleigh-full of savings with its annual Hot Rod Holidays Sale. Whether you're restoring a classic musclecar or tuning up a project car, now is the perfect time to invest in high-performance fuel-injection systems, accessories and more--all at special holiday prices. 

Why Upgrade This Holiday Season? 

The Hot Rod Holidays Sale isn't just about discounts--it's about investing in quality components that elevate your build. With FiTech's industry-leading products, you'll enjoy: 

• Improved performance: Enhance throttle response, power delivery and fuel efficiency. 
• Easy installation: User-friendly designs make upgrades straightforward, even for DIYers. 
• Unmatched support: Backed by FiTech's three-year limited warranty and expert tech support. 

Limited Time, Maximum Value 

The Hot Rod Holidays Sale runs through the end of the season, but these deals won't last forever. Don't miss your chance to save big while stocking up on premium parts for your next project. 

How to Shop the Sale: 

• Online: Visit FiTech's website to explore the full range of discounted products. 
• Retailers: Check with FiTech's authorized dealers for in-store savings and availability. 

By SEMA News Editors

PRI

Associate Editor in Diamond Bar, California

PRI is seeking a new associate editor to contribute to the content and production of PRI Magazine across all platforms. The selected candidate will resource and assemble relevant, high-quality content, writing regular editorial features and departments as assigned by editor.

SEMA

Membership Growth Director in Diamond Bar, California

SEMA is seeking a qualified candidate to fill its available Membership Growth Director. The selected candidate will be responsible for maximizing growth in membership and retention by developing and executing strategic initiatives. This role uses industry insights and data analysis to expand market share and enhance the value of association membership.

Goodridge

National Sales Manager Aftermarket Manufacturers in Mooresville, North Carolina

Goodridge is searching for a national sales manager to drive the growth of its business with existing and new North American two- and four-wheel aftermarket parts manufacturers. The selected candidate for this role must be able to demonstrate a strong technical sales background to build relationships with aftermarket parts manufacturers.

National Sales Manager Aftermarket Distributors

This role will be responsible for driving the growth of business through existing and new partnerships with North American two- and four-wheel aftermarket distribution partners.