DIAMOND BAR, CA (01.06.26) – The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) is now accepting applications for the 2026 SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund, an initiative designed to help students and emerging professionals launch successful careers in the automotive industry.
Through the scholarship program, eligible students may receive awards of up to $5,000 to support their education at accredited universities, colleges, and vocational or technical schools in the United States and Canada. SEMA also offers loan forgiveness awards of up to $2,000 for employees of SEMA-member companies who have completed a qualifying program of study and are actively repaying student loans.
“The SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund exists to break down barriers and create opportunities for the next generation of aftermarket professionals,” said Joe Escobar, SEMA Manager of Recognition Programs. “By investing in both students and existing employees alike, we are building a stronger talent pipeline, fostering career growth, and securing the future of our industry.”
The SEMA Memorial Scholarship Fund is designed to promote career development and create access to opportunities in the automotive aftermarket. As part of this initiative, scholarship recipients are invited to attend the SEMA Show, where they can gain industry insight, connect with industry leaders, and explore career pathways firsthand.
For students like Zachary Beenen, the support from SEMA enabled him to attend the college of his choice: Oklahoma State University. Beenen is currently majoring in mechanical and aerospace engineering with a future career in the area of performance vehicles.
“I am forever thankful for scholarships like SEMA’s that will help me achieve my career goals of working in the performance vehicle industry, while getting the many experiences that college has to offer,” he said.
Scholarship applications are open to high school seniors and college students in the United States and Canada who demonstrate a passion for working in the automotive industry. All disciplines are welcome.
Those interested in applying for a loan forgiveness award must be employed by a SEMA member business, demonstrate passion for an automotive career, possess a degree or certificate from a college, university, or career tech school in the United States or Canada, and have a minimum of $2,000 in outstanding student loans.
LOVELAND, CO (01.05.26) – The KICKER AMA ArenaCross filled the Blue Arena in Loveland CO on Saturday January 3rd for Round 3 of the 25-26 PRO AMA ArenaCross schedule.
Riders hit the track on the first race
“It was cold outside but inside the action on the track was red hot and the attendees were Livin’Loud. Riders were Livin’Loud and fast on the track too. KICKER had a display set up in the lobby area and virtually everyone who entered the Blue Arena passed by the KICKER setup with a selection of products on display” Lorin Morrell, Maddog-Media who orchestrates the KICKER AMA ArenaCross Series stated.
The KICKER booth was set in the lobby for attendees to check out when they entered the event.
Lorin Morrell was joined in the booth by Louie and Ray (LtoR) from Foss Car Toys in Ft Collins.
As enthusiasts came through the lobby they stopped at the booth to KICKER to check out products. Loiue and Ray from FOSS Car Toys in Ft Collins were in the booth with Morrell. “Colorado is truck country so the KICKER L7T under seat drew a lot of attention as did the Harley products and woofers. Powersports is strong in the Rockies so the KICKER PowerBar grabbed attention too. Marine is a growing category in the area along with life style products” Morrell continued.
The 7000 seats in the Blue Arena were almost full.
Lorin along with Louie and Ray from Foss Car Toys flank the winner of the T-shirt toss with the KICKER BULLFROG prize.
The Blue Arena was built as a hockey arena that holds about 7000 people. For the ArenaCross event the stands were pushed back a bit to set up the fairly short, but well designed, dirt track for riders. Over 100 riders during the event were flying high and navigating the tight turns through the evening races from 3:30 until well after 9PM.
Saturday the event got off to an early start as attendees lined up to get on the track for the Pit Party. For about an hour before the racing action enthusiasts met the riders and asked them questions about their bikes while having an opportunity to get autographs, selfies and walk the track .
In addition to the action on the track T-shirts were fired into the crowd during race breaks and track maintenance periods. An air cannon fired wrapped KICKER T’s into the crowd. A special T had a certificate wrapped inside for a KICKER BULLFROG to be picked up at the KICKER display in the lobby. “Seeing the smiles on people’s faces when I hand them their BULLFROG prize is always really special” Morrell offered.
Concluding Morrell added “The KICKER AMA ArenaCross got off to a great start for the 25-26 circuit in Boise and Loveland continued the roll for the KICKER AMA ArenaCross series. It is terrific to see, and feel, the energy from members of the crowd as all are Livin’Loud at KICKER ArenaCross events.”
The next stop for the AMA ArenaCross and Maddog_Media is in Toronto Canada January 9th and 10th for Rounds 4 and 5.
STILLWATER, OK (01.05.26) – Long-Time KICKER Sales Representative Tom Ebeling journeyed into retirement Dec. 31, ending a 40-plus-year career with the audio brand. Ebeling is the principal at Tree and Associates in Chicago.
“For the past 10-plus years since my arrival at KICKER, I have had the pleasure of working with this industry veteran,” said Tom Heath, KICKER Vice President of Global Sales and Marketing. “We appreciate all of Tom’s efforts and wish him the best of luck spending time enjoying his family and friends.
Tom Ebeling
“Tom has had a huge impact in the Chicago for more than 40 years,” continued Heath. “As a sales representative you face many challenges each day. Tom has met those challenges and developed a strong dealer and distributor base that has stood the test of time. He built this from the beginning with hard work, developing trust and partnerships with many valued dealers and distributors. His relationship building and knowledge of the business has helped him adapt and develop within a fast-paced industry that is ever changing and continues to this day.
“All my respect for an industry veteran whom we have all learned from,” Heath concluded. “You will be missed Tom! Enjoy the next chapter of your life!”
NORWOOD, MA (01.05.26) – After a very long, successful and beautiful journey in the Audio industry Lucette and John Nicoll have decided to close Nicoll Public Relations and embark on the new adventure in lifetime retirement.
On December 31, 2025 Lucette and John announced their retirement and closing the successful company of 38 years.
Lucette and John are all smiles after announcing their new journey into retirement.
“Since starting the company in 1987, we have had the most amazing clients whose friendships we will cherish forever. And I’ve had the most wonderful husband and business partner to share the journey with. We have made so many friends in this industry, it’s hard to acknowledge every one of you. But please know that you all hold a very special place in our hearts. Wishing everyone a very happy, healthy and joyous 2026 and beyond,” Lucette related.
Nicoll Public Relations provided well-prepared press releases to the 12volt News beginning in 1994. Through the years we have enjoyed working with Lucette and John. The 12volt Central Studios staff wishes Lucette and John a long, happy journey in retirement.
LIVERMORE CA (12.31.25) – GS Distributing Company, a 12-volt and automotive aftermarket distributor serving Northern California and Northern Nevada, announced today that it has joined the Elite Distributor Alliance (EDA) as a distributor partner. The partnership significantly expands GS Distributing’s product offerings and reinforces its commitment to supporting dealers with premium brands, strong inventory, and dedicated regional support.
“Joining the Elite Distributor Alliance is an important milestone for GS Distributing,” said Shams Nabi, President, GS Distributing Company. “EDA brings together some of the most respected vendors in the industry, as well as the most sophisticated group of distributors in 12 Volt. This partnership allows us to deliver a broader, more competitive product portfolio to our dealer network across Northern California and Northern Nevada.”
Over the past several months, GS Distributing has worked closely with the EDA team to align product strategies and prepare for the rollout of new vendor lines.
“We’ve spent a great deal of time working with Josh and other EDA members to truly understand the depth of the vendor lineup,” Nabi added. “Our young, energetic team is built around hands-on dealer support, and these new partnerships allow us to better serve our dealers with the products, training, and responsiveness they need to grow their businesses.”
“We are excited to add GS Distributing to the Elite Distributor Alliance. The attention to detail and dealer support that Shams and his team have created makes them a perfect fit for our like-minded group” said Josh Eatherly, Executive Director, EDA.
GS Distributing has already expanded its inventory to include products from Firstech, Kicker, and Wavtech. Products from JVC and Kenwood are expected to be available to dealers as early as the first week of January, with additional brands scheduled to follow in the coming months.
“This is not just about adding brands—it’s about strengthening relationships,” Nabi said. “Our goal is to ensure dealers have consistent access to trusted products while knowing they have a distributor partner fully invested in their success.”
Through its partnership with the EDA, GS Distributing now serves as the authorized distributor for Northern California and Northern Nevada for a range of leading brands, including Alliance, ADS Maestro, Firstech (Arctic Start, DroneMobile, Momento, and NuStart), JVC, Kenwood, Kicker, Limitless, Metra family of brands, Nufilm, RDV, Triton, Vinland, and Wavtech.
Looking ahead to 2026, GS Distributing plans to continue expanding its reach and reinforcing its position as the premier distributor in the region.
“We’re incredibly excited about what’s ahead,” Nabi concluded. “As we move into 2026, our focus remains on building long-term partnerships with both new and existing dealers while delivering bestin- class products and service throughout the region.”
For dealers needing support or for questions on the addition of these lines, we ask that you reach out to your area sales manager. To learn more about GS Distributing Company, please visit www.gsdistributingcompany.com or call (925) 925-0025.
TAMPA, FL (12.31.2025) – DOW Technologies has announced that Joey Almirall has joined the company as an Account Manager for the Custom Integration channel. Almirall brings a stellar record of sales success and account management.
Almirall began his career at Best Buy and grew from a Computer Sales Associate to a Microsoft product expert over his first two years. With his excellent service record, Almirall became a leading Geek Squad Supervisor that built customer loyalty through hands-on demonstrations, personalized system designs, and providing exceptional customer experiences. Almirall then transitioned to a sales consultant position that provided in-home consultations tailored to each client’s specific needs to deliver personalized solutions. Almirall’s role with DOW will be focused on customer support for DOW’s dealers in the Southeast.
Joey Almirall, Account Manager
“This is a great opportunity to advance my career in an industry that I’m passionate about and truly enjoy,” stated Almirall. “I am excited to share my knowledge and experience to help support DOW’s customers.”
“Joey has an excellent ability to create relationships with customers that helps him understand their needs,” stated Eric Friedman, strategic sales manager, custom integration. “His experience working with the same end customers that our dealers are servicing is an asset to help him provide ideas and solutions to our dealers.”
“Adding Joey to this award-winning support team benefits our customers due to his industry experience and dedicated support,” added Drew Fischer, vice president, home integration & specialty sales. “We really believe Joey will be an asset that our customers in the Southeast can lean on for great service and product knowledge.”
To learn more about DOW Technologies, please visit www.dowtechnologies.com or call 1.800.627.2900.
Experience the entire mobility network at CES® 2026 — from passenger and self-driving cars to construction, agriculture, marine tech, industrial and advanced air travel. Plus, building on a successful debut at CES 2025, the Mobility Stage, presented by Bosch is shifting into high gear, moving to a prime spot in the LVCC West Hall to welcome even more attendees. Here’s your day-by-day guide to navigating the future of advanced mobility and vehicle tech.
Monday: Plan Your Week
Use Monday to get organized and plan your CES experience. Download the CES app, presented by Panasonic, to build your personal agenda by bookmarking must-see sessions and flagging key exhibitors you want to visit.
Mobility Stage presented by Bosch: Featuring 20 sessions, industry leaders will highlight groundbreaking innovations driving the future of transportation.
The CES 2026 show floor is where mobility comes alive — and there’s more to see than ever.
Autonomous Vehicles: See hands-off, eyes-off driving tech in action.
Mobility Startups: Meet the next wave of mobility disruptors bringing new ideas to market.
Advanced Air Mobility: Explore eVTOLs, drones and air-taxi prototypes reshaping the skies.
In-Vehicle Experiences: Get hands-on with software-defined vehicles, infotainment systems and connected cockpit tech.
Live Outdoor Demos: See the future of transportation come to life in Diamond Lot and Central Plaza.
Tuesday: Mobility Comes Alive
Morning: The CES show floor opens at 10 AM but start your day early with the CTA State of the Industry Address and Siemens Keynote (8:30–10 AM, Venetian Level 5, Palazzo Ballroom). Siemens CEO Roland Busch will reveal how AI, digital twins and automation are driving a new era of AI — with huge implications for the future of transportation.
Get the full CES experience with a show floor tour. The Future of Mobility and Beyond tour highlights the latest advancements in transportation and vehicle technology at CES, featuring leading global automakers. It offers insights into mobility and vehicle technology, including EVs, autonomy, connected cars, ecosystem innovations, cutting-edge car audio systems, drone integration, renewable energy solutions and autonomous driving technology. It’s perfect for executives, technologists and strategists who want to see not just where mobility is going, but how it intersects with the future of everything. (LVCC, West Hall)
Note: If you have already registered, login with your CES account to add on this track.
Or head to the Research Summit for Is the Car of the Future Just Another Consumer Device?, presented by Omdia (2-2:40 PM, LVCC Level 2)
Then make your way to the Mobility Stage when John Krafcik of Rivian is presented with the 2026 Mobility Innovator Award for his contributions, followed by a discussion on the role of technology and innovation in mobility. (3:10-3:40 PM, LVCC Level 1)
Wednesday: To Infinity and Beyond
Morning: Start the day with Caterpillar CEO Joe Creed’s keynote (9–10 AM, Venetian Level 5, Palazzo Ballroom) as he unveils how the company is transforming from a traditional equipment manufacturer into a high-tech innovator.
Then head to the show floor or Diamond Lot for hands-on experiences with the latest vehicle tech.
Note: If you have already registered, login with your CES account to add on this track.
Thursday: The Future of Transportation
Don’t miss CES 2026’s flagship program for anyone shaping the future of transportation, Vehicle Tech and Advanced Mobility (Full-Day Track, LVCC, $400).
Insider Tip: Add the deluxe conference pass to your registration for access to all 350+ sessions at CES 2026. Explore the full schedule at www.ces.tech/schedule/.
Friday: Final Connections
Before you leave, make your final rounds in West Hall. Don’t miss visionary exhibitors like John Deere, Hyundai, Segway, Tensor, Waymo and more!
Bonus: Shark Tank, the five-time Emmy® Award–winning hit show that gives entrepreneurs their shot at the American Dream, is on the hunt for bold business owners and game-changing products. Think you’ve got what it takes to swim with the Sharks? Don’t miss your chance! Meet the casting team in person at CES during our open call on Friday. Numbered wristbands will be handed out from 9–11 AM, and only those with a wristband have the opportunity to pitch. (Venetian Expo)
Ready to see what the future of mobility and vehicle tech looks like? At CES, mobility innovation isn’t just on display — it’s being adopted. Whether you’re an executive, technologist or strategist, or exploring CES for the first time, this agenda is your front-row seat to the biggest breakthroughs shaping the mobility revolution at CES 2026.
BIRMINGHAM, AL (12.30.25) – Minnesota-based Northern Tool + Equipment is partnering with RACER Network to launch a first-of-its-kind television series highlighting the next generation of tradespeople — namely, high school CTE (career and technical education) students. A new four-episode series will follow Tennessee’s LaVergne High School CTE juniors and seniors as they participate in the Legends Challenge: Student Build from Northern Tool — transforming a Harley-Davidson Nightster into an XR750-inspired flat-track racer with hands-on mentorship from racers and builders.
“The work these students are doing belongs on the big screen,” said Frank Crowson, chief marketing officer at Northern Tool + Equipment. “RACER Network fans—and motorsports diehards everywhere—are going to see real talent, determination and teamwork on display. This is a serious challenge; even seasoned pros would be pushed to finish a build like this in just 174 days.”
The series is anticipated to air in 2026. Updates can be found on social media and Northern Tool’s YouTube channel.
SHREVEPORT, LA (12.30.25) – WTF… Win This Friday. The 12volt Spin-to-Win Wheel was created to bring an element of fun to the 12volt industry. We are now celebrating 351winners and 7 years of the weekly 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel.
CRUX Interfacing Solutions was the first brand to award a prize and Stereo & Video Center was the first winner. The date was December 19th 2018. The latest 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel Winner, Number 351, was J&A Electronics. The Wheel landed on the Massive Audio space Friday morning December 19th,
Spinning out a new winner each Friday, a 12volt retailer can win a cool prize and top brands receive visibility across the marketplace.
12volt brands with a space on the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel include KICKER, PowerBass, CRUX, Q Power, JBL, RDV, Massive Audio, JVC, KENWOOD, ESB Audio, ZAPCO, King Boxes and VIPER plus 12volt News $100. cash awards have spaces on the 12volt Spin-To-Wheel for a winning 12volt retailer.
WTF… Where’s the Fun. On the next spin of the 12volt Spin-To-Win Wheel Friday, January 9th 2026.
Wheel winners can also win a check from the 12volt News.
Some brands have products in the 12volt Central Studios for Wheel Winners.
Stay tuned to 12voltnews.com on the web and @12voltnews on Instagram and Facebook for 12volt Spin-To-Win winner announcements every Friday!
TULSA, OK (12.29.25) – Code Zero Customs has been officially recognized as the Best of 2025 Tulsa Award winner in the Car Stereo Store category. This honor is based on verified data from Google reviews as analyzed and certified by Business Rate in Phoenix AZ.
Cody Landis and the Team at Code Zero Customs are rooted in the Tulsa area and participate in area shows like the Starbird Show, FFA Customs Car Show, Low-n-CLEAN and SLAMBOREE. A very strong presence at events like these showcases the possibilities of aftermarket car audio, in-vehicle connectivity and aftermarket automotive upgrades to consumers throughout the wide Tulsa area.
This visibility includes a large tent area and project vehicles on display that drives awareness and business for Code Zero Customs. “At shows our goal is to put our brand in front of enthusiasts. Attendees ask if we are local so they can come to our store to talk about projects for their vehicle” Landis related to the 12volt Central Central following an event.
12VoltNews.com 