Key Retrofit Ambassador, Rob Ward, Candidate for SEMA Board of Directors

Rob Ward, classic car enthusiast, advocate for electric vehicle technology, and CEO of Legacy EV, has just announced his candidacy for the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) board of directors. Ward’s campaign highlights his commitment to investing in new vehicle technology to grow the total addressable market.

Through his campaign, Rob hopes to promote a greater acceptance of new technology, like EV powertrains, in the aftermarket so that all SEMA members can benefit from this growing market trend. 

“Not only are aftermarket technologies evolving, but so is how we do business,” said Ward. “As a SEMA board member, I would focus my efforts on ensuring SEMA members have access to high-quality data and training around emerging technologies as well as professional development on new business strategies.”

The SEMA board is responsible for promoting the automotive aftermarket industry and representing the interests of SEMA members, which include manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and enthusiasts. Ward’s campaign focuses on bringing a fresh perspective to the board and promoting innovative solutions that can help the industry adapt to the changing automotive landscape.

Overall, Ward’s candidacy for the SEMA board highlights the growing interest in electric vehicle technology and how that growth can be leveraged to benefit all SEMA Members. With his extensive experience and passion for the industry, Ward is a promising candidate who could help lead SEMA into a more sustainable and innovative future.

Visit: https://www.rob4sema.com for more info.

About Rob Ward:

Rob has always had an entrepreneurial spirit, starting companies, investing in real estate and constantly challenging himself to do big meaningful things. He started an electrical company in Washington, Oregon, and Arizona, working closely with oil companies, power plants, food processing facilities, and semiconductor manufacturers on industrial electrical automation and system integrations. As his electrical company expanded, he considered business ventures that could get him back into the automotive industry. In 2018, seeing the potential for electrification, he knew this was where he could bring value.

“I love building things, seeing an idea turn into a business, and a business turn into a solution that the industry really needs, and watching a team set goals and reach their goals. This gets me excited!”

As CEO and Co-founder of Legacy EV, the face of aftermarket EVs, Rob combined his passion for aftermarket restorations with his electrical engineering and entrepreneurial spirit to build Legacy EV into an innovative industry leader. He has built dozens of classic cars, most notably, a 1930 Model-A Sedan that went from a hot rod resto-mod to an impressive 400-volt EV repower. His builds have won awards and accolades that include six magazine features, four magazine covers, a Top Truck Award, and a place in a Premiere Classic Car Auction Top 50.

His 23+ years of experience in electrical systems integration allowed him to use that depth of knowledge to create some of the most cutting-edge EVs in the industry. His company has created the nation’s first Certified EV Technician Program and developed an international network of EV-authorized installers. With this entrepreneurial fortitude, he has forged distribution agreements with major manufacturers across the EV industry, negotiated EV conversion contracts with government agencies, and played an integral role with battery manufacturers, pushing EVs and battery capabilities to world records.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When will the winners of the SEMA Board of Directors election be announced?

The results of the SEMA Board of Directors election are set to be revealed by June 21.

When will the voting for the SEMA Board of Directors take place?

The voting period for the SEMA Board of Directors is scheduled to occur online from May 28 to June 11. This event is exclusive to businesses that are members of SEMA, allowing them to participate during these dates.

Who are the candidates for the Distributor Retailer seats on the SEMA Board of Directors?

The candidates vying for the Distributor Retailer positions on the SEMA Board of Directors are as follows:

• Doug Lanefrom Motor State Distributing
• Kelly Oesteassociated with V8 Speed Shop
• Josh Poulsonrepresenting Auto Additions Inc.
• Rob Wardfrom Legacy EV

These individuals are in the running for two available seats.

Who is eligible to vote in the SEMA Board of Directors election?

To vote in the SEMA Board of Directors election, you must be part of a company that holds current membership with SEMA. Only the designated primary contact for each member company is permitted to cast a vote. The voting process is conducted online and takes place between May 28 and June 11.

How will SEMA member companies receive details about the upcoming election?

SEMA member companies will be informed about the upcoming election through communications sent directly to their designated primary contacts. Starting May 28, the election details will be delivered, ensuring that each member company has a clear point of contact to relay this critical information. This method ensures that vital election updates reach the appropriate individuals within each company.

What is the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) announcing regarding its Board of Directors?

Rob Ward, classic car enthusiast, advocate for electric vehicle technology, and CEO of Legacy EV, has just announced his candidacy for the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) board of directors. Ward’s campaign highlights his commitment to investing in new vehicle technology to grow the total addressable market.

Through his campaign, Rob hopes to promote a greater acceptance of new technology, like EV powertrains, in the aftermarket so that all SEMA members can benefit from this growing market trend.

“Not only are aftermarket technologies evolving, but so is how we do business,” said Ward. “As a SEMA board member, I would focus my efforts on ensuring SEMA members have access to high-quality data and training around emerging technologies as well as professional development on new business strategies.”

The SEMA board is responsible for promoting the automotive aftermarket industry and representing the interests of SEMA members, which include manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and enthusiasts. Ward’s campaign focuses on bringing a fresh perspective to the board and promoting innovative solutions that can help the industry adapt to the changing automotive landscape.

In addition to Rob Ward’s candidacy, the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) has announced the full slate of candidates vying for a seat on its Board of Directors. The election features distinguished nominees across several categories:

Manufacturer (2 Seats)

• Rich Barsamian, Advanced Clutch Technology
• Brian Herron, OPUS IVS
• Kim Pendergast, Magnuson Products, Incumbent
• Melissa Scoles, QA1

Distributor Retailer (2 Seats)

• Doug Lane, Motor State Distributing
• Kelly Oeste, V8 Speed Shop
• Josh Poulson, Auto Additions Inc.
• Rob Ward, Legacy EV

Service (1 Seat)

• Bill Bader, Summit Motorsports Park
• David Morton, Fifth Third Bank
• Todd Steen, Jackson Marketing

Voting is set to occur online between May 28 and June 11, and is open exclusively to current SEMA-member companies, with each vote cast by the company’s primary contact. Detailed information about the election will be sent to these contacts starting May 28. The winners will be announced by June 21, ensuring the new board is ready to steer the industry forward.

This year’s election is pivotal as it reflects a period of significant technological advancement and market evolution, with candidates like Rob Ward aiming to lead those changes from within.

When will the election results be announced?

The winners will be announced by June 21.

Who is eligible to vote?

Voting is open to companies that are current members of SEMA, with each company’s primary contact responsible for casting the vote.

What are the election dates?

The election will be conducted online from May 28 to June 11.

How many seats are available in each category?

There are two seats available in both the Manufacturer and Distributor Retailer categories, and one seat available in the Service category.

Who are the candidates for the SEMA Board of Directors?

The candidates for the SEMA Board of Directors include individuals vying for seats in three categories: Manufacturer, Distributor Retailer, and Service.