By SEMA News Editors

In case you missed it, SEMA has announced that the one-of-a-kind motorsports and music festival celebrating car culture, SEMA Fest, returns to Las Vegas on Friday, November 7, following the conclusion of the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4 – 7.  Before the SEMA Fest music and motorsports lineup is announced, a limited number of tickets are currently available at the lowest price, but they are selling fast. Prices will only go up in the coming weeks, so buy your tickets now at semafest.com.

Held in the Bronze Lot at the Las Vegas Convention Center campus, SEMA Fest will once again blend high-octane automotive culture with top-tier live music, creating a can't-miss experience for car and music lovers alike.

All About the 'SEMA Show Friday - Open to the Public' Ticket

As part of open registration for the SEMA Show (available online here), SEMA has unveiled a special opportunity: a limited number of tickets are now available, allowing the public to attend the SEMA Show on Friday, November 7, only with the purchase of the "SEMA Show Friday - Open to the Public" pass. This exclusive, one-day ticket grants enthusiasts a rare chance to walk the halls of the SEMA Show, discover the newest automotive innovations and engage with industry pros at what's considered the ultimate automotive event of the year.

The new ticket option delivers the bucket list experience enthusiasts have long been asking for—all capped off with the SEMA Fest concert later that evening.

What to Expect: SEMA Show Friday + SEMA Fest

With the "SEMA Show Friday – Open to the Public" ticket, attendees can:

• Explore the massive SEMA Show floor packed with cutting-edge products and thousands of custom builds.
• Experience motorsports activations and immersive car culture moments.
• Then, after the SEMA Show closes, rock out to live performances at the official SEMA Fest concert in the Bronze Lot on the SEMA Show campus.

SEMA Fest is also offering a limited number of Friday concert tickets at the lowest price available before the artist lineup is announced. In addition, package tickets are available on semafest.com for those wishing to attend both the SEMA Show and the SEMA Fest concert on Friday, November 7.

Qualifying industry insiders can make their SEMA Fest General Admission or VIP concert ticket purchase during SEMA Show badge registration at semashow.com. The general public can purchase SEMA Show Friday and SEMA Fest concert tickets at semafest.com.

Don't Miss Out

This is your chance to be part of an unforgettable day—explore the SEMA Show like never before and end the night with a high-energy music festival experience.

Stay in the loop with all things SEMA Fest—sign up for updates at semafest.com.

Questions? Contact info@semafest.com. Sponsorship and partnership questions? Reach out to partnership@semafest.com.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Mark your calendars because the SEMA California Rally is back! On June 11, 2025, SEMA-member companies across the Golden State are invited to join us in Sacramento for a day of advocacy and innovation.

This isn't just another event--it's your chance to make a real difference for the automotive aftermarket industry. From supporting cutting-edge vehicle technologies to advocating for crucial manufacturing incentives, the SEMA California Rally is where our voices turn into action.

This year's Rally is open to all SEMA-member companies based in California, and registration is officially live. Click here to secure your spot and find all the details you need, including lodging information.

By attending the SEMA California Rally, you're not just joining an event--you're becoming a part of a movement dedicated to the growth and innovation of our industry.

Don't let this opportunity pass you by. Join us in Sacramento on Wednesday, June 11, and let's drive change together.

For more information, contact SEMA Senior Manager of State Government Affairs Victor Muñoz at victorm@sema.org.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Mark your calendars because the SEMA California Rally is back! On June 11, 2025, SEMA-member companies across the Golden State are invited to join us in Sacramento for a day of advocacy and innovation.

This isn't just another event--it's your chance to make a real difference for the automotive aftermarket industry. From supporting cutting-edge vehicle technologies to advocating for crucial manufacturing incentives, the SEMA California Rally is where our voices turn into action.

This year's Rally is open to all SEMA-member companies based in California, and registration is officially live. Click here to secure your spot and find all the details you need, including lodging information.

By attending the SEMA California Rally, you're not just joining an event--you're becoming a part of a movement dedicated to the growth and innovation of our industry.

Don't let this opportunity pass you by. Join us in Sacramento on Wednesday, June 11, and let's drive change together.

For more information, contact SEMA Senior Manager of State Government Affairs Victor Muñoz at victorm@sema.org.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock

By SEMA News Editors

The SEMA Garage continues to host engaging, hands-on events in partnership with AUTEL. These two-day training sessions focus on advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and help participants gain valuable knowledge on fundamentals, calibration techniques and necessary reporting practices. As the number of ADAS-equipped vehicles continues to grow, mastering the proper calibration of these systems is becoming increasingly vital. 

SEMA Garage Detroit will host its next AUTEL ADAS training session on Tuesday, May 20, and Wednesday, May 21, at the facility located at 14655 Jib St., Plymouth, MI 48170.

RSVP for the upcoming session on the Autel website here (simply navigate to the "Detroit" tab under the first event), and keep an eye out for additional sessions later this calendar year.

For more information, contact academy@autel.com or visit the Autel website here.

By PPLUS Global Logistics

Trade shows require a serious investment of time and money—make the most of both with Performance Plus Global Logistics (PPLUS). Our PPLUS trade show team specializes in domestic and international shows, managing delivery timelines, approved carriers and return shipping to help you avoid costly show handling fees. Whether you're a hobbyist or a major manufacturer, PPLUS has a solution. From expedited freight and international shipping to dedicated performance logistics teams, we're here to support your success—on and off the track. Find out about the PPLUSAdvantage. Contact PPLUS at 866-966-7587 or info@pplusglobal.com.

🔧 1. Confirm Show-Specific Requirements

Every show has strict guidelines—target move-in dates, approved carriers and specific labels. Confirm these early to avoid penalties or delays.
 

📦 2. Use Durable, Custom Packaging

Trade show freight takes a beating. Invest in custom crates for heavy items (like engines or transmissions) and reinforce pallets with plywood tops. Label everything clearly and waterproof labels if possible. These small steps lead to big savings—and fewer headaches.

⏰ 3. Allow Extra Transit Time

Delays happen—traffic, weather or carrier backups. Build in a buffer of 1–2 days so your freight hits the show floor on time, even if something goes wrong.
 

🚚 4. Choose a Carrier with Trade Show Experience

Not all carriers are equipped for shows. Use a provider familiar with marshaling yards, advance warehouses and show-site procedures. Our team can help!

📍5. Ship to the Advance Warehouse When Possible

Shipping to the show's advance warehouse (vs. direct to site) gives your freight more time to be checked in, staged, and ready for your team when you arrive.

🔄 6. Plan Your Return Freight Upfront

Return shipping is often overlooked. Pre-arrange it with your carrier to avoid paying premium on-site return fees or storage costs.

📞 7. Partner With a 24/7 Logistics Team

Trade shows don't run on a 9–5 schedule—neither should your logistics partner. Choose a team that offers round-the-clock support and real-time shipment tracking. 

Why PPLUS?

Our team isn't just in logistics—we live and breathe the performance industry. Family owned and operated, we have racers on staff and decades of shipping expertise, and we understand the urgency of getting parts, engines and transmissions delivered on time. Contact us at 866-966-7587 or info@pplusglobal.com.

PPLUS offers:

• 24/7 support for pickups and trackside delivery.
• Customized carrier and service selection.
• Proactive solutions for weather or carrier delays.

Always pack properly and build in extra time—PPLUS will handle the rest so your parts arrive ready to perform.

Find out about the PPLUSAdvantage. Contact PPLUS at 866-966-7587 or info@pplusglobal.com.

By SEMA News Editors

VP Racing Announces Rebel Oil Company as Master Distributor

VP Racing has announced a new distribution partnership with Rebel Oil Company (ROC), resulting in a significant expansion of VP Racing fuel distribution throughout Nevada and California.

ROC is a leading fuel, renewable biofuel, race fuel, lubricant and oil distributor in the Western United States. Founded in 1954, ROC brings decades of experience operating fuel stations and servicing wholesale customers. With a presence in the Nevada market, ROC continues to serve Race Fuel customers through their bulk distribution, bulk plant/will call and cardlock operations.

This strategic partnership enhances the market presence of both the VP Racing and ROC brands, expanding access to premium fuels and additives for drivers, dealers and retailers across the region, the company said in a release announcing the new partnership.

For more information, visit vpracingfuels.com.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Shawn Vaughn, purchasing, administrative, at Level 7 Motorsports, as the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member. 

Get to know Vaughn 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? 

Shawn Vaughn: I have been working at Level 7 Motorsports for 10 years. I love being able to work with my husband, being a part of the industry and the flexibility to have our kids grow up in our shop and take interest in what we do. 

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

SV: The most challenging part has been learning the industry and work-/home-life balance. 

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

SV: Three qualities that have helped me would be perseverance, hard work and learning to listen to everyone. 

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

SV: I would say the biggest challenge was getting to a point where people would take me seriously. 

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

SV: One of the biggest mentors is my husband, Jesse Vaughn [owner of Level 7 Motorsports]. 

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

SV: I learned early on after college that there is more than one way to do something most of the time. Listen and take in what people are saying even if you do not initially agree. 

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

SV: I graduated college with a degree in blacksmithing and photography. I was always interested in metal finishing and working with my hands. When I met my husband, he had just opened his shop. So, I got to use my background in photography and metalsmithing to help our family business. I love what we do and what we get to experience in life. 

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 Johnathan Darroch, marketing director of Apollo Sprayers International, Inc., as the network's newest spotlight member. 

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

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

Johnathan Darroch: We are here to solve a problem. If the customer has no problems to solve then you will never sell to them. This has helped me carve my path by locating problems and seeing how I can position myself--or even my brand--to solve these problems. 

SN: What keeps you in the industry? 

JD: My passion to learn and expand my brand in the automotive industry. 

SN: Where can you be found on a Saturday? 

JD: At the beach surfing. 

SN: How do you prepare for an important meeting? 

JD: I wake up early and ensure I start my day with exercise. I like to sit to myself for 15-30 minutes to collect my thoughts and plan my day around the meeting. Staring into the sun and taking deep breaths helps to wake me up faster and get the blood flowing. 

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

JD: Gene Winfield to learn his magic on custom paint and how it has changed so much over the years. He has a wealth of knowledge in the painting market. 

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 SEMA News Editors

Registration is open for the SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit, the annual program for exhibitors to learn how to maximize their Show experience, returns to Las Vegas in 2025 with new dates: Wednesday, June 25, Thursday, June 26, and Friday, June 27 (travel date).

Register and view the 2025 SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit agenda and more details at semashow.com/exhibitor-summit.

For those that have already secured their SEMA Show booth, the Exhibitor Summit, which will take place at the Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC) South Hall Skybridge, will lead exhibitors through the art of the exhibit, step-by-step, to maximize their SEMA Show experience at the LVCC later this year, November 4-7.

"Exhibiting at the SEMA Show is an art form with proven best practices and techniques that exhibitors can utilize to maximize their ROI. At the Exhibitor Summit across two days, you and your team will be armed with practical and proven strategies for lead generation, media engagement, booth layout, debuting products and cost-saving opportunities," said Andy Tompkins, SEMA trade show director. "Just make it to Vegas, and we've got your SEMA Show planning covered. But hurry, space is limited, so register and secure your spot today!"

As the SEMA Show continues to evolve, the Summit provides exhibitors with effective lead generation and sales-building programs as well as the latest information on how to build brand visibility, media engagement and marketing reach.

To support this mission, prominent content creators and media members will share first-hand insights on how they approach covering the SEMA Show, revealing to exhibitors how they can maximize their booth's impact on the media. In addition, organizers will also provide tips on launching new products, free and low-cost sponsorship opportunities, and everything exhibitors need to know to save time and money at the SEMA Show. Those seeking booth design and layout direction will not be disappointed, as the SEMA Show team will also share ways to create the best possible booth presentation that aligns with a brand's specific goals and needs.

Longtime exhibitors may notice an earlier Exhibitor Summit date this year. This change was designed to bring more impact to the event, as it will provide exhibitors with more time to put event takeaways into an actionable exhibit plan.

Register to join the SEMA Show team in Vegas this June, and we'll handle the rest. Exhibitors enjoy complimentary registration, a two-night hotel stay (for up to two representatives from each exhibiting company), and select meals courtesy of SEMA.

View the agenda and register for the 2025 SEMA Show Exhibitor Summit at semashow.com/exhibitor-summit.

Haven't signed up to exhibit at the 2025 SEMA Show yet? There is still time to secure your spot on the SEMA Show floor. Get ready to power your sales and marketing yearlong with a booth at the SEMA Show here.

Questions? Visit semashow.com/exhibitor or view key SEMA Show contacts here.

Attendee registration is now open for the 2025 SEMA Show here. Questions? Call 909-396-0289 or email sales@sema.org.

By Ashley Reyes

On June 10 at 12:00 p.m. PDT, the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) will host a webinar on cultivating allyship in an organization organically by moving beyond formal mandates and policies. 

Allyship is critical to fostering equality and inclusivity in an organization, as well as building a stronger, more supportive environment for all professionals. During this webinar, attendees will join industry experts as they explore why traditional approaches to cultivating allyship often fall short and share actionable steps to embed allyship naturally within a workplace. Through practical tools and real-world examples, attendees will discover how to foster a more inclusive and supportive atmosphere.  

Speakers include Christina Linton, chief people and culture officer at Storyteller Overland, Megan Cook, cofounder of Happy Companies and Carlene D. Bills, president and CEO at Ford Component Sales. Rachel Speir, branding and marketing specialist at RS Marqueting, will guide the discussion and question-and-answer period. 

Together, they will shed light on why formal policies often fail to drive meaningful inclusion, strategies for embedding allyship through leadership and engagement and adaptable tools to promote organic workplace inclusion.  

Register here.