From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

California Assemblymember Michelle Rodriguez, who represents the state's 53rd Assembly District, recently toured the EGR USA manufacturing facility in Ontario to gain firsthand insight into the specialty automotive aftermarket and the role SEMA plays in supporting local innovation and economic development.

EGR, a longtime SEMA member, is a key employer in Rodriguez's district, specializing in truck and SUV accessories. The company utilizes the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar to support product development through services like 3D scanning, emissions testing and ADAS calibration.

Assemblymember Rodriguez, whose district includes Ontario and surrounding communities in the Inland Empire, was joined by her field representative, Sophia Cohen, and welcomed by EGR Vice President of Operations Bryan Speer, SEMA Senior Manager of State Government Affairs Victor Muñoz, and other EGR team members and SEMA staff. The visit included a walkthrough of EGR's production floor, showcasing advanced manufacturing processes such as acrylic fabrication, robotic trimming, fender flare molding and Rivian part assembly.

"Education is the first step to understanding this industry, and visits like this help play a crucial role in building that understanding," said Damien Rickards, chief operating officer for EGR USA. "It's hard to sometimes get our name out there, so having an elected official tour our Ontario facility was really important. The more influence we can have, the better--it's great for EGR, it's great for the local economy and local jobs."  

Assemblymember Rodriguez expressed appreciation for the opportunity to see how EGR integrates resources from across the industry to produce high-quality products not only for automotive applications but also for home décor and other sectors. "It's inspiring to see EGR leading with innovation and creating quality jobs right here in our community," said Assemblymember Rodriguez. "Their success is a testament to the Inland Empire's talent, creativity, and growing economic strength."

SEMA has 58 member companies in California's 53rd Assembly District, supporting nearly $1 billion in economic output and more than 3,000 jobs. Rodriguez's visit reflects her commitment to supporting manufacturing, infrastructure, and regulatory reform. She is also a coauthor of Leno's Law (SB 712), a SEMA-supported bill that expands smog check exemptions for collector vehicles.

"We're grateful to Assemblymember Rodriguez for taking the time to engage with our members and see the impact of our industry up close," said Muñoz. "Her leadership and support are vital to ensuring that California's policies foster innovation and economic opportunity."

For more information or to host your own lawmakers on a facility tour, contact Victor Muñoz at victorm@sema.org. 

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

California Assemblymember Michelle Rodriguez, who represents the state's 53rd Assembly District, recently toured the EGR USA manufacturing facility in Ontario to gain firsthand insight into the specialty automotive aftermarket and the role SEMA plays in supporting local innovation and economic development.

EGR, a longtime SEMA member, is a key employer in Rodriguez's district, specializing in truck and SUV accessories. The company utilizes the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar to support product development through services like 3D scanning, emissions testing and ADAS calibration.

Assemblymember Rodriguez, whose district includes Ontario and surrounding communities in the Inland Empire, was joined by her field representative, Sophia Cohen, and welcomed by EGR Vice President of Operations Bryan Speer, SEMA Senior Manager of State Government Affairs Victor Muñoz, and other EGR team members and SEMA staff. The visit included a walkthrough of EGR's production floor, showcasing advanced manufacturing processes such as acrylic fabrication, robotic trimming, fender flare molding and Rivian part assembly.

"Education is the first step to understanding this industry, and visits like this help play a crucial role in building that understanding," said Damien Rickards, chief operating officer for EGR USA. "It's hard to sometimes get our name out there, so having an elected official tour our Ontario facility was really important. The more influence we can have, the better--it's great for EGR, it's great for the local economy and local jobs."  

Assemblymember Rodriguez expressed appreciation for the opportunity to see how EGR integrates resources from across the industry to produce high-quality products not only for automotive applications but also for home décor and other sectors. "It's inspiring to see EGR leading with innovation and creating quality jobs right here in our community," said Assemblymember Rodriguez. "Their success is a testament to the Inland Empire's talent, creativity, and growing economic strength."

SEMA has 58 member companies in California's 53rd Assembly District, supporting nearly $1 billion in economic output and more than 3,000 jobs. Rodriguez's visit reflects her commitment to supporting manufacturing, infrastructure, and regulatory reform. She is also a coauthor of Leno's Law (SB 712), a SEMA-supported bill that expands smog check exemptions for collector vehicles.

"We're grateful to Assemblymember Rodriguez for taking the time to engage with our members and see the impact of our industry up close," said Muñoz. "Her leadership and support are vital to ensuring that California's policies foster innovation and economic opportunity."

For more information or to host your own lawmakers on a facility tour, contact Victor Muñoz at victorm@sema.org. 

By Ashley Reyes

Exhibiting at the SEMA Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) Media Trade Conference is a great way for motorsports parts manufacturers to develop quality connections with the industry's top media professionals.

Below are frequently asked questions about exhibiting at the next conference, taking place January 27-29, 2026, in Anaheim, California.

What is the Media Trade Conference?

Unlike a traditional trade show where exhibitors meet with buyers and resellers, the Media Trade Conference focuses on private 30-minute meetings between manufacturers and media. Manufacturers participate in more than 40 meetings over the course of three days, gaining valuable, curated connections with media who can promote their news and products to mass audiences.  

How many media attend?

Nearly 100 unique media outlets attend the conference on average each year. Representatives in attendance include established automotive-aftermarket journalists, editors, podcasters and content creators.

What does the setup look like?

Exhibiting manufacturers receive a designated suite within the Embassy Suites Hotel that will serve as their meeting space during the three days. The room offers ample space for manufacturers to lay out their products and display marketing materials that will be of value to the media that they meet with.

What happens outside of the meetings?

Daily lunches, networking breaks and an industry reception are scheduled throughout the week. These events are great for furthering connections, scheduling time on your own to meet additional media, or just catching up with industry peers and friends in a relaxed setting.

Who is eligible to exhibit?

The Media Trade Conference is open to SEMA MPMC, SEMA Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) and PRI business members.

What is the price to attend?

Early-bird pricing for exhibitors is $850 until September 8 and will increase to $950 beginning September 9.

When does media registration open?

Media registration begins in October.

Still have questions?

Contact MPMC Director Marcy Yanus at marcy@sema.org.

By Ashley Reyes

Innovation, creativity and passion drive the specialty-equipment industry forward. Anyone who has ever attended the SEMA Show knows this, as it's where the best automotive builders debut their custom creations, showcase their craft, and make their place in the industry known.    

With the 2025 SEMA Show--November 4-7, Las Vegas--just three months away, SEMA wants to remind builders of the opportunity to gain well-deserved recognition for their talents if their featured vehicle is one that exemplifies excellence in engineering.    

The SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award honors a featured vehicle at the SEMA Show that demonstrates exceptional engineering throughout the entire vehicle, or an aspect of the vehicle that goes beyond just physical appearance. It also aims to inspire more engineers to enter the automotive aftermarket by highlighting their impact on the automotive specialty-equipment industry and placing a spotlight on the symbiotic relationship between a vehicle's design and engineering.

If you think your build has what it takes to win, now is your chance to show the industry what you're made of.

Nominate for the 2025 SEMA Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year Award here and below.

By Ashley Reyes

In today's workplace, diversity cannot be imposed but must be nurtured and encouraged to create lasting change. To help automotive professionals lay the groundwork for a more diverse future workforce, specifically in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields, the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) will host a webinar on Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. PDT/3:00 p.m. EDT.

The "STEM Allyship: Empowering the Future Workforce" session will explore various barriers that hinder access to STEM-based careers, including socioeconomic challenges, geographical limitations and persistent stereotypes. Attendees will hear from industry experts as they offer insights into how individuals and organizations can address these barriers and highlight existing educational opportunities that promote diversity in STEM.  

Key takeaways include how to:  

• Address industry skill gaps and develop and attract diverse STEM talent.
• Promote innovation and foster creativity through diverse teams.
• Build a sustainable talent pipeline and engage future generations in automotive careers.
• Tackle recruitment barriers and overcome socioeconomic and geographical challenges.
• Stay competitive and up-to-date with technological advancements and market changes.

Panelists include Dean Case, membership director at Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) SoCal/consultant at Motivo; Kira Daczko, regional admissions director at Universal Technical Institute (UTI); and Tamara Robertson, engineer at Electronic Instrumentation and Technology (EIT), "Mythbusters" host and STEM ambassador for the Jessi Combs Foundation and Society of Women Engineers. Rachel Speir, marketing specialist at RS Marqueting, will moderate the discussion.

Register here.

By SEMA News Editors

In collaboration with General Motors (GM), the SEMA Garage is hosting a next-level measuring session like never before, featuring EIGHT brand-new '25 GM vehicles all in one place!

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

SEMA members will gain unprecedented access to 3D scan, test-fit, measure and interact with these cutting-edge vehicles up close. This is a rare chance to explore GM's future-forward lineup, all under one roof. Click here or the button below to RSVP.

SEMA Garage/GM Measuring Session
August 20-21, 2025
SEMA Garage Detroit
14655 Jib St., Plymouth, MI 48170
View on Google Maps.

By Ashley Reyes

Following the industry's devastating loss of Automotive Racing Products (ARP) brand ambassador and racer Chris Raschke on August 3, SEMA is establishing the Chris Raschke Legacy Scholarship to honor his life, legacy and passion for the automotive industry.  

The scholarship will be part of the SEMA Scholarship Memorial Fund, which supports students pursuing careers in the automotive aftermarket. Through this scholarship, SEMA will ensure that Raschke's influence and dedication continue to inspire the next generation. Industry members interested in contributing to the Chris Raschke Legacy Scholarship can do so online here and at the button below.

Raschke, 60, passed away following a crash at Bonneville Speed Week in Tooele County, Utah, while piloting the Speed Demon streamliner. The Speed Demon team had achieved a best run of 459.734 mph last year and was seeking a historic 500-mph record attempt in 2025. Known for his technical brilliance, Raschke was a staple in both landspeed racing and the engine-building community. Read more about his legacy here.

Raschke's celebration of life is on Saturday, August 23, 2025.  

Applications for the 2026 SEMA Scholarship Program will open January 1, 2026, at sema.org/scholarships.  

By SEMA News Editors

By connecting early, exhibitors can spark interest, schedule meetings in advance and ensure that buyers arrive ready to talk business.

Exhibitors at the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4–7, Las Vegas, now have a powerful new way to maximize their ROI and strengthen customer relationships: the brand-new "Invite a Customer" program. 

Now available in the SEMA Show Exhibitor Resource Center, this complimentary tool makes it easy to reach out directly to customers, prospects and guests with a personalized email invitation to register for both the SEMA Show (at the Las Vegas Convention Center) and the 2025 AAPEX (November 4-6, at The Venetian Expo and Caesar's Forum).

By using this feature to connect with customers before the SEMA Show, exhibitors can set the stage for valuable in-person conversations and ensure their booth is on every buyer's must-visit list. Pre-Show outreach using the "Invite a Customer" tool creates buzz before the doors even open, driving more booth traffic and increasing the chance for meaningful, high-value conversations on the Show floor.

Exhibitors can choose from three easy ways to invite customers:

• Share a unique promotional registration link that lets customers register directly. Forward that link to your customers or in an email blast, and they can begin the registration process.
• Use the complimentary Invite a Customer email service, which provides a pre-programmed message with your unique registration link and promotion code. The email informs customers about your booth at the SEMA Show and invites them to attend. There are no limits to the number of email lists or recipients for this free, pre-programmed feature.
• Share a unique Customer Pass Code for customers to enter during online registration.

With no cost to use this valuable Show feature--including a ready-to-use email template and no limit on recipients--the Invite a Customer program ensures your key contacts know exactly where to find you at the SEMA Show.

Don't miss this opportunity to put your brand front and center. Start inviting your customers below today!

Exhibitors should frequently check the complete list of deadlines for the 2025 SEMA Show using the Exhibitor Services Manual found at semashow.com/esm. The Manual is the one-stop shop for all things related to exhibiting at the SEMA Show and contains everything companies need to know to exhibit like a pro, including deadline and budget checklists.

Exhibitors can also lock in the guaranteed lowest hotel rates by booking in the official SEMA Show Block provided by OnPeak.

Have questions or need help accessing the "Invite a Customer" program? Call us at 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, at 508-743-8571 or email AAPEXSEMA@maritz.com.

By SEMA News Editors

In collaboration with General Motors (GM), the SEMA Garage is hosting a next-level measuring session like never before, featuring EIGHT brand-new '25 GM vehicles all in one place!

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

SEMA members will gain unprecedented access to 3D scan, test-fit, measure and interact with these cutting-edge vehicles up close. This is a rare chance to explore GM's future-forward lineup, all under one roof. Click here or the button below to RSVP.

SEMA Garage/GM Measuring Session
August 20-21, 2025
SEMA Garage Detroit
14655 Jib St., Plymouth, MI 48170
View on Google Maps.

By Juan Torres

The SEMA Show Online Media Center is now available for exhibiting companies to submit Show-related press releases to be included on the SEMA Show website. 

Companies exhibiting at the 2025 SEMA Show can submit press releases to generate excitement for products and Show-related announcements, such as guest and celebrity appearances, descriptions of new products planned for display, special booth vehicles, product giveaways and more.  

This free benefit for exhibitors provides an added exposure opportunity. With thousands of media in attendance at the SEMA Show, exhibiting companies will benefit by spotlighting their newest and most innovative products to direct media attention to their booths. Press releases submitted may also be used in association publications, social media platforms and promoted to media attendees. The Online Media Center was designed specifically for journalists to find Show-related news and announcements. 

An easy-to-read press release with relevant content can create a lasting impression, generate media coverage and ultimately drive traffic to an exhibitor’s booth. Exhibitors can upload their press releases to semashow.com/press-release.