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Chris Harris

Diversity, Innovation, and Engagement at the 2024 SEMA Show

Another SEMA Show is in the books, and this year did not disappoint. While many use SEMA as a platform to showcase products and innovations, I take a different approach. The SEMA is an opportunity to highlight diversity in the automotive industry and introduce new faces to the experience—those who may not know about SEMA or have never attended. 


Beyond the show floor, I had the privilege of being interviewed by the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) to discuss our work at AAAA and Foxxtecca to engage the next generation of motorsports enthusiasts. It was an honor to showcase our programs on one of the most esteemed platforms in professional drag racing, emphasizing our commitment to youth involvement and educational innovation in motorsports.


Also, I kicked off the 2024 Show by participating in a panel discussion curated by Bob Dickinson from the STEAM Sports Foundation. We discussed Diversity in Motorsports and the action items needed to keep improving in that area. The audience was attentive, and we had a great Question & Answer session at the end of the panel. The Panel consisted of Taijaune Robinson, an Engineer at GM Motorsports division, legendary race car driver Lyn. St James, Bob Dickinson, and moderator Cheryl Thompson, founder of CADIA.


Additionally, as an inaugural member of the SEMA Diversity Committee, I’m proud to be part of an initiative established over a year ago to make SEMA a more diverse and welcoming environment. On Thursday, we held our first public event—a mixer at SEMA Central. Although attendance was modest, it was an excellent opportunity to connect with fellow committee members and discuss our vision for a more inclusive industry. This was our 'launch' event, and I am optimistic that it’s the beginning of impactful work that my colleagues and I will continue to advance in the years ahead.


This year, I had the pleasure of welcoming high-profile personalities deeply connected to the automotive world, including comedian Karlos Miller from "85 South" and "Wild 'n Out", entertainment icon Romeo Miller, YouTube sensation Aaron “A.B.” Brown of "Smokin & Grillin with A.B.", and Quinton “Q” Dodson, a founding member of "Pimp My Ride." For many, this was their first time at SEMA, and they were impressed by the innovation and community spirit. These connections are vital bridges of representation, helping close cultural gaps in our industry. Attendees were thrilled to see them, and it reinforced the power of diversity in action.


The vehicles in our booth also spoke to our mission. My friend Bisi Ezerioha showcased two stunning Porsche models—a twin-turbo 935 and a fully electric 935 whale tail. Combining classic styling with cutting-edge tech has been Bisi's hallmark, and this year's lineup didn't disappoint. These vehicles, representing both innovation and Black design talent, are proof of the creative power within our community.




We also highlighted the impressive work of students from CTech High School in Fresno, CA, who contributed to building the Nemesis electric supercar by Trion Supercars—a Black-owned tech company with an ambitious vision. The Nemesis, featuring wireless charging and replaceable batteries, promises to redefine our interaction with electrified innovation.


Additionally, 5 O'Clock Garage from Rochester Hills, MI, partnered with us on an initiative where Black and Brown students from Detroit designed wraps for a 2018 Dodge Demon and a 1993 Toyota Supra. The 5 O'Clock Garage team wrapped both vehicles live in our SEMA booth, showcasing the students' creative work. Though owned by Matt Zubrick and Ed Armbruster, two middle-aged white men, 5 O'Clock Garage supports diversity in their business and embodies the importance of inclusive practices. As I often say, this isn't just a Black and Brown cause; it's about right versus wrong, a fight with no barriers.


Our booth also featured a drift car from Jackson Performance, spotlighting innovation in drifting. His E92 BMW was a head-turner featuring the latest in drifting innovation and impressive styling. Chris Jackson and I have worked closely over the years to advance this motorsport, and in the fight against bigotry, sexism, and racism, we stand united.


We also had a unique ride-along experience from KidStance, a company that customizes electric cars for kids, sparking their early interest in our industry through innovation and creativity. From custom body kits to wheels and interiors, KidStance demonstrates that the passion for automotive design and customization can start at a young age. It's a fantastic example of how innovation can inspire even the youngest enthusiasts, planting seeds for the future of our industry.


For our final display vehicle, we showcased a DIY home build by Mike Hill from Las Vegas—a two-seater kit car created from a motorcycle platform. Lightweight with a carbon fiber body, this build is the perfect representation of sustainability and the DIY spirit, taking used parts and fusing them with new tech to craft something entirely original.


Lastly, we featured two F1-style racing simulators from Williams Esports, underscoring our commitment to making education both fun and competitive. Through this collaboration, we aim to inspire learning in a dynamic way. Attendees had the chance to race for the fastest lap time on the Las Vegas Grand Prix course, bringing excitement and hands-on engagement to the SEMA experience and showcasing the potential for immersive learning in the automotive and motorsports industries.


This year's SEMA booth was more than a display—it celebrated innovation, diversity, and the shared commitment to make the industry inclusive and forward-thinking. Stay tuned as we release exciting interviews from the 2024 SEMA Show.

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