Colby McLaughlin’s first aftermarket experience occurred in high school when he enrolled in accelerated classes at Washtenaw Community College in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Though focused on business management, he registered for a Custom Cars & Concepts course, which taught fabrication, chassis design, painting and collision repair. It was a game changer.

Tim McCarthy is the founder and CEO of HushMat and an active member of the Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA), but to hear McCarthy tell it, his career path into the aftermarket took a circuitous route.

I recently had the pleasure of interviewing U.S. Representative John Curtis (R-UT), who represents Utah’s third congressional district, which borders Arizona and extends more than 300 mi. north to just outside of Salt Lake City, Utah. It is home to Moab and some of the best outdoor recreation opportunities in the nation—from canyons and red rock country to snow-capped mountains.

The SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN) continues to experience success with its virtual education platform tailored to a diverse membership. The Resource Committee created four separate series to help members in entry-level, management level and C-Suite positions. The topics range from career advancement to work-life balance to challenges that they are experiencing.

The Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO) has initiated quarterly membership meetings in order to keep members informed of the latest happenings and address important topics. The first virtual session was held in March. Others are slated for June, September and November.

SEMA councils and networks offer resources aimed at meeting their members’ needs. Ideas for those initiatives often bubble up during brainstorming sessions known as long-range planning (LRP) meetings, which give members a voice on issues and a chance to bounce ideas off the wall.

Four members of the Motorsports Parts Manufacturers Council (MPMC) select committee were invited to share their views on matters impacting the motorsports industry. Here are edited excerpts.

Industry news from SEMA-member companies, including Vintage Air, Champion Brands, Dynabrade Inc. and more.

The overall outlook for the economy is positive. Consumers are spending money now that restrictions are easing, and overall confidence has jumped as consumers are optimistic about the economy, according to the latest “SEMA Industry Indicators” report.

The need to adapt in order to survive in the COVID-19 era became a common theme during SEMA360 last November, when we heard from several industry experts who offered their advice on how to take businesses virtual and still deliver the ultimate customer experience. One such session was “The Customer Journey: From Digital Onlooker to Repeat Buyer,” featuring Corey Perlman, owner of Impact Social Inc., and Katie Mares, a brand-experience expert.