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In the past decade, Hot Rod design has embraced industrial tech, with small shops adopting CNC machines, CAD, 3D scanning, and 3D printing. These tools are now more accessible and user-friendly, allowing more builders to use them daily. Industry leaders will discuss the equipment they rely on and...

ABOUT

This microsite contains biographical information and statements by candidates running for position on the SEMA Board of Directors. You are urged to review the background information provided and to cast qualified votes for the candidates of your choice.

The remarks and opinions expressed by each candidate are solely his or her statements. SEMA does not take responsibility for the accuracy or content of any of the candidates' messages. The statements made by the candidates do not necessarily represent the views of SEMA.

Voting will take place online between May 19 and June 2 and is open to current SEMA-member companies. Votes must be cast by each company’s primary contact. Details on the upcoming election will be sent to the member company’s designated primary contact beginning May 19. Winners will be announced by June 9.

Thank you for participating in this election. Your vote is important to the future leadership of SEMA.

Chair-elect (1 Seat):

Norris Marshall - BluePrint Engines
Norris Marshall
BluePrint Engines
Les Rudd - Bob Cook Sales
Les Rudd
Bob Cook Sales

Manufacturer (3 Seats):

Brian Herron - OPUS IVS
Brian Herron
OPUS IVS
Tim McCarthy - HUSHMAT & ZYCOAT
Tim McCarthy
HUSHMAT & ZYCOAT
Shane McNallie - Lippert Automotive
Shane McNallie
Lippert Automotive
Cary Redman - PRW Power
Cary Redman
PRW Power
Marcus Umlauff - Toyota Motor North America
Marcus Umlauff
Toyota Motor North America (Incumbent)

Manufacturers Rep (1 Seat):

Rich Butler - R&R Marketing
Rich Butler
R&R Marketing (Incumbent)
Mark Taylor - KAM Marketing
Mark Taylor
KAM Marketing

CHAIR-ELECT CANDIDATES

(listed alphabetically)

Norris Marshall
BluePrint Engines

Norris Marshall - BluePrint Engines

About Norris Marshall

Norris Marshall brings over four decades of hands-on industry leadership, entrepreneurship, and advocacy to his candidacy for Chair-Elect of the SEMA Board of Directors. As Founder and CEO of BluePrint Engines, Norris turned a one-man machine shop into a global engine manufacturing powerhouse, operating two successful brands: BluePrint Engines and Origin Engines, out of a 210,000 sq. ft. facility in Kearney, Nebraska.

Through BluePrint Engines, Norris has led innovation in the performance crate engine space, supplying enthusiasts, builders, and restoration shops with high-performance solutions. With Origin Engines, Norris delivers EPA- and CARB-certified engines to industries ranging from power generation to agriculture and oil and gas.

Norris has long been a dedicated advocate for the automotive aftermarket. A current member of the SEMA Board of Directors, he serves as Chairman of the SEMA PAC and works closely with the association’s Washington, D.C. team on legislative and regulatory issues critical to protecting and growing the industry. His leadership focus is centered on ensuring that SEMA members have a strong voice in Washington and a vibrant, sustainable business environment.

His previous industry service includes Chairmanship and Board membership with the Production Engine Remanufacturer’s Association (PERA) and active involvement with AERA committees. His work has earned him the PERA Lifetime Achievement Award and recognition from the U.S. House of Representatives for Excellence in Economic Development.

Norris believes great companies are built by empowering people. His leadership philosophy is rooted in developing talent, mentoring future leaders, and driving results through integrity, which has guided both his business and boardroom success. As Chair-Elect, he will bring that same passion and commitment to advancing the interests of all SEMA members.

Les Rudd - Bob Cook Sales

I, Les Rudd, am humbled to come before you as a candidate for the Chair-Elect Position for YOUR SEMA Board of Directors. This year’s election is the most important election for SEMA members in years as it will set the stage for SEMA’s future success.

Our association and our industry, like your businesses, are ever changing; continuously being faced with new challenges, new threats and outside forces that can be considered attacks - as well as new opportunities. We have seen the world, the United States, our association, and your business face a horizon that is filled with uncertainty and the overwhelming unknowns. Most often this uncertainty forces us to be reactive but this year you have the chance to be selfishly proactive. So, YOU NEED TO VOTE.

YOU, our Membership is the foundation of SEMA! And, without YOU we crumble!

I challenge you to view the entire slate of candidates for this year’s election. Review their respective history and background. Then, be selfish, vote for the candidates that you would want to sit in your office helping you solve the items that keep you up at night.

I have personal experience in warehousing, speed shops, counterman, retail management, and working hundreds of events. I have been a Race Tech, National Sales Manager and a Manufacturers Rep. I have volunteered side-by-side with 40 Person of the Year winners. I have worked with 60 Hall of Fame members. I have served dozens of Manufacturers of the Year and almost every WD/Channel Partner of the year. I have been in thousands of industry businesses in my 45 years. I have the background, the history, and the vision to understand YOUR challenges, YOUR needs, and YOUR wants.

I will bring my lifelong experience & my knowledge of our industry to the forefront to provide YOU with MORE - a leading voice founded on integrity, transparency, loyalty, and honesty.

So – DO YOU WANT MORE?? – If so – VOTE LES!! – for your next Chair Elect!

MANUFACTURER CANDIDATES

(listed alphabetically)

Brian Herron - OPUS IVS

I'm a lifelong gearhead, inventor, and serial entrepreneur committed to advancing vehicle technology and defending the aftermarket. At 23 I helped launch SCT's first flash tuner, sparking the flash‑tuning era. As co‑owner of Drew Technologies I led OEM reprogramming standards and co‑wrote Massachusetts' Right to Repair laws; I now work at the federal level with SEMA and other associations. I co‑invented the DashDAQ touchscreen gauge, hold more than 100 pending patents across diagnostics, remote assistance, and ADAS calibration, and won a landmark patent‑troll case that shields innovators industry‑wide. I’ve attended the SEMA Show for more than 20 years, earned multiple new‑product awards, serve on the ETTN Select Council, and volunteer regularly.
Today I'm CEO of Opus IVS, guiding 400+ employees on three continents in diagnostics, ADAS calibration, and remote tech support. I run a nine‑figure business, deliver complex multi‑year programs, and collaborate daily with regulators, OEMs, and thousands of independent shops.
I don't seek a board seat just to listen; I intend to speak up for progress, help businesses grow, and keep enthusiasts building.
Key issues I’ll champion at SEMA

  • Consolidate strategic priorities
    Streamline overlapping initiatives into a focused roadmap with clear success metrics, an approach I’ve used at Opus IVS to keep large teams aligned and delivering.
  • Make technology & vehicle access the #1 priority
    Combine emissions, right‑to‑modify, encrypted ECUs, ADAS, tariffs, and “cash‑for‑clunkers” style threats into one strategic pillar, backed by actionable tactics and policy engagement. My tech and legislative background equips me to lead that fight.
  • Elevate Councils for stronger engagement
    Give each Council Chair an advisory voice at the board twice yearly, foster joint execution plans, and shift from top‑down to bottom‑up idea flow. I’ve built cross‑functional communication models that ensure every stakeholder is heard and accountable.
  • Expand membership beyond exhibitors
    Recruit installers, tuners, and small “mom‑and‑pop” shops, an untapped 130,000‑business base. My growth playbooks have repeatedly unlocked underserved segments and multiplied influence.

I’m running because I care deeply about this community. Let’s keep enthusiasts building, businesses thriving, and SEMA leading the charge together.
Sema Page: www.herron4sema.com
Linkedin:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-herron/
Email: brian@herron4sema.com
Phone: 734-888-4226

Tim McCarthy - HUSHMAT & ZYCOAT

“Growing up as an entrepreneur in the automotive OEM and aftermarket industry has defined who I am today. I am founder and owner of two vibrant automotive businesses and face many of the same challenges that every member of SEMA confronts today. SEMA is a membership made of largely small businesses. We need a common voice and SEMA fulfills that role. I will stand tall as a voice for all member businesses fighting for the issues that will allow our industry to thrive in the decades to come. 

  • Legislative and Regulatory overreach
  • Growth of Business membership to bring more voices into our community
  • Establish member networking & community building opportunities throughout the calendar year  
  • Growth of the financial wellbeing of the Association
  • Maintain a servant culture to the membership

I pledge to continue to represent and hopefully assist in growing our business membership as we pave an open road to prosperity.   It is a humbling honor to be nominated as your Board of Directors representative”
I started in the automotive industry in the late 1980’s working for a USA Based conglomerate and purchased three businesses that supplied parts to the North American Automotive Manufacturers. I led the move and consolidation of these businesses into a expanded manufacturing facility and moved my family to Kansas City in 1992. We developed and introduced the first constrained layer damping material to the automotive industry in 1989. The division grew from single digit million to over $110 Million in 10 years. During our peak we compounded over 52 million pounds of butyl rubber in a calendar year. In 2002, I launched the HushMat brand. I have been a member of SEMA for over 23 years. In our early days, our kids took turns working packaging products and assisted with shipping. Today, my wife Connie and I own two companies, HushMat and ZyCoat. The aftermarket industry energizes me every day. The passion grows with each new relationship, exposing new customers to our technology and demonstrating why “100% American Made” is vitally important to us. It is a pillar of our culture.   

Shane McNallie
Lippert Automotive

Shane McNallie - Lippert Automotive

My name is Shane McNallie, and I am the Senior Vice President of Lippert Automotive (formerly CURT Group), overseeing renowned brands such as CURT, Ranch Hand, and UWS. With 29 years in the Automotive Aftermarket, I bring a deep understanding of our industry and its evolving challenges. I’ve successfully fought against counterfeit parts, engaging platforms like Amazon to protect manufacturers and consumers with a focus on “buy local” to support installation of our aftermarket products. As an off-road and racing enthusiast myself, I don’t just work in this industry — I live it.
I am running for a spot on the SEMA Board of Directors to represent Aftermarket Truck Accessories and push our industry forward. With 25 years of participation in the SEMA trade show, I am committed to enhancing engagement and membership in the Truck and Off-road categories. I am dedicated to growing membership and participation in SEMA and will be a voice in the Off-road community for the organization. I will advocate for open access to advanced technologies like Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS) and Can bus systems, ensuring a robust future for aftermarket product development.
At CURT Group and Lippert Automotive, we have made it out mission to empower local shops to succeed with our products, as we believe that professionally installed components provide the best overall consumer experience. I will bring this passion to SEMA, allowing for new programs and education to strengthen the local dealer network. My extensive experience in sales, executive management, and mergers and acquisitions, combined with my dedication to empowering local shops, positions me as a strong candidate.
I am a local car club member, a former truck accessory shop owner, a United States Navy veteran, a former chair of trustees at Kingston United Methodist Church, and a devoted family man. I have been married to my wife Lily for 34 years, with two children and a new grandchild. I am deeply committed to serving our community and industry. Connect with me on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/shane-mcnallie.

Cary Redman - PRW Power

My name is Cary Redman, and I am the Vice President of Sales and CRO of PRW Power Inc.  I’m no stranger to hard work—growing up in a farming community taught me the value of perseverance and resourcefulness. I quickly learned how to solve problems using whatever tools and materials were available.

At a Glance:

  • Depth of experience in the industry: throughout my career I have developed successful working relationships with OEMs, mass merchants, engine builders, truck accessory shops, and installation centers.
  • Support for consumer choice: whether EV, ICE, Hydrogen, or other alternative fuels, I support a market dictated by consumer choice, not the government.
  • Focus on and support of the DIFM sector: “do it for me” shops must have the necessary tools, knowledge, and support to maintain the most technologically advanced vehicles.
  • Support at every turn: I am always a phone call away for customers, colleagues, consumers, and friends in the industry. Teaching, helping, and supporting are keystones of this industry and I am proud to be part of it.
  • Hands-on approach:  I live in the trenches to ensure equality for all levels of distribution!

Goals:

I want to be a liaison between the Manufacturers and SEMA, helping to ensure continued and sustainable growth while eliminating threats to our livelihoods. Help shape economic strategies that continue our hobby's growth, so it is here
for future generations. Drive more business to our brick-and-mortar accessory shops, engine builders, 12-volt stores and tech centers.

  • Encourage SEMA Members to bring youth into the industry through support of trade schools and educational programs.
  • Be a voice for the manufacturers, working with lobbyists to fight for fair and
  • balanced policies.

Marcus Umlauff (Incumbent)
Toyota Motor North America

Marcus Umlauff - Toyota Motor North America

SEMA is built on the passion and ingenuity of its members. It has a strong set of strategic priorities – I am excited to continue as a Board Member – contributing my unique experience, insights, and relationships.

When SEMA and the OEMs align, we can build strength and sustainability together – and I am uniquely qualified to promote this for the benefit of SEMA members.
My focus items are critical for the future of SEMA:

  1. The Customer of Tomorrow – respect existing customers that make SEMA so strong – whilst anticipating future trends and motivations of the next generation. A vibrant and passionate automotive community is core to SEMA member success – SEMA can play a key role in nurturing this community into the future.
  2. Adapt to Technology –Technological change is inevitable, but we must turn threat into opportunity. Anticipating change, then preparing and supporting SEMA members will allow them to be better educated, informed and ready to adapt;
  3. OEM allies – true partnerships between OEMs and aftermarket builds strength and sustainability. A healthy and vibrant aftermarket is good for all, and we must rally together with a common focus on customer choice.

My entire career has been dedicated to the automotive industry – racing, performance, personalization and OE vehicles. I am a Mechanical Engineer and have my MBA in Marketing.
I have founded automotive companies in engineering and motorsport – conversely, I have many years of experience as a leader in the world’s largest OEMs. As lead of Toyota North America Truck business, I challenge the organization to think and act differently - be entrepreneurial – and realize new levels of success – with much coming through a focus on strategic partnerships with the aftermarket.
Family and community are core to me. I love supporting my family’s passions – and I love when those passions intersect. Teaching my son to build an engine or hear him passionately dream of his first car warms my heart. Automotive passion is alive and well in the next generation!
During my first term on the SEMA Board, I contributed unique perspective, vision and connections. I have been proud to see firsthand SEMA strengthen and chart a course to a vibrant and sustainable future. It would be an honor to continue to serve the SEMA members for a second term.

Please connect with me on LinkedIn:    www.linkedin.com/in/marcus-umlauff-327636137
For more details, including experience and endorsements, go to marcus4sema.com

MANUFACTURERS REP

(listed alphabetically)

Rich Butler (Incumbent)
R&R Marketing

Rich Butler - R&R Marketing

This industry has been my life, beginning at a very early age. I began my professional career in the automotive aftermarket working as a counterman and machinist at a local jobber retailer and engine builder. I started with R&R Marketing in November of 2000 as a Service Representative and worked to earn new challenges and advanced positions. After having held various positions that exposed me to a diverse cross section of the industry across much geography, I now serve as Chief Executive Officer and Co-Chairman of R&R Marketing Consultants, Inc. I would like to express my gratitude for being selected as a candidate for the SEMA Board of Directors. If re-elected, I can assure you that you will get the very best that I have to offer in facing the challenges and tasks that lie ahead. 

Mark Taylor - KAM Marketing

My name is Mark Taylor, and I am a Manufactures Representative in the Automotive Aftermarket and have been for 35+ years. I am honored to be considered as one of the 2025 SEMA candidates for the Board of Directors. I believe that with my background, experience, and integrity as well as bringing a wealth of industry knowledge to the table I can be a strong ally. My goal would be to help in whatever I can do to continue the great work of SEMA. I am a strong advocate of the aftermarket industry, and I stand ready to add a voice to the great work in the fight to keep SEMA moving forward and growing.           
Employment Summary:
Kam Marketing 1995-Present, Vice President
Stephen Lapidus Sales-1990-1995: Sales Manager- Limited Partner

 

Awards/ Achievements  

  • California Terminal:  Outstanding Sales Award 1989
  • Reese Hitch: Sales Excellence Award 1998   
  • Shell Oil Company:   Salesperson of the Year 2000
  • Magnaflow Salesperson of the Year Award - 2014
  • Magnaflow Salesperson of the Year Award - 2015
  • Edelbrock: Outstanding Sales Award 2017
  • SEMA Representative of the Year Kam Marketing 2015
  • SEMA Served on the Select Committee Non-Board Member 2023
  • SEMA Served on the SBN Male Ally Committee Member 2023

 

Other Achievements

  • 4 Term Mayor Borough of Florham Park NJ 2013- Present
  • Former Councilman Borough of Florham Park 2006-2013
  • Numerous Public Speaking Engagements, Town Hall Meetings, Ribbon Cuttings, Corporation relocations and Land acquisitions for our community.  
  • Board Directors Morris County, NJ, League of Municipalities, 1st Vice President 2018-Present
  • Board Of Directors Jersey 1St Coalition 2019-Present
  • Board of Directors New Jersey Conference of Mayors 2021- Present
  • SAL American Legion Post 43 Member in good standing
  • Florham Park, NJ. Jaycees Member and Past President 2000-Present
  • Former Florham Park, NJ. Rotary Member. 2018-2024  

 

Endorsements: 

  • Dan Stewart Partner Xtreme Deisel Performance (XDP)
  • Matt Mabry Turn 14 Divisional Purchasing manager
  • Armand Mancini President & CEO Liberty Engine Parts
  • John Babcock President Powermaster Corp.   
  • Mary Quinn Vice President Vendor Relations ID Auto (CarID.com)