The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) discussed a number of initiatives this afternoon during its general membership meeting.
"Our biggest challenge continues to be generating awareness" of the association's services and programs, says SEMA CEO and President Chris Kersting.
"We are continuing our efforts to bring education and professional development programs to our employees."
SEMA Chairman Mitch Williams outlined several components of the association's strategic plan during the meeting. Among them:
* Vehicle complexity. SEMA wants to develop greater expertise in high-tech areas and may open an office in Detroit, Mich., to better communicate with auto manufacturers.
* Legislative initiatives. On May 17-18, SEMA will hold its bi-annual rally in Washington, D.C. ("It's a chance to meet with lawmakers personally.")
* Membership communication. SEMA plans to hold an external audit of its communication efforts.
* SEMA Show. The association will continue to screen SEMA Show attendees in an effort to maintain the event's business-to-business focus.
SEMA has added some 850 members since July 2005, according to Kersting.
