2025 SEMA Show Education Program Revs Up with Free Training Sessions

DIAMOND BAR, CA (07.31.25) – Attendees at the 2025 SEMA Show, held November 4-7 in Las Vegas, will have several opportunities to develop new skills, connect with industry leaders, and foster business strategies as part of this year’s SEMA Education Program. The fully reimagined lineup of free, expert-led training sessions will bring value and insight to the thousands of industry professionals in attendance at the world’s leading automotive trade show.

Hosted in the centrally located, recently renovated North Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center, the SEMA Education Program will run from Tuesday, November 4, through Thursday, November 6, offering a dynamic experience that complements the high-energy learning environment experienced on the Show floor.

“We invite all attendees and exhibitors to advance their professional and business growth during the Show,” said Gary Vigil, SEMA Senior Manager of Professional Development. “The SEMA Show has always provided learning and self-advancement opportunities through education, and this year we are offering free sessions within eight education tracks to address the key subjects that are influencing the aftermarket today.”

Education Tracks
The eight education tracks categorize sessions according to subject matter, allowing attendees to easily find programs that fit their professional interests:

  • Aftermarket Updates and Future Trends: Explore the current state of the specialty-equipment market and the long/short-term impacts of top trends.
  • Emerging and Executive Leadership: The Dale Carnegie Organization will illustrate how to listen and communicate with a workforce that encompasses differing generations, and the SEMA Women’s Leadership Symposium will empower leaders with the skills, mindset, and strategies needed to drive exceptional performance.
  • Inside the Shop: Technicians, shop managers, and builders will discuss trends and challenges that shop owners currently face.
  • Legislative and Regulatory: Learn about current changes and misconceptions in emissions compliance. Discover how to manage risks, ensure compliance, and drive business success.
  • Sales and Marketing: Understand how to engage your audience using Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook, and gain insights from top industry sales and marketing experts.
  • Small Business Strategy: Find hacks and tools to help grow your business. Learn how to leverage AI, use cloud computing and entrepreneurial operating systems (EOS), or run a functional family business while avoiding a feud.
  • Talent Management: Turn your team into a well-run machine by learning how to hire and retain young talent through training, management, and motivation.
  • Vehicle Technology: Stay up-to-date on the latest changes in advanced fuels and powertrains, suspension technology, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).

Partnered Programs
Training sessions, both free and fee-based, from the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR), Tire Industry Association (TIA), and Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) will broaden the range of specialized courses offered at the 2025 SEMA Show:

  • I-CAR will host courses on MIG welding, safety protocols for working on electric vehicles with high-voltage systems, and modifying or repairing cars with ADAS functionalities.
  • TIA will offer sessions that can help tire retailers protect themselves from liability, navigate the current employment market, and retain talent.
  • SCRS will show attendees how to put their business on a path of maximum efficiency, gain an online presence, and identify incoming trends and technologies.

“The SEMA Education Program embodies our commitment to empowering the automotive community through knowledge, innovation, and collaboration,” said Andy Tompkins, SEMA Trade Show Director. “With free, expert-led sessions tailored to every corner of the industry, this year’s program is more dynamic than ever.”

Sign up for education sessions while registering for the Show or log into your Registration Resource Center to add sessions to your agenda. For more information about the 2025 SEMA Show Education Program and to get involved, visit www.semashow.com/education. For information about the 2025 SEMA Show or to register, visit www.semashow.com. To view this year’s floorplan, log on to www.semashow.com/floorplan.

Vinland Introduces Next-Gen Infotainment System

FAIRVIEW, TN (07.31.25) – Vinland, a premium automotive electronics brand, and Elite Distributor Alliance (EDA) today announced a strategic partnership to expand the availability of Vinland’s VISION series vehicle-specific car stereos across the United States. This collaboration pairs EDA’s powerful distribution capabilities with Vinland’s advanced infotainment solutions to deliver a superior in-car technology experience.

Introducing the VISION Series by Vinland
The VISION Series represents the next generation of custom-fit infotainment systems, built to integrate seamlessly with specific vehicle platforms. Equipped with a Qualcomm Snapdragon octa-core processor, 8GB RAM, and 128GB storage, the VISION Series runs Android 13 operation system and features a vibrant 1280×720 QLED touchscreen for a fluid and responsive user experience.

Key Features:

  • Seamless Integration: iDatalink Maestro compatibility and Vinland’s V-Control apps offer full access to factory features, climate settings, parking assist, and more.
  • Smart Connectivity: Wireless CarPlay & Android Auto, dual Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX/aptX HD, 4G LTE, and Wi-Fi hotspot.
  • AI & Smart Apps: Built-in AI assistant, Google Play access, real-time GPS tracking, route playback, and OTA firmware updates.
  • Safety Features: Front and rear recording cameras (sold separately), 1080P recording, G-sensor collision detection, and parking surveillance.
  • Advanced Audio/Video: 4x49W amplifier with DSP, 36-band EQ, time alignment, crossovers, 6 RCA pre-outs: Front, Rear and Subwoofer (4V), HDMI input, SPDIF optical and coaxial output.
  • User-Centric Interface: Customizable home screen and ultra-fast 2-second boot time.

Vehicle Compatibility
The VISION Series is available for a wide range of popular models, including:

  • Jeep Wrangler (JL) 2018–2023
  • Jeep Gladiator (JT) 2019–2023
  • Jeep Grand Cherokee 2011–2020
  • Chevrolet Silverado 2014–2019
  • GMC Sierra 2014–2019
  • Ram 1500 (Manual & Auto AC) 2013–2018
  • Ford F-150 2009–2012
  • Toyota Tacoma 2005–2023
  • Toyota RAV4 2019–2021
  • Toyota 4Runner 2010–2019
  • Toyota Tundra 2007–2021
  • Toyota Camry 2015–2020
  • Honda Accord 2013–2015
  • Subaru Outback 2010–2017
  • Subaru Forester / WRX / WRX STI 2016–2021

Nationwide Availability Through EDA
Members of the EDA Distribution Group will oversee the nationwide rollout of the Vision Series across all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Authorized Vinland Dealers will be equipped to offers customers swift system upgrades, ensuring fast and seamless service delivery.

Executive Statements
“Vinland’s partnership with ADS to combine Vinland’s Vehicle Specific solutions with Maestro technology is a homerun.” said Josh Eatherly, Executive Vice President of EDA. “This partnership reflects our commitment to providing dealers with top-tier technology and tailored solutions.”

Chuanyi Cai (Michael), General Manager of Vinland added, “We’re thrilled to collaborate with EDA Distribution Group, whose reputation and reach allow us to bring the VISION Series to more vehicles and more drivers across the country. Their logistics and support are key to delivering an exceptional experience.”

Availability
Vinland’s VISION Series vehicle-specific stereos are now available through EDA Distribution Group members nationwide. For information about availability, pricing, or becoming an authorized dealer, please contact your local EDA distributor.

The 29th Annual Sanford Sound Show N’ Shine Definitely Shined On Sunday July 27th

SANFORD, ME (07.30.25) – “This year’s Show N’ Shine was the fifth at our new location and was terrific even though the weather was not cooperative with clouds in the morning and rain in the afternoon. This year we were packed at our 29th Annual Show N’ Shine as we had over 160 cars registered. It seemed almost every square foot of our property was filled with Show N’ Shine cars and activities. Vehicles and tents even lined the ground along Highway 4 in both directions” owner Jack Bogard related.

This drone overhead shot from over the top of Sanford Sound location looks out to the street.
This drone shot shows the front and the back area of the Sanford Sound location.

Continuing “Saturday the Sanford Sound Team spent the day getting everything ready for the Show N’ Shine. Local business owners said they had never seen Route 4 so busy on Sunday” Bogard offered.

“Eighteen area businesses were on site showing their products that 12volt enthusiasts could utilize. Vehicle restoration, lift modifications, stickers and more were offered. Food trucks were on site and the lemonade stand reported selling over 300 refreshments..snow cones too. The Becker BBQ trailer was packed and the BBQ was so good. We also had several clubs attend the Show N’ Shine in big numbers. Also, we had a number of cars with out of state license plates… including Connecticut, Vermont, New York and Rhode Island. I was in the golf cart with MS Sanford Sound handing out freebees from vendors and it got a lot of attention. The bounce house and demos in the RZR and van got plenty of attendees smiling” Bogard added.

Sanford Sound team members out front under the tent. (LtoR) Indigo, Bill, Tim, Jack Bogard, Justin, Steve, Ivan and Nate.
This custom Camaro Hot Rod definitely got attention.

Jacob Gromovsky rolled with a Sony vehicle over 1100 miles from Georgia to be on site at the Sanford Sound Show N’ Shine.

Area Memphis Audio rep Chad Boone was in the house. Boone related “The Sanford Sound Show N’ Shine was the most amazing dealer show I have attended. The turnout of attendees and cool cars created excitement in the air. The bounce house was right behind our booth and drew a lot of traffic for demos in our loaded RZR.”

The Memphis Audio booth was set up early by Chad Boone with the bounce house just behind.
Just a few of the cars positioned out front.

Bogard concluded “A really big thing for us at a Sanford Sound Show N’ Shine event is seeing all the happy, smiling faces. Members of the crowd were showing their rides and checking out other’s rides.The level of customization of the vehicles in the show this year was amazing. Long term this will lead to residual business for us at Sanford Sound. A huge shout out to all, especially family and staff who participated in, and contributed to, the very successful 29th Annual Sanford Sound Show N’ Shine. To cap the day for our team members and family enjoyed a well deserved catered dinner that all enjoyed in our installation area.”

After the show wrapped on Sunday evening, members of the Sanford Sound Team and family gathered for a delicious catered dinner in the installation area.

Sanford, ME is a town of just over 20,000. Sanford Sound is a responsible business member of the community and hires local police to be on site to help with the increased traffic for the event which packed Route 4 on Sunday afternoon.

For more see sanfordsound.com and @sanfordsound.

Firstech Unveils FTX Dash Camera: Empowering Dealerships with High-Value, In-Demand Accessory

SEATTLE, WA (07.30.25) – Firstech, the award-winning innovator behind leading vehicle security solutions, today announced the launch of the FTX dash camera, a sleek 4K dash camera designed specifically for automotive dealerships and expeditors. The FTX empowers dealerships to offer a highly sought-after accessory at the point of sale or service, meeting growing consumer demand for reliable in-car video recording.

The surge in viral dash camera footage has dramatically increased public awareness and desire for dash cameras. However, consumers are uncertain regarding where to purchase these products and secure proper installation. The FTX dash camera fills this crucial gap, providing auto dealerships with a high-value attachment that capitalizes on this demand and establishing them as a trusted source for dash cameras.

“We recognized a significant opportunity for dealerships to enhance their accessory programs and provide genuine value to their customers,” said Jason Kaminski, Firstech’s Managing Director. “The FTX dash camera is not just a premium 4K recording device; it’s a strategic tool for dealerships to boost revenue, improve customer satisfaction, and leverage the increasing popularity of dash cam technology.”

The FTX dash camera delivers crystal-clear 4K resolution, ensuring every detail on the road is captured with precision. As a brand exclusive to auto dealerships, FTX ensures no retail channel competition, solidifying its value proposition for partners.

Key Features of the FTX Dash Camera:

  • 4K Ultra HD Recording: Powered by a premium Sony image sensor.
  • Dealership-Exclusive Brand: No retail channel or online competition ensures partner profitability.
  • Streamlined Installation: FTX dash cameras can be installed using the hardwired harness or plug-and-play OBD-II adapter, both retaining crucial parking mode functionality
  • Easy-to-Use Smartphone App: Facilitates convenient video download and management to iOS or Android devices.
  • High-Demand Accessory: Taps into the booming market for dash cameras.
  • North American Customer Service: Toll-free and online support and industry-leading 3-year warranty on all FTX products.

Firstech is committed to supporting its partners with high-quality products and robust programs. The FTX dash camera is poised to become a critical component for dealerships looking to expand their accessory portfolio and cater to the evolving needs of modern drivers.

Availability:
The FTX dash camera is now available for order by automotive dealerships, expeditors, and 12 retailers servicing dealerships. Interested business partners can contact orders@myfirstech.com.
Strict territory restrictions may apply

Powerbass PB Series Amplifiers In Stock Now

ONTARIO, CA (07.30.25) – While borrowing some elements from our former ACS series, the new PB Series offers upgraded features, terminals and a dual layer PCB all packed in the most compact chassis allowable.

To accomplish this we selected SMD parts and engineered a brand new high density heat sink engineered for maximum efficiency and cooling. The result, an all new line-up of two, four, five and mono channel models that offer amazing performance and fantastic value.

Ultra efficient, the PB Series amplifiers produce outstanding low distortion high fidelity audio in a footprint small enough to fit nicely in nearly any vehicle. The PB Series Amplifiers provide the perfect mix of performance and style and all models are in stock now!

  • Upgraded 45 DegreeTerminal Design
  • Mono Blocks / Multi-Channel Models
  • Double Layer PGB
  • Variable Subsonic Filter
  • Low Level RCA Inputs
  • High Level Input (Not available on 5Ch Model)
  • Remote Soft Delay Turn On/Off Circuit
  • HPF/LPF Filter Selection Full Range Models
  • LPF Filter Selection Mono Block Models
  • Variable Gain Control
  • Calibrated Visual Clip Indicator
  • Wired Secondary Remote Gain Control – Sold Separately (PB-GAIN1)
  • Protection Circuit: Impedance Over-load, Speaker Short, Circuit, Thermal Overheating, and DC Output

Visit powerbassusa.com for more.

Two Nights of Sony Training, Two Unforgettable Experiences – GoFast Solutions

MIDDLETOWN, CT (07.29.25) – The first night brought dealers together at our Middletown headquarters for a high-impact training session with Sony’s Global Product Training Manager, Kris Bulla. Known for his deep knowledge and engaging delivery, Kris kept the room locked in with insightful strategies on selling Sony’s Core and Mobile ES product lines, along with real-world technical tips that dealers could take back to their shops the next day.

President & CEO David Prinz Chilling’ n Grilling’

As if that wasn’t enough, attendees were treated to a home-style BBQ dinner, grilled and served by none other than GoFast President and Founder, David Prinz. It was a night that felt like a family cookout—paired with world-class training.

Night Two: Dave & Buster’s – Natick, MA

The energy didn’t stop there. On night two, we brought the action to Dave & Buster’s in Natick, MA, where our Boston-area dealers showed up in force. Kris delivered once again, this time bringing his “football coach” style to the stage — pushing the crowd to think differently, dig deeper, and elevate their approach to selling Sony.

Dave & Busters Natick, Ma
Sony’s Global Trainer Kris Bulla

Between the great food, the high-energy environment, and the opportunity to connect with peers, the Natick event had all the makings of a winning playbook for success.

Industry Respect, Dealer Engagement
GoFast VP of Sales Bob Hernandez captured the impact of the events perfectly:

“Kris Bulla is one of the rare voices in our industry whose reputation isn’t just well known — it’s earned. Dealers traveled from all over to hear him speak, and nearly three hours later, not a single person had left. That kind of engagement speaks volumes. They didn’t just attend — they wanted more.”

Thank You, Sony Team
We want to give a huge thank you to Kris Bulla, Jake Gromovsky, and the entire Sony team for their time, effort, and dedication. These two nights weren’t just about product knowledge — they were about empowering our dealers, strengthening partnerships, and building momentum for what’s next.

Visit gofst.com and sony.com for more.

DOW Technologies Rewards+ Rebate Program

TAMPA, FL (07.2925) – DOW Technologies recently wrapped up the first quarter of its Rewards+ program with a bang! Customers who participated are receiving their well-earned rebate checks this week. One lucky winner got a surprise delivery when DOW’s president and CEO, John Yodzis, hand-delivered the first quarterly lottery check on Tuesday, July 22.

Launched on April 1st, DOW’s Rewards+ program gives customers the chance to earn up to 5% back on their purchases of Red Atom brand products each quarter. The more a customer buys, the higher the percentage of the rebate. Members of DOW’s Smart Services program earn a percentage boost for their rebates. Qualifying purchases totaling $500 or more throughout the quarter also enter customers into a growing jackpot lottery, funded by a percentage of Red Atom sales throughout the quarter.

In just its first quarter, DOW paid out over $8,000 in rebates — and the jackpot for the Rewards+ lottery hit a massive $10,125.59. Fortech LLC of Chattanooga, TN, was the big winner, and John Yodzis personally delivered the check to mark the occasion in style.

“We’re very happy with the results from this first quarter of Rewards+,” said Drew Fischer, vice president, home integration and specialty sales. “Our goal with this program is to put cash back in the pockets of the customers that are loyal to our Red Atom brand. We want to support the dealers that are supporting us.”

“I was honored to get the opportunity to deliver the lottery check in person to Nick Clark of Fortech,” said John Yodzis, president & CEO of DOW Technologies. “The lottery is an opportunity to make a big impact for a dealer and create some real excitement in the industry.”

To learn more about DOW Technologies, please visit www.dowtechnologies.com or call 1.800.627.2900. For more details about the Rewards+ program, visit www.dowtechnologies.com/rewardsplus.

MB Quart Discus DS2 Shallow Subwoofers Bring Powerful, Punchy Bass Without the Bulk

LIBERTYVILLE, IL (07.29.25) – Easy to fit and built for serious bass performance, MB Quart Discus DS2 shallow subwoofers are engineered to deliver deep, clean sound in a compact, low-profile design, perfect for tight spaces like trunks or custom installations. When room is limited but your customers want harder thumps where it matters, TURN UP THE BASS with DS2!

The entire line of Discus shallow subwoofers includes 12-inch (DS2-304), 10-inch (DS2-254), and 8-inch (DS2-204) Ohm DVC shallow subwoofer sizes. With only less than 3 inches of mounting depth into your customer’s car audio install/setup – every MB Quart DS2 Discus shallow subwoofer makes installation easy and simple for them.

To learn more, click here.

Rifle Supply Mid-Summer Bash 3 Drew An Enthusiastic Crowd

HUNTINGTON BEACH, CA (07.28.25) – The Rifle Supply Mid-Summer Bash 3 packed the center on Saturday July 26th in Huntington Beach. There were over two dozen vendors on site as attendees enjoyed food, music, prizes, raffles and checked out a number of gun supply products. POWERBASS was on site with Erik Harbour and Juan Quintana showing Bluetooth portables along with SoundBars and more.

Erik Harbour, POWERBASS VP, related “Seems there is a lot of crossover with the Rifle Supply customer base and and 12volt enthusiasts. The Rifle Supply team members are friends and we participate with them at local events. Rifle Supply events have been great for allowing us to tap into a new customer base that enjoys time outdoors where portable Bluetooth speakers make a great addition to enjoy some tunes while slinging some lead or just hanging out with friends after a fun day at the range.”

It was packed outside the Rifle Supply store in Huntington Beach and PowerBass was front and center.
Juan Quintana shows PowerBass products to attendees.

Concluding Harbour offered “We, Juan and I, were busy throughout the event and the crowd was estimated at over 1000 people having fun from 10AM until after 3 Saturday afternoon. We also had opportunities to talk with attendees about music and gear they had in their rides or on their motorcycles. A great way for us to learn what consumers are looking for and to connect them with POWERBASS to see what products we offer.”

Visit powerbassusa.com for more.

The Steel Valley Regional XIV… The Best Ever

WHEELING, WV (07.28.25) – The Steel Valley Regional 2025 filled the WesBanco Arena from July 18th thru the 20th. Once again the event, orchestrated by Larry Chijner, brought the Sound Quality community together from across the U.S. and beyond. The WesBanco Arena floor was filled with nearly 50 of the most amazing, totally decked out customized vehicles that showcased Sound Quality to the MAX.

The WesBanco Arena is a terrific venue for SVR events.

Larry Chijner literally lived the Steel Valley Regional for the 14th time. Therefore there is no one better qualified to deliver the event wrap up than Larry himself. His words are below along with a few SVR XIV images.

This image of the SVR competition in action from Braydon Cooper.

SVR XIV Wrap Up… Its been a few days and I wanted to thank all the competitors that came from California to Florida to Maine to Iowa and everywhere in USA to support SVR XIV . This years show featured Top 48SQ Showdown with over 7500 Dollars Payout to the Competitors along with Prizes and Trophies with Prizes up to 30th Place. We also had IASCA 3X, MECA 4X, EMMA 3X and MASQ 3X. Organizations that provided trophies and awards.

ESB Audio and ZAPCO, with Chris Bennett in the house, was one of the vendors on site supporting their competitors.

First and Foremost I must thank Richard Papasin and Keith Turner for doing the scoring and along with registration for the event ! The music was provided by myself along with ICA to be inclusive to include all the Organizations! Also want to thank his assistant Lori Wallace who helped with scoresheets and tabulations. Lori and Mic Wallace along with Keith Turner were there and have attended every SVR we have ever had!

Of the Top 48 SQ Showdown the Top 20 were awarded and called up to the front.

“This year’s SVR was awesome as everyone was so excited to show their rides. Our 6 judges were very busy all day Saturday and some on Sunday judging cars and in all we had 280 score sheets to review. I agree with Larry SVR XIV was the very best and we look forward to 2026” Richard Papasin related.

Larry Chijner conducting the awards presentation.

Also helping coordinate the show was Keith Turner and Tarsha Turner with IASCA as well as Autosound Showcase. Doing this show takes a group effort and about a year’s preparation. Top 48 Judges were Mic Wallace, Mike Myers, Scott Welch, Fred Lynch, Harry Kimura and Chris Myers.

Richard Papasin with his Promoter of the Year award. Troy Loferski snapped this and many more images from the event.

The following people coordinated the Organizations. IASCA ..Keith Turner EMMA ..Richard Papasin MASQ.. Howard Cantor MECA..The Ballingers and Tony Pasquale. I will leave the Orgs to announce their own Judges. This year I decided to try and unify by having all the Orgs at the show and they were responsible for their own part. ECA, MCA and WCA were represented with using their music and scoresheets for the SQ Showdown!

Brian Mitchell once again trailered his award winning Arc Audio project showcasing another amazing Phat Install.

This show could not go off without manufacturers support! Here is a list of the SVRXIV Sponsors: USAcoustics-Mike Nichols, Jeffrey Topp- Judges Support,CAPTURE THIS ENTERTAINMENT-Cassie & Scott Hall – Judges Support & FLORIDA SOUND QUALITY -GOLD SPONSOR- Angie !

ARC AUDIO-TITLE SPONSOR…Brian Mitchell
ZAPCO/ESB-DIAMOND SPONSOR…Ernie/Chris/George/Enzo
KARMA MOBILE AUDIO-GOLD SPONSOR-Adam
JLAUDIO-GOLD SPONSOR..Manville/Ian at Garmin
AUDIO INTENSITY..GOLD SPONSOR-Scott Welch
ONLY TINTS- -PRIZE SPONSORED-Matthew Kremer
CREATIVE PRODUCTS DESIGN-BRONZE SPONSOR. Mike B
ITALIA HI-FI- GOLD SPONSOR…Dan Merritt/Greg Thompson
RESONIX -PRIZE SPONSOR-Nick Apicella
STEREO INSTALLS-TROPHY SPONSOR..Bryan Huston/David
MSC AMERICA-GOLD SPONSOR.@Jeff Smith, Larry Penn
DAVIS DISTRIBUTION -GOLD SPONSOR.Chuck/Nate/Kevin
GENESIS AUDIO Ltd- SILVER SPONSOR-John Senters
LIQUID HI-FI -GOLD SPONSOR…Ronald K Buffington

Overall i think this was the best Steel Valley Regional yet and just want to THANK everyone. If I missed anyone, please forgive me and i will update the post!! As for Next Year, We shall see. Plans are in the works for SVR XV July 2026 at Wesbanco Arena with a few changes to make it even better! More will be revealed at a later date …In the meantime, I’m getting ready for Finals in Birmingham.

Repeat winner and Champion Mark Bruno lifting his awards. Bruno trailered his award winning purple Challenger from California to compete.

The Results are on the corresponding sites as well as the Top 48 SQ Showdown..

“This show could not happen if it wasn’t for the support of the Industry as a whole. !f you see them, THANK them!” -Larry Chijner