Window Tint School Launches First 5-Day Training Class at New Phoenix AZ Location

PHOENIX AZ (05.04.26) Window Tint School (WTS), a nationally recognized leader in hands-on window film training, proudly announces the successful kickoff of its first 5-day training class at its newly opened second location in Phoenix, Arizona.

With over a decade of proven success at its Jacksonville, Florida headquarters, Window Tint School continues to expand its reach… bringing its immersive, hands-on curriculum to the Southwest and making high-level training more accessible to students nationwide.

The inaugural Phoenix class featured a standout group of students, including team members from Car Toys. Owner Ed Weber sent several staff members from the Pacific Northwest to participate in the intensive 5-day program and plans to continue doing so on a regular basis as part of ongoing team development.

Group of six people posing together at a window tint school event, each holding certificates of achievement, with a branded backdrop.
Founders Darren Fettik and Jon Dewer with first graduating class.

Throughout the week, students demonstrated remarkable progress. Several arrived with no prior experience in window tinting, yet by the end of the program were confidently installing film on complete vehicles.

“We built Window Tint School to deliver real-world results in a short period of time,” said Jon Dewar, cofounder of Window Tint School. “Watching students go from never touching film to completing full vehicles in just five days is exactly what this program is designed to do. Launching in Phoenix and working with forward-thinking companies like Car Toys makes this an incredibly exciting milestone.”

Window Tint School offers both open enrollment classes for individuals entering or advancing in the trade, as well as customized corporate training programs for companies looking to elevate the skill, efficiency, and consistency of their teams.

For Ed Weber, the value of hands-on training extends far beyond a single class.

“We’re committed to investing in our people and giving them the tools to succeed,” said Weber. “The results we saw in just five days were outstanding. This is the kind of training that makes a real impact, and we fully intend to continue sending members of our team through the program on a regular basis.”

Conveniently located just minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, the new facility reflects the same high standards and real-world training environment that have defined Window Tint School for more than a decade.

An image featuring two cityscapes: Jacksonville on the left with a bridge and skyline under a sunset, and Phoenix on the right with mountains and desert scenery, both showcasing the logo 'WINDOW TINT SCHOOL' at the center.

Students benefit from dedicated workstations, professional-grade tools, and extensive hands-on experience with a variety of window films, ensuring they leave with the confidence and capability to perform at a high level immediately. Graduates also gain access to an exclusive alumni network for continued support and ongoing education.

The launch of the Phoenix location marks a major step forward in Window Tint School’s mission to train the next generation of window film professionals while supporting businesses with scalable, results-driven training solutions.

For more information about upcoming classes or corporate training opportunities, visit:
🌐 www.TINT.school ☎️ 904-297-TINT

Upcoming HKI USA DSP & Sales Trainings

DANIA BEACH FL (05.01.26) The next 2 HKI USA Digital Signal Processing training sessions are designed to simplify and strengthen the foundation of Audio Tuning for mobile electronics professionals.

The events are Monday, May 4th at the Fairfield Inn and Suites in Fenton MI and Tuesday, May 5th at the Davis Distribution location in Columbus OH.

Promotional flyer for HKI Events, featuring 'DSP & Sales Training' sessions on May 4 and 5, 2026, in Fenton and Columbus, Ohio. Includes event details, RSVP information, and a photo of Nick Wingate.

The trainings will be led by industry expert Nick Wingate, who will deliver practical real-world instruction aimed at helping technicians refine their Tuning process and elevate it to a repeatable, professional skill set.

Participants can expect an interactive learning environment, with step step-by-step demonstrations and actionable techniques that can be immediately applied in the field.

This new DSP training demonstrates HKI USA’s commitment to advancing technical education within the mobile electronics industry by providing accessible, high impact learning opportunities.

“Food will be provided and RSVP is required. email jasonbillips1@yahoo.com or txt 304 633 4880. We look forward to seeing you there” Jason Billups stated.

For more see hki-usa.com

SoundShield Announces Strategic Partnership with Aligned Sales & Marketing Group to Support Regional Growth

ANCHORAGE, AK (April 30, 2026) SoundShield, the premier manufacturer of professional-grade automotive sound deadening solutions, is proud to announce the appointment of Aligned Sales & Marketing Group (ASM) as its manufacturer representative for the Western United States. This partnership reinforces SoundShield’s commitment to the 12-volt specialist by aligning with a rep firm that prioritizes dealer profitability and technical excellence.

Logo of Aligned Sales & Marketing featuring the word 'ALIGNED' in bold black letters with arrows symbolizing direction and alignment.

Since its inception, SoundShield has been “Designed by Installers, for Installers.” By partnering with ASM, a firm known for its “Revenue Intelligence” and deep-rooted expertise in the mobile electronics industry, SoundShield is poised to provide its retail partners with enhanced training, localized support, and a more streamlined go-to-market strategy.

“As we continue to scale SoundShield, finding partners who understand the unique DNA of our brand is critical,” said John Schwartz, Founder and CEO of SoundShield. “Aligned Sales & Marketing isn’t just a sales team; they are strategic consultants who understand the complexities of the modern retail bay. Hazim and his team share our ‘Dealer-First’ philosophy, and I am confident that their leadership will be a major asset to our authorized installers.”

Professional portrait of a man smiling, wearing a suit and tie, with 'PACIFIC & SOUTHWEST REGION' text above and logos for 'ALIGNED' and 'soundshield' displayed.

The partnership comes at a time of significant momentum for SoundShield as it continues to expand its triple-layer acoustic solutions across North America. ASM will be instrumental in identifying and supporting elite retailers who are dedicated to providing their customers with the ultimate in-vehicle sound environment.

“We are honored to represent a brand with the reputation and integrity of SoundShield,” said Hazim Jainoor, Founder and Principal of Aligned Sales & Marketing Group. “At ASM, our focus is simple – Growth | Partnership | Execution. We bridge the gap between manufacturer objectives and retailer realities, and SoundShield delivers a premium solution that resonates at the dealer level. We look forward to driving meaningful market expansion, increasing dealer adoption, and elevating customer satisfaction across our territories.”

For more information on SoundShield or to apply to become an authorized dealer, please visit www.soundshieldusa.com

Logo of Soundshield featuring the word 'soundshield' in white and green text, set against a black background with a green shield emblem.

BOSS Elite Names Carolyn Jackman Senior Brand Manager

OXNARD, CA (04.29.26) – BOSS Audio Systems is proud to announce it has named Carolyn Jackman Senior Brand Manager for its BOSS Elite and associated lines, effective immediately.

“Over the past few years, BOSS Elite has continually rolled out new top tier products across our speaker, amplifier, and source unit lines, gaining additional traction and a dedicated following across the country,” explained Co-CEO Navid Farhand. “As such, we need to have a team in place that is dedicated to ensuring that our products and messaging meet these ever advancing goals. We are proud to bring Carolyn on board as her successful and diverse marketing track record speaks for itself in the consumer electronics market.”

Woman with long dark hair, wearing a pink shirt and multiple strands of pearl necklaces, smiling against a plain white background.
Carolyn Jackman, Senior Brand Manager

Jackman is a seasoned marketing executive with more than 20 years of experience, most notably as a marketing leader with Samsung Electronics of America. Known for her results-driven approach, she blends strategic insight with meticulous execution to design and deliver high-impact marketing initiatives across a multitude of channels.

“BOSS Elite truly listens to our dealers and reps, and as a result we have unveiled and rolled out our new and refreshed product lineup that bring together sophisticated features with real-world performance,” said Jackman. “This initiative has been incredibly well received by our retail partners and customers alike. I am excited to build upon this success and continue to bring the Elite brand to an even broader customer base in both the short and long term.”

Logo of Boss Audio Systems featuring the word 'elite' in a modern font, with a red square background displaying the brand name.

For more information about B.I.G. or to become a dealer, please visit sales.bossinternationalgroup.com.

Visit www.bossaudio.com for more.

KICKER Named as Official Technical Partner for 2026 RallyX Season

STILLWATER, USA (4-28-26)– RallyX officials are pleased to welcome KICKER as an official Technical Partner of the series, producing the EV Powertrain Sound System for the First Corner FC1 that competes in RallyX Americas’ Hypercar class. As part of the agreement, KICKER will provide RallyX with systems and technical support required to produce the cutting-edge sound for the Hypercar division, bringing heart-pounding sound to the fans completing a thrilling race experience.

“KICKER is thrilled to be part of the inaugural RallyX Americas season delivering the EV Powertrain Sound System,” said Jimmo Ozment, Director of Product Strategy for KICKER. “Developing the sound of the FC1 has been an exciting experience, and one that allows us to take our decades of expertise in acoustic design and apply it in a whole new way to the sound of the vehicles themselves. We’re looking forward to showing rallycross fans how powerful the Hypercar class can sound at this year’s events!”

A yellow and black racing car with the Kicker Performance Audio logo parked on a racetrack, set against a backdrop of mountains and a blue sky with clouds.

“KICKER has been a fantastic partner in all aspects of the development for the FC1, and we’re excited to officially welcome them as a Technical Partner of RallyX 2026,” said RallyX founder Andreas Eriksson. “Drivers and fans alike have made clear that sound is a crucial part of rallycross, and KICKER has done their part to ensure that we don’t sacrifice that in our Hypercar class. With their support, the EV Powertrain Sound System will take our cars and events to the next level of excitement.”

The KICKER brand has regularly been seen on FC1s fielded in competition by Olsbergs MSE, including in RallyX Americas’ inaugural demonstration race at Crandon International Raceway last summer with Kevin Eriksson behind the wheel. The EV Powertrain Sound System delivers upwards of 120 decibels of custom-designed sound from the FC1, giving fans the visceral sensory experience they crave from top-level rallycross competition.

A yellow rally car jumps off a ramp with mountains in the background, showcasing extreme motorsport action.

The inaugural RallyX Americas season begins on June 20-21 at Crandon International Raceway in Wisconsin, followed by stops at Eldora Speedway in Ohio on June 27-28 and Grand Prix de Trois-Rivières in Quebec on August 22-23. Additional exhibition events will be held at Crandon on Labor Day weekend, and the inaugural RallyX Global Final will take place at Portugal’s Montalegre Circuit on October 24-25.

For more information on RallyX Americas, visit www.rallyxamericas.com or email info@rallyxamericas.com .

KICKER Performance Audio products, a division of Stillwater Designs and Audio, Inc.®, are available for the mobile- and home-audio aftermarket at authorized retailers worldwide, and also as Original Equipment for boat and automobile manufacturers. Consumers seeking more information on KICKER or Livin’ Loud® may call the Consumer Information Line at 1-800-256-5425 or visit the brand website at www.kicker.com.

IASCA Announces 2026 SPL World Finals in Indianapolis, West Coast Satellite Event, and Sound Quality World Finals at AXPONA

East Wenatchee, WA (April 27, 2026)— The International Auto Sound Challenge Association (IASCA) is proud to announce the 2026 IASCA SPL World Finals, taking place October 3–4 at the Indiana State Fairgrounds Expo Hall in Indianapolis. This premier event will bring together the world’s top competitors in sound pressure level (SPL) competition for an action-packed weekend of record-breaking performances and elite-level car audio competition.

Front view of Exposition Hall, a brick building with large glass doors and a green roof, set against a partly cloudy sky.

The 2026 World Finals will feature IASCA SPL competition alongside dB Drag Racing Association (dBDRA) and ISPLL (International Sound Pressure League), creating one of the most comprehensive and competitive SPL events in the world. Competitors and fans alike can expect an electrifying atmosphere, cutting-edge builds, and some of the loudest vehicles ever assembled.

In addition to the main event, IASCA will host a West Coast Satellite Event on September 27, 2026, at the Oregon State Fairgrounds Expo Pavilion in Salem, Oregon. This satellite competition offers West Coast competitors an opportunity to qualify, compete, and showcase their systems ahead of the World Finals, while expanding access to IASCA’s global competition platform.

Front view of a modern building with a large arched entrance, flanked by two colorful flags and surrounded by greenery on a sunny day.

Looking ahead, IASCA has also confirmed that the 2026 IASCA Sound Quality (SQ) World Finals will take place during AXPONA (Audio Expo North America), April 9–11, 2027, at the Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel & Convention Center in Schaumburg, Illinois. This collaboration continues IASCA’s successful integration of in-car sound quality competition within one of North America’s premier high-end audio events.

A lineup of various cars displayed at an indoor event, featuring vehicles in different colors and styles, along with a promotional banner.

“These events represent the pinnacle of car audio competition,” said IASCA leadership. “By partnering with dB Drag Racing, ISPLL, and AXPONA, we’re creating unmatched experiences for competitors and fans while continuing to grow the global car audio community.”

IASCA SPL World Finals West Coast Satellite Event
September 27, 2026
Oregon State Fairgrounds –Pavilion
Salem, Oregon

IASCA SPL World Finals
October 3–4, 2026
Indiana State Fairgrounds – Expo Hall
Indianapolis, Indiana

IASCA Sound Quality World Finals (at AXPONA)
April 9–11, 2027
Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel & Convention Center
Schaumburg, Illinois

IASCA: www.iasca.com

dBDRA: www.termpro.com

ISPLL: www.ispll.com

JEEP BEACH 2026 – A Must-Attend Industry Opportunity

DAYTONA BEACH, FL (4.20.26) – Jeep Beach 2026 is gearing up to deliver one of the most powerful consumer engagement platforms in the country for the mobile electronics and aftermarket industries.

This city-wide, exclusively Jeep-centric series of events culminates in a two-day Consumer Expo on April 24–25 at the Daytona International Speedway. The infield will be filled with vendors and tens of thousands of highly engaged Jeep enthusiasts actively seeking products, upgrades, and installations.

Logo for Jeep Beach 2026, featuring patriotic colors and the text 'Celebrating America's 250th'.

For manufacturers, distributors, and retailers, Jeep Beach presents a rare opportunity:

  • Direct-to-consumer sales
  • Immediate brand exposure to a concentrated enthusiast market
  • Onsite installations within the iconic NASCAR Garages
  • Strong collaboration opportunities between vendors and their dealer networks
A lineup of modified cars, including colorful Jeeps and SUVs, parked outside the Daytona International Speedway under a partly cloudy sky.
Jeeps are spotlighted in front of the DaytonaI International Speedway at a previous Jeep Beach event.

As a long-time dealer in the marketplace, Soundcrafters’ principal, Paul Papadeas, shares:
“Participating year after year has been an exceptionally positive experience. The Jeep Beach team is outstanding, and they work for a truly meaningful cause. The sales impact, brand exposure, and sheer volume of impressions are remarkable. In many ways, this event surpasses the industry impact we once experienced at Spring Break Nationals. Jeep Beach represents a real opportunity for the industry to move beyond the challenges of the past few years, re-engage dealer networks, and reenergize sales.”

A bright green Jeep vehicle on dirt terrain with a blue Jeep perched on a dirt mound in the background, surrounded by empty stadium seating.
Jeepers will be able to show their skills on these mounds on the infield of the Daytona Internation Speedway.

Vendor space is competitively priced relative to the nonstop foot traffic and high-intent audience. Beyond the business opportunity, Jeep Beach operates as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, having contributed over $5,000,000.00 to both Local and National Charities adding a meaningful philanthropic dimension to participation.

Sign welcoming visitors to Daytona Beach, featuring a palm tree and orange graphic, against a blue sky.

For brands looking to strengthen dealer relationships, increase market visibility, and generate immediate revenue in a high-energy environment, Jeep Beach 2026 is a strategic event to prioritize.

For additional information, visit www.jeepbeach.com.

KICKER® Delivers Award for 2025 International “Americas” Distributor-of-the-Year

STILLWATER, USA (4-17-26)KICKER® International Sales Manager Aziz Masri made the trek to Toronto, Ontario to present KICKER Canadian distributor GEMSEN (Concord, Ontario) with the brand’s most recent International Distributor-of-the-Year award, representing the Americas.

KICKER‘s International Sales team chooses its winning distributor annually in recognition of outstanding efforts and achievements.

With more than 35 years of industry expertise, GEMSEN has established a robust reputation for delivering high-quality electronics across key categories to Canadian retailers.

Four men posing together at a KICKER audio booth at an event, showcasing audio equipment in the background.
KICKER’s Aziz Masri (far right) presents (from left) Jonathan Riina, Sal Riina, and Mike Danbrook of GEMSEN with the KICKER award.

Alpine to Showcase New Jeep® Wrangler Builds for Purchase at the 2026 Daytona Jeep® Beach Event

Auburn Hills MI (Apr. 16, 2026) – Alps Alpine North America, Inc. (“Alpine”), a premium aftermarket car audio manufacturer, will attend the 2026 Jeep® Beach Vendor Show at the Daytona International Speedway from Friday, April 24 to Saturday, April 25.

During the event, Alpine will have both a retail presence, featuring a selection of Alpine Restyle products sold at special, event-only pricing with on-site installation options, and a showcase of new, complete Jeep® Wrangler builds available for purchase at participating Jeep® Dealerships nationwide.

Interior view of a vehicle dashboard featuring an Alpine sound system display, promoting the Jeep Beach 2026 event in Daytona Beach, FL, scheduled for April 24-25.

“Through the strength of our partnerships, we’re excited to offer unique, complete Jeep® Wrangler builds that make the vehicle purchase absolutely turn-key,” said Dan Sparks, National Sales Director for the Alpine Aftermarket Division at Alps Alpine North America. “These Jeep® builds feature every upgrade a Wrangler driver would typically make – from lift, to tires, to audio – with parts and engineering by prominent brands in the industry. Not only are they beautiful builds – they’re engineered to perform!”

Logo for Jeep Beach 2026, featuring red, white, and blue colors with a star pattern, and the text 'Celebrating America's 250th.'

The Jeep® Wrangler builds were created in partnership with the expert off-road engineering of Rebel Off-Road and Timberline Upfitters and Alpine’s premium audio solutions. Building off the latest Jeep® Wrangler platform, each Jeep® is upfitted with premium, trail-tested parts, fully integrated Alpine audio systems, and finished with a unique wrap and corresponding interior aesthetic.

The builds are offered in four unique styles (Brigade, Mountain, Ocean, and Horizon) and are available for purchase at participating Jeep®Dealerships nationwide and include a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty and dealer financing options.

Off-road vehicle displayed in a natural setting with a promotional graphic for Timberline Outfitters, featuring Alpine and Rebel Off Road, and event details for Daytona Beach, FL on April 24-25.

Alpine staff and Alpine Authorized Retailer Soundwaves will be on-site to give audio and vehicle demonstrations, answer product questions, and offer on-site installation so customers can drive home with their Alpine purchase installed in their Jeep®.

Jeep® is a registered trademark of Stellantis NV

For more see alpine-usa.com

Joz Wang Named Modus Vice President of Marketing

Oxnard, Calif., April 15, 2026 — DSP Solutions Inc., a leader in lifestyle and solution-based audio infotainment technology for vehicles, has appointed Joz Wang as Vice President of Marketing for Modus. In this newly created role, Wang will report to Co-CEO Navid Farhand, focusing on the global expansion of Modus and its award-winning luxury and high-end audio solutions.

Joz Wang

“The automotive landscape is changing as vehicles become more intelligent and integrated,” said Farhand. “We’re developing systems that elevate sound quality while solving the electrical efficiency challenges of modern cars. With Joz leading our marketing, we’re ready to show discerning drivers what our upgradeable platforms can do.”

Wang’s approach to digital transformation and brand storytelling is built on extensive global experience, including previous roles at Genesis Motor America, Nissan, and Disney. Her appointment comes as the company expands its footprint in the premium space, with patented power-management and signal-processing technologies designed to improve the in-vehicle experience.

“I’m thrilled to join a team that is genuinely challenging how we approach audio engineering,” said Wang. “Translating technical leadership into a global brand experience is what excites me the most. I’m looking forward to building a brand strategy that brings our innovation to life and connects with our customers around the world.”

For more information about Modus products and partnership opportunities, request more information on the web at www.modusglobal.com .