Author: 12VoltNews

MasterTech Expo 2026 RegistrationNow Open – Early Bird Savings Available

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Held March 12-15, 2026 at the Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, Ariz., MasterTech
Expo, the Industry’s Premier Event for Training, Innovation, and Networking, Will
Include a Host of New Opportunities for Returning and New Attendees

Tempe, Ariz., Oct. 3, 2025 – MasterTech Expo is proud to announce that registration is now open for MasterTech Expo 2026, held March 12-15, 2026 at the Mesa Convention Center in Mesa, Ariz. Attendees can take advantage of early bird pricing for a limited time.

“The 2025 Expo was our biggest and most successful event to date, with packed classes, incredible engagement, and valuable product launches,” said Bryan Schmitt, founder, CEO, and president of Mobile Solutions. “We took the feedback from attendees, manufacturers, and educators seriously, and as a result we’ve built 2026 to deliver an even stronger, more impactful experience.”

What’s New for 2026

  • Attendees can look forward to a series of new features and expanded opportunities, including:
  • Outdoor kickoff party with a massive video wall, live music, and dinner
  • Earlier manufacturer training slots to increase accessibility
  • Extended Sunday electives for deeper hands-on learning
  • Expanded hotel blocks for easier accommodations
  • A car show element featuring Dino’s Git Down, bringing added energy and foot traffic
  • Project-based workshops designed for real-world application
  • All meals included (breakfast, lunch, dinner) for attendees and exhibitors
  • Sunday awards ceremony celebrating industry excellence

“MasterTech is more than a trade show, it’s a community,” Schmitt added. “We combine hands-on training, industry insights, and product innovation in a way that connects directly with what professionals want and need. That’s why manufacturers and attendees alike choose MasterTech as their go-to event.”

Don’t miss out on four days of high-value training, networking, and inspiration. Secure your spot now and lock in early bird pricing.

Register today at www.mastertechexpo.com

Importel Drives Forward In 2025

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VANCOUVER BURNABY BC (10.03.25) The Importel Drive Forward 2025 brought a special 2-Day event dedicated to empowering BC and surrounding area dealers with the latest in Car Audio, both electronics and OEM integration. The event was Importel’s premier training and vendor showcase in British Columbia.

On Sunday, September 21st and Monday the 22nd the display area and training rooms were filled with dealers wanting to see the latest from Importel’s brands featuring exhibitors Kenwood JVC, Metra, iDataLink APX,VOXX and Avital.

Dealers and Importel team members connecting at the event.

Ricky Lima, National Sales Manager, related “Events like our Drive Forward 2025 are so terrific as there’s an in-person experience with attendees connecting with exhibitors, learning the latest that we have for them from Importel and interacting with dealers across their area.”

Attendees connecting and engaging with each other to share ideas for driving in-stores sales.

Airon Ayala, VOXX West Coast Regional, presented a very informative training session. During that session, Ayala provided dealers with the latest from VOXX highlighting cutting-edge firmware solutions, expanded T-Harness coverage, new hardware innovations and expert installation tips. With the fast approaching remote start season interest from dealers was high as Avital is a key brand with Importel.

Lima concluded, “We certainly thank our exhibitor partners and our dealers for attending this 2-day event to drive business forward as 2025 is wrapping up.”

The event took place at the Executive Suites Hotel and Conference Center in Metro Vancouver Burnaby BC. The training sessions were held in the Pavilion Room with the vendor showcase in the Centennial Room.

For more see importel.com

SEMA SHOW DEEPENS INVESTMENT IN NEXT-GEN BUILDERS WITH BFGOODRICH-SPONSORED YOUNG GUNS PROGRAM

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Top 10 Finalists to take center stage in exclusive peer-judged round at 2025
SEMA Show

DIAMOND BAR, CA (Oct. 3, 2025) – SEMA Battle of the Builders presented by Mothers Polish, the automotive industry’s premier vehicle showdown, is back at the SEMA Show this year with its reimagined Young Guns program, now sponsored by BFGoodrich. The revamped initiative shines a spotlight on the Top 10 BFGoodrich Young Guns finalists, featuring a live, on-stage judging session that highlights the next wave of automotive innovators.

In previous years, the Top 10 and Top 3 finalists in each competing category were selected by industry judges. Now, the Top 10 BFGoodrich Young Guns finalists present their builds live on stage to each other, and the builders vote for the Top 3 who move on to the championship round, alongside finalists from the other Battle of the Builders categories. This year’s live competition will be held in the North Hall (Booth #10168) of the Las Vegas Convention Center and hosted by Adrienne Janic (“AJ”) from Overhaulin’.

“We’re dedicated to advancing this competition and cultivating the next generation of builders who will help shape the future of the automotive aftermarket,” said RJ de Vera, SEMA Vice President of Marketing. “With BFGoodrich as the official sponsor of the Young Guns program, we’re amplifying opportunities for these talented builders to gain recognition and accelerate their careers.”

Launched in 2016, the Young Guns category recognizes automotive builders 29 years and younger who show exceptional skill and creativity. Beginning in mid-September, BFGoodrich Young Guns hopefuls will have a chance to be selected to participate in a virtual corral and competition where winners will receive a prize package that includes transportation of their build to the SEMA Show, as well as travel and hotel accommodations. This provides a unique opportunity for young builders to get their foot in the door and accelerate their career trajectory in the industry.

Now in its 12th year, SEMA Battle of the Builders presented by Mother’s Polish remains one of the world’s top platforms for builders to showcase their innovation and craftsmanship in the automotive aftermarket. The competition spans four categories:

  • Hot Rod & Hot Rod Truck
  • 4 Wheel Drive & Off-Road
  • Sport Compact, Import Performance, Luxury & Exotic
  • BFGoodrich Young Guns

The four class champions from each category compete for the coveted Battle of the Builders Best Overall Build title.

Judges review all qualifying applications, including detailed vehicle descriptions and photos, before evaluating the builds in person at the SEMA Show. The Top 10 finalists in each category are narrowed down to three, with BFGoodrich Young Guns finalists determined by their peers. These 12 finalists then take on the role of judges themselves, helping to decide the category winners and the overall champion.

“The SEMA Show is where the aftermarket industry comes together to celebrate creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation,” said Andy Tompkins, SEMA Trade Show Director. “The Battle of the Builders program, particularly the Young Guns category, truly captures the energy and passion that pushes our industry forward.”

For more details about SEMA Battle of the Builders presented by Mothers Polish and the BFGoodrich Young Guns program, visit www.semabattleofthebuilders.com.

The 2025 SEMA Show will be held from Nov. 4-7 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore cutting-edge products, forge new business connections, and gain insights into the latest trends in the aftermarket industry. For more information and to register, visit www.semashow.com.

All enthusiasts are invited to experience SEMA Show Friday – Open to the Public on Friday, Nov. 7, along with SEMA Fest. A variety of ticket options are available on SEMAFest.com. The Show excitement and action can also be followed throughout the week on SEMA Live streamed via YouTube and Meta.

Alpine Introduces New Rep Firms

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Auburn Hills, MI (10.02.2025) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. (“Alpine”) today welcomes four new independent representative firms to support their network of Alpine Authorized Retailers: Southwest Sales & Marketing, True Marketing Experts, Driven Marketing, and Sound Product Line. This change follows the announcement made in August to shift their sales support from direct to independent representation.

For the Midwest region, supporting the Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Louisiana markets is Southwest Sales & Marketing, led by Rep Principal Scott Ringo, who services Northeast Texas and Arkansas, Tommy McClure, who services Houston, Southeast Texas, and Northern Louisianna, Taylor Williams, for Austin, San Antonio, and Southern Louisiana, and continuing to service the Dallas/Fort Worth, West Texas, and Oklahoma is Mark Sartain, a former Direct Sales rep with 7 years from Alpine.

The remainder of the Midwest region will continue to be covered by Santa Fe Sales & Distributing (Missouri, Nebraska, Kansas, New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, Utah, Iowa, and parts of Idaho, and Illinois), Echo Sales and Marketing (North and South Dakota, Minnesota, and parts of Illinois), Midwest Sales and Marketing (Michigan), and Online Manufacturers Representatives (Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, West Virginia, and Western Pennsylvania). The Midwest region is led by Senior Regional Manager Marco Bregenzer and supported by Senior Business Development Specialist Andy Allen.

True Marketing Experts will represent Alpine in Southern California, led by Rep Principal Shane Varnum, who currently represents Alpine, and John Evans, who has represented Alpine as a Direct Sales Representative for 19 years. Driven Marketing, a new independent representative firm led by former Alpine Direct Sales Representatives with a combined 42 years of Alpine support, Greg Douglas and Pete Bobsin, will cover the Northern markets of California. For the southernmost states, Sound Product Lines, Inc., led by John Ash, will support the Arizona territory and Las Vegas market.

The remainder of the western region will continue to be covered by Falcon Sales & Marketing (Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Alaska) and W & W Marketing (Hawaii), and led by Regional Manager Jason Hannon, supported by Senior Business Development Specialist Jason Fine.

In the East Coast region, Access Reps, with Rep Principal Jason Vedovelli and sales rep Ben Rudnick, will service the New England market, including Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island.

Representation remains the same with Dynamic Sales & Marketing (Florida), Tech Marketing (Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia), and Trent Partners (New York and parts of New Jersey). Opus Marketing (Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, D.C., Virginia, and parts of New Jersey) is expanding its services to support Upstate New York.

The East Coast region continues to be supported by Regional Manager Roy Meyer with support from Senior Business Development Specialist Colette Beaudoin, Lifestyle Engagement Specialist Colin Vargo, and Lifestyle Engagement Supervisor and National Trainer Eric Brooks.

Visit www.alpine-usa.com or follow AlpineUSA on social media channels like Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, and Roblox.

SoundSkins Global Appoints Driven Marketing, LLC as New Rep Firm for Northern California

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CERRITOS CA (10.02.25) As part of its continued commitment to expanding dealer support and regional coverage, SoundSkins Global has named Driven Marketing, LLC as its independent manufacturer’s rep firm for Northern California, Central California, and Northern Nevada, effective 10/1/25.

Driven Marketing, based in Angels Camp, CA, was launched this year by industry veterans Greg Douglas and Pete Bobsin, who bring extensive experience and a dealer-first mindset to their new venture. With their proven track record in sales, product development, and dealer support, the firm is positioned to accelerate SoundSkins’ growth across the region.

Greg Douglas and Pete Bobsin (R) pictured in the company’s Angels Camp CA HQ.

“We are excited to partner with Driven Marketing to strengthen our presence in these key territories,” said Dennis Garcia, COO of SoundSkins Global. “Greg and Pete’s expertise and reputation for responsiveness align perfectly with our mission to deliver not only premium products, but also meaningful value, training, and support to our dealer network.”

Driven Marketing noted that its focus will be on helping SoundSkins dealers expand their business through high-quality product representation, territory expertise, and hands-on support, including assistance with marketing initiatives, product showcases, and training programs.

“SoundSkins’ reputation for premium sound deadening and enclosure solutions makes it an ideal fit for our team,” said Greg Douglas, Co-Founder of Driven Marketing. “We’re excited to introduce these products to more retailers and help them succeed with the solutions their customers are asking for.”

For more information about SoundSkins Global, visit www.soundskinsglobal.com.
For more information about Driven Marketing, visit www.drivenmarketing.pro.”

TIM PAGE IGNITES WESTERN SALES FOR MAXXSONICS AS NEW REGIONAL SALES MANAGER

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LIBERTYVILLE IL (10.02.25) Maxxsonics has turned up the volume on its Sales team with the addition of Tim Page as Western Regional Sales Manager. With an extensive background in car, Marine, and Powersports audio spanning 40 years, Tim is known for his drive, commitment to success, and proven ability to grow markets in the aftermarket audio industry. Tim is already fueling momentum by signing new accounts and creating a surge of excitement across the Western region at Maxxsonics. With years of experience in brand building and selling, Tim has a reputation for cultivating strong relationships with dealers and distributors while delivering measurable results. His early wins at Maxxsonics signal a bold new chapter for the company’s western stamp on the audio industry.

“Tim brings instant energy and focus to our team,” said Eddie Ramirez, National Sales Manager. “He’s already winning business and creating new opportunities for our dealers. His ability to connect, motivate, and deliver is exactly what we need as we accelerate growth in 2025.”

In the past, Tim has worked with Kenwood, Alpine, Directed, and Soundstream and his background includes extensive experience in managing dealer networks, creating long-term partnerships, and driving brand growth in competitive markets. His ability to connect with retailers and distributors while delivering measurable results has made him a trusted partner in the audio industry.

Tim brings proven expertise in business development, dealer support, and customer success — paired with a passion for audio that aligns perfectly with Maxxsonics’ vision for success and will be leading the Western U.S. Region, working with independent sales representatives who service our dealers, and at the same time, continue building the market. Tim has already begun making a significant impact at Maxxsonics, quickly signing new accounts and strengthening relationships across the Western territory with distributors and key dealers.

Tim Page in the MB Quart booth at a recent side-by-side event.

“Tim is the right person at the right time for Maxxsonics,” added Ramirez. “His energy, determination, and understanding of the dealer landscape are already producing results. He has hit the ground running and is building momentum with every new account.”

“Maxxsonics is clearly one of the leading forces in Audio and Powersports, and I’m excited to be part of the team. The UTV category is impressive, as well as audio in all categories,” said Tim Page, Western Regional Sales Manager at Maxxsonics.

As Maxxsonics continues to innovate the Mobile, Marine, and Powersports audio markets, Tim’s addition reinforces Maxxsonics’ commitment to hiring dynamic leaders who can spark growth, sales, and create lasting partnerships.

Maxxsonics leadership is confident Tim will continue to play a key role in expanding the company’s presence and driving growth across its family of brands, including MB Quart, Hifonics, Crunch, and Autotek.

FOR MORE SEE https://maxxsonics.com

Alpine to Introduce New Marine Product Line and Partnership with CPS Distributors, Inc. at 2025 IBEX

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Auburn Hills MI (10.01.2025) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. (“Alpine”), renowned for pushing the boundaries of premium audio innovation, is proud to announce the debut of its groundbreaking marine audio lineup at IBEX 2025, held at the Tampa Convention Center from October 7th to 9th. Designed to defy the elements and elevate every voyage, this new collection promises to redefine what’s possible in marine sound.

In a move that signals bold ambition and strategic growth, Alpine is also thrilled to announce its partnership with CPS, a leading OEM marine distributor known for its deep industry expertise and commitment to excellence.

“This isn’t just another product launch—it’s a statement,” said Dan Sparks, Director of Sales at Alpine. “We’ve engineered this lineup to deliver immersive, high-fidelity audio in the harshest marine environments. And with CPS as our distribution partner, we’re poised to make serious waves.”

The new marine audio series—whose details remain tightly under wraps—has already sparked curiosity across the industry. IBEX attendees will be among the first to experience the unveiling, with exclusive demos and previews available at Alpine’s booth, 1-906

“We’ve always believed that great sound should travel—whether it’s across open water or into new markets,” added Dan Sparks. “This launch is the beginning of something much bigger.”

“I speak for the entire CPS team when I say we are ecstatic to partner with such a legendary brand as Alpine,” says Brandon Lang, Vice President. “Alpine has always led the way in premium sound systems.”

More information, including product specifications and features, will be released during the IBEX show. Staff from Alpine and CPS Distributors, Inc. will be in attendance to conduct demos and answer product questions.

TechForce Puts Technician Shortage in Spotlight with National Competition at SEMA Show

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–– Foundation opens public voting to crown two grand prize winners in the 2025 Techs Rock Awards, celebrating the students and working techs who keep America moving —

DIAMOND BAR CA(10.01.2025) – With a nationwide technician shortage threatening key sectors from transportation to energy, one nonprofit is turning the spotlight toward the young men and women stepping up to keep America running.

TechForce Foundation and the SEMA Show announce the 2025 Techs Rock Awards public vote, inviting Americans to help crown the top student and working technicians in the country. Voting is open now through Oct. 15 at TechForce.org/Vote.

“This vote is about more than prizes,” said Jennifer Maher, CEO of TechForce Foundation. “It’s about showing the next generation of techs that the country is behind them. We talk a lot about the technician shortage, and this is a chance to support the solution.”

Two Grand Prize Winners – one aspiring student technician and one working professional technician – will be chosen by public vote and honored live at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas on Nov. 5, the largest automotive event in the United States.

“Part of the future of the automotive aftermarket depends on the dedication and passion of today’s technical students,” said SEMA Vice President of Marketing RJ de Vera. “It’s an honor to celebrate these emerging technicians through our collaboration with the Techs Rock Awards and inspire them to continue moving the industry forward.”

A national panel of judges – including ChrisFix, YouTube’s most-followed automotive DIY expert; Melissa Scoles, President & CEO, QA1 Precision Products, Inc.; Emily Reeves, YouTube personality; Charles “Humble Mechanic” Sanville; Rick Love, President of Vintage Air; Myles Kovacs, Co-Founder & CEO of TIS & Dropstars Wheels; and Mary Culler, President of Ford Philanthropy – selected 12 category winners from hundreds of nominations submitted. Each finalist has already earned over $3,000 in prizes and now competes for a $15,000-plus grand prize package that includes Carlyle tools, travel, and national recognition.

NATIONAL FINALISTS

Future Techs (Students)

Automotive & Motorsports – Marcello Dean, McPherson College (KS)
Diesel – Nathaneal Watkins, Big Sandy Community and Technical College (KY)
Collision, Restoration & Welding – William Morrison, Northwood University (MI)
Aviation, Motorcycle & Marine – Sabrina Marrero, Aviation Institute of Maintenance, Hasbrouck Heights Campus (NJ)
Emerging Technologies – Caleb Marc, Lincoln Technical Institute, Union Campus (NJ)
HVAC, Home & Buildings – Dylan Matjazic, Universal Technical Institute, Canton Campus (MI)

Working Techs (Professionals)

Automotive & Motorsports – David Borer, Reineke Family Dealerships (OH)
Diesel – Cristian Trasandes, San Diego Miramar College (CA)
Collision, Restoration & Welding – Jose Caballero-Vallejo, Team Toyota (PA)
Aviation, Motorcycle & Marine – Mia Jackson, Hinckley Yachts Chesapeake (MD)
Emerging Technologies – Trevor Burgin, Pinnacle Career Institute (MO)
HVAC, Home & Buildings – Bryan Baker, Cool Breeze Heating & Air (FL)

The Techs Rock Awards were created to celebrate students and working techs who go above and beyond, not just in technical skill, but in character, leadership, and drive. Since its inception in 2018, the program has awarded 77 students and working techs. It’s one of many TechForce initiatives focused on building respect and visibility for high-tech, hands-on careers.

SiriusXM Turns October Into A Monthlong Celebration of Podcasts Featuring Exclusive Live Events With Conan O’Brien, Katie Nolan, Freakonomics Radio & More

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NEW YORK – October 1, 2025 – This year, SiriusXM is celebrating International Podcast Day by launching an entire month dedicated to creators and listeners. The company today declared October as SiriusXM Podcasts Month — featuring a coast-to-coast series of live events that bring some of the biggest names in the industry from SiriusXM’s podcasting slate directly to fans.

Throughout the month, SiriusXM Podcasts will host exclusive live tapings and special programming from various venues, including its flagship New York and Los Angeles studios, showcasing the breadth and diversity of its podcast slate. From comedy and sports to culture and business, SiriusXM Podcasts Month highlights the industry leader’s role as a home for the most dynamic voices in audio and underscores SiriusXM’s commitment to connecting listeners with the voices they love.

The festivities kick off on October 5 with a live taping of “Conan O’Brien Needs A Friend” at The Fonda Theatre in Los Angeles. Additional highlights include live sessions of “Busted Open,” “How Did This Get Made,” “The Bonfire,” “Casuals with Katie Nolan,” “The Nikki & Brie Show,” and “Freakonomics Radio.” A schedule below, with more to be announced.

“Podcasts are no longer just something people listen to — they’re woven into daily life and culture,” said SiriusXM’s Senior Vice President of Podcast Content, Adam Sachs. “With SiriusXM Podcasts Month, we’re celebrating that impact by turning one day into an entire month of live, can’t-miss events with some of the biggest and most beloved names in the medium.”

All events will be available to SiriusXM subscribers nationwide — sign up for a chance to see your favorite podcast record live in-person in NYC or LA at www.siriusxm.com/podcastsmonth. U.S./18+. No Purchase Necessary.

SiriusXM Podcast Month Schedule
“Conan O’Brien Needs A Friend” LIVE — The Fonda Theatre, LA — 10/5
“The Bonfire” LIVE — SiriusXM’s NYC Fishbowl — 10/6
“Freakonomics Radio” LIVE — SiriusXM’s NYC Fishbowl — 10/8
“The Nikki & Brie Show” LIVE — SiriusXM’s LA Garage — 10/10
“How Did This Get Made” LIVE — SiriusXM’s LA Garage — 10/15
“Casuals With Katie Nolan” LIVE — SiriusXM’s NYC Fishbowl — 10/15
“Busted Open” LIVE — SiriusXM’s NYC Fishbowl — 10/23


Eligible customers can get their first three months of SiriusXM for free. Click here to sign up and experience all that SiriusXM has to offer. See Offer Details.

Pops Shop Connects With Enthusiasts At Community Events

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FOREST MS (9.30.25) Pops Shop, with Adam Young at the wheel, has been open in Forest for the last 10 months. Adam has a long history related to automotive upgrades and recently opened his new retail store that also includes vehicle repair and aftermarket upgrades.

Adam Young pictured by the sales counter and it’s very consumer friendly showroom.

“We now have our showroom pretty much together along with the shop where we do a lot of repairs. Attending the recent Street event in downtown Forest this past weekend was the kickoff for our marketing campaign to connect with consumers. Forest is a community in rural Mississippi with a population just over 5000. The event downtown had many local businesses exhibiting and the turnout from locals was very strong. When we opened the store the Monday, after the event, we actually had people come in wanting to know more about what we could do to add enjoyment to their rides” Adam stated on a phone call.

This amazing mural is painted on the side of the building.

Continuing, “Mark Sealy, from N&H Electronics in Hattiesburg, was on site supporting our efforts. Thank you Mark. Ricky and the team are a very strong business partners and we certainly appreciate the wide variety of brands they have in stock for next day delivery.”

The well equipped shop is set for 12volt upgrades along with aftermarket upgrades and vehicle service work.

Adam Young underneath the Pops Shop tent at the Street event with Mark Sealy behind the camera.

“Adam has been very supportive of DS18, PowerBass and more brands we distribute since opening up his shop. Always good to see some energetic enthusiasm flow in this world of 12volt” Ricky Gibson relayed.

For more contact 601-826-0030