By Ashley Reyes

New video featuring SEMA Wheel and Tire Council (WTC) Leaders Tyson Boyer of Dill Air Controls and Todd Steen from Jackson Marketing Group at the 2019 SEMA Show STAGE is now available. Hosted by Myles Kovacs, the interview features Boyer and Steen as they share insight on the council’s latest initiatives, what is being done to advance the wheel and tire segment, and opportunities available to all WTC members.

“We offer a networking opportunity so that you can build a community and connect with a tribe of the wheel and tire industry, [so you can know how to] pass a business card, have a contact, and actually lean on each other,” said Steen. “The other opportunity is that we decided collectively as a group this year to actually stand on the foundation of education.”

Whether it’s educating people in the manufacturing business, retail space or educating consumers, providing essential information to help companies address industry-related issues is a top WTC priority. Learn what message Boyer and Steen have for dealers on fleet ownership, handling radars and sensors when conducting alignments, and the importance of reviewing partnerships.

In addition to offering educational solutions, Steen offered his advice for the younger generation wanting to get involved in the industry. 

“I would tell somebody that’s new to the industry, don’t wait to volunteer and be involved. You’re going to grow professionally, you can grow probably financially, but you’re going to grow to a level of industry knowledge where you’re being called upon.”

When talking about his first experience being involved in the SEMA Show, Boyer added, “There are so many different events, networking opportunities [and] engagements. Plan to come to SEMA, but at the same time, it is a kid-in-a-candy-store concept.”

Check out the full video and stay tuned to SEMA eNews for additional interviews from the STAGE powered by SEMA Education and the SEMA Wheel and Tire Council. For the latest news and updates, follow SEMA Education on Facebook and Instagram.

By Ashley Reyes

The upgraded Honda Talon 1000R that made headlines after debuting at the 2019 SEMA Show will be on the auction block online through Bring a Trailer, May 18–25.

The upgraded Honda Talon 1000R that made headlines after debuting at the 2019 SEMA Show is now available on the auction block online through Bring a Trailer. Modified by high school students who were mentored by members of the SEMA Young Executives Network (YEN), the UTV was part of a pilot program and resulted in a custom-built vehicle that includes a custom paint job, upgraded wheels, a black ceramic dual exhaust, XL-1000 power sports sound bar, a modified winch and mount, a 30-in white light bar and more.

The following companies contributed parts/services to the completed build:

• Advanced Accessories Concept
• AO Coolers
• Diode Dynamics
• Eibach
• Gibson Performance Exhaust
• Greenball Corp
• ICON Vehicle Dynamics
• Klockwerks
• LGE-CTS Motorsports
• PowerBass USA
• PRP Seats
• Radian
• RK Sport
• S&B Filters
• VIAIR Corp.
• Warn Industries

The UTV build proceeds will go directly toward the SEMA Scholarship Fund, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity, and the Alex Xydias Center for Automotive Arts (AXC), the program’s participating school.

“With the proceeds being invested into two great programs, SEMA can continue to forge a path for automotive students interested in pursuing a career in the automotive industry and help SEMA members pay off their student loans,” said Nathan Ridnouer, SEMA vice president of councils and membership. “We are grateful for the opportunity to auction off such a unique build that was inspired by instruction and mentorship from our very own YEN members.”

Bidding for the UTV will be open from May 18–25 on the Bring a Trailer website. You can also support the SEMA Scholarship Foundation simply by making a donation or visiting www.sema.org/utv-build to learn more.

By Ashley Reyes

The upgraded Honda Talon 1000R that made headlines after debuting at the 2019 SEMA Show will be on the auction block online through Bring a Trailer, May 18–25.

The upgraded Honda Talon 1000R that made headlines after debuting at the 2019 SEMA Show is now available on the auction block online through Bring a Trailer. Modified by high school students who were mentored by members of the SEMA Young Executives Network (YEN), the UTV was part of a pilot program and resulted in a custom-built vehicle that includes a custom paint job, upgraded wheels, a black ceramic dual exhaust, XL-1000 power sports sound bar, a modified winch and mount, a 30-in white light bar and more.

The following companies contributed parts/services to the completed build:

• Advanced Accessories Concept
• AO Coolers
• Diode Dynamics
• Eibach
• Gibson Performance Exhaust
• Greenball Corp
• ICON Vehicle Dynamics
• Klockwerks
• LGE-CTS Motorsports
• PowerBass USA
• PRP Seats
• Radian
• RK Sport
• S&B Filters
• VIAIR Corp.
• Warn Industries

The UTV build proceeds will go directly toward the SEMA Scholarship Fund, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity, and the Alex Xydias Center for Automotive Arts (AXC), the program’s participating school.

“With the proceeds being invested into two great programs, SEMA can continue to forge a path for automotive students interested in pursuing a career in the automotive industry and help SEMA members pay off their student loans,” said Nathan Ridnouer, SEMA vice president of councils and membership. “We are grateful for the opportunity to auction off such a unique build that was inspired by instruction and mentorship from our very own YEN members.”

Bidding for the UTV will be open from May 18–25 on the Bring a Trailer website. You can also support the SEMA Scholarship Foundation simply by making a donation or visiting www.sema.org/utv-build to learn more.

By Ashley Reyes

The upgraded Honda Talon 1000R that made headlines after debuting at the 2019 SEMA Show will be on the auction block online through Bring a Trailer, May 18–25.

The upgraded Honda Talon 1000R that made headlines after debuting at the 2019 SEMA Show is now available on the auction block online through Bring a Trailer. Modified by high school students who were mentored by members of the SEMA Young Executives Network (YEN), the UTV was part of a pilot program and resulted in a custom-built vehicle that includes a custom paint job, upgraded wheels, a black ceramic dual exhaust, XL-1000 power sports sound bar, a modified winch and mount, a 30-in white light bar and more.

The following companies contributed parts/services to the completed build:

• Advanced Accessories Concept
• AO Coolers
• Diode Dynamics
• Eibach
• Gibson Performance Exhaust
• Greenball Corp
• ICON Vehicle Dynamics
• Klockwerks
• LGE-CTS Motorsports
• PowerBass USA
• PRP Seats
• Radian
• RK Sport
• S&B Filters
• VIAIR Corp.
• Warn Industries

The UTV build proceeds will go directly toward the SEMA Scholarship Fund, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity, and the Alex Xydias Center for Automotive Arts (AXC), the program’s participating school.

“With the proceeds being invested into two great programs, SEMA can continue to forge a path for automotive students interested in pursuing a career in the automotive industry and help SEMA members pay off their student loans,” said Nathan Ridnouer, SEMA vice president of councils and membership. “We are grateful for the opportunity to auction off such a unique build that was inspired by instruction and mentorship from our very own YEN members.”

Bidding for the UTV will be open from May 18–25 on the Bring a Trailer website. You can also support the SEMA Scholarship Foundation simply by making a donation or visiting www.sema.org/utv-build to learn more.

By Ashley Reyes

Kathryn Reinhardt

The SEMA Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) is recognizing Kathryn Reinhardt of 4 Wheel Parts/Pro Comp as this week’s TORA Volunteer Spotlight Member. As an automotive marketer, Reinhardt gives back to the industry by selling automotive parts and creating marketing programs that produce valuable market share.

Reinhardt is a SEMA Board member and volunteer whose passion exemplifies the heart of the specialty-equipment aftermarket. Through her leadership and professionalism, she has helped guide the association as TORA’s prior chair-elect and was named 2015 SEMA Person of the Year. Her contributions to the industry are second to none.  

Get to know Reinhardt in her Q&A with the SEMA Truck and Off-Road Alliance:

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

Kathryn Reinhardt: One of the first off-road events I ever attended was Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah. I saw manufacturers, media outlets and distribution partners cohesively riding the same trails together. How unusual and yet inspiring. I saw industry competitors working together conquering rock obstacles and lending tools and hands to repair Jeeps in need. It was at that event that I knew this was the aftermarket segment I needed to be a part of.

SEMA: Why did you decide to volunteer for TORA? How has it or will it impact you?

KR: I picked TORA to be my volunteer path with SEMA because it fit the area of work my career was at during that time. They had a clear direction and goals they wanted to achieve to bring the market together. As a result of joining, I was able to expand my truck knowledge, meet other industry professionals and gain market expertise to bring back to my employer.

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

KR: My advice to someone pursuing a career in the aftermarket is to learn everything you can, attend every gathering you can and meet everyone in the room you can.

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

KR: I would love to have a Jeep Gladiator. I think they are super cool, high function and my sons love Jeeps, so I want to share the off-roading experience with them as well.

By Ashley Reyes

Kathryn Reinhardt

The SEMA Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) is recognizing Kathryn Reinhardt of 4 Wheel Parts/Pro Comp as this week’s TORA Volunteer Spotlight Member. As an automotive marketer, Reinhardt gives back to the industry by selling automotive parts and creating marketing programs that produce valuable market share.

Reinhardt is a SEMA Board member and volunteer whose passion exemplifies the heart of the specialty-equipment aftermarket. Through her leadership and professionalism, she has helped guide the association as TORA’s prior chair-elect and was named 2015 SEMA Person of the Year. Her contributions to the industry are second to none.  

Get to know Reinhardt in her Q&A with the SEMA Truck and Off-Road Alliance:

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

Kathryn Reinhardt: One of the first off-road events I ever attended was Easter Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah. I saw manufacturers, media outlets and distribution partners cohesively riding the same trails together. How unusual and yet inspiring. I saw industry competitors working together conquering rock obstacles and lending tools and hands to repair Jeeps in need. It was at that event that I knew this was the aftermarket segment I needed to be a part of.

SEMA: Why did you decide to volunteer for TORA? How has it or will it impact you?

KR: I picked TORA to be my volunteer path with SEMA because it fit the area of work my career was at during that time. They had a clear direction and goals they wanted to achieve to bring the market together. As a result of joining, I was able to expand my truck knowledge, meet other industry professionals and gain market expertise to bring back to my employer.

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

KR: My advice to someone pursuing a career in the aftermarket is to learn everything you can, attend every gathering you can and meet everyone in the room you can.

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

KR: I would love to have a Jeep Gladiator. I think they are super cool, high function and my sons love Jeeps, so I want to share the off-roading experience with them as well.

By Rachel Tatum

SEMA-member companies are known for being innovative and adaptive, and the recent economic disruption has shown this to be true. Many companies have quickly pivoted from their core operations to developing personal protective equipment (PPE) to help combat the Coronavirus.

From manufacturing face masks and face shields to hand sanitizer and cleaning products, companies have adjusted to market needs quickly and efficiently. In addition to donating products to first line workers, some companies are making their products available to other SEMA members who’s offices are reopening and may be in need of PPE.

Visit SEMA’s Business Reopening Updates and Resources Page to see how SEMA members are innovating, and if their product is available to other SEMA member companies. SEMA members making and/or selling PPE are invited to submit their information to be included on the list by emailing membergoodnews@sema.org or visiting www.sema.org/corona-updates/sema-members-making-a-difference.html.

By Richard Hail

Andrew Barra of Fishkill, New York, has claimed the fourth Golden Ticket, representing the Northeastern region, with his ’69 Chevrolet Corvette.

The latest SEMA Battle of the Builders Young Guns virtual regional qualifier winner has been chosen. Andrew Barra of Fishkill, New York, has claimed the fourth Golden Ticket, representing the Northeastern region, with his ’69 Chevrolet Corvette.

Barra’s earliest memories were helping his Dad work on his ’72 Corvette in their garage. He quickly became obsessed, and in 2015, his dream of owning a Corvette became a reality when he came across one for sale in upstate New York. The C3 was in fair condition and needed a lot of work, but Barra had big plans in store for it.

The complete frame-off restoration took a little more than three years to complete. Power is produced by a Chevy 454 Big-Block that has been rebuilt with a host of performance-boosting add-ons, including a Weiand intake manifold, a COMP Cams hydraulic roller kit and a Holley 775 CFM 4-Barrel Carburetor.

A TREMEC TKO five-speed drives the Diamond Back Flame Tread tires, which are snugly wrapped around Coys C-5 chrome wheels.

The body of the Vette is finished in Lamborghini Pearl Orange, while the interior features upgrades such as Dakota Digital Gauges, a Billet Specialties steering wheel and a Hurst pistol-grip shifter. The seats are out of an ’80 Corvette, and the smooth ride is compliments of the VBP rear-strut towers, fiberglass mono-leaf springs, Bilstein shocks and a power rack-and-pinion conversion.

Barra wants to be an inspiration to young builders who dream about having their own cars and he tells us that, “This was better than winning the lotto, better than anything I could have asked for.” He continued, “This win is a validation of my hard work and the sacrifices that I made for this car.”

The Battle of the Builders competition celebrates the amazing craftsmanship and talents of people who create and build some of the most unique cars in the world. The “Young Guns” classification is exclusive to up-and-coming builders who are 27 or under and have performed the majority of the work on their vehicles.

For more information about the SEMA Battle of the Builders competition or the SEMA Young Guns program, visit www.semabotb.com or www.semayoungguns.com.

By Richard Hail

Andrew Barra of Fishkill, New York, has claimed the fourth Golden Ticket, representing the Northeastern region, with his ’69 Chevrolet Corvette.

The latest SEMA Battle of the Builders Young Guns virtual regional qualifier winner has been chosen. Andrew Barra of Fishkill, New York, has claimed the fourth Golden Ticket, representing the Northeastern region, with his ’69 Chevrolet Corvette.

Barra’s earliest memories were helping his Dad work on his ’72 Corvette in their garage. He quickly became obsessed, and in 2015, his dream of owning a Corvette became a reality when he came across one for sale in upstate New York. The C3 was in fair condition and needed a lot of work, but Barra had big plans in store for it.

The complete frame-off restoration took a little more than three years to complete. Power is produced by a Chevy 454 Big-Block that has been rebuilt with a host of performance-boosting add-ons, including a Weiand intake manifold, a COMP Cams hydraulic roller kit and a Holley 775 CFM 4-Barrel Carburetor.

A TREMEC TKO five-speed drives the Diamond Back Flame Tread tires, which are snugly wrapped around Coys C-5 chrome wheels.

The body of the Vette is finished in Lamborghini Pearl Orange, while the interior features upgrades such as Dakota Digital Gauges, a Billet Specialties steering wheel and a Hurst pistol-grip shifter. The seats are out of an ’80 Corvette, and the smooth ride is compliments of the VBP rear-strut towers, fiberglass mono-leaf springs, Bilstein shocks and a power rack-and-pinion conversion.

Barra wants to be an inspiration to young builders who dream about having their own cars and he tells us that, “This was better than winning the lotto, better than anything I could have asked for.” He continued, “This win is a validation of my hard work and the sacrifices that I made for this car.”

The Battle of the Builders competition celebrates the amazing craftsmanship and talents of people who create and build some of the most unique cars in the world. The “Young Guns” classification is exclusive to up-and-coming builders who are 27 or under and have performed the majority of the work on their vehicles.

For more information about the SEMA Battle of the Builders competition or the SEMA Young Guns program, visit www.semabotb.com or www.semayoungguns.com.

By Richard Hail

Andrew Barra of Fishkill, New York, has claimed the fourth Golden Ticket, representing the Northeastern region, with his ’69 Chevrolet Corvette.

The latest SEMA Battle of the Builders Young Guns virtual regional qualifier winner has been chosen. Andrew Barra of Fishkill, New York, has claimed the fourth Golden Ticket, representing the Northeastern region, with his ’69 Chevrolet Corvette.

Barra’s earliest memories were helping his Dad work on his ’72 Corvette in their garage. He quickly became obsessed, and in 2015, his dream of owning a Corvette became a reality when he came across one for sale in upstate New York. The C3 was in fair condition and needed a lot of work, but Barra had big plans in store for it.

The complete frame-off restoration took a little more than three years to complete. Power is produced by a Chevy 454 Big-Block that has been rebuilt with a host of performance-boosting add-ons, including a Weiand intake manifold, a COMP Cams hydraulic roller kit and a Holley 775 CFM 4-Barrel Carburetor.

A TREMEC TKO five-speed drives the Diamond Back Flame Tread tires, which are snugly wrapped around Coys C-5 chrome wheels.

The body of the Vette is finished in Lamborghini Pearl Orange, while the interior features upgrades such as Dakota Digital Gauges, a Billet Specialties steering wheel and a Hurst pistol-grip shifter. The seats are out of an ’80 Corvette, and the smooth ride is compliments of the VBP rear-strut towers, fiberglass mono-leaf springs, Bilstein shocks and a power rack-and-pinion conversion.

Barra wants to be an inspiration to young builders who dream about having their own cars and he tells us that, “This was better than winning the lotto, better than anything I could have asked for.” He continued, “This win is a validation of my hard work and the sacrifices that I made for this car.”

The Battle of the Builders competition celebrates the amazing craftsmanship and talents of people who create and build some of the most unique cars in the world. The “Young Guns” classification is exclusive to up-and-coming builders who are 27 or under and have performed the majority of the work on their vehicles.

For more information about the SEMA Battle of the Builders competition or the SEMA Young Guns program, visit www.semabotb.com or www.semayoungguns.com.