The SEMA Garage Opens to Industry Wows

As the saying goes, you never get a second chance to make a good first impression. In recent months, the new SEMA Garage—Industry Innovations Center has officially thrown its doors wide open to SEMA members, welcoming them to let their creativity flow within the new facility. In return, the initial industry response has been incredible. Clearly, SEMA membership is intrigued with the possibilities.

One of the greatest tools in the SEMA toolbox for member manufacturers is the new SEMA Garage-Industry Innovations Center. About a year ago, the SEMA Board of Directors met to discuss ways to help the association’s manufacturing members address various product development challenges. The SEMA Garage was born as a result of those discussions, and I was hired to lead this effort.

Located in Diamond Bar, California, adjacent to SEMA headquarters, this 15,000-sq.-ft. facility houses a variety of tools and programs designed to help SEMA manufacturers more efficiently develop and market new products. The facility is comprised of four separate cells, each of which play a critical role in helping members get products to market in a quick and economical manner.

SEMA Focuses Efforts to Help Members Achieve Regulatory Requirements

SEMA continues its work to untangle a variety of emissions-compliance requirements while identifying and pursuing alternative paths to relieve or clarify concerns about navigating the regulatory landscape. At both the state and federal levels, the association is engaged in facilitating member compliance through a variety of programs and initiatives. This article summarizes issues that are either being addressed or have become more manageable as a result of these efforts.

SEMA has hired industry veteran Mike Spagnola to fill the newly created position of vice president of OEM and product development programs, effective immediately. Spagnola brings with him 40 years of specialty auto parts experience, including more than 20 years of product development and project-vehicle work. With a focus on heightening SEMA services to help members develop products quickly and efficiently, Spagnola will collaborate with the SEMA OEM and vehicle technology departments while serving as a resource and liaison for members and automakers.

“We’re excited to have Mike join SEMA in developing services that help members with product development and OEM initiatives,” said Chris Kersting, SEMA president and CEO. “SEMA’s vehicle technology and OEM programs, led by John Waraniak and Bill Wolf, have proven to be extremely beneficial over the years. Mike will work with our existing team to enhance and add to the services SEMA makes available to our members.”