The following is a message to SEMA Members from SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola about the 2026 Board of Directors nominations, which are now open to SEMA members online here:

Dear SEMA Member:

A strong SEMA Board means wise leadership and an association that serves its members well. As a member of the Association, we are currently seeking your recommendation of industry leaders to serve on the SEMA Board of Directors.

Previously, the board was comprised of representatives from four distinct sectors of the industry: manufacturing, distributor/retailer, manufacturer's representative, organizations and services. Under the newly amended bylaws, board members will be selected based on their relevant industry and association knowledge and leadership experience, without the limitation of the specific sector affiliation. This change is designed to enhance the board's overall strength and flexibility by widening the pool of potential candidates and allowing the nominating committee to focus on identifying the most capable and qualified individuals.

"This evolution in our governance structure is a reflection of the dynamic nature of our industry," said SEMA Board of Directors Chair Melanie White. "By focusing on expertise and leadership rather than sector representation, we're positioning the association to better serve our members and adapt to future challenges."

This evolution also expands opportunities for all SEMA members to participate in board service, removing previous structural limitations and enabling broader engagement across the membership. The nominating committee will continue to play a key role by offering guidance on board composition, including member categories and industry areas that may benefit from representation.

"This change empowers us to build a Board that truly reflects the diversity and depth of our industry," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "It's a forward-thinking move that will help us remain relevant, responsive, and resilient while opening the door for more members to contribute their expertise at the highest level."

Nominations for the SEMA Board of Directors, which are now open here and at the link below, are due on Monday, January 5, 2026. 

We urge you to take part in the nominations process--our industry has many individuals who would be an asset to the Board, but we need you to help bring them to the attention of the Nominating Committee. Thank you for your attention to this important request.

Sincerely,

Mike Spagnola

SEMA President and CEO

This article was originally published on Tuesday, November 18, 2025.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C., office

With President Trump and Sen. Warren both voicing support, the military right-to-repair issue gains rare cross-aisle momentum, and SEMA's advocacy is shaping the national conversation.
 

U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., is tapping into SEMA's position as a leader on the military right-to-repair issue, sharing the aftermarket's perspective as she amplifies the fight nationally. SEMA is prominently featured in Sen. Warren's recent press release on the issue, including a quote from the organization and a citation of our letter, signed by more than 300 small businesses seeking to supply the military with vehicle parts to support readiness. 

• The bipartisan effort, which has won over President Trump, would insert right-to-repair reforms into the FY 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), opening a potential new pathway for aftermarket industry businesses to engage in government contracting to sell their parts to the military. 

Sen. Warren's engagement with SEMA further elevates the role our industry plays in Washington, D.C., as a solution-oriented industry seeking common-sense solutions that empower American small businesses and enable the aftermarket to innovate and thrive. In fact, in a letter to the National Defense Industrial Association, the trade association for big defense contractors, regarding its opposition to the bipartisan right to repair reform in the FY 2026 NDAA, Warren emphasizes the importance of the specialty automotive aftermarket, which emerged after service members returned home from World War II and put to use skills learned during their service. 

"Before the consolidation of the defense industrial base and after World War II, tens of thousands of service members returned home and created the specialty automotive aftermarket," wrote Warren. "They utilized their engineering expertise to improve the performance of motor vehicles, creating products to increase everything from horsepower to handling to the style of their vehicles. Allowing these same opportunities for service members to develop skills repairing and maintaining complex systems will benefit them--and the entire American economy--in their post-military careers."

Questions? Contact SEMA's Senior Director of Federal Government Affairs, Eric Snyder, at erics@sema.org.

Images courtesy of Shutterstock

By Ashley Reyes

The SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) named Radflo Suspension Technology as the council's newest member spotlight company. Get to know their story in the SEMA News interview with AJ Grasso, Radflo Suspension Technology sales and marketing manager, below. 

SEMA News: Tell us the story of Radflo Shocks. How did the company start and what was your breakthrough moment?   

AG: In the late '80s, on the rugged terrain just outside Johannesburg, South Africa, two brothers--Glenn and Warren Classen--were chasing more than just speed. They were chasing perfection. Becoming a family of racers, weekends meant wrenching on trucks and testing limits in the wild African bush. But as their ambitions grew, they ran into a hard truth: the suspension systems available at the time simply couldn't keep up. 

So, they built their own. 

What began as a garage project--hand-fabricating shock absorbers to survive the punishing terrain of off-road rally raids--quickly turned into something more. Friends noticed. Racers asked for custom builds. Word spread. The brothers didn't just create shocks that performed; they created shocks that lasted. 

By the mid-'90s, their reputation had crossed oceans. Teams competing in Baja, Dakar and King of the Hammers started taking notice. That's when Glenn Classen made the leap. He packed up his tools, his passion, and his relentless pursuit of excellence, and moved operations to Southern California--the beating heart of off-road racing. There, Radflo Suspension Technology was born. 

Today, Radflo builds high-performance shock absorbers and suspension systems for racing, recreational, mining, emergency, and military applications. Whether it's a custom setup for a desert pre-runner, a reliable kit for an overland rig, or precision-tuned coilovers for a rock crawler, every Radflo product is engineered to perform and custom-made to order. 

But no matter how far the company has come, that garage spirit remains. Radflo is still family-owned. Still testing in the real world. Still listening to racers, builders and adventurers. Still obsessed with building the best shock possible. 

SN: What's going on these days? What projects are you most excited about?   

AG: One of our proudest recent innovations is the launch of our UTV-specific internal bypass shocks called the WORKS SERIES with DYNAMIC RIDE TECHNOLOGY, developed from the ground up for today's high-performance side-by-sides. As UTVs get faster, more powerful, and more capable, their suspension demands the same sophistication as full-size off-road race vehicles. That's where Radflo comes in. These shocks aren't just rebranded automotive dampers--they're purpose-built for UTV dynamics, tested in the dunes, dialed in on the rocks, and race-proven in the desert. 

SN: What's the best piece of advice you have for professionals getting started in the aftermarket?   

AG: "Don't chase trends--chase problems and solve them better than anyone else." 

In the aftermarket world, it's easy to get caught up in hype--what's flashy, what's trending, what everyone on social media is building. But real, lasting success comes from listening to the people in the pits, on the trails, and behind the wheel. Focus on solving real problems--whether that's improving ride quality, simplifying installation, or delivering better durability where others fall short. 

That's how Radflo was built: by listening, engineering, testing, and refining--over and over again. If you make products that genuinely perform, your reputation will do more marketing than any ad campaign ever could. 

So be patient, be curious, and stay close to your customers. The aftermarket isn't just about parts--it's about people who rely on those parts when failure isn't an option. 

Fill out a TORA-member spotlight form to highlight how you or your company are contributing to the truck and off-road specialty-equipment industry. Selected candidates are eligible to be featured on TORA's social media, SEMA News and future TORA member updates. 

By SEMA News Editors

Avery Dennison Announces 2026 Training Schedule

Avery Dennison Graphics Solutions has announced its 2026 training and certification exam schedule.

The company's expert-led workshops provide in-depth, hands-on instruction with a wide range of films, including Supreme Wrapping Film/Vehicle Color Change, Commercial Wraps, Wet-Apply and Dry-Apply Paint Protection Film, and Automotive and Architectural Window Film. All skill levels are welcome and no previous experience is required.

New Classes and Learning Opportunities for 2026:

• PrismaPro Dry-Apply Color PPF Training--This workshop will feature the new dry-apply color paint protection film (launching in 2026) and help installers learn best-practice techniques for installing these films.
• Commercial Wrap Training--Updated class instruction to focus on commercial wrapping, with each session now including transit vans.
• Advanced Wrap Training--Now available to all installers who have taken an Avery Dennison wrap training course over the past five years; the course is no longer limited to only certified wrap installers.

Wrap training class size will be reduced by 22% in 2026, the company announced, to allow more personal instruction and more hands-on time for each student. 

"Our expert-led workshops are designed to support all skill levels. Participants gain in-depth knowledge, plus learn tips and tricks that distinguish excellent installers," said Graeme McKnight, marketing program associate at Avery Dennison Graphics Solutions. "After training by an Avery Dennison specialist, attendees will be able to deliver professional results that consistently exceed customer expectations."

Avery Dennison training sessions offer live demonstrations and hands-on practice with trusted, experienced trainers, and 90% of each course focuses on hands-on learning to improve cutting skills, learn material properties and refine installation techniques. 

Available from applicable classes, participants receive a free roll of film, free installation tools and a 33% discount for a one-year membership to The Wrap Institute. 

Wrap training may be combined with the Avery Dennison Certified Wrap Installer (CWI) exam.

For more information about the Avery Dennison 2026 installation training and certification classes, go to graphics.averydennison.com/training. 

Wharton Automotive Group Welcomes Tom Kundrick as Director of Motorsports, Announces McLeod, Competition Clutch Distribution and Product Expansions

Wharton Automotive Group, parent company of McLeod, FTI Performance, Silver Sport Transmissions, Competition Clutch and Independence Driveline, has named Tom Kundrick as its new director of motorsports.

In his new role, Kundrick will lead the group's motorsports initiatives, connecting the racer with the industry's best driveline components and technical support.

Kundrick brings more than a decade of experience in the performance aftermarket, including key roles at Mickey Thompson and Pro Torque. With deep roots in the racing community, he will work directly with teams and drivers to ensure they have the right drivetrain components to reach the winner's circle, the company said.

"My goal is to deliver top-quality driveline products on time," said Kundrick, based in Ohio. "I'm excited to represent the Wharton Automotive Group brands at the track and to help develop products that the racer truly needs."

McLeod Named TREMEC International Elite Distributor

McLeod has been appointed a TREMEC International Elite Distributor, expanding its reach and ability to supply high-performance aftermarket TREMEC transmissions and driveline components to enthusiasts.

TREMEC manufactures aftermarket performance manual transmissions, including the TKX, T-56 Magnum and T-5 series. As an Elite Distributor, McLeod will provide international customers with access to the full lineup of TREMEC performance transmissions and technical support, along with global shipping capabilities.

"Becoming a TREMEC International Elite Distributor reinforces our dedication to performance enthusiasts worldwide," said Bob Scheid, vice president of McLeod. "TREMEC's transmissions are the gold standard for performance builds, and McLeod is proud to make them more accessible to customers everywhere."

Competition Clutch Expands into European Market with New Line of Street and Track Clutches

Competition Clutch, a manufacturer of high-performance clutch systems, is expanding into the European performance market with a complete line of street and track clutches designed for BMW, Volkswagen, Audi and Porsche applications.

The new line will feature multiple performance levels tailored to the needs of European enthusiasts. Initial product releases will begin before the end of 2025, with a wider range launching in early 2026.

"Our mission is to bring Competition Clutch's performance and reliability to a broader audience," said Chris Troxel, brand manager for Competition Clutch, based in Anaheim, California. "European enthusiasts expect precision, durability and drivability--and that's exactly what these new clutches deliver, whether on the street or at the track."

For more information, visit mcleodracing.com or competitionclutch.com.

F1 Arcade Las Vegas to Host Official Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix Events

F1 Arcade Las Vegas, the newly opened entertainment venue, will host a lineup of events in celebration of the upcoming Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix.

F1 Arcade Las Vegas is inviting guests to attend the Official After-Party on Thursday, November 20, the Official Las Vegas Qualifying Watch Party on Friday, November 21, the Official Las Vegas Watch Party on Saturday, November 22, and brunch on Sunday, November 23.

At all watch parties, guests will be able to catch the action live on the venue's TV screens with commentary, along with DJs and hosts, plus quizzes, competitions and chances to win exciting prizes. Unlimited sim racing across the venue's 87 full-motion simulators one hour before each race and throughout the watch parties and after party will also be available.

For more information, visit f1arcade.com.

By Ashley Reyes

The 2025 PRI Show, December 11-13, downtown Indianapolis, provides dozens of conferences, seminars, social gatherings and other events to help the industry share new ideas. Among the activities are networking opportunities and events from PRI Education, SEMA Businesswomen's Network (SBN), Future Leaders Network (FLN), Motorsports Products & Media Council (MPMC) and Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA).  

Mark your calendars for the following events and RSVP to connect with your network. (All times EST).

Student Program Industry Networking Breakfast  

Friday, December 12, at 7:45 a.m., Sagamore Ballroom 7  

As racing college students gear up to participate in the 2025 PRI Show Student Program, PRI is seeking industry professionals and companies to connect with future leaders, and help them discover the diversity of career paths available and skills sets needed to pursue a career in the automotive aftermarket. 

There is no cost or setup associated with this event. Simply reserve a table to enjoy breakfast with amazing students and discuss career opportunities.

RSVP here. 

SBN Gear-Up Girl Lunch  

Friday, December 12, at 11:45 a.m., Room 208 

Reserved only for women, this energetic lunch serves as a networking opportunity to give back and share advice with today's female youth. Attendees will help the next generation discover career pathways, build valuable connections and gain insights that can spark a rewarding future in the motorsports industry.

RSVP here.  

Networking Reception Hosted by the Future Leaders Network (FLN), Motorsports Products & Media Council (MPMC), and Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA)  

Friday, December 12, at 5:00 p.m., Wabash Ballroom 1 

This relaxed, social event will bring together industry leaders and friends to network and celebrate motorsports. Connect with peers, discover resources to support your business and witness the induction of the newest MPMC Hall of Fame member over complimentary hors d'oeuvres and drinks.

RSVP here.  

For more information on the 2025 PRI Show, including how to register, visit performanceracing.com/tradeshow. 

By SEMA News Editors

In partnership with Toyota, the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California, is closing out 2025 with two major back-to-back OEM measuring sessions, giving aftermarket engineers and product developers early access to two of Toyota’s highest-volume, most strategically important platforms: the '25 Toyota Corolla and the all-new '26 Toyota RAV4.

Held December 2–3 at the SEMA Garage in Diamond Bar, California, these exclusive events offer dimensional access, 3D scanning, prototype test-fitting, and hands-on evaluation before these vehicles hit broader circulation.

On Tuesday, December 2, manufacturers can get up close with the '25 Corolla Sedan pictured above--Toyota's all-time best-selling model and one of the largest global opportunities in the aftermarket. With more than 230,000 U.S. sales in 2024 alone, even modest customization penetration represents massive revenue potential. Both gas and hybrid sedan models will be available, along with select parts on display and the ability to test GR Corolla crossover fitment. Reserve your spot for the '25 Corolla SEMA Garage measuring session now here.

Then on Wednesday, December 3, SEMA Garage hosts a first look at the 2026 RAV4 ahead of its public release. The new lineup includes the performance-driven RAV4 GR SPORT--the first GR SPORT trim offered in North America--and the rugged RAV4 Woodland, both featuring Toyota's fifth-generation hybrid powertrains delivering up to 324 hp. Multiple grades and powertrain configurations will be available, including vehicles on lifts in staged disassembly for underbody mapping and component evaluation. Reserve your spot for the '26 Rav4 SEMA Garage measuring session now here.

Both sessions offer aftermarket manufacturers the opportunity to:

✔ 3D scan and measure.
✔ Develop products.
✔ Test-fit prototypes.
✔ Receive an exclusive up-close experience.

Reserve your spot now, as space is limited for both events:

SEMA Garage Diamond Bar, CA
1577 Valley Vista Dr.
Diamond Bar, CA 91765
View on Google Maps

Story and photos by Andreas Conradt, Automedia

Spy photographers have once again caught several upcoming vehicles undergoing testing, giving an early glimpse at what's to come before they officially debut.

Audi Prepares Next-Generation RS6 Sedan

Audi is preparing a new generation of its high-performance RS6 sedan to compete directly with the BMW M5, according to new images captured by SEMA News sources.

Prototypes of the upcoming estate version Audi RS6 Avant have been spotted multiple times in recent months and were recently seen again at the Nürburgring and on surrounding roads, but the sedan hadn't been spotted until now. Photographers in Germany recently spotted a prototype of the RS6 just outside the Ingolstadt Audi development center wrapped in full camouflage. The vehicle appears to be close to production, featuring final-spec lighting units and front and rear bumpers, as well as red brake callipers.

Design changes are expected to be subtle, with the RS6 retaining the aggressive styling typical of Audi Sport models, including the dual oval exhaust outlets. Underneath, the chassis has been upgraded compared with the standard new-generation A6, which recently entered production.

The current RS6 Performance, sold as a '26 model, produces 621 hp and 627 lb.-ft. of torque from a 4.0L twin-turbo V8. The next-generation RS6 Sedan and Avant is expected to adopt a plug-in hybrid V6 powertrain, with combined output projected to exceed 725 hp.

That figure would place it slightly ahead of the new BMW M5 Touring, which develops 717 hp from its PHEV V8 and accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 3.2 seconds, one tenth quicker than the outgoing RS6. The new Audi RS6 is expected to debut as a '27 model.

New Mercedes-Benz GLB Spotted Again in Germany

The next-generation Mercedes-Benz GLB, with its official debut set for '26, has been spotted again in Germany after a massive drop of camouflage compared to earlier pictures.

While the new model retains some of the boxy charm that made its predecessor stand out, it adds more rounded corners to the mix. It will also adopt Mercedes-Benz's new Mercedes Modular Architecture (MMA) platform, offering a wider range of mild-hybrid and fully electric powertrains.

The recently spotted prototype is only covered in thin camouflage and the proportions strongly suggest we're looking at the successor of the three-row GLB rather than the hatchback-style GLA. The SUV appears to have a sleeker design compared to its predecessor, incorporating Mercedes-Benz's new styling language.

The front end features slimmer LEDs flanking a large grille that appears to be mounted lower on the front bumper. The greenhouse has been slightly tweaked, as with the upright tail. The latter has been disguised to irritate onlookers about the real shape of the taillights. The Mercedes-Benz GLB might have a similar shape and size with the Smart No. 5, but the two SUVs are unrelated, as the Smart rides on a Geely-sourced architecture.

Mercedes-Benz's entire future compact lineup will ride on the new MMA platform, which is compatible with internal-combustion and electric powertrains. We already know most of the options for the upcoming CLA, which will likely find their way under the hood of the GLB.

The fully electric models that will eventually replace the EQB could offer the option between a rear-mounted electric motor with 268 hp, or a dual-motor setup with 375 hp. The EV will likely be available with 58-kWh and 85-kWh battery packs, although its driving range will be shorter than the 460-plus miles expected from the more aerodynamic CLA.

The ICE-powered lineup will include a mild-hybrid 1.5L four-cylinder gas engine and a small electric motor inside the eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The combustion engine is expected to be offered with different outputs, rated at 134 hp, 161 hp and 188 hp, with an additional 27 hp from the electric motor.

Like the current GLB, the new model will offer both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations. And, of course, an AMG performance version is on the horizon, likely with some form of hybrid assistance for extra power and efficiency.

By SEMA News Editors

Content Creator Spotlight: Alex Karpowicz

Instagram: alexkarpowicz72

Facebook: Alex Karpowicz Racing

LinkedIn: Alex Karpowicz

Follower counts: 9.25k on Instagram; 13.8k on Facebook

Focus: Dirt sprint cars and other open-wheel dirt cars

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

Alex Karpowicz: I grew up spending nearly every weekend at dirt tracks across the country watching my dad race. From an early age, the sights, sounds and smell of race fuel became part of who I was and I knew I wanted to be the one behind the wheel. Racing wasn't just a hobby in our family--it was a way of life that taught me the value of hard work, competition and commitment.

I started my career on asphalt ovals, learning the fundamentals of car control and racecraft. When my local track shut down, I transitioned to dirt racing, and that's when everything truly clicked. Starting out in dirt micro sprints, I not only grew as a driver but also became deeply involved in the mechanical side of the sport. I maintained my own cars, made setup changes and learned how much effort goes into every detail both in the shop and on track. It gave me a new perspective and taught me to drive with respect knowing that if something got torn up, I was the one fixing it.

Now racing dirt midgets, I continue to learn and grow with each event. Every race is a new challenge and a chance to improve and my goal is to keep moving forward--ultimately into dirt sprint cars--while chasing the same passion that started years ago watching my dad race.

SN: What's been your biggest motivator?

AK: My biggest motivator has always been the drive to keep improving and prove to myself that I belong at the highest levels of this sport. Racing is full of ups and downs and what keeps me pushing is knowing how far I've come--from running in the back at local shows to now competing and being competitive on national stages. I'm motivated by the challenge of becoming better every time I strap in, by the people who support me and by the chance to inspire others chasing their own dreams. I also take pride in representing myself well both on and off the track--through social media, interviews and fan interactions--because you never know who you're talking to or who is watching you and how that moment might shape your future.

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

AK: My favorite part of being part of the automotive and racing community is the people. There's a sense of family and passion that's hard to find anywhere else. Everyone--from the fans in the stands to the teams in the pits--shares the same love for the sport and that creates a bond that goes far beyond competition. I've built friendships all across the country through racing and the support within the community is something truly special. Whether it's helping another team get back on track or talking with fans after a race, those moments remind me why I fell in love with this sport in the first place.

SN: As a content creator in the industry, how do you hope to make an impact on your audience?

AK: As both a driver and content creator, my goal is to give people an inside look at what life in racing is really like; the highs, the lows and everything in between. I like showing what most people do not see on TV. I also want to inspire others to chase their goals while showing the amount of work and dedication it takes to make it happen. Whether someone's a lifelong racing fan or just discovering dirt track racing for the first time, I want my content to help them feel connected to it. I also try to highlight the sponsors, teams and people who make it possible because this sport runs on partnerships and community.

SN: Why is advocacy important to you?

AK: Advocacy matters to me because racing has given me so much--and I feel a responsibility to help protect and grow the sport for the next generation. Grassroots racing, especially at the local level, depends on passionate people stepping up to make sure tracks stay open, events get support and young drivers get opportunities.

I also feel that many people outside of motorsports have a negative outlook on the sport, often because they only see the surface--the noise, the speed or misconceptions like "all you do is turn left." Motorsports is often criticized as being too loud or bad for the environment. I believe a lot of that negativity comes simply from a lack of knowledge about what actually goes on and how much work, skill and passion are involved. That's why I try to share the behind-the-scenes side of racing--the preparation, the craftsmanship and the dedication it takes to compete. If more people could see that side, I think they'd understand why this sport means so much to those of us who live it every day.

SN: What's been the biggest moment of your career thus far?

AK: One of the biggest moments of my career was joining Keith Kunz Motorsports and competing on the national stage in dirt midgets. Getting that opportunity with such a respected team--one I grew up watching, was surreal. Competing with some of the best drivers in the sport reminded me of how far I've come: from running near the back at local tracks to now racing at one of the top levels of the sport. The 2025 season and experience I gained gave me a new level of confidence and motivation to keep pushing, learning and earning my place among the best.

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

AK: I have a few exciting things in the works that I'm not quite ready to announce just yet but I'll be sharing more about them on my social channels when the time is right. What I can say is that I'm always looking for new partners and opportunities to get on track more and continue growing within the sport. One thing that won't change is my commitment to promoting myself, building connections and relationships and promoting dirt track racing as a whole. I have a genuine passion for this sport and being able to share that with fans--and even create new ones--is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do.

SN: What are you hoping to see from the industry in the next few years?

AK: I'd love to see continued growth and support for grassroots and short-track racing. There's so much raw talent at the local level that deserves more recognition and with the right exposure it can really thrive. I also hope to see more brands recognize how valuable dirt track racing truly is--not only for helping rising stars but for supporting the facilities that the next generation of racers rely on. It's great to sponsor drivers but without race tracks there are no racers. Supporting the sport means supporting the tracks themselves, whether that's through sponsoring a series, backing an event or simply showing up on a Saturday night to buy a ticket and enjoy a delicious dirt track hamburger. As content creation and streaming continue to grow, the sport has a huge opportunity to reach new fans and attract new partners while keeping the heart and authenticity that make dirt racing so special.

By SEMA News Editors

Content Creator Spotlight: Alex Karpowicz

Instagram: alexkarpowicz72

Facebook: Alex Karpowicz Racing

LinkedIn: Alex Karpowicz

Follower counts: 9.25k on Instagram; 13.8k on Facebook

Focus: Dirt sprint cars and other open-wheel dirt cars

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

Alex Karpowicz: I grew up spending nearly every weekend at dirt tracks across the country watching my dad race. From an early age, the sights, sounds and smell of race fuel became part of who I was and I knew I wanted to be the one behind the wheel. Racing wasn't just a hobby in our family--it was a way of life that taught me the value of hard work, competition and commitment.

I started my career on asphalt ovals, learning the fundamentals of car control and racecraft. When my local track shut down, I transitioned to dirt racing, and that's when everything truly clicked. Starting out in dirt micro sprints, I not only grew as a driver but also became deeply involved in the mechanical side of the sport. I maintained my own cars, made setup changes and learned how much effort goes into every detail both in the shop and on track. It gave me a new perspective and taught me to drive with respect knowing that if something got torn up, I was the one fixing it.

Now racing dirt midgets, I continue to learn and grow with each event. Every race is a new challenge and a chance to improve and my goal is to keep moving forward--ultimately into dirt sprint cars--while chasing the same passion that started years ago watching my dad race.

SN: What's been your biggest motivator?

AK: My biggest motivator has always been the drive to keep improving and prove to myself that I belong at the highest levels of this sport. Racing is full of ups and downs and what keeps me pushing is knowing how far I've come--from running in the back at local shows to now competing and being competitive on national stages. I'm motivated by the challenge of becoming better every time I strap in, by the people who support me and by the chance to inspire others chasing their own dreams. I also take pride in representing myself well both on and off the track--through social media, interviews and fan interactions--because you never know who you're talking to or who is watching you and how that moment might shape your future.

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

AK: My favorite part of being part of the automotive and racing community is the people. There's a sense of family and passion that's hard to find anywhere else. Everyone--from the fans in the stands to the teams in the pits--shares the same love for the sport and that creates a bond that goes far beyond competition. I've built friendships all across the country through racing and the support within the community is something truly special. Whether it's helping another team get back on track or talking with fans after a race, those moments remind me why I fell in love with this sport in the first place.

SN: As a content creator in the industry, how do you hope to make an impact on your audience?

AK: As both a driver and content creator, my goal is to give people an inside look at what life in racing is really like; the highs, the lows and everything in between. I like showing what most people do not see on TV. I also want to inspire others to chase their goals while showing the amount of work and dedication it takes to make it happen. Whether someone's a lifelong racing fan or just discovering dirt track racing for the first time, I want my content to help them feel connected to it. I also try to highlight the sponsors, teams and people who make it possible because this sport runs on partnerships and community.

SN: Why is advocacy important to you?

AK: Advocacy matters to me because racing has given me so much--and I feel a responsibility to help protect and grow the sport for the next generation. Grassroots racing, especially at the local level, depends on passionate people stepping up to make sure tracks stay open, events get support and young drivers get opportunities.

I also feel that many people outside of motorsports have a negative outlook on the sport, often because they only see the surface--the noise, the speed or misconceptions like "all you do is turn left." Motorsports is often criticized as being too loud or bad for the environment. I believe a lot of that negativity comes simply from a lack of knowledge about what actually goes on and how much work, skill and passion are involved. That's why I try to share the behind-the-scenes side of racing--the preparation, the craftsmanship and the dedication it takes to compete. If more people could see that side, I think they'd understand why this sport means so much to those of us who live it every day.

SN: What's been the biggest moment of your career thus far?

AK: One of the biggest moments of my career was joining Keith Kunz Motorsports and competing on the national stage in dirt midgets. Getting that opportunity with such a respected team--one I grew up watching, was surreal. Competing with some of the best drivers in the sport reminded me of how far I've come: from running near the back at local tracks to now racing at one of the top levels of the sport. The 2025 season and experience I gained gave me a new level of confidence and motivation to keep pushing, learning and earning my place among the best.

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

AK: I have a few exciting things in the works that I'm not quite ready to announce just yet but I'll be sharing more about them on my social channels when the time is right. What I can say is that I'm always looking for new partners and opportunities to get on track more and continue growing within the sport. One thing that won't change is my commitment to promoting myself, building connections and relationships and promoting dirt track racing as a whole. I have a genuine passion for this sport and being able to share that with fans--and even create new ones--is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do.

SN: What are you hoping to see from the industry in the next few years?

AK: I'd love to see continued growth and support for grassroots and short-track racing. There's so much raw talent at the local level that deserves more recognition and with the right exposure it can really thrive. I also hope to see more brands recognize how valuable dirt track racing truly is--not only for helping rising stars but for supporting the facilities that the next generation of racers rely on. It's great to sponsor drivers but without race tracks there are no racers. Supporting the sport means supporting the tracks themselves, whether that's through sponsoring a series, backing an event or simply showing up on a Saturday night to buy a ticket and enjoy a delicious dirt track hamburger. As content creation and streaming continue to grow, the sport has a huge opportunity to reach new fans and attract new partners while keeping the heart and authenticity that make dirt racing so special.

From the SEMA Washington, D.C, office

Following a herculean effort to modernize California's smog-check process to better support vehicle collectors, SEMA has honored the two state senators who pushed Leno's Law forward in 2025.

California Senators Shannon Grove and Dave Cortese at the 2025 SEMA Show, November 4-7 in Las Vegas, were named as the recipients of the SEMA Lawmaker of the Year Award, a recognition of their bipartisan leadership of Senate Bill (SB) 712, known as "Leno's Law." The award, given annually, honors lawmakers who demonstrate an outstanding commitment to the specialty-automotive aftermarket and the enthusiasts it serves.

Authored by Sen. Grove and named in honor of legendary entertainer and automotive enthusiast Jay Leno, SB 712 sought to provide a fair-and-reasonable modernization of existing state laws to provide a pathway to exempt modern classic cars from California's smog-check process. The bill drew national attention thanks to their passionate advocacy for protecting California's car culture and their work with lawmakers and SEMA to promote common sense reform for enthusiasts and small businesses alike.

Sen. Cortese, who chairs the Senate Transportation Committee, joined as principal coauthor and helped guide the bill through critical hearings. Together with Sen. Grove, they built a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers, industry leaders and enthusiasts to support a balanced reform that protects the state's car culture.

Although SB 712 was ultimately held in the Assembly Appropriations Committee, the measure marked the most significant progress on California's collector vehicle smog laws in more than two decades. The bill's advancement represented an important step toward modernizing outdated rules that have frustrated owners of rare and historic vehicles. Through their collaboration, Sens. Grove and Cortese helped elevate awareness of the specialty-equipment industry and its economic and cultural importance to the state.

"Sens. Grove and Cortese exemplify what this award stands for," said SEMA President and CEO Mike Spagnola. "Their partnership showed that common sense solutions and bipartisan cooperation are still possible in Sacramento. Their leadership on Leno's Law made real progress for enthusiasts and small businesses, and it laid the foundation for continued work to protect California's automotive heritage."

The SEMA Lawmaker of the Year Award recognizes policymakers who show exceptional leadership in promoting innovation and enthusiasm for automotive culture.

SEMA will continue working with Sens. Grove, Cortese and their colleagues in the year ahead to build on the progress made in 2025 and ensure that California remains a place where enthusiasts can enjoy, preserve and share their vehicles for generations to come.

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