By Ashley Reyes

SEMA is accepting nominations for its prestigious Industry Awards that will be presented at the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7 in Las Vegas. Industry members who would like to recognize an outstanding business or individual who has made exceptional contributions to the automotive aftermarket industry during SEMA's fiscal year of July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025, can submit their nominations by Friday, August 15, at sema.org/awards.  

Nominations are open in the following categories:  

• Channel Partner of the Year: Honors a sales channel partner for its outstanding service to the sales, distribution, retail and/or eCommerce channel(s) of the industry. This includes maintaining proper inventories to service its respective channel and exceeding standards in providing suppliers with input and regular communication to help their products and programs succeed. 
• Content Creator of the Year: Honors a content creator for their outstanding contributions to the automotive culture and for creating a positive impact with automotive enthusiasts. 
• Gen-III Innovator of the Year: Honors a young, entrepreneurial individual, 40 years old or younger, who is creating innovative breakthroughs within the area(s) of industry opportunities, advancement, best business practices, technology and/or trends. 
• Manufacturer of the Year: Honors a manufacturing company for its outstanding industry contributions and innovations. 
• Person of the Year: Honors an individual for their outstanding contributions to SEMA and the broader automotive specialty-equipment market. 
• Visionary 8: Honors eight emerging leaders on track to drive innovation and positive change in the automotive aftermarket industry. This award showcases up-and-coming talent, honors their accomplishments and introduces them to their community. 

The 2025 SEMA Show is where automotive icons and next-gen disruptors converge to celebrate the past, present and future of the aftermarket industry. The festivities shift into gear on Tuesday, November 4, with the Kickoff Breakfast, where 15 cutting-edge New Product Awards will be unveiled alongside top honors for Channel Partner of the Year and Manufacturer of the Year. 

On Thursday, November 6, the highly anticipated Visionary 8 and SEMA's Best Engineered Vehicle of the Year winner will be announced live at SEMA Central. The momentum will continue the same day at the newly reimagined industry homecoming--SEMA Industry Honors--now staged at the iconic Fontainebleau. This red-carpet-style gathering brings together the industry's biggest names to spotlight standout achievements, including Content Creator of the Year, Gen-III Innovator of the Year and the coveted Person of the Year. 

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

This story originally appeared on August 12, 2025.

By SEMA News Editors 

Attendees of the 2025 SEMA Show--November 4-7, Las Vegas--have a powerful new tool to enhance and streamline their experience: the SEMA Show Registration Resource Center.  

The new online dashboard available here is now available exclusively for registered attendees to manage their Show week, providing yet another benefit to registering for the SEMA Show early, in addition to the significant savings. This one-stop-shop location gives Showgoers options to update your registration record, access services like housing to book your hotels, and even add education and special events (like SEMA Fest!) to your itinerary.  

Just log in using your Badge ID (shown in your SEMA Show attendee confirmation email) and the email address you used to register, and you’ll have immediate access to: 

• Update your contact information.  
• Print a receipt of your registration purchase.  
• Add a registration for your spouse.  
• Book a hotel at the guaranteed lowest rates.  
• Add education sessions to your registration record.  
• Add events, like the SEMA Show Kickoff Breakfast, SEMA Industry Awards Honors and SEMA Fest tickets to your record. 
• Print a custom SEMA Show itinerary. 

Don’t miss any opportunities the SEMA Show has to offer--use the Registration Resource Center here today!  

For questions and SEMA Show registration assistance, call 508-743-8571, Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. ET, or email AAPEXSEMA@maritz.com. 

By SEMA News Editors

In collaboration with General Motors (GM), the SEMA Garage is hosting a next-level measuring session like never before, featuring EIGHT brand-new '25 GM vehicles all in one place!

✔ 3D Scan and Measure
✔ Develop Products
✔ Test-Fit Prototypes
✔ Exclusive Close-Up Experience

SEMA members will gain unprecedented access to 3D scan, test-fit, measure and interact with these cutting-edge vehicles up close. This is a rare chance to explore GM's future-forward lineup, all under one roof. Click here or the button below to RSVP.

SEMA Garage/GM Measuring Session
August 20-21, 2025
SEMA Garage Detroit
14655 Jib St, Plymouth, MI 48170
View on Google Maps.

By SEMA News Editors

The 2025 SEMA Fest lineup was announced, and tickets are selling fast. Don't miss your chance to see rock icons Queens of the Stone Age, legendary hitmakers The Black Crowes and alt-pop favorites Neon Trees at this year's high-octane festival of music, motorsports and car culture.

It all comes to life Friday, November 7, at the SEMA Show's Bronze Lot, immediately following the close of the 2025 SEMA Show. Ticket sales are officially open at semafest.com and currently available at the lowest possible price. Don't wait to snag your tickets--prices will go up!

SEMA Fest organizers have compiled a list of frequently asked questions to make your experience the best one possible. See some of those below and find more FAQs on the SEMA Fest website here.

Is SEMA Fest Open to the General Public?

SEMA Fest concert on Friday, November 7 is open to everyone. To access the SEMA Show with the SEMA Show Friday - Open to the Public ticket you MUST be at least 16 years of age. To access the SEMA Show on Friday, November 7 with the purchase the SEMA Show Friday - Open to the Public ticket.

Will my SEMA Show Badge Give Me Access to Fest?

No, your SEMA Show badge grants you access to the halls of the Las Vegas Convention Center to enjoy the SEMA Show, but badges will not grant you access to the SEMA Fest concert.

Is there a ticket that allows me to go to the SEMA Show?

The "SEMA Show Friday - Open to the Public" (Must be 16-plus) allows you to go to the SEMA Show. This ticket provides FRIDAY ONLY access to the SEMA Show floor between 9:00 am-4:00 pm PST and entry to SEMA Fest concert general admission viewing. Upgrades are available.

Click here to learn more. 

Can I Upgrade My Ticket?

Yes, you can easily upgrade through your Tixr account!

Are there recommended hotels?

Yes, SEMA Fest has secured the best possible rate for those attending SEMA Fest.  To reserve your hotel room please CLICK HERE!

Getting to SEMA Fest

Show Management recommends the use of public transportation or ride share services to get to SEMA Fest.

Las Vegas Monorail

Let the Las Vegas Monorail be your ultimate transportation solution! The Monorail offers a fast, reliable, and eco-friendly way to travel along the Las Vegas Strip, directly connecting several resort hotels and the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Why Choose the Monorail?

• Convenience: Seven stations, including MGM Grand, Paris Las Vegas, Caesars Palace, Harrah’s/The LINQ, the Convention Center, Westgate, and SAHARA.
• Speed: Skip the traffic and arrive in minutes with trains arriving every few minutes.
• Ease: Paperless tickets let you scan your phone at the gate.

Exclusive Show Discounts:

SEMA 2025 attendees enjoy exclusive Monorail fare discounts. Purchase your tickets at [https://tix.lvmonorail.com/SEMA25] for the best rates available! Paper tickets are also available (at full price) from ticket vending machines and customer service desks.

Bonus Perks:

Monorail riders enjoy fantastic discounts across Las Vegas. Learn more HERE:

Hours of Operation:

• Monday: 7 a.m. – Midnight
• Tuesday–Thursday: 7 a.m. – 2 a.m.
• Friday–Sunday: 7 a.m. – 3 a.m.

Vegas Loop at Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC)

The Vegas Loop at LVCC offers a unique experience using Tesla vehicles in underground tunnels for fast and free on-campus transportation.

The Vegas Loop at the Las Vegas Convention Center includes five convenient passenger stations:

• South Station
• Central Underground Station
• Central Plaza Station (connects to Encore Las Vegas)
• West Station
• Riviera Station

These are part of the growing Vegas Loop system, which is planned to expand to over 100 stations and 68+ miles of tunnel across Las Vegas.

Current Public Vegas Loop Stations:

• Encore Las Vegas
• Resorts World Las Vegas
• Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino

Key Information:

• Free On-Campus Rides:

Travel between all LVCC stations is quick, convenient—and completely free.

• Ticketed Rides to Encore, Resorts World & Westgate:
  • A valid ticket is required for travel to/from public stations.
  • View ticket pricing and purchase online at: https://lvloop.com/tickets
  • Please note: The Boring Company operates the public stations and sets all pricing. The LVCVA does not control ticketing outside the LVCC campus.

For group or bulk ticket inquiries, contact: Ticket-support@lvloop.com.

Have more questions? Click here to learn more about attending SEMA Fest.

🎟️ General Admission and VIP tickets are available for SEMA Fest, which is fully open to the public--no industry credentials required! SEMA and SEMA Fest are also offering package options for the "SEMA Show Friday - Open to the Public" pass for your friends who aren't industry professionals who also want to attend the aftermarket's premier industry event.

So, whether you're here for the riffs, the rides—or both—get ready as tickets might sell out.

This is your chance to lock in your spot at one of the most unforgettable nights of the year. From full-throttle drifting demos and fan-favorite activations to a powerhouse concert lineup, SEMA Fest 2025 is the soundtrack to your adrenaline addiction.

2025 SEMA Fest tickets start at $70 (including taxes and fees). SEMA Fest ticket provider Tixr offers payment plans, where guests will pay the full ticket price in recurring payments until a final date, which is determined when purchasing the tickets. Tickets must be paid by the final payment date set for them to be valid at the event. Complete payment plan details and an agreement are available on semafest.com when purchasing tickets.

🔗 Visit semafest.com for tickets, updates and full event details.
📩 Have questions? Email info@semafest.com
🤝 For sponsorship or partnership inquiries, contact partnership@semafest.com.

This story was originally published on Thursday, August 7.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Wheel, Tire, Suspension, and Brake Council (WTSBC) will host its next Coffee and Conversation on September 4 at 9:00 a.m. PDT/12:00 p.m. EDT. The focus of the session will be on common myths and misconceptions in the wheel, tire, suspension and brake aftermarket.  

WTSBC Coffee and Conversations are monthly virtual networking events that unite SEMA members to openly discuss pressing issues, common challenges and business opportunities in the automotive aftermarket. During this session, industry experts will share the facts about misleading industry advice and outdated beliefs, providing attendees with the knowledge they need to make smarter decisions for their vehicle.  

Featured experts for the September 4 session include:  

• Mike Mesina, General Manager – Racing Division, Brembo North America 
• Gary Ruede, Senior Product & Quality Manager, Discount Tire 
• Todd Steen, Executive Director, Business Development, Jackson 
• Jason Weidmann, Brand Manager – Wheels, The Wheel Group 

Tailored to everyone from DIY enthusiasts to industry professionals, this conversation will help clear up confusion and keep members informed.   

Register here or click below.

By SEMA News Editors

The best builds. The boldest customizations. Do you have what it takes to be the next Battle of the Builders champion? There's only one way to find out!

Every year, the best builds and the boldest customizations face off in the industry's leading vehicle competition to see who will be crowned the next Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers champion. 

Applications are open for the 2025 SEMA Battle of the Builders Presented by Mothers at semabotb.com. All builders with a vehicle displayed at the 2025 SEMA Show may enter the competition at semabotb.com before the deadline on October 17, 2025.

The 2025 SEMA Battle of the Builders (BOTB) will recognize class champions as the best in four categories:

• Hot Rod & Hot Rod Truck
• 4 Wheel Drive & Off-Road
• Sport Compact, Import Performance, Luxury & Exotic
• Young Guns

Only one of the class champions will be crowned the overall BOTB champion during this year's SEMA Show, November 4-7, Las Vegas.

Battle of the Builders Young Guns Category

Supporting and inspiring young builders is crucial to the future of the automotive specialty-equipment market. The BOTB Young Guns category is designed to encourage young builders to pursue their passions and shine a light on the up-and-coming builders.

"Young Guns" is a designation within the overall BOTB competition to recognize builders who are under the age of 29 (as of November 7, 2025). Those who meet the criteria and have selected the Young Guns category on the online application are eligible to participate. In addition, all eligible Young Guns applicants who have submitted their online application before August 15, 2025, may be selected to compete in one or more virtual regional Golden Ticket competitions for the chance to win a Golden Ticket SEMA Show prize package. The eligible Young Guns applicants who have been selected for this will be contacted separately by the BOTB operations team via email or phone.

For more information and to apply, visit semabotb.com. For the complete BOTB Terms and Conditions, visit here.

2025 Battle of the Builders Preview

What follows is a sneak peek at four of the builds competing in this year's competition.

RON JONES 
'73 VOLKSWAGEN THING 
Category: 4 WHEEL DRIVE & OFF-ROAD 

This '73 Volkswagen Thing was coachbuilt entirely from the ground up by the Ron Jones Garage with enough modifications to make it unrecognizable from its stock format. Fox long-travel coilovers attach to the one-off chromoly long-travel chassis. Apart from the windshield frame, every body panel on the Thing was handbuilt and boasts more than 350 machined parts. Staying true to its German heritage, a fuel-injected Porsche Type 930/50 engine stroked to a 3.2L with a MoTeC standalone ECU powers the build and pairs to a gearbox pulled from a 996. Also harvested from a Porsche 997 is the torque tube and front differential. The custom interior was designed and installed by PJ's Upholstery in Commerce City, Colorado. 
 

TROY TREPANIER 
'36 FORD ROADSTER 
Category: HOT ROD & HOT ROD TRUCK

Winner of the America's Most Beautiful Roadster (AMBR) award at the Grand National Roadster Show in January, this art piece was built from the ground up by Troy Trepanier and his team at Rad Rides. Designed to resemble a '36 roadster, the build required reworking the proportions to suit an open-wheel configuration—meaning every component, from the body and chassis to the suspension and machined parts, was designed and fabricated in-house. Furthermore, all paint and interior work was done in-house as well. A supercharged Ford 312ci Y-block engine paired with a quick-change rear axle powers the custom hot rod, which features a torsion-bar suspension. The roadster may be an AMBR winner, but how will it fare against other builds yet to be revealed? 

CHANCE DIXON 
'46 CHEVROLET 3100 
Category: HOT ROD & HOT ROD TRUCK 

What do you get out of Chance Dixon's Grim Reaper Speed Shop? A Mad Max-style hot-rod truck ready to cause some havoc in the wastelands. The heavily patinaed body is joined to a custom-built chassis fabricated by Dixon, utilizing Village Customs' front cantilever air ride and a triangle four-link rear setup. The exposed twin-turbo third-gen LS features Texas Speed internals and ICT Billet parts. Its most unique feature is the intriguing intake that comes up into the cab, allowing for a 180-degree turn back out. "It leaves many people scratching their heads wondering how it works," says Dixon. At car meets, he allows youngsters to play with the air ride, spreading interest and curiosity for the next generation of enthusiasts.

CODY DABNEY 
'69 CHEVROLET CHEVELLE 
Category: SPORT COMPACT, IMPORT PERFORMANCE, LUXURY & EXOTIC 

Concept art for Cody Dabney's Chevelle project offers a competitive look into what's in store for this year's BOTB. Three-stage aurelium bronze pearl paint highlights the sharp body lines. The rear features a custom rear diffuser with integrated dual-exhaust outlets, and Greening wheels with mini tubs and flush-mounted glass complete the exterior. The cockpit is entirely bespoke, featuring a Velocity hand-built leather interior, leather-wrapped six-point roll cage, custom Velocity billet components and boasts Holley EFI digital gauges. A Roadster Shop Fast Track chassis serves as the foundation for the Chevy, bearing a Nelson twin-turbo LS 427 V8 bolted to a Tremec T-56 manual transmission. 

Attendee registration for the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7 in Las Vegas, is now available online here. Online registration for qualified professional attendees is $75 per person through Friday, September 26. Starting September 27, the rate increases to $100 for both online and onsite registration. A SEMA Show badge includes access to both the SEMA Show and AAPEX.

For updates on SEMA Fest, the one-day musical and motorsports festival on Friday, November 7, or to purchase "SEMA Show Friday – Open to the Public" tickets, visit semafest.com.

By Ashley Reyes

Knowing how to position yourself for success is essential for career advancement and professional growth. Regardless of your career stage, building a strong personal brand can help you stand out, demonstrate your value, and secure advancement opportunities. 

During the SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) webinar on Tuesday, August 12 at 12:00 p.m. PDT, a panel of automotive aftermarket industry leaders will break down key elements that will allow you to strategically position yourself in a competitive job market, build meaningful relationships and create a path for long-term career success. 

You’ll learn: 

• How to communicate your skills, experiences and achievements clearly and confidently through a standout resume, impactful cover letter and preparing for interviews.  
• Why networking is essential for expanding your reach in the industry and opening doors to new opportunities.  
• Tips for using body language to project confidence and professionalism in interviews, meetings and beyond. 

Panelists include Jacki Lutz, content director at Auto Care Association; Jerid Suchy, director of sales and marketing at BuiltRight Industries; and Kathryn Reinhardt, senior vice president of marketing and events at Hemmings. Moderating the discussion will be Maru Trevino, human resources director at Sumitomo Rubber North America. 

Ready to take charge of your professional journey? Register for the webinar here. 

By Ashley Reyes

Each year, SEMA Council and Network Awards honor the businesses, leaders and changemakers who have made outstanding contributions to their niche industry segments. Presented at the SEMA Show, the awards don't just provide recognition but also celebrate the passion, innovation and leadership that drive the automotive aftermarket forward in extraordinary ways.  

"Council and Network awards bring well-deserved attention to the individuals and companies that support, grow and enhance SEMA's nine industry communities and the market segments that they represent," said Marcy Yanus, SEMA senior director of member engagement. "Whether they're launching new products, mentoring the next generation or leading their businesses with integrity, these awards give them the opportunity to be celebrated." 

If you know a council or network member who goes above and beyond, now is the time to recognize their impact. Nominations are open in the following categories: 

• Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO): Business of the Year, Person of the Year.  
• Emerging Trends & Technology Network (ETTN): Engineer of the Year.  
• Future Leaders Network (FLN): Professional of the Year Award, Vanguard Award.  
• Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA): Business of the Year, Hall of Fame, Industry Recognition Award. (Entries for HRIA's Design and Engineering Award and Evolution of Hot Rodding Award will open closer to the SEMA Show).  
• Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council: Hall of Fame 
• Professional Restylers Organization (PRO): Jim Borré Lifetime Achievement Award, Manufacturer of the Year, Nat Danas Person of the Year, Restyler of the Year.  
• SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN): Member Impact Award, #SheIsSEMA Woman of the Year Award.  
• Truck & Off-Road Industry Alliance (TORA): Hall of Fame, Jessi Combs Ambassador Award, Retailer of the Year. 
• Wheel, Tire, Suspension & Brake Council (WTSBC): Business of the Year, Hall of Fame, Person of the Year. 

The deadline for submitting nominations is Monday, September 1, and nominees must be current members of the council or network in which they are being nominated to qualify. Learn more at sema.org/cn-awards. 

By SEMA News Editors

The 2025 SEMA Show is less than 90 days away and the team behind the premier automotive specialty-equipment industry has been busy compiling resources to help Showgoers make the most of the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7, Las Vegas.

From cutting-edge vehicle builds to the latest innovations in the automotive aftermarket, the SEMA Show in Las Vegas is where the world gathers every year to experience the energy, passion and innovations that define the specialty-equipment aftermarket.

To maximize your SEMA Show experience and improve your ROI, organizers recommend taking advantage of the numerous resources available to attendees. Start down your road to a successful 2025 SEMA Show with these resources:

• Registration: Secure your badge to see thousands of the newest automotive performance products from new and iconic exhibitors, discover the latest product and vehicle trends and develop essential skills with education sessions. Register today at semashow.com/register.
• Booking Your Hotel: Hotel reservations are open online here. SEMA Show and partner onPeak offer Showgoers the best rates at an extensive list of the best hotels in Las Vegas.
• Securing Discounted Airline Tickets: Show organizers have secured special airline fares and discounts for trips with Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines. More details here.
• Get Familiar With the SEMA Show Floorplan: Maximize your experience by utilizing the interactive map and exhibitor list at SEMAShow.com/floorplan to devise a game plan for your time on the Show floor. 
• Planning Your SEMA Show: Visit the SEMA Show attendee website at semashow.com/attendee to begin your SEMA Show plan with key details on Show features, like the New Products Showcase, the SEMA Battle of the Builders, SEMA Fest and much more.
• SEMA Show Registration Resource Center: Once you're registered, this central dashboard is a powerful new tool to enhance and streamline the SEMA Showgoer experience. Access services like housing to secure the lowest hotel rates, add education sessions to your itinerary, purchase tickets to special events (like the Kickoff Breakfast and SEMA Fest!), update your registration records, print a custom itinerary, and much more. Already registered? Click here to visit the SEMA Show Registration Resource Center. 

Online registration for qualified professional attendees is $75 per person through Friday, September 26. On September 27, registration online or on-site will increase to $100 per badge. A SEMA Show badge includes access to both the SEMA Show and AAPEX. Deadlines and fees for other registration categories can be found at semashow.com/register. Hotel reservations, including for several new properties in Las Vegas, are available at the guaranteed lowest rates exclusively for Show attendees through SEMA's official hotel provider, onPeak.

Keep an eye on SEMA News and semashow.com for the latest deadlines, updates and opportunities for the 2025 SEMA Show.  For questions and SEMA Show registration assistance, call 508-743-8571, Monday – Friday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. ET, or email AAPEXSEMA@maritz.com.

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN) has named Jennfier Bastiaan, associate professor of mechanical engineering at Kettering University, as the network's newest #SheIsSEMA spotlight member. 

Get to know Bastiaan 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? 

Jennifer Bastiaan: I have been at Kettering University for 10 years as a professor in the mechanical engineering department. The best part of my job is interacting with the students, especially as a faculty advisor to our student motorsports teams. Before that I worked at Roush Industries for two decades, starting as a co-op student and working in several engineering roles. I was involved in many ground vehicle programs, including the design of military vehicles and iconic American sports cars. 

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

JB: The most challenging part of my current job in education is to continually adjust to the pressures of student enrollment and the demands for change to the traditional educational model. 

SEMA: How many years have you been in the industry and what was your first industry job? 

JB: I have worked in the automotive industry for more than 30 years. My first industry job was as a co-op student at Roush Industries, where I worked for around 20 years. I have now been working at Kettering University for 10 years. Kettering University, which used to be called the General Motors Institute (GMI), is an educational institution primarily focused on preparing students to work in the automotive industry. 

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

JB: Preparedness, willingness and persistence. Preparedness, because I am continually studying and always learning in preparation for the next project. Willingness, because of never being afraid to take on a task that I have not done before. Persistence, because of refusing to fail or give up on my goals. 

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

JB: In the last 30 years, the representation of women in the automotive industry has changed dramatically. At the start of my career, a woman engineer in the cubical farm was a rare sight. Nowadays it is hardly noteworthy. In the beginning of my career, I had few or no female colleagues. I had no support network. It takes someone with a little extra independence and strength to survive and thrive in that environment. By the time I exited my industry career and started in academia, there were many more female coworkers whom I had formed professional and personal relationships with. 

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

JB: In my early career days, I did not have a role model or mentor inside the industry. There were no female mentors or role models. But there were many good people I worked with that I could count on for support or guidance as needed. 

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

JB: The best career advice I ever received was from Dr. Ed Green, a coworker and ally who worked with me for years at Roush Industries: "Never leave a field in a form blank." Which is useful advice taken both literally and figuratively. Taken literally, it means that every part of a form must be completed before submitting it. Instead of leaving a field blank, you should make your best guess at the information that is being requested and provide it. This advice has served me well, both in filling actual forms and more broadly in my career. Every engineering project has "blank fields," for which we need to use our judgement and make good assumptions. 

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

JB: Yes, I have always wanted to work in the automotive industry. I can never remember a time when I was not obsessed with cars. When I was a child, I used to read all the enthusiast car magazines. One day I read an article that said: "The General Motors Institute is the superhighway to a career in the car business." When I read that, I knew I had to enroll in GMI. Automotive is still my passion, even many years later, so I remain connected to the industry. 

SEMA: Who was the most influential person on your career/goals? 

JB: The early advice that I received from many was that I should not be interested in cars and the automotive industry because I was a girl. Therefore, the most influential people were negative, saying that I should not, or could not, pursue the career path that interested me. I remember once being told that there was something wrong with my brain chemistry since I was interested in cars. Ironically, those experiences galvanized my desire and passion to work in the automotive industry. 

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.