By SEMA News Editors

 

Every successful business has a plan for the future, and for thousands of automotive aftermarket executives, business owners, buyers and decision-makers, that plan includes the 2026 SEMA Show.

 

Returning to Las Vegas, November 3-6, the industry's premier trade event brings together the newest products, emerging trends and the people driving the future of the automotive aftermarket in one destination.

 

Whether you're evaluating new suppliers, strengthening customer relationships or looking for the next opportunity to grow your business, the SEMA Show delivers four days of face-to-face meetings and firsthand access to the products and ideas shaping the industry.

 

Register Now to Save on Your 2026 SEMA Show Badge

 

Approved attendees can register for a SEMA Show badge for just $75 now through September 25. After, the price increases to $100.

 

The sooner an attendee registers for the SEMA Show, the more they save. Early registrants can also get a head start on their SEMA Show plan, with access to the Registration Resource Center to print receipts, register a spouse, book hotels, reserve a spot in one of dozens of educational sessions, purchase tickets to events like SEMA Fest, the SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast, SEMA Industry Honors, and more.

 

 

 

How to Save on Your 2026 SEMA Show Hotel

 

Hotel reservations are open through SEMA's only official housing partner, onPeak. Bookings made in the official SEMA Show block are eligible for hotel loyalty and member programs and are guaranteed to be the lowest possible prices available. That's right: organizers will price-match if you happen to find a lower rate, so there's no downside to booking within the official SEMA Show hotel block at semashow.com/hotel. 

 

 

How to Save on Airfare to Las Vegas for the SEMA Show

 

SEMA Show organizers know travel costs can add up, which is why they've partnered with several airlines to offer exclusive discounts for attendees heading to the 2026 SEMA Show. 

 

With these deals from exclusive SEMA Show partners––detailed at the link below––attendees can take advantage of airfare savings while planning their trip to the industry's premier automotive aftermarket event. 

 

 

How to Save on the Las Vegas Monorail and The Vegas Loop During SEMA

 

Las Vegas Monorail

 

The Las Vegas Monorail is an excellent way to get to the SEMA Show campus if your hotel is near a station. It conveniently tracks above Vegas traffic, making your commute time from any station no more than 10 minutes, and drops Showgoers off just outside of Central Hall at the Las Vegas Convention Center.

 

Monorail stations and their corresponding hotels include: MGM Grand, Horseshoe/Paris, Flamingo/Caesars Palace, Harrah's/The LINQ, Boingo (LVCC), Westgate and Sahara.

 

Attendees enjoy exclusive Monorail discounts. Purchase tickets at tix.lvmonorail.com/SEMA26 for the best rates available. Paper tickets are also available (at full price) from ticket kiosks and customer service desks. Hours of operation begin every day at 7:00 a.m. and end at midnight on Monday, 2:00 a.m. Tuesday through Thursday, and 3:00 a.m. Friday through Sunday.

 

Monorail riders also enjoy discounts across Las Vegas on things like food, entertainment and shopping. Learn more at lvmonorail.com/discounts.

 

The Las Vegas Loop

 

The Las Vegas Loop is an underground transportation network that takes riders through various stations across the LVCC campus. This unique means of transportation saves you time and energy getting from one point to another, and it's free for the LVCC grounds.

 

Walking from one end of the LVCC to the other could take up to 30 min. and lots of energy. Take a look at the Loop map, and leverage the free rides whenever possible to get to your location so you spend more time where you want to be. It's a week-long marathon, so don't sprint.

 

The Loop also features stations at Westgate and Encore Las Vegas and recently added Resorts World Las Vegas to the growing list, making the Loop another transportation option to get to and from the LVCC. However, these routes are fee-based, so visit lvloop.com/tickets for going rates.

 

SEMA Fest Is Back in 2026

 

SEMA Fest––which recently announced an all-star lineup featuring The Offspring, Jimmy Eat World and 311––returns to Las Vegas on Friday, November 6, with motorsports, music and car culture. 

 

Qualified SEMA Show attendees can add SEMA Fest tickets directly through the Registration Resource Center when securing a Show badge.

 

Non-industry friends and family can purchase tickets now at SEMAFest.com, along with passes for the one-day "SEMA Show Friday – Open to the Public," a bucket-list experience for automotive enthusiasts.

 

The 2026 SEMA Show is set for November 3-6, in Las Vegas. Interested exhibitors can buy a booth and learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor. Attendee, buyer and media registration is now open online. For more information, visit semashow.com. 

 

By Ashley Reyes

 

SEMA is accepting nominations for its prestigious industry awards recognizing companies and individuals within the automotive aftermarket whose leadership, innovation and service have left a meaningful impact. The nomination deadline is Friday, August 14, at www.sema.org/awards.

 

The SEMA Industry Awards are among the association's highest honors and recognize the recipient's outstanding contributions to the specialty equipment industry during the past year. The program recognizes honorees in five different categories: Channel Partner of the Year, Content Creator of the Year, Manufacturer of the Year, Person of the Year and the Visionary 8.

   

To be considered, a nominee must exhibit professionalism, service, integrity and ethics that help propel the industry forward.

 

Why Nominating Matters

 

It takes dedication, hard work and drive to build and grow an automotive specialty-equipment business, and even more so to grow an entire industry. Nominating a deserving candidate helps ensure that those who best embody SEMA's mission are recognized for their impact. In doing so, SEMA can inspire continuous innovation, encourage industry involvement and strengthen the businesses and people that keep the aftermarket thriving.  

 

When considering a nominee, members should look for individuals and companies whose contributions extend beyond their own business and are helping advance the automotive aftermarket at large. Ideal candidates may include companies demonstrating outstanding business practices, individuals driving the industry forward through new innovations and ideas or volunteer leaders who dedicate their time to advancing industry initiatives and mentoring others.

 

If you know a company or individual that deserves industry-wide attention for their contributions, submit a nomination by Friday, August 14, at www.sema.org/awards.  

 

2026 SEMA Show to Celebrate the Industry's Best

 

The 2026 SEMA Show, held November 3-6 in Las Vegas, will bring together automotive icons and next-gen disruptors to celebrate the past, present, and future of the aftermarket industry. The festivities shift into gear on Tuesday, November 3, with the Kickoff Breakfast, where 15 cutting-edge New Product Awards will be unveiled alongside top honors for Channel Partner of the Year and Manufacturer of the Year.

 

On Thursday, November 5, the highly anticipated Visionary 8 and SEMA's Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year winner will be announced live at SEMA Central. The momentum will continue during the SEMA Industry Honors, celebrated at the iconic Fontainebleau. This red-carpet-style gathering brings together the industry's biggest names to spotlight standout achievements, including Content Creator of the Year and Person of the Year. 

 

Entries for Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year––a SEMA Industry Award that recognizes exceptional quality of engineering on a vehicle build––will open in August. Learn more at www.sema.org/awards. 

By SEMA News Editors

Limited spots remain for August's SEMA Garage Diamond Bar AUTEL ADAS trainings, with an exclusive third day available.

As demand for advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) expertise continues to rise, SEMA Garage is once again partnering with AUTEL to deliver hands-on, in-depth training designed to keep repair professionals ahead of rapidly evolving vehicle technology. These highly sought-after sessions focus on ADAS fundamentals, calibration techniques and proper reporting practices--skills that are becoming increasingly critical as more ADAS-equipped vehicles enter the market.

 

The next opportunity to participate in this training takes place at SEMA Garage Diamond Bar, where space is limited and registration is filling quickly. SEMA Garage Diamond Bar will host its next AUTEL ADAS training session on Tuesday, August 11, and Wednesday, August 12, with an optional expanded third day of training on Thursday, August 13, at the facility located at 1577 Valley Vista Dr., Diamond Bar, CA 91765. (View on Google Maps). 

 

For attendees looking to take their training even further, SEMA Garage now offers an exclusive expanded third day of instruction. The optional Day 3 on August 13 builds on the two-day curriculum by applying diagnostics, decision-making and liability awareness to real-world ADAS calibration scenarios. Rather than standalone lectures, participants work through hands-on exercises designed to reinforce confidence and accuracy in the field. To participate, select the "3-Day" option when registering on the Autel website. Note: The "Day 3" option requires an additional fee. 

 

How to Reserve Your Spot 

 

👉 Reserve your spot now at the Autel Academy website by: 

• Visiting autel.us/autel-academy.
• Select ADAS TRAINING.
• Navigate to the "California" tab, and click REGISTER.

 

Previous SEMA Garage AUTEL training sessions sold out quickly, and organizers encourage early registration, especially for the limited-capacity Detroit event.

 

Want more details? Read a recap article here, or reach out to Autel via email to academy@autel.com or visit autel.us/autel-academy for details.

 

 

By SEMA News Editors

Winners of the last year's 2025 SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund were celebrated at the 2025 SEMA Show in Las Vegas.

 

SEMA has announced the winners of the SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund, which helps students pursuing automotive-related careers pay for college tuition and helps employees of SEMA member companies pay off student loans. This year, SEMA awarded a combined total of $100,000 in scholarships and loan forgiveness awards to 50 individuals.   

 

The SEMA scholarship and loan forgiveness programs help foster the next generation of automotive industry leaders by supporting students and recent graduates as they begin their education and careers.  

 

"We were impressed by the knowledge and passion for the industry that shined through the applications of this year's winners," said SEMA Project Manager of Recognition Programs Joe Escobar. "By selecting 50 winners, we are supporting 50 careers that will have a positive impact on the future of the automotive aftermarket, and we couldn't be prouder of the people we've selected to chart the course."  

 

More than $3 million has been awarded to deserving students since the program's establishment in 1984. Online applications for next year's awards will open January 1, 2027, at sema.org/scholarships. 

 

2026 SEMA Scholarship Award Winners: 

 

Recipient (Institution, Major) – Award Designation (if applicable) 

 

• Mark A. Alvarez (Pitt Community College, Automation Technology)  
• Jayden Amos (University of Cincinnati-Main Campus, Mechanical Engineering) – FLN Award   
• Aaron H. Bastian (Old Dominion University, Mechanical Engineering Technology) – Wally Parks Award  
• John Bedell (The University of Texas at Austin, Aerospace Aeronautical) 
• Drake B. Bellessa (Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, Electrical Engineering) – ETTN Award  
• Farrah Berry (Stanford University, Mechanical Engineering) 
• Maxwell W. Caldwell (Pittsburg State University, Career & Technical Education)  
• Christopher P. Choquette (Grand Canyon University, Business) 
• Danika M. Cox (Michigan Technological University, Mechanical Engineering) – Trudy Thompson Award  
• Clancy J. Cummings (McPherson College, Automotive Technology) – HRIA Award  
• Avery H. Driscoll (Colorado School of Mines, Materials Engineering) – Jim A. Borre Award  
• Jack Freeman (University at Buffalo, Mechanical Engineering) – Chris Raschke Award  
• Evan A. Grossardt (WyoTech, Autobody Collision) – TORA Award  
• Ethan Hammontree (Southern Methodist University, Business)   
• William B. Herman (University of Notre Dame, Mechanical Engineering)  
• Luke M. Higginbotham (Auburn University, Mechanical Engineering) – Steve Woomer Award  
• Ryan M. Hoff (Florida State College at Jacksonville, Engineering)  
• Jadyn Jessen (University of Central Florida, Mechanical Engineering)  
• Evan C. Jezek (Pennsylvania College of Technology, Welding) – Joseph B. Amato, Sr. Award  
• Braydon M. Kennedy (Anderson University, Mechanical Engineering)  
• Jordan Lei (University of Waterloo, Computer Engineering)  
• Maxwell A. Mamishev (University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Electrical Engineering)  
• Cristian B. Martins (McPherson College, Automotive Technology) – ARMO Award  
• John B. Morris (McPherson College, Automotive Restoration)  
• William O. Nollette (South Dakota School of Mines and Technology, Mechanical Engineering) – WTSBC Award  
• Thomas Olayvar (Los Angeles Pierce College, Automotive Technology) – PRO Award  
• Cole Paradis (University of Northwestern Ohio, Automation Technology) – Mike Kunzman Award  
• Julia M. Pieri (Florida State University, Accounting)  
• Camden G. Rassel (University of Northwestern Ohio, Automotive Technician) – Melvin Burton Award  
• Katarina Schafer (Mohawk College, Mechanical Engineering Technology) – SBN Award  
• Elle E. Scranton (California State University-Fullerton, Business, Management) – Leo Kagan Award  
• Cameron J. Seals (University of Maryland Global Campus, Automotive Technology)   
• Samantha Septer (Belmont Abbey College, Writing, Rhetoric, and Digital Studies) 
• Atticus Temple (McPherson College, Automotive Technology)  
• Cameron T. Tolbert (Heartland Community College, Automotive Technician) – Dave Killackey Award  
• Isabel S. Tuman (Weber State University, Automotive Technology) – Nat Danas Award  
• Ethan F. Watrous (University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Automotive Engineering and Technology) – Joe Hrudka Award  
• Shaun T. Weaver (Purdue University-Main Campus, Motorsports Engineering) – Dan Borré Award   
• Grant T. Wilson (Ohio State University-Main Campus, Chemical Engineering) – Harlan Felder Award  
• Isaac SK Yong (Purdue University-Main Campus, Mechanical Engineering)   

 

2026 SEMA Loan Forgiveness Award Winners: 

 

Recipient (Employer, Institution Name, Major) 

 

• Elizabeth Busniewski (MagnaFlow, Northwood University, Automotive Aftermarket) 
• Leslie P. Fitch (Coats Company, Mid-Continent University, Business, Management)  
• Kristi Fogwell (AMS OSRAM Sylvania, University of New Hampshire-Main Campus, Marketing)  
• Austin M. Holland (King Shocks, California State Polytechnic University-Pomona, Mechanical Engineering)  
• Dallas Johannes (ALP USA – SoffSeal, University of Cincinnati-Main Campus, Data Analysis)  
• Teresa Lang (Stellantis, University of Michigan-Dearborn, Engineering)  
• Jordan Mosher (Diode Dynamics, Lindenwood University, Advertising and Strategic Communications)  
• Hailey J. Petsch (Honda, Arizona State University Campus Immersion, Mechanical Engineering)  
• Michael L. Sanata (JEGS. High Performance, Kent State University at Kent, Fine Arts)  
• Carly E. Truhler (Motor State Distributing – Lane Automotive Inc., Indiana University-Bloomington, Business)  

 

Online applications for next year's awards will open January 1, 2027, at sema.org/scholarships. 

 

By SEMA News Editors

Brian Pagel joins SEMA's executive team to support member engagement, business growth and continued investment in programs that advance the specialty-equipment industry.

 

SEMA has announced that Brian Pagel has joined the organization’s executive leadership team as Chief Revenue Officer, a strategic role focused on strengthening SEMA's ability to serve its members, support industry growth, and advance the association’s long-term mission.

 

In this role, Pagel will work closely with SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola, the Board of Directors and the executive leadership team to align business strategy with mission delivery, operational excellence and long-term organizational sustainability. His responsibilities include supporting SEMA's marketing, sales, membership, events and revenue management functions, while helping ensure the association continues to invest in programs, services and initiatives that benefit members and the broader specialty-equipment industry. 

 

"Brian brings the experience, industry knowledge and strategic mindset needed to help SEMA deliver even greater value to our members and the broader specialty-equipment community," said Spagnola. "As a nonprofit association, our focus is on reinvesting in programs, advocacy, events, research, education and services that help our industry succeed. Brian's leadership will help ensure we are building the resources, partnerships and opportunities needed to support our members today and into the future."

 

Pagel brings extensive experience leading business development, strategic partnerships, events, media brands, and growth initiatives across the trade association and B2B event sectors. Most recently, he served as executive vice president at Emerald, where he was responsible for business development tied to strategic association partnerships, new acquisition opportunities, and the management of a portfolio of 64 B2B trade shows, hosted buyer events, conferences, and companion assets. In that role, he managed a 200-person portfolio with 10 direct reports and $130 million in P&L responsibility, while driving sustained improvements in portfolio performance, including double-digit EBITDA growth in three of the past four years.

 

"I'm honored to join SEMA and support its work on behalf of the specialty-equipment industry," said Pagel. "SEMA has a powerful mission, a passionate membership and an important role in helping businesses innovate, grow and succeed. I look forward to working with Mike, the Board and teams across the association to strengthen member value, build meaningful partnerships and ensure SEMA continues investing in programs and opportunities that move the industry forward."

 

Pagel will help develop and implement a multi-year strategy aligned with SEMA's organizational goals, establish performance metrics, support membership growth and retention and work with department leaders on planning, goal development and operational priorities. He will also help align member engagement and business-development efforts with SEMA's marketing, communications and brand positioning. 

 

The appointment reflects SEMA's continued commitment to strengthening its leadership team and ensuring the association is positioned to meet the evolving needs of its members and the industry. Pagel will report to Spagnola and serve as a key member of SEMA's senior leadership team. 

 

This article was published on August 3, 2026.

 

By SEMA News Editors

 

Exhibitors at the 2026 SEMA Show, November 3-6 in Las Vegas, are offering products, parts and services for builders preparing vehicles that will be displayed at this year's SEMA Show.

 

The Products for Project-Vehicle Builders list, found at semashow.com/products-for-project-vehicle-builders, connects qualified builders with confirmed 2026 SEMA Show exhibitors interested in supplying products for project vehicles.

 

Builders seeking products should contact exhibitors directly using the contact information provided.

 

The list is open exclusively to 2026 SEMA Show exhibitors. To be included, exhibitors must complete the form located in the Marketing, Advertising & Sponsorships section of the Exhibitor Service Manual at exhibitor.semashow.com.

 

Qualified builders are encouraged to check semashow.com/products-for-project-vehicle-builders regularly, as new submissions are added on an ongoing basis.

 

All product placement decisions, negotiations and agreements are the responsibility of the exhibiting manufacturer and the builder. Every project vehicle displayed at the SEMA Show must be supported by a current 2026 SEMA Show exhibitor.

 

Note: Listings are published on a first-come, first-served basis. Exhibitors must use the official Project-Vehicle Builders form to participate; email submissions will not be accepted. Inclusion in the list does not guarantee product placement or vehicle placement at the 2026 SEMA Show. Exhibitors are responsible for verifying that a builder is affiliated with a vehicle that will be displayed at the Show. For more information, contact projectvehicles@sema.org.

 

The 2026 SEMA Show is set for November 3-6, in Las Vegas. Interested exhibitors can buy a booth and learn more at semashow.com/exhibitor. Attendee and buyer registration is now open online. For more information, visit semashow.com.  

 

SEMA Fest has been confirmed for Friday, November 6, 2026, and industry members will get the lowest rate on tickets through the registration portal and Attendee Resource Center. Sign up for updates at semafest.com.   

 

By Ashley Reyes

 

Women in the automotive aftermarket are invited to connect, learn and explore the art of wine during an upcoming event hosted by the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN).

 

Registration is open now for "Virtual Wine Night: Scent and Savor," taking place via Zoom on Thursday, September 17, at 4:00 p.m. PDT. Designed as a relaxed, interactive networking event, the session will enable members to build professional connections and learn how aromas, flavors and food pairings influence the wine tasting experience.

 

Leading the event will be Kate Norris, award-winning winemaker and co-owner of Division Wine Making Company. She will be joined by Kelsy Hill, owner of KelsyKate LLC, co-owner at blipshift, chief marketing officer at Raglan and head of operations at Hyperfest, as well as Cora Jokinen, president of Torq-Masters Industries. Together, they will guide attendees through an interactive tasting using common wines, foods and pantry items.

A recommended shopping list and tasting guide will be emailed to attendees upon registration. Participants are encouraged to purchase one sparkling white wine and one pinot noir, along with a selection of foods that represent various flavor profiles.  

Whether you're already an SBN member or curious about joining, this event will open the door to valuable industry connections and free wine education.

Secure your spot.

 

By SEMA News Editors

 

Air Lift Company Acquires Universal Air Suspension 

 

Air Lift Company, a manufacturer of air suspension systems for towing, hauling and performance applications, has completed the acquisition of Universal Air Suspension (UAS), according to published reports. 

 

"There are many synergies between Universal Air and Air Lift across our traditional load support line and our performance lines," said Krista DeJonge, CFO at Air Lift Company. "We are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead as we begin the integration of UAS into the Air Lift family." 

 

As part of the acquisition, Zack Ratcliff, president of Universal Air Suspension, will join the Air Lift team as managing director engineered solutions. In his new role, Ratcliff will focus on developing an engineered solutions division for Air Lift. He will serve as the strategic and technical leader for custom design, engineering and innovation across UAS, Air Lift Performance and Air Lift Suspension, according to the company. 

 

Air Lift will begin integrating UAS's products, people and operations immediately, according to reports. 

 

Allied Wheel Components Acquires Ultra Wheel Brands, Operating Assets

 

Allied Wheel Components, based in Garden Grove, California, has acquired the assets of Ultra Wheel Company, including Ultra Wheel, Ultra Motorsports, Platinum Wheel and Focal Wheel brands; the companies' wheel designs and related intellectual property; existing inventory; customer relationships; exclusive production rights; websites and domain names; and the related operating assets.

 

Allied will also continue warehouse operations at Ultra Wheel Company's facility in Fullerton, California, in an effort to ensure a smooth transition for customers, suppliers and business partners.

 

The acquisition adds Ultra Wheel's established family of brands––including Ultra, Ultra Motorsports, Platinum and Focal––to the Allied Wheel Components portfolio, strengthening the company's position in the truck and off-road segments while expanding its reach in premium passenger vehicle applications.

 

Allied and its Raceline brand have deep roots in off-road competition, where decades of racing have shaped the design and engineering of wheels known for their strength, performance and durability. Like Raceline, Ultra Wheel traces its roots to founder Jimmy Smith's involvement in desert racing and professional motorsports, including his success in the Baja 1000 and NASCAR Truck racing.

 

"Ultra Wheel is a natural fit for Allied because our companies were built around many of the same values: performance, durability, innovation and a genuine passion for racing," said Bruce Higginson, founder and president of Allied Wheel Components. "Ultra's brands are highly recognized in the marketplace, and its product lines complement our existing portfolio extremely well. By bringing these brands together, we will have greater scale, a broader range of products and even more resources to serve our customers and pursue new opportunities. This acquisition makes Allied a stronger company."

 

"I have always believed that success in racing and success in business come from the same place––a commitment to building products people can depend on," said Jimmy Smith, founder of Ultra Wheel Company. "Allied understands that philosophy and shares Ultra Wheel's passion for the automotive industry. I am proud of what our team has built, and I believe joining Allied will create new opportunities for the Ultra, Platinum and Focal brands while carrying their legacy forward."

 

Allied intends to build upon the heritage and market position of Ultra Wheel's brands while providing additional operational, distribution, product development and marketing resources, according to the company.

 

For more information, visit alliedwheel.com.

 

RealTruck Acquires LEER Group 

 

RealTruck has acquired LEER Group from JB Poindexter & Co., the Michigan-based truck accessory manufacturer announced.  

 

The acquisition includes the Leer, SnugTop, Century, Pace Edwards and StateWide Windows brands. No immediate changes to operations or product availability are expected, according to the company.  

 

"This transaction assures Leer Group will be able to improve operational performance and deliver a better experience for consumers, dealers, partners and associates," said Carl-Martin Lindahl, CEO of RealTruck in a statement announcing the acquisition. "Leer Group brings a strong legacy, and we see a clear opportunity to build on that legacy and drive its future growth, including investments in operations and service to better support the consumer and dealer network." 

 

"This is the ideal outcome to grow Leer Group's business, preserve jobs and continue our commitment to American manufacturing," said Alan Farash, president of the LEER Group. "We will work closely with RealTruck's leadership team to ensure a smooth transition and support their desire to build upon Leer's proud history." 

 

For more information, visit realtruck.com. 

 

Universal Technical Institute Opens New Atlanta Campus

 

Universal Technical Institute (UTI)––the organization focusing on workforce solutions for transportation, skilled trades, healthcare and dental care programs––has announced the opening of UTI-Atlanta, its first campus in Georgia and second new campus this year.

 

"As AI reshapes the economies of cities across the U.S., meeting the growing demand for the skilled collar workers who build, operate and maintain our infrastructure is critical to prosperity," said Todd Hitchcock, EVP, Strategy, Growth and Operations at UTI. "Universal Technical Institute is perfectly positioned at this intersection of supply and demand, with training programs that prepare students for the ever-evolving workforce. We look forward to working with Atlanta's business community to fill their talent pipelines for jobs ranging from data centers and energy systems to transportation and advanced manufacturing."

 

UTI-Atlanta will serve 1,500 students at scale in a 117,000 sq.-ft.-facility located at 7100 Highlands Parkway SE in Smyrna. The campus offers multiple training programs, supported by advanced classrooms and specialized labs, including automotive, diesel, aviation, electrical, robotics and automation, HVACR and welding. 

 

UTI's multi-phase North Star strategy, now in Phase II, is focused on the core tenets of growth, diversification and optimization. The company has announced plans to open multiple campuses annually between 2026 and 2029, launch 10-20 new programs annually at existing campus locations and enhance its operations to make the most efficient use of resources.

 

UTI-Atlanta is expected to serve as a talent pipeline for employers across the region's transportation, aviation, electrical, energy and skilled trades sectors. Many industry brands are helping make that vision a reality, including: 

• CarMax
• Continental Tire
• Cox Automotive
• CRC Industries
• Crown Lift Trucks
• Fuji Spray Systems
• Hendrick Automotive Group
• Interstate Batteries
• Klein Tools
• Konecranes
• Lennox National Account Services
• Lincoln Electric
• Lithia & Driveway
• NAPA (Auto Parts & Auto Care)
• Shell-Pennzoil & Shell-Rotella
• Penske Automotive Group
• Premium Guard
• Snap-on Tools
• Sonic Automotive
• Standard Motor Products
• TOPDON
• WD-40
• Yancey Bros. Co. 
• Yellow Jacket (Richie Engineering)

 

For more information, visit investor.uti.edu.

 

Turn 14 Distribution Announces Winner of the Turn 14 Distribution x Aeromotive Ford Mustang GT Giveaway

 

Turn 14 Distribution, the Horsham, Pennsylvania-based provider of aftermarket performance parts distribution, has officially concluded the Turn 14 Distribution x Aeromotive Mustang GT Giveaway and announced FunctionWerks as the grand prize winner.  

 

Running from March 1 through June 30, 2026, the promotion rewarded participating dealers with entries based on purchases of select partner brands, including Aeromotive, Air Lift Performance, Liqui Moly, ACT, WELD Racing, Mickey Thompson, Roush Performance, Fluidampr, Disc Brakes Australia (DBA), Mishimoto, Eaton, and  Mahle Motorsport.

 

To create a level playing field for businesses of varying sizes and purchasing habits, participating dealers were divided into eight competitive brackets based on business model, according to Turn 14. Throughout the promotion period, dealers competed against peers with similar business models and purchasing volumes, with the top-performing dealer in each bracket advancing to the final round for an opportunity to win the giveaway vehicle.  

 

The grand prize, a Turn 14 Distribution x Aeromotive Ford Mustang GT, is a purpose-built performance vehicle featuring premium aftermarket products from some of the industry's most respected manufacturers. Originally developed as a Turn 14 Distribution SEMA Show showcase build, the Mustang has appeared at major automotive events nationwide, including Mustang Week, GRIDLIFE and more, demonstrating the capabilities and innovation of today's performance aftermarket. 

 

"Over the course of four months, we saw tremendous engagement from our dealer network and outstanding support for the participating brands," said Kyle Crawford, senior marketing manager at Turn 14 Distribution. "The bracket-style format created an exciting and competitive environment where dealers of all sizes had a legitimate opportunity to compete for an incredible grand prize. Congratulations to FunctionWerks on their victory and thank you to everyone who participated throughout the promotion."  

 

"Our goal was to create a promotion that rewarded dealer engagement while showcasing some of the industry's leading brands and products,” said Magali Tranié, vice president of marketing at Turn 14 Distribution. "The response exceeded expectations, and the excitement generated by the leaderboard competition and live finale made this one of our most successful dealer promotions to date. We are proud  to congratulate FunctionWerks and grateful to all participating dealers who helped make this giveaway such a success."

 

Turn 14 Distribution stated authorized dealers can learn more about future promotions, including the ongoing giveaway of a built Jeep Gladiator Rubicon, by logging into their account at turn14.com.  

 

By Ashley Reyes

 

For three decades, the SEMA Motorsports Products & Media Council (MPMC) has provided motorsports parts manufacturers the opportunity to take part in up to 42 focused, half-hour meetings with media professionals during its three-day Media Trade Conference. Registration for the 2027 event, taking place February 2-4, in Orlando, Florida, is open now at mediatradeconference.com.

 

Unlike larger events like the SEMA Show or PRI Show where manufacturers are focused on connecting directly with buyers, the Media Trade Conference offers a dedicated environment for manufacturers to establish quality relationships with the storytellers who can put their products, innovations and company news in front of the right audience.

 

"This industry is built on networking, and the connections you make [at the Media Trade Conference] can last a lifetime," said Don Meziere of Meziere Enterprises. "We're all passionate about the motorsports industry, performance, car culture and clean builds. Everyone here has something to teach and something to learn. That's what makes the Media Trade Conference special––bringing like-minded people together to share and exchange ideas."

 

While traditional print publications remain an important part of the media landscape, consumers today are increasingly turning to social media, podcasts and video content to learn about new products. The Media Trade Conference gives brands direct access to the content creators and media professionals who will drive coverage and purchasing decisions in 2027.

 

Register Early and Save 

 

Manufacturer registration is open to MPMC, Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) and Performance Racing Industry (PRI) business members.

 

Exhibitors can save on registration by signing up before the September 8 early-bird pricing deadline. Media registration will open in October. To learn more and to register, visit mediatradeconference.com.

By SEMA News Editors

 

DeatschWerks

DW400 Performance Module Chevrolet Corvette C6

 

The DeatschWerks DW400 Performance Module is a complete plug-and-play fuel system upgrade for '07-'13 Chevrolet Corvette applications. Featuring a preinstalled DW400 fuel pump, new ethanol-compatible filter, four-bar regulator and fuel level sensor, it delivers the fuel volume required for forced induction, ethanol blends and aggressive tuning while retaining all OEM functionality. Designed as a direct replacement for the factory module, it supports up to 800 hp on gasoline with no additional plumbing or modifications required.

 

deatschwerks.com

 

Milwaukee Tool

PACKOUT Single Drawer Tool Box

 

Milwaukee has introduced the new PACKOUT Single Drawer Tool Box as part of the PACKOUT Modular Storage System, allowing users to customize their storage system for easy transportation and organization of tools and accessories. The Single Drawer Tool Box allows for quick one-handed opening and includes the most versatile dividers that allow for additional segmentation and have tool box attachment-ready points to keep you more organized. The PACKOUT Single Drawer Tool Box has a 50-lb. weight capacity and a locking security bar that allows users to padlock the drawers closed.

 

milwaukeetool.com

 

Wilwood Disc Brakes

Next-Gen XRS Street Performance Caliper

 

Based on the design of the Superlite Radial Mount and the XRZ race version, Wilwood has introduced its next-gen XRS street performance caliper featuring an X-bridge architecture. An FEA design and precision CNC machining improves the product's forged aluminum into a stronger, lighter and more rigid caliper with improved airflow for enhanced cooling, the company said, weighing in at just 4.5 lbs. Available in six- and four-piston mounting patterns, all XRS calipers are hard-anodized inside and out and finished in gloss red or gloss black powdercoat.

 

wilwood.com