The 2023 SEMA Show will feature the inaugural SEMA Women in Automotive Symposium, designed to help women advance their careers in the automotive aftermarket by providing networking, mentoring, and professional development opportunities.
With the support of the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network, the programme includes an opening keynote address, a ‘power networking’ luncheon and fireside chat, a four-part micro-learning workshop segment, and a discussion panel delivered by industry executives and thought leaders. SEMA described the programme as a “one-of-a-kind opportunity” for women in the automotive industry to gather and learn from each other’s experiences.
“This year’s SEMA Women in Automotive Symposium is lining up to be a groundbreaking opportunity to prepare women for addressing challenges and overcoming adversity,” said Pamela Brown Matthis, Director of Education at SEMA. “The ultimate goal of this programme is to help women elevate, empower, and engage themselves with the tools for success needed to accelerate and advance their business and career.”
The Symposium will take place on 1 November in the North Hall (Room N258). It is free for all 2023 SEMA Show attendees and consists of the following components:
- 11:00 am to 11:45 am: Opening keynote – ‘Drive: How to Gain and Maintain a Competitive Advantage’. Featuring Julia Landauer (two-time race champion and entrepreneur)
- 11:45 am to 12:15 pm: ‘Power Networking Luncheon & Fireside Chat’. Hosted by Amanda Busick (Fox Sports reporter) and featuring Carolyn Jackson (Vice President Brand Strategy, Barrett-Jackson).
- 1 pm to 2:45 pm: ‘Micro-Learning Lab’ (15-minute, rapid-fire-style workshops). Featuring Melanie White (CEO and Owner of Hellwig Products), Jacki Lutz (Senior Manager of Marketing Communications Corporate, Sensata Technologies), Deanna Singh (Managing Partner, Uplifting Impact), and Shaundra Dineen (award-winning motivational speaker and podcaster).
- 3 pm to 4 pm: Panel: ‘Driving the Future of Automotive: C-Suite Insights’. Co-hosted by SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN). Moderated by Cheryl Thompson (President / Founder, Center for Automotive Diversity, Inclusion & Advancement). Featuring Axel Cooley (President, Metallon), Kim Less (Vice President Aftersales, Nissan North America), Subi Ghosh (EVP Marketing & Strategic Partnerships, Stream Companies), Matilda Johnson (Director of Business Development & Chief Experience Officer, City Classic Cars), and Jayme Blasiman (founder of Femcanic Garage and founder / co-owner of Women’s Motor Fest).
“The SEMA Show is the only place where women in the automotive aftermarket can take part in such an exciting and empowering experience, taught by industry thought leaders and experts from all facets of the industry,” said Andy Tompkins, Trade Show Director at SEMA. “This great line-up of speakers, panels, and workshops will help attendees be more competitive and knowledgeable about how to succeed in the industry.”