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2024 SEMA Board Election


Manufacturer


Rich Barsamian
Advanced Clutch Technology
Rich Barsamian
View Candidate Questionnaire

With over 20 years in the specialty automotive industry, I, Rich Barsamian, proudly announce my candidacy for the SEMA Board of Directors. My extensive experience uniquely qualifies me to address SEMA Members' challenges and ensure their voices are heard.

My track record of attentive listening and proactive changes demonstrates my commitment to benefiting members. Preserving the legality and production of ICE vehicles is crucial for industry sustainability, as they can be powered by hydrogen, offering zero emissions.

My dedication to SEMA's mission is evident through awards and service contributions, including induction into the SEMA Hall of Fame and MPMC Hall of Fame. As a former SEMA Cares Chairman and MPMC chair, I've proven my dedication. As Coach Wooden said, “Don’t mistake activity for achievement”. I am someone who not only takes action but delivers results.

If elected, I will drive innovation, promote collaboration, and advocate for SEMA's growth and the success of its members. Thank you for considering my candidacy.

Career:
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Brian Herron
OPUS IVS
Brian Herron
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Message about me:
I am deeply passionate about the automotive industry, particularly when it comes to innovation, customization, and pushing boundaries. With a background spanning from automotive performance to cutting-edge technology, I bring a unique perspective to the table.

Why I want to be on the board:
I'm running for SEMA director because I refuse to stand by as the future of vehicle customization is threatened. ADAS and EV technology is advancing rapidly but could hinder our ability to modify vehicles safely and freely. I want to ensure that SEMA leads the charge in addressing this issue head-on.

Why I am qualified and passionate:
As the CEO of Opus IVS and former General Manager of SCT, I've spearheaded initiatives in automotive diagnostics, performance tuning, and ADAS calibration. My extensive experience, industry relationships, and leadership skills uniquely position me to drive meaningful change within SEMA.

My Solution is to support SEMA activating its resources to engage Automakers, Regulators, SEMA Members, and Industry and lead change. Vehicles must be designed with modification in mind, and there must be a partnership and transparency with the aftermarket.

My Career
Past Jobs
Affiliations
Achievements
Passions
I have the experience, technical expertise, relationships, leadership, motivation, and drive to push the full force of SEMA towards this challenge facing us with ADAS vehicles. All I need to get started is your vote

Website: Herron4SEMA.com
LinkedIN: www.linkedin.com/in/brian-herron
Email: brian@herron4sema.com


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Kim Pendergast, Incumbent
Magnuson Superchargers
Kim Pendergast
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I'm Kim Pendergast, seeking re-election to the SEMA Board. As CEO of Magnuson Superchargers, I've dedicated my career to advancing the automotive aftermarket. I'm committed to defending our industry from regulatory threats, advocating for the rights of 7,000 businesses and 8 million customers. My vision for SEMA is to transform it into a vibrant community that actively engages its members, ensuring diversity in the type of vehicle used and driving innovation. By leveraging SEMA’s resources, we can foster a stronger industry network. Support my campaign to protect and advance our sector. Visit www.Kim4SEMA.com for more.

Employment Summary:
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Board Positions with Other Organizations:

Related Interests:
Campaign Website and Social Media Links:

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Melissa Scoles
QA1
Melissa Scoles
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My name is Melissa Scoles and I’m running for the SEMA Board of Directors. As the second-generation leader of QA1, industry leader in performance shocks and suspension components, I understand what goes into building, running and scaling a successful business in our beloved industry.

I’ve spent most of my life working in the automotive aftermarket, and with over a decade of leadership experience as President/CEO of QA1, I bring a proven track record of driving growth and innovation. I’m proud that in our 30th year in business, we were named to the Inc 5000 list of fastest growing companies. In addition to my role at QA1, I’ve been deeply involved in SEMA leadership, serving as Chair and now Immediate Past Chair for MPMC and as a member of the PAC Board. I’ve also served on the SEMA scholarship committee and received the 35 under 35 award in 2013.

I’m very passionate about youth engagement, and help run a program called Lakeville Works, providing opportunities for students to learn about educational and career opportunities in the skilled trades. I also co-founded a program called Engineered for Speed, serving every 5th grader in our school district, where students build model cars, learn about weight distribution and aerodynamics, culminating with schoolwide races. Additionally, I’ve helped raise close to $150K to install inclusive playground equipment in local parks by hosting an annual memorial golf tournament in my dad’s name. I also serve as a Board Member for the Twin Cities Chapter of YPO and for the Lakeville Chamber of Commerce.

Our industry has gone through quite a bit of change over the last few years, from electrification to changing regulations to a fluctuating economy. We need to engage the next generation of enthusiasts to ensure we have customers, employees and shop owners well into the future. I’m already doing that locally and will bring that experience to the SEMA Board. With your vote, I will be a voice for business owners large and small, family owned and otherwise, to ensure the future of our industry.  

Learn more at:

Distributor Retailer


Doug Lane
Motor State Distributing
Doug Lane
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My name is Doug Lane. As owner/president of Motor State Distributing, I have experienced first-hand the countless challenges facing the aftermarket and motorsports industries, from continuous regulatory changes to exciting new advancements in manufacturing and business technologies. Growing up and working next to my father in the small performance business he started made me realize at an early age the hard work and dedication it took to go from a start-up speed shop to an established warehouse distributor.

My lifelong involvement in the racing and performance industry, both on the track and in the business arena, has given me a unique insight into the struggles of the small to mid-sized businesses at the core of our industry, navigating against legal, economic, and cultural hurdles. I have traveled the country to visit and learn about many of our loyal customers, vendors, and racing organizations to better understand our industry. My co-ownership in Ididit Custom Steering Columns has given me an appreciation for the challenges that manufacturers face today. With my extensive automotive experience, my perspectives can offer valuable insight as a SEMA board member.

 In my candidacy for the SEMA board, I am focused on promoting and protecting grassroots racing and outreach initiatives to introduce new enthusiasts to our industry and ensuring that SEMA/PRI remain true to their intended audience. My mission also includes fighting pervasive regulatory overreach, drawing from my dual experience as a racer and business leader to bridge the gap between bureaucratic regulations and real-world ramifications.

Career:
SEMA:
More about me:

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Kelle Oeste
V8TV Speed and Resto Shop
Kelle Oeste
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I am deeply involved in the automotive aftermarket industry. With over 20 years of experience as a restoration business owner, overseeing a team of 32, and a previous career as a legal assistant, I've gained invaluable real-world expertise in business ownership, team development, real estate, finance and daily operations management.

I am passionate about industry growth, and I actively engage with schools, speak at career events, and mentor students.  I believe SEMA and its membership have the resources new businesses need to thrive, and I am to help make them more available to members.  

My experience collaborating with stakeholders – from city councils to educational institutions – translates to effective leadership. I'll champion initiatives that connect members with SEMA's educational resources and propel business growth.

I've achieved a Master Certification in Shop Ownership from the Drive Shops program learning essential topics such as KPIs, financial strategy, business operations, marketing, and human resource management. I have honed my leadership skills through programs like Discover Leadership and the Vistage Chief Executive Group. These experiences equip me with strategic thinking and executive-level insights vital for effective leadership.

As a business owner, I understand the challenges faced by grassroots and small businesses. I'll be a strong voice for their concerns, advocating for legislative solutions and fostering the innovation that drives our industry.

I fully recognize the complexities and challenges involved in leading this organization. Once all considerations have been thoroughly evaluated and a decision is reached, I will wholeheartedly support the board's directives and work collaboratively to achieve our shared goals.

I am committed to promoting education, advocating for all SEMA members, and enhancing SEMA's outreach efforts year-round.  The automotive aftermarket has provided me with a rich life full of wonderful experiences… It is my responsibility to help others achieve in our industry as I have.  Working together, we will ensure a vibrant and successful future for everyone who calls the automotive aftermarket industry their home.  

Thanks

Kelle


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Josh Poulson
Auto Additions
Josh Poulson
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At 16 I became a part time technician at Auto Additions in Columbus, OH. After college I remained and have had many different roles and eventually took over in 2000.  Since then Auto Additions has doubled its sales and has become a premiere Restyler with 35 employees serving car dealers, businesses, and retail.

I’m an active SEMA member having served on the PRO Select Committee for the past 11 years, including 2 years as Chair and now IPC.  I have also served on SEMA’s Board of Directors Nomination task force.  

We’ve been recognized for SEMA builds and in 2012 awarded SEMA-PRO Restyler of the Year.  In 2016 I was named the SEMA-PRO Person of the Year. In 2022 I was honored to receive the SEMA Person of the Year.

In 2006 I was part of a core group of individuals that formed Restylers United which is a group of the top Restylers around the country that get together semiannually to share ideas, successes & challenges.  

In 2018 I became a partner in Restyler Connect, a software solution for Restylers & shops around the country to help run their businesses as well as help car dealers sell and provide accessories to their customers.

I attribute most of my success to the support of my wife Amanda of 23 years and my daughter Halle (2006) and son Chase (2008).  I enjoy playing and watching sports and hanging out with family and friends.

I feel my skills can assist in growing the SEMA brand amongst the everyday person who is not aware of the potential dangers in not being able to accessorize their vehicle.  I am connected in the 12 volt community and film (window tint, PPF, Wrap, Signs) community, both of which are not traditionally active in SEMA or the SEMA show, but that is now changing.  There are many potential businesses that we need to bring into our SEMA family that have left other associations and are looking for a home!  We need to strengthen our relationships with the OEs and ensure that our industry can continue to flourish.


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Rob Ward
Legacy EV
Rob Ward
View Candidate Questionnaire

I am the CEO and Founder of Legacy EV and I am asking for your vote for SEMA Board of Directors. I cannot think of a more critical time than the present for a representative from an EV company to have a presence on the SEMA board. The aftermarket and motorsports industries are experiencing unprecedented shifts with the introduction of new technologies and innovation. As a lifelong gear-head and believer that both my Chevy big-block and my EV belong side-by-side in my garage, I am passionate about ensuring SEMA has an expert in EV technology that can accurately represent your voice to help grow our association for generations to come.

As your SEMA Board Member, I will be laser focused on two things; 1.) ensuring the adoption of EV technology leads to a net positive for you and your business, and 2.) We are actively engaging the next generation of car builders to get them excited about the automotive aftermarket.

At Legacy EV, I have made it our company's mission to honor the past, and protect the future. In that way, Legacy EV is more than just a company to me, it's an opportunity to ensure we provide a way for electric vehicle technology to pay homage to the legacy of the automotive legends that have come before us. The only way to truly accomplish this mission, is by also ensuring we are investing in the next generation of car builders, and getting them excited about what the aftermarket has to offer. Becoming a SEMA board member would allow me to bring this same perspective and passion to more companies, helping preserve the legacy of SEMA while ushering in a bright future.

Career:
SEMA:
Social Media:
Website: Rob4SEMA.com
Instagram: @Rob4SEMA
Facebook: www.facebook.com/rob4sema
TikTok: @RobLegacyEV



Service


Bill Bader
Summit Motorsports Park
Bill Bader
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Bill Bader began working in his family’s business, Norwalk Dragway, in 1977, at the age of ten years old.  Forty-six years later, Bill is the President and owner of Summit Motorsports Park (formerly Norwalk Dragway) in Norwalk, Ohio.

Summit Motorsports Park is nationally recognized as an industry leader in family-centric motorsports entertainment, receiving track of the year honors a record twenty-four (24) times, including ten times by the National Hot Rod Association

Bill has been married to his wife Jayme for 34 years and together, they raised two sons.  The eldest, Evan, graduated from Ohio Northern University in 2015 and works on the leadership team at Summit Motorsports Park. Youngest son, Garret, graduated from Wake Forest in 2019 and works as a Director of Strategic Analytics at VML.

Bill has worked in all facets of motorsports entertainment and is competent in strategic planning, marketing, sales, hospitality, event operations and facility management, as well as ancillary services including food & beverage and merchandise sales.

With a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accountancy and Corporate Finance, Bill graduated with honors (Suma Cum Laude) from Ashland University and has used his accounting background to manage nearly $14,000,000.00 dollars in CAPEX projects from 1994 thru 2023.

Bill is a critical thinker who is results driven, creative, motivated, hardworking, and honest.  In 2016 Bill launched ENERGIZE, a consulting business that works with a wide array of clients from non-motorsports service sector businesses to race teams and racetracks.  Work outside of Summit Motorsports Park and ENERGIZE includes:
“After spending nearly fifty years in motorsports, I look forward to now serving the same industry that has been so plentiful to my family.”  - Bill Bader


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Dave Morton
Fifth Third Bank
Dave Morton
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Dave Morton serves as the senior leader for Fifth Third’s Motorsports and Automotive Aftermarket practice. Dave built this innovative new business for Fifth Third from the ground up, beginning with forging a longstanding partnership with RFK Racing in 2012. He is responsible for setting the vision and strategy for the practice as well as managing strategic race team partnerships across multiple race series. He also spearheaded forming a partnership with SEMA as a member, exhibitor, and sponsor, and with PRI as a founding member and exhibitor.

Under his leadership, the business has grown rapidly, achieving notable success earning banking relationships with many suppliers. This was attained by following a philosophy of being immersed in the motorsports and aftermarket communities, understanding the client’s business, and delivering remarkable solutions and service.

Dave is also a member of the Carolinas regional leadership team, providing oversight and guidance for the Bank’s business in North and South Carolina.

Dave previously served as a marketing executive at Fifth Third where he partnered with the commercial business line to provide strategic advice and ideas to grow relationships.

Before joining Fifth Third, Dave founded a creative services agency where he created award-winning marketing solutions for clients.

Education
Dave earned a bachelor’s degree with Magna Cum Laude distinction from Northeastern University.

Professional and Civic
For more than a decade, Dave has served on the North Carolina Motorsports Association Board of Directors, more recently as an executive member and treasurer.

He is passionate about mentoring younger generations and giving back to the community. He has led the United Way campaign for Fifth Third’s Carolinas Region for 5 years and over his career volunteered at many nonprofit organizations including Habitat for Humanity, Second Harvest Foodbank, and others.

Dave has been married for 33 years and has two adult daughters, one of which works for a tool company who is a SEMA member. All his ladies are big NASCAR fans and can be found rooting for the No.17 most Sundays.

And when Dave is not at a race, he enjoys flying his vintage Cessna 172.

For more information, visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dwmorton/


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Todd Steen
Executive Director, Business Development
Jackson Marketing Group
864-272-3179
Todd.Steen@JacksonMG.com
Todd Steen
View Candidate Questionnaire

I’m a 25 year veteran of the automotive and motorsports industry that grew up in the Pee Dee area of South Carolina. Within 15 minutes of my childhood home was the famed Darlington Raceway, a rather infamous little dragstrip, and a small dirt track. To say it was written in the stars for me to find my way into the automotive aftermarket industry is a bit of an understatement. That childhood combined with nearly a lifetime of walking car shows, attending motorsports events, and working industry shows has fueled a passion for connecting people, offering creative business solutions and simply being a catalyst for pretty much anything that involves horsepower and torque. Now as an entrepreneur and a professional that gets to spend equal amounts of time with small-business owners of independent tire dealerships while consulting others that manage multi-million-dollar budgets for their marketing efforts, I’ve embraced keeping my finger on the pulse of this industry while identifying business solutions required to succeed.

My responsibilities at Jackson are three-fold in that I lead the company’s business development efforts, manage our clients’ dealer training initiatives and I lead a team that sells non-DOT off-road race tires and racing slicks to both end-users and wholesale distributors. But my service and responsibilities with our clients don’t end there, as I support brands with their marketing efforts, motorsport strategies, experiential marketing plans and global product launches.

Lastly, I’ve been attending SEMA since 1999. Over the past the past seven years, I’ve volunteered with SEMA’s WTC and I’ve grown as a professional, as a volunteer, and as an advocate for the organization. Getting involved allows you to see opportunities that range from communication and vision to partnerships and relationships that I fundamentally believe that I can use my experience to help with. As a networker that knows how to open doors, craft a value equation, and solicit support from people within our industry and from our government, I believe I can be asset to this industry if allowed to serve on SEMA’s Board of Directors and I would appreciate your vote.