SEMA Scholarship Application Deadline Extended to April 15
Mon, 03/28/2011 - 11:41
Students preparing for careers in the automotive industry may be eligible to receive financial awards ranging from $1,000–$4,000 through the 2011 SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund (SMSF). The scholarship application deadline has been extended to April 15, 2011, and requires college transcripts and letters of recommendation. It is now available at www.sema.org/scholarships.

“Paying for a high-quality education is a challenge for many, particularly in today’s tough economy,” said Jamie Eriksen, SEMA education director. “SEMA is pleased to play a part in helping students prepare for careers in an innovative and exciting industry.”

Unlike financial aid and student loans, the SEMA Memorial Scholarship is a one-time award that does not have to be paid back. Awards are granted to eligible applicants based on academic achievements, work experience, community involvement, essay content and recommendations. Students may re-apply each year, provided that they still meet the eligibility criteria. A loan forgiveness award is also available to recent graduates who are working for SEMA-member companies and paying off existing student loans. Details and applications for both the scholarship and the loan-forgiveness awards are available at www.sema.org/scholarships.

Winners will be notified in the summer of 2011. Scholarship payments are sent directly to the student’s college, university, trade or vocational school to help offset the cost of tuition. Loan-forgiveness payments are sent directly to the financial institutions.

For complete details, visit www.sema.org/scholarships or contact Juliet Marshall at julietm@sema.org or 909/978-6655.
Help Shape How Industry Concerns Are Addressed—Tips for Select Committee Volunteers
Mon, 03/28/2011 - 10:57

SEMA Member News—March/April 2011

Message From the Chair

The PRO Select Committee determines which issues can best be addressed by the council

The PRO Select Committee determines which issues can best be addressed by the council. We need passionate, enthusiastic people to bring their ideas and skills to the table. Are you one of them?

Serving on the Select Committee or as chairman of a council is a huge honor. It signifies that you’ve earned the confidence and respect of your peers. It also gives you an opportunity to be closely involved in the issues affecting your industry and to have a part in shaping how those issues are addressed. I’ve been privileged to serve as a member of the Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) Select Committee since 2000. I’ve also joined the ranks of the few who have become the chairman of PRO. As I’ve worked for the council for the last few months of my term as chairman, I wanted to share some thoughts on volunteer leadership.

Serve for the Right Reasons

While it’s ego-enhancing to be elected to serve on the Select Committee, it’s important to remember why you’re doing it. If you have a strong passion for helping to create an environment in which your industry peers can increase and enhance their business opportunities while solving common problems, you will flourish as a Select Committee member. On the other hand, if your underlying motive is to promote your business interests or your company’s business first, you’re serving for the wrong reasons. People who have such motives often prove ineffectual on a Select Committee because they are quickly missing in action when there’s nothing to gain for them personally.

Stay Involved

The Select Committee determines which issues can best be addressed by the council. Task forces or standing committees may be formed to do the necessary work. A chair or co-chair oversees the agenda of the group to keep it on track to accomplish its goal. Any member of PRO can volunteer to serve on a committee or task force. Participation generally involves time for teleconferences and caring for any assignments you have been entrusted with.

It is a challenge to stay involved with the work of your task force or committee. Periodic communication with other members, a clear picture of the goals to reach and remembering the benefits that will result from successful completion of your task force’s work will help you stay actively involved. Without active involvement, a task force will bog down. This means one must stay in touch via e-mail and teleconferences. Notices must be sent out in a timely manner, and all members are asked to respond and attend the teleconferences. As an industry leader, you must keep yourself informed of meetings and be present. Remember, too, that we’re all volunteers who are giving up our time, so always express your appreciation for the efforts of others and keep them enthused about the tasks you’re accomplishing.

Lead by Example

Serving as a council leader requires respect for others and a willingness to put your personal wishes aside at times. This means adjusting your personal expectations to the reality: People can only devote so much time and effort to council work, and you must be willing to accept that while being appreciative of what they can offer up. The example a good leader sets in this regard will go a long way toward the success of a council. Exhibiting an understanding attitude and a willingness to listen to the ideas and suggestions of others will also set the tone and pace of a council that gets things done.

Have a “Future Forward” Vision

Every leader in a council should have an idea of how he or she would like to see the council progress. For those who are entrusted with the chair-elect or chairman’s position, the development of the “big picture” is critical to seeing the council prosper. A true leader will be able to envision things years down the road and will formulate a plan of action that will involve the council in reaching those goals. Along the way, there must be mentoring of new council members, encouragement for chairs of committees and task forces, and patience, patience, patience.

PRO has done some exciting things over the last few years. I’m enthused about the future of the council as I work though the next few months and hand the leadership duties over to Chair-Elect Eldon Bracken. We need passionate, enthusiastic people to bring their ideas and skills to the table. Are you one of them?

Help Shape How Industry Concerns Are Addressed—Tips for Select Committee Volunteers
Mon, 03/28/2011 - 10:57

SEMA Member News—March/April 2011

Message From the Chair

The PRO Select Committee determines which issues can best be addressed by the council

The PRO Select Committee determines which issues can best be addressed by the council. We need passionate, enthusiastic people to bring their ideas and skills to the table. Are you one of them?

Serving on the Select Committee or as chairman of a council is a huge honor. It signifies that you’ve earned the confidence and respect of your peers. It also gives you an opportunity to be closely involved in the issues affecting your industry and to have a part in shaping how those issues are addressed. I’ve been privileged to serve as a member of the Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) Select Committee since 2000. I’ve also joined the ranks of the few who have become the chairman of PRO. As I’ve worked for the council for the last few months of my term as chairman, I wanted to share some thoughts on volunteer leadership.

Serve for the Right Reasons

While it’s ego-enhancing to be elected to serve on the Select Committee, it’s important to remember why you’re doing it. If you have a strong passion for helping to create an environment in which your industry peers can increase and enhance their business opportunities while solving common problems, you will flourish as a Select Committee member. On the other hand, if your underlying motive is to promote your business interests or your company’s business first, you’re serving for the wrong reasons. People who have such motives often prove ineffectual on a Select Committee because they are quickly missing in action when there’s nothing to gain for them personally.

Stay Involved

The Select Committee determines which issues can best be addressed by the council. Task forces or standing committees may be formed to do the necessary work. A chair or co-chair oversees the agenda of the group to keep it on track to accomplish its goal. Any member of PRO can volunteer to serve on a committee or task force. Participation generally involves time for teleconferences and caring for any assignments you have been entrusted with.

It is a challenge to stay involved with the work of your task force or committee. Periodic communication with other members, a clear picture of the goals to reach and remembering the benefits that will result from successful completion of your task force’s work will help you stay actively involved. Without active involvement, a task force will bog down. This means one must stay in touch via e-mail and teleconferences. Notices must be sent out in a timely manner, and all members are asked to respond and attend the teleconferences. As an industry leader, you must keep yourself informed of meetings and be present. Remember, too, that we’re all volunteers who are giving up our time, so always express your appreciation for the efforts of others and keep them enthused about the tasks you’re accomplishing.

Lead by Example

Serving as a council leader requires respect for others and a willingness to put your personal wishes aside at times. This means adjusting your personal expectations to the reality: People can only devote so much time and effort to council work, and you must be willing to accept that while being appreciative of what they can offer up. The example a good leader sets in this regard will go a long way toward the success of a council. Exhibiting an understanding attitude and a willingness to listen to the ideas and suggestions of others will also set the tone and pace of a council that gets things done.

Have a “Future Forward” Vision

Every leader in a council should have an idea of how he or she would like to see the council progress. For those who are entrusted with the chair-elect or chairman’s position, the development of the “big picture” is critical to seeing the council prosper. A true leader will be able to envision things years down the road and will formulate a plan of action that will involve the council in reaching those goals. Along the way, there must be mentoring of new council members, encouragement for chairs of committees and task forces, and patience, patience, patience.

PRO has done some exciting things over the last few years. I’m enthused about the future of the council as I work though the next few months and hand the leadership duties over to Chair-Elect Eldon Bracken. We need passionate, enthusiastic people to bring their ideas and skills to the table. Are you one of them?

Help Shape How Industry Concerns Are Addressed—Tips for Select Committee Volunteers
Mon, 03/28/2011 - 10:57

SEMA Member News—March/April 2011

Message From the Chair

The PRO Select Committee determines which issues can best be addressed by the council

The PRO Select Committee determines which issues can best be addressed by the council. We need passionate, enthusiastic people to bring their ideas and skills to the table. Are you one of them?

Serving on the Select Committee or as chairman of a council is a huge honor. It signifies that you’ve earned the confidence and respect of your peers. It also gives you an opportunity to be closely involved in the issues affecting your industry and to have a part in shaping how those issues are addressed. I’ve been privileged to serve as a member of the Professional Restylers Organization (PRO) Select Committee since 2000. I’ve also joined the ranks of the few who have become the chairman of PRO. As I’ve worked for the council for the last few months of my term as chairman, I wanted to share some thoughts on volunteer leadership.

Serve for the Right Reasons

While it’s ego-enhancing to be elected to serve on the Select Committee, it’s important to remember why you’re doing it. If you have a strong passion for helping to create an environment in which your industry peers can increase and enhance their business opportunities while solving common problems, you will flourish as a Select Committee member. On the other hand, if your underlying motive is to promote your business interests or your company’s business first, you’re serving for the wrong reasons. People who have such motives often prove ineffectual on a Select Committee because they are quickly missing in action when there’s nothing to gain for them personally.

Stay Involved

The Select Committee determines which issues can best be addressed by the council. Task forces or standing committees may be formed to do the necessary work. A chair or co-chair oversees the agenda of the group to keep it on track to accomplish its goal. Any member of PRO can volunteer to serve on a committee or task force. Participation generally involves time for teleconferences and caring for any assignments you have been entrusted with.

It is a challenge to stay involved with the work of your task force or committee. Periodic communication with other members, a clear picture of the goals to reach and remembering the benefits that will result from successful completion of your task force’s work will help you stay actively involved. Without active involvement, a task force will bog down. This means one must stay in touch via e-mail and teleconferences. Notices must be sent out in a timely manner, and all members are asked to respond and attend the teleconferences. As an industry leader, you must keep yourself informed of meetings and be present. Remember, too, that we’re all volunteers who are giving up our time, so always express your appreciation for the efforts of others and keep them enthused about the tasks you’re accomplishing.

Lead by Example

Serving as a council leader requires respect for others and a willingness to put your personal wishes aside at times. This means adjusting your personal expectations to the reality: People can only devote so much time and effort to council work, and you must be willing to accept that while being appreciative of what they can offer up. The example a good leader sets in this regard will go a long way toward the success of a council. Exhibiting an understanding attitude and a willingness to listen to the ideas and suggestions of others will also set the tone and pace of a council that gets things done.

Have a “Future Forward” Vision

Every leader in a council should have an idea of how he or she would like to see the council progress. For those who are entrusted with the chair-elect or chairman’s position, the development of the “big picture” is critical to seeing the council prosper. A true leader will be able to envision things years down the road and will formulate a plan of action that will involve the council in reaching those goals. Along the way, there must be mentoring of new council members, encouragement for chairs of committees and task forces, and patience, patience, patience.

PRO has done some exciting things over the last few years. I’m enthused about the future of the council as I work though the next few months and hand the leadership duties over to Chair-Elect Eldon Bracken. We need passionate, enthusiastic people to bring their ideas and skills to the table. Are you one of them?

MRC Chair-Elect Chris Fairless Has an Idea How to Strengthen the Role of Manufacturers' Reps: Get Involved!
Mon, 03/28/2011 - 10:53

SEMA Member News—March/April 2011

A Few Words With the Chair-Elect

  Chris Fairless, new MRC chair-elect

Chris Fairless, new MRC chair-elect, has been a member of the automotive specialty-equipment industry for 32 years. He recently became a principal with SS Sales & Marketing.

   
Chris Fairless has been involved in the automotive specialty-equipment industry for 32 years, combining 10 years in retail and wholesale for Van Iderstine Speed Centers with five years in manufacturing for Russell Performance and 17 years as a manufacturer’s representative. He recently became a principal with SS Sales & Marketing.

Fairless joined the Manufacturers’ Rep Council (MRC) 17 years ago, serving on many task forces and subcommittees as well as the MRC Select Committee. He was chosen as the council’s chair-elect in July 2010.

SEMA Member News: What are your priorities as MRC chair-elect? What specific things do you want to accomplish?

Chris Fairless: MRC’s mission is to provide our members with the tools and benefits to strengthen our segment of the industry. Our goals are to increase benefits for MRC members through educational and professional development programs, provide tools and programs to increase productivity and seek ways to help the sales representative community with cost-cutting programs in areas such as travel, heath care and communications.

SMN: In light of recent economic changes, why should companies join SEMA and MRC?

CF: The resources that SEMA and MRC provide are invaluable. Also, the networking opportunities and getting involved to strengthen the industry as a whole are priorities that we all share. SEMA and MRC provide the forum needed to help grow and strengthen the automotive specialty-equipment industry. MRC must assist all member reps in networking, sharing successful concepts, systems and educational opportunities to ensure that every participating rep and rep agency is as effective, successful and profitable as possible.

SMN: Is there anything else you would like to emphasize to the MRC membership and the industry as a whole?

CF: Get involved! With the challenges we all have faced and are going to continue to face, we need to work together for the good of the entire industry. SEMA and MRC are built upon the strength of the people involved and making a difference to improve and strengthen the automotive specialty-equipment market. State your concerns and ideas. Recruit other reps to join. The MRC is for all reps who are concerned about the industry, their occupation and their futures. Task force participation requires only a limited investment of time but provides a great way to network and share ideas.

For more information about volunteering, visit the MRC website.

MRERF Donates Tuitions

The Manufacturers Representatives Education Research Foundation (MRERF) is the only nationally accredited certification program for manufacturers’ representatives. The curriculum is designed as executive management education that allows the participants to gain knowledge and insight into how to more effectively operate their businesses. This year, MRERF has generously gifted MRC with three tuitions to its Certified Professional Manufacturers Representatives (CPMR) program. MRC announced the winners at its MRC Rep Conference and awards ceremony on Sunday, October 31, 2010, prior to the SEMA Show. Congratulations go to the 2010 MRERF award recipients: Cody LaDuke of Evan Mecham & Associates, Mike Hansen of SS Sales & Marketing and Mark Petro of R&R Marketing.

 

MRC Chairman Wade Cobb (left) and Chair-Elect Chris Fairless (right) congratulate Cody LaDuke

MRC Chairman Wade Cobb (left) and Chair-Elect Chris Fairless (right) congratulate Cody LaDuke of Evan Mecham & Associates on being awarded one of three tuitions to the Manufacturers Representatives Education Research Foundation’s Certified Professional Manufacturers Representatives program. The other two awards went to Mike Hansen of SS Sales & Marketing and Mark Petro of R&R Marketing.

     

Your Trade Association Needs You!

It is election time for the MRC Select Committee, and the MRC needs your support. The election will be processed electronically this year, so there should be no excuse for not voting! The ballots will be e-mailed to MRC members, so all you need to do is click and send. We’ll need the ballot responses returned by June 7, 2011, and the new members will officially join the committee on July 1, 2011.

The MRC Select Committee continues to work on ways to offer more service and value to our members. We need input from you and your staff. Every agency should empower at least one associate to get involved in the MRC. When we work together, we accomplish more for our rep members and for the industry.

MRC Chair-Elect Chris Fairless Has an Idea How to Strengthen the Role of Manufacturers' Reps: Get Involved!
Mon, 03/28/2011 - 10:53

SEMA Member News—March/April 2011

A Few Words With the Chair-Elect

  Chris Fairless, new MRC chair-elect

Chris Fairless, new MRC chair-elect, has been a member of the automotive specialty-equipment industry for 32 years. He recently became a principal with SS Sales & Marketing.

   
Chris Fairless has been involved in the automotive specialty-equipment industry for 32 years, combining 10 years in retail and wholesale for Van Iderstine Speed Centers with five years in manufacturing for Russell Performance and 17 years as a manufacturer’s representative. He recently became a principal with SS Sales & Marketing.

Fairless joined the Manufacturers’ Rep Council (MRC) 17 years ago, serving on many task forces and subcommittees as well as the MRC Select Committee. He was chosen as the council’s chair-elect in July 2010.

SEMA Member News: What are your priorities as MRC chair-elect? What specific things do you want to accomplish?

Chris Fairless: MRC’s mission is to provide our members with the tools and benefits to strengthen our segment of the industry. Our goals are to increase benefits for MRC members through educational and professional development programs, provide tools and programs to increase productivity and seek ways to help the sales representative community with cost-cutting programs in areas such as travel, heath care and communications.

SMN: In light of recent economic changes, why should companies join SEMA and MRC?

CF: The resources that SEMA and MRC provide are invaluable. Also, the networking opportunities and getting involved to strengthen the industry as a whole are priorities that we all share. SEMA and MRC provide the forum needed to help grow and strengthen the automotive specialty-equipment industry. MRC must assist all member reps in networking, sharing successful concepts, systems and educational opportunities to ensure that every participating rep and rep agency is as effective, successful and profitable as possible.

SMN: Is there anything else you would like to emphasize to the MRC membership and the industry as a whole?

CF: Get involved! With the challenges we all have faced and are going to continue to face, we need to work together for the good of the entire industry. SEMA and MRC are built upon the strength of the people involved and making a difference to improve and strengthen the automotive specialty-equipment market. State your concerns and ideas. Recruit other reps to join. The MRC is for all reps who are concerned about the industry, their occupation and their futures. Task force participation requires only a limited investment of time but provides a great way to network and share ideas.

For more information about volunteering, visit the MRC website.

MRERF Donates Tuitions

The Manufacturers Representatives Education Research Foundation (MRERF) is the only nationally accredited certification program for manufacturers’ representatives. The curriculum is designed as executive management education that allows the participants to gain knowledge and insight into how to more effectively operate their businesses. This year, MRERF has generously gifted MRC with three tuitions to its Certified Professional Manufacturers Representatives (CPMR) program. MRC announced the winners at its MRC Rep Conference and awards ceremony on Sunday, October 31, 2010, prior to the SEMA Show. Congratulations go to the 2010 MRERF award recipients: Cody LaDuke of Evan Mecham & Associates, Mike Hansen of SS Sales & Marketing and Mark Petro of R&R Marketing.

 

MRC Chairman Wade Cobb (left) and Chair-Elect Chris Fairless (right) congratulate Cody LaDuke

MRC Chairman Wade Cobb (left) and Chair-Elect Chris Fairless (right) congratulate Cody LaDuke of Evan Mecham & Associates on being awarded one of three tuitions to the Manufacturers Representatives Education Research Foundation’s Certified Professional Manufacturers Representatives program. The other two awards went to Mike Hansen of SS Sales & Marketing and Mark Petro of R&R Marketing.

     

Your Trade Association Needs You!

It is election time for the MRC Select Committee, and the MRC needs your support. The election will be processed electronically this year, so there should be no excuse for not voting! The ballots will be e-mailed to MRC members, so all you need to do is click and send. We’ll need the ballot responses returned by June 7, 2011, and the new members will officially join the committee on July 1, 2011.

The MRC Select Committee continues to work on ways to offer more service and value to our members. We need input from you and your staff. Every agency should empower at least one associate to get involved in the MRC. When we work together, we accomplish more for our rep members and for the industry.

MRC Chair-Elect Chris Fairless Has an Idea How to Strengthen the Role of Manufacturers' Reps: Get Involved!
Mon, 03/28/2011 - 10:53

SEMA Member News—March/April 2011

A Few Words With the Chair-Elect

  Chris Fairless, new MRC chair-elect

Chris Fairless, new MRC chair-elect, has been a member of the automotive specialty-equipment industry for 32 years. He recently became a principal with SS Sales & Marketing.

   
Chris Fairless has been involved in the automotive specialty-equipment industry for 32 years, combining 10 years in retail and wholesale for Van Iderstine Speed Centers with five years in manufacturing for Russell Performance and 17 years as a manufacturer’s representative. He recently became a principal with SS Sales & Marketing.

Fairless joined the Manufacturers’ Rep Council (MRC) 17 years ago, serving on many task forces and subcommittees as well as the MRC Select Committee. He was chosen as the council’s chair-elect in July 2010.

SEMA Member News: What are your priorities as MRC chair-elect? What specific things do you want to accomplish?

Chris Fairless: MRC’s mission is to provide our members with the tools and benefits to strengthen our segment of the industry. Our goals are to increase benefits for MRC members through educational and professional development programs, provide tools and programs to increase productivity and seek ways to help the sales representative community with cost-cutting programs in areas such as travel, heath care and communications.

SMN: In light of recent economic changes, why should companies join SEMA and MRC?

CF: The resources that SEMA and MRC provide are invaluable. Also, the networking opportunities and getting involved to strengthen the industry as a whole are priorities that we all share. SEMA and MRC provide the forum needed to help grow and strengthen the automotive specialty-equipment industry. MRC must assist all member reps in networking, sharing successful concepts, systems and educational opportunities to ensure that every participating rep and rep agency is as effective, successful and profitable as possible.

SMN: Is there anything else you would like to emphasize to the MRC membership and the industry as a whole?

CF: Get involved! With the challenges we all have faced and are going to continue to face, we need to work together for the good of the entire industry. SEMA and MRC are built upon the strength of the people involved and making a difference to improve and strengthen the automotive specialty-equipment market. State your concerns and ideas. Recruit other reps to join. The MRC is for all reps who are concerned about the industry, their occupation and their futures. Task force participation requires only a limited investment of time but provides a great way to network and share ideas.

For more information about volunteering, visit the MRC website.

MRERF Donates Tuitions

The Manufacturers Representatives Education Research Foundation (MRERF) is the only nationally accredited certification program for manufacturers’ representatives. The curriculum is designed as executive management education that allows the participants to gain knowledge and insight into how to more effectively operate their businesses. This year, MRERF has generously gifted MRC with three tuitions to its Certified Professional Manufacturers Representatives (CPMR) program. MRC announced the winners at its MRC Rep Conference and awards ceremony on Sunday, October 31, 2010, prior to the SEMA Show. Congratulations go to the 2010 MRERF award recipients: Cody LaDuke of Evan Mecham & Associates, Mike Hansen of SS Sales & Marketing and Mark Petro of R&R Marketing.

 

MRC Chairman Wade Cobb (left) and Chair-Elect Chris Fairless (right) congratulate Cody LaDuke

MRC Chairman Wade Cobb (left) and Chair-Elect Chris Fairless (right) congratulate Cody LaDuke of Evan Mecham & Associates on being awarded one of three tuitions to the Manufacturers Representatives Education Research Foundation’s Certified Professional Manufacturers Representatives program. The other two awards went to Mike Hansen of SS Sales & Marketing and Mark Petro of R&R Marketing.

     

Your Trade Association Needs You!

It is election time for the MRC Select Committee, and the MRC needs your support. The election will be processed electronically this year, so there should be no excuse for not voting! The ballots will be e-mailed to MRC members, so all you need to do is click and send. We’ll need the ballot responses returned by June 7, 2011, and the new members will officially join the committee on July 1, 2011.

The MRC Select Committee continues to work on ways to offer more service and value to our members. We need input from you and your staff. Every agency should empower at least one associate to get involved in the MRC. When we work together, we accomplish more for our rep members and for the industry.

MRC Chair-Elect Chris Fairless Has an Idea How to Strengthen the Role of Manufacturers' Reps: Get Involved!
Mon, 03/28/2011 - 10:53

SEMA Member News—March/April 2011

A Few Words With the Chair-Elect

  Chris Fairless, new MRC chair-elect

Chris Fairless, new MRC chair-elect, has been a member of the automotive specialty-equipment industry for 32 years. He recently became a principal with SS Sales & Marketing.

   
Chris Fairless has been involved in the automotive specialty-equipment industry for 32 years, combining 10 years in retail and wholesale for Van Iderstine Speed Centers with five years in manufacturing for Russell Performance and 17 years as a manufacturer’s representative. He recently became a principal with SS Sales & Marketing.

Fairless joined the Manufacturers’ Rep Council (MRC) 17 years ago, serving on many task forces and subcommittees as well as the MRC Select Committee. He was chosen as the council’s chair-elect in July 2010.

SEMA Member News: What are your priorities as MRC chair-elect? What specific things do you want to accomplish?

Chris Fairless: MRC’s mission is to provide our members with the tools and benefits to strengthen our segment of the industry. Our goals are to increase benefits for MRC members through educational and professional development programs, provide tools and programs to increase productivity and seek ways to help the sales representative community with cost-cutting programs in areas such as travel, heath care and communications.

SMN: In light of recent economic changes, why should companies join SEMA and MRC?

CF: The resources that SEMA and MRC provide are invaluable. Also, the networking opportunities and getting involved to strengthen the industry as a whole are priorities that we all share. SEMA and MRC provide the forum needed to help grow and strengthen the automotive specialty-equipment industry. MRC must assist all member reps in networking, sharing successful concepts, systems and educational opportunities to ensure that every participating rep and rep agency is as effective, successful and profitable as possible.

SMN: Is there anything else you would like to emphasize to the MRC membership and the industry as a whole?

CF: Get involved! With the challenges we all have faced and are going to continue to face, we need to work together for the good of the entire industry. SEMA and MRC are built upon the strength of the people involved and making a difference to improve and strengthen the automotive specialty-equipment market. State your concerns and ideas. Recruit other reps to join. The MRC is for all reps who are concerned about the industry, their occupation and their futures. Task force participation requires only a limited investment of time but provides a great way to network and share ideas.

For more information about volunteering, visit the MRC website.

MRERF Donates Tuitions

The Manufacturers Representatives Education Research Foundation (MRERF) is the only nationally accredited certification program for manufacturers’ representatives. The curriculum is designed as executive management education that allows the participants to gain knowledge and insight into how to more effectively operate their businesses. This year, MRERF has generously gifted MRC with three tuitions to its Certified Professional Manufacturers Representatives (CPMR) program. MRC announced the winners at its MRC Rep Conference and awards ceremony on Sunday, October 31, 2010, prior to the SEMA Show. Congratulations go to the 2010 MRERF award recipients: Cody LaDuke of Evan Mecham & Associates, Mike Hansen of SS Sales & Marketing and Mark Petro of R&R Marketing.

 

MRC Chairman Wade Cobb (left) and Chair-Elect Chris Fairless (right) congratulate Cody LaDuke

MRC Chairman Wade Cobb (left) and Chair-Elect Chris Fairless (right) congratulate Cody LaDuke of Evan Mecham & Associates on being awarded one of three tuitions to the Manufacturers Representatives Education Research Foundation’s Certified Professional Manufacturers Representatives program. The other two awards went to Mike Hansen of SS Sales & Marketing and Mark Petro of R&R Marketing.

     

Your Trade Association Needs You!

It is election time for the MRC Select Committee, and the MRC needs your support. The election will be processed electronically this year, so there should be no excuse for not voting! The ballots will be e-mailed to MRC members, so all you need to do is click and send. We’ll need the ballot responses returned by June 7, 2011, and the new members will officially join the committee on July 1, 2011.

The MRC Select Committee continues to work on ways to offer more service and value to our members. We need input from you and your staff. Every agency should empower at least one associate to get involved in the MRC. When we work together, we accomplish more for our rep members and for the industry.

MRC Chair-Elect Chris Fairless Has an Idea How to Strengthen the Role of Manufacturers' Reps: Get Involved!
Mon, 03/28/2011 - 10:53

SEMA Member News—March/April 2011

A Few Words With the Chair-Elect

  Chris Fairless, new MRC chair-elect

Chris Fairless, new MRC chair-elect, has been a member of the automotive specialty-equipment industry for 32 years. He recently became a principal with SS Sales & Marketing.

   
Chris Fairless has been involved in the automotive specialty-equipment industry for 32 years, combining 10 years in retail and wholesale for Van Iderstine Speed Centers with five years in manufacturing for Russell Performance and 17 years as a manufacturer’s representative. He recently became a principal with SS Sales & Marketing.

Fairless joined the Manufacturers’ Rep Council (MRC) 17 years ago, serving on many task forces and subcommittees as well as the MRC Select Committee. He was chosen as the council’s chair-elect in July 2010.

SEMA Member News: What are your priorities as MRC chair-elect? What specific things do you want to accomplish?

Chris Fairless: MRC’s mission is to provide our members with the tools and benefits to strengthen our segment of the industry. Our goals are to increase benefits for MRC members through educational and professional development programs, provide tools and programs to increase productivity and seek ways to help the sales representative community with cost-cutting programs in areas such as travel, heath care and communications.

SMN: In light of recent economic changes, why should companies join SEMA and MRC?

CF: The resources that SEMA and MRC provide are invaluable. Also, the networking opportunities and getting involved to strengthen the industry as a whole are priorities that we all share. SEMA and MRC provide the forum needed to help grow and strengthen the automotive specialty-equipment industry. MRC must assist all member reps in networking, sharing successful concepts, systems and educational opportunities to ensure that every participating rep and rep agency is as effective, successful and profitable as possible.

SMN: Is there anything else you would like to emphasize to the MRC membership and the industry as a whole?

CF: Get involved! With the challenges we all have faced and are going to continue to face, we need to work together for the good of the entire industry. SEMA and MRC are built upon the strength of the people involved and making a difference to improve and strengthen the automotive specialty-equipment market. State your concerns and ideas. Recruit other reps to join. The MRC is for all reps who are concerned about the industry, their occupation and their futures. Task force participation requires only a limited investment of time but provides a great way to network and share ideas.

For more information about volunteering, visit the MRC website.

MRERF Donates Tuitions

The Manufacturers Representatives Education Research Foundation (MRERF) is the only nationally accredited certification program for manufacturers’ representatives. The curriculum is designed as executive management education that allows the participants to gain knowledge and insight into how to more effectively operate their businesses. This year, MRERF has generously gifted MRC with three tuitions to its Certified Professional Manufacturers Representatives (CPMR) program. MRC announced the winners at its MRC Rep Conference and awards ceremony on Sunday, October 31, 2010, prior to the SEMA Show. Congratulations go to the 2010 MRERF award recipients: Cody LaDuke of Evan Mecham & Associates, Mike Hansen of SS Sales & Marketing and Mark Petro of R&R Marketing.

 

MRC Chairman Wade Cobb (left) and Chair-Elect Chris Fairless (right) congratulate Cody LaDuke

MRC Chairman Wade Cobb (left) and Chair-Elect Chris Fairless (right) congratulate Cody LaDuke of Evan Mecham & Associates on being awarded one of three tuitions to the Manufacturers Representatives Education Research Foundation’s Certified Professional Manufacturers Representatives program. The other two awards went to Mike Hansen of SS Sales & Marketing and Mark Petro of R&R Marketing.

     

Your Trade Association Needs You!

It is election time for the MRC Select Committee, and the MRC needs your support. The election will be processed electronically this year, so there should be no excuse for not voting! The ballots will be e-mailed to MRC members, so all you need to do is click and send. We’ll need the ballot responses returned by June 7, 2011, and the new members will officially join the committee on July 1, 2011.

The MRC Select Committee continues to work on ways to offer more service and value to our members. We need input from you and your staff. Every agency should empower at least one associate to get involved in the MRC. When we work together, we accomplish more for our rep members and for the industry.

TORA New Products Showcase a Big Hit
Mon, 03/28/2011 - 09:58

SEMA Member News—March/April 2011



The TORA New Products tent featured 35 TORA-member products. The tent was strategically located at the entrance to the manufacturers’ midway and was flanked by fullsize trucks from A.R.E. and Undercover.

The inaugural Truck and Off-Road Alliance (TORA) New Products Showcase event, held at the All Truck Nationals in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, on August 6–8, 2010, proved to be a hit with both the TORA participants and event attendees.
This brand-new TORA member benefit gave participating companies the opportunity to display products in front of one of the largest gatherings of truck enthusiasts in the country. Each product was placed for display, and an information sign was prepared for each one, providing enthusiasts with a product description, suggested retail price, company contact information and All Truck Nationals booth number (if the company was displaying at the event). Carlisle Events located the TORA New Products Showcase tent strategically at the entrance to the manufacturer’s midway, ensuring that virtually every midway visitor would pass through the area. Thirty-five products from 15 TORA-member companies were on display inside the tent, and A.R.E. and Undercover each provided a fullsize truck to display their products on. The trucks made perfect bookends on either side of the tent.

TORA had each product professionally photographed in order to provide additional exposure. The photos were then used in a looping video shown in the TORA booth and at the TORA Fall Nationals Awards Reception held at the 2010 SEMA Show. Finally, the same photos are now housed on the TORA webpages.

The program will be repeated at this year’s Carlisle event. There is no fee for having a product in the TORA New Products Showcase. Everything except shipping costs is included in the annual TORA membership dues. If a member company is exhibiting at the All Truck Nationals, company staff may hand-deliver their product(s) to the Showcase tent. Non-exhibitors need only pay for shipping to be included in the Showcase. SEMA and Carlisle Events staff take care of receiving, unpacking, placing, photographing, repacking and reshipping of all products.

On p. 8 is a list of all the companies and products that were on display in the 2010 TORA New Products Showcase. Be sure to visit the TORA website to see photographs and complete descriptions of the products. And look for further details in the coming months as TORA prepares for the second New Products Showcase, again hosted by the Carlisle All Truck Nationals on August 5–7, 2011. For more information about the event, visit www.carlisleevents.com.

TORA New Products Showcase Manufacturers

Airaid Filter Co.
Carbureted Air Filter Assembly
and MPX Series Cold-Air Intake

A.R.E.
Truck Vault and Z-Series Fiberglass Truck Cap

Bedrug
Bedrug Full Bed Liner and Bedtred Full Bed Liner

Big Country
Widesider Dual Bar/Step Pad

Cal Trend
Custom-Tailored Seat Covers

Extang
Revolution Roll-Up Tonneau Cover, Solid Fold
Tonneau Cover and Trifecta Tonneau Cover

Go Rhino!
Dominator III Bar/Step Pad and “Step N Tow” Hitch and Step

Hella Inc.
500 Black Magic Driving Lamps

Hellwig Products
Hellwig Air Suspension

Husky Liners
Huskyliner Floor Liners

Rolling Big Power
RBP Diesel Fuel Additive and RBP Exhaust Tip

Superchips
Racing Diesel Tuner

TruXedo
Edge Soft Roll-Up Tonneau Cover,
Lo Pro QT Roll-Up Tonneau Cover and Truxport Tonneau Cover

Undercover Inc.
Classic Tonneau Cover, SE Tonneau Cover and “Swingcase”
Lockable Bed Storage

Weathertech
Floor Liners, All-Weather Floor Mats, Cargo/Truck Liners,
Exterior Side-Window Deflectors, License Plate Frames and Mud Flaps

Select Committee Nominations

TORA is currently accepting nominations for its Select Committee. While service does require volunteer time, there is no better way to get involved with SEMA or to “give back” to the industry. Visit here for more information if you think you might be interested.