From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

Eleanor Rollings, a fixture in the Washington, D.C., political fundraising scene, has joined SEMA as director of PAC development, a new role in which she will lead the efforts of SEMA and PRI PAC and Driving Force Action SuperPAC to support the specialty-equipment and motorsports industries.

Rollings joins SEMA from Hollingsworth Strategies, where she served as a principal overseeing major gifts programs, corporate partnerships and planned giving strategies for a wide range of client organizations.

"Eleanor is a great addition to SEMA's Washington, D.C., team, and we're excited to tap into her ability to build high-impact giving campaigns and cultivate relationships with major donors, advocacy networks and institutional partners," said Karen Bailey-Chapman, SEMA senior vice president for public and government affairs.

"I'm thrilled to get started with SEMA, whose reputation in Washington, D.C, is on the rise, and whose advocacy on behalf of our member companies and the nation's automotive enthusiasts is beyond impressive," Rollings said. "I see a great opportunity to deliver to our team the resources needed to make a lasting impact on the legislative and regulatory issues facing the aftermarket and motorsports industries."

A California native, Rollings holds a degree in political science from San Diego State University.

By Juan Torres

SEMA Show exhibitors have begun sharing their latest announcements previewing their plans for the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7, Las Vegas. Exhibitors can post press releases, free of charge, at www.semashow.com/press-release to generate excitement and awareness, as well as possible inclusion in association publications and promotion to media attendees.

Below are some of the latest announcements you will find in the Online Media Center:

• Scotchman Industries Introduces the New DBS-3 Dual Belt Sander
• New PPE Transmission Mount Delivers Game-Changing Durability for 2001–2019 GM HD Trucks
• Cache Returning with Award-Winning Modular Tailgate Innovation
• TeckWrap Back at SEMA 2025: Introducing Colored Paint Protection Film
• HB BODY to Showcase "Purple Haze" and Μore at SEMA Show 2025

To find more relevant news quickly and efficiently, visit www.semashow.com/press and sort by type of announcement and/or market segment.

By Ashley Reyes

SEMA members have only a few days left to register for the SEMA Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN) webinar, "Aftermarket Opportunities in EV," taking place Tuesday, September 16, at 1:00 p.m. EDT/10:00 a.m. PDT.

The electric-vehicle (EV) aftermarket is still in its early stages, presenting major opportunities for early adopters. This session will bring together leading EV experts to share insights and strategic guidance as consumer demand for EVs rises and the aftermarket industry begins to evolve.

Key insights include:

• High-growth areas such as performance upgrades, tuning, fleet optimization and vehicle customization.
• Shifts in consumer preferences and how EV buyers differ from internal combustion engine (ICE) customers.
• Collaboration strategies with OEMs and navigation of emerging regulations.
• Future technologies like software-driven upgrades, connected vehicles and autonomous systems.
• Actionable advice from EV industry experts to help businesses pivot successfully.

Speakers for this webinar include Maverik Knoles, president and co-founder of Legacy EV; Hugo Normand, research and development director at Technologies Ingenext; and Brian Reese, president and CEO of T Sportline.

Designed for manufacturers, retailers, fleet managers and enthusiasts, this session will offer attendees the insights and tools needed to innovate and succeed in the rapidly evolving EV aftermarket. Register here.

By Ashley Reyes

There’s still time to register for the Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) General Membership Meeting taking place virtually on Wednesday, September 17, at 11:00 a.m. PDT/2:00 p.m. EDT. 

The meeting is open to current and prospective members and is an opportunity to discover resources designed to help automotive restylers succeed in the specialty-equipment industry. Attendees will hear about events, volunteer opportunities and other resources aimed at supporting business and professional growth. 

The meeting will also include updates about the PRO Cup Challenge and other PRO events taking place at the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7, Las Vegas. 

PRO membership is open to all SEMA member companies serving the restyling and accessory markets--be they manufacturers, warehouse distributors, manufacturers or restylers and installers. If this sounds like you, don't miss this opportunity to take action in the industry and grow your network by getting more involved. 

Register here. 

By SEMA News Editors

Content Creator Spotlight: Andrew Abouata

Instagram: @cali.comet | @drewboutashoot

Follower count: 7k on Instagram

Focus: Classic cars, photography

SEMA News: How did you get into the automotive industry?

Andrew Abouata: It all began with my first car, a broken '94 Mustang GT. That car got me out to meets and shows, and once COVID hit, my interest shifted to classics. I briefly owned a '64 Fairlane, which gave me my first real taste of vintage style. That eventually led me to my current pride and joy, my '63 Comet. I drive it everywhere and that really solidified my place in the community.

SN: What's your biggest motivator?

AA: Without question, it's my friends and family. We go to shows together all the time, and just being around other builds, projects and passionate people always pushes me to stay motivated and keep creating.

SN: What's been your favorite part of being a part of the automotive community?

AA: The community itself. Almost everyone important in my life has come through cars, and I spend nearly all my free time outside of work with them. It's more than just cars, it's the relationships, stories, and memories built along the way. I have also had an amazing art piece done for my Comet by a great friend @Hey.Ruca.

SN: What is on the horizon for you in 2025? Anything you're looking forward to?

AA: A new chapter for the Comet. A buddy of ours rebuilt a 302 that's going into the car, and after three years of cruising with the inline six, I'm excited for more power. At the same time, the build is evolving into a lowrider-inspired style with pinstripes, wheels and details that will make the Comet stand out even more. Next year is going to be a year of growth and creativity for both me and the Comet.
 

Are you a passionate automotive or racing content creator? Do you want to get involved with SEMA/PRI and spread the word about important advocacy initiatives? Contact Lauren Wilbor from the SEMA Washington, D.C., office at laurenpw@sema.org.

By SEMA News Editors

Content Creator Spotlight: Andrew Abouata

Instagram: @cali.comet | @drewboutashoot

Follower count: 7k on Instagram

Focus: Classic cars, photography

SEMA News: How did you get into the automotive industry?

Andrew Abouata: It all began with my first car, a broken '94 Mustang GT. That car got me out to meets and shows, and once COVID hit, my interest shifted to classics. I briefly owned a '64 Fairlane, which gave me my first real taste of vintage style. That eventually led me to my current pride and joy, my '63 Comet. I drive it everywhere and that really solidified my place in the community.

SN: What's your biggest motivator?

AA: Without question, it's my friends and family. We go to shows together all the time, and just being around other builds, projects and passionate people always pushes me to stay motivated and keep creating.

SN: What's been your favorite part of being a part of the automotive community?

AA: The community itself. Almost everyone important in my life has come through cars, and I spend nearly all my free time outside of work with them. It's more than just cars, it's the relationships, stories, and memories built along the way. I have also had an amazing art piece done for my Comet by a great friend @Hey.Ruca.

SN: What is on the horizon for you in 2025? Anything you're looking forward to?

AA: A new chapter for the Comet. A buddy of ours rebuilt a 302 that's going into the car, and after three years of cruising with the inline six, I'm excited for more power. At the same time, the build is evolving into a lowrider-inspired style with pinstripes, wheels and details that will make the Comet stand out even more. Next year is going to be a year of growth and creativity for both me and the Comet.
 

Are you a passionate automotive or racing content creator? Do you want to get involved with SEMA/PRI and spread the word about important advocacy initiatives? Contact Lauren Wilbor from the SEMA Washington, D.C., office at laurenpw@sema.org.

🛑A proposed federal airspace grab threatens off-roading and events at Johnson Valley, California, like King of the Hammers. We're not letting it happen. Public comments must be submitted by September 15.

👉 Send your letter now. It takes 30 seconds.

-From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

🛑A proposed federal airspace grab threatens off-roading and events at Johnson Valley, California, like King of the Hammers. We're not letting it happen. Public comments must be submitted by September 15.

👉 Send your letter now. It takes 30 seconds.

-From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

By SEMA News Editors

2024 PRO Cup Challenge Winner Classic Soft Trim Pittsburgh (right) and People’s Choice Award Winner Auto Trim Restyling (left)

The SEMA Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) has announced the six automotive restyling shops that will compete in its coveted PRO Cup Challenge at the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7 in Las Vegas. The finalists are: Auto Additions Inc., Auto Trim Restyling, Automotive Concepts, DV8 Customs LLC, MARS of Billings and Sun Line Sunroofs. 

Taking place in the West Hall in the PRO booth #50197, the PRO Cup Challenge celebrates the creativity, craftsmanship and innovation of the restyling industry while demonstrating the value of working with manufacturers and dealers to offer market-ready vehicle accessory packages.  

The competition challenges finalists to: 

• Design an accessory package for a new-model vehicle that appeals to a broad audience. 
• Deliver a dealer-ready build, with criteria of no more than 40 labor hours per package installed and a wholesale cost under $12,500. 

"The PRO Cup Challenge provides the best opportunity for automotive restylers to showcase their skills and talents on the industry's global stage," said Kevin Gillis, PRO chair. "From stylish designs to accessory upgrades that enhance convenience and comfort, this year's competition will shine a light on builds designed to excite enthusiasts and deliver greater profit to dealers." 

Bringing its proven expertise back to the competition is Auto Trim Restyling, named the 2024 PRO Cup Challenge's People's Choice Award winner for its customized '24 Toyota Land Cruiser. Meanwhile, newcomers DV8 Customs and Sun Line Sunroofs will make their PRO Cup Challenge debut, showcasing their vision and talent alongside other great shops. 

"Attendees can expect a build that shows off our style, creativity and attention to detail," said Nick Svec, managing partner at DV8 Customs. "We do have a theme locked down and are currently in the creative process of really making it come to life."  

Building on the momentum of past competitions, the 2025 PRO Cup Challenge will feature parts and accessories from leading manufacturers in the restyling realm. While buyers can visit the West Hall and see new products from exhibitors' booths directly, the PRO Cup Challenge brings their products together in real-world applications, demonstrating how their parts can be used to create stunning, marketable vehicle customizations.   

A panel of expert judges will select the PRO Cup Challenge winner based on vehicle marketability, ease of reproduction, creativity and profitability. Showgoers can also vote for their favorite build, recognizing it with the People's Choice Award. Winners will be announced at the PRO Happy Hour on Wednesday, November 5, from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. PST in West Hall, booth #50197.  

For more information on the PRO Cup Challenge, visit www.semapcc.com.  

Qualified SEMA Show attendees are encouraged to register now to secure discounted rates and maximize their ROI. Registration is $75 through Sept. 26. Hotel reservations at guaranteed low rates are available exclusively through SEMA's official hotel provider, onPeak.   

By Ashley Reyes

The Student Program Networking Breakfast is returning to the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7, Las Vegas, and exhibiting companies are invited to participate. 

Set for Thursday, November 6, from 8:00 a.m.–9:30 a.m. PST in the Las Vegas Convention Center West Hall, the event will connect SEMA Show exhibitors with hundreds of passionate automotive students eager to launch their careers. 

Top reasons to participate:  

• Gain access to a valuable recruitment pipeline 
• Expose your brand to hundreds of students pursuing automotive careers 
• Share advice with the next generation of industry talent 
• Build relationships with future industry professionals 

Participation is free; the event simply requires 90 minutes from a company representative. No set-up time or marketing materials are required. Reserve your table here. 

Student Information  

Registration is currently open for college students and faculty members to attend the SEMA Show Student Program.  

Faculty members can submit a group registration at this link. Students over the age of 21 attending by themselves can apply here. 

Questions can be directed to Joe Escobar, SEMA manager of recognition programs, at josee@sema.org.