Report from the Field: SEMA

Our colleague, Jamey Wozniak is the CEO of Joe’s Hitches in Dallas (www.joes-hitchandtrailer.com). Jamey recently returned from the huge automotive trade show, Specialty Equipment Manufacturer’s Association (SEMA) show at the Las Vegas Convention Center. She filed this report for TTSG:

“ This is my third trek to SEMA in Vegas and a show I wouldn’t wanna miss! You’d never know about the economic woes from all the car-crazed enthusiasts from all over the world….the place was rockin!

Strolling down Hot Rod Alley, I saw why they remain loyal to their hobby. Who knew there was such a variety of tires and wheels? And the ladies displaying them were sure a hit, too. When it comes to restoration and restyling your ride, I guess not any old wax will do. It was like being in a sea of infomercials.

The need for speed is never going away and it was showcased well in the Racing & Performance section with the legendary Mario Andretti. Always fun to watch the media, what with the likes of Mad Mike, Chip Foose and Dennis Gage from our favorite automotive TV shows.

I spent most my time in the Truck, SUV and Off-Road section (naturally). I loved the newly engineered bike rack and series of locks that open with your car (ignition) key. Insert it, turn it once and it is programmed for that lock and key. Re-chroming for bumpers and grill guards–is that for real? Have to say, I loved the new Euro Series Ball Mount, but oh so suggestive—I couldn’t look at them with a straight face.

The enclosed outdoor tracks from Motor Trend and Off-Road Proving Ground by Toyota were a sight to see. As always, my all time favorites are the House of Kolor, West Coast Customs and, as always, checking out over 1,500 of the hottest customized vehicles around.

I would have to say the highlight of the show for me was rubbing wheels with Lyn St. James, racer; (Daytona, Indy 500, etc.) speaker, leader and author, at the annual SBN Speed Networking event. As I asked for an autograph (yes, I did), I thought of how my daughter would feel getting Carrie Underwood’s autograph. Ms St James & I chatted about our similarities in corporate America, the fact she is a Distinguished Woman from my alma mater, Northwood University, and about her new exhibit at the Women’s Museum in Dallas (opening in 2010 to honor women in racing). As we were chatting, a radio show host/producer interrupted us wanting to do a story on Lyn for the Today Show in New York. You better believe I stuck around for that conversation. I blatantly asked if he had room for me on that show. He said how about a spot on my radio show–I guess beggars can’t be choosers………

Meanwhile as I deliberate my own course for the future and wonder where this tumultuous industry is headed, it’s obvious after the SEMA show, all I have to say is: come on guys, start your engines ‘cause we are goin’ for a ride!”

Thanks, Jamey, for a great report from a fascinating show.

TTSG