#263 - Mike Spagnola | SEMA & PRI – How the Automotive Aftermarket Drives Innovation, Policy, and Product Development

The automotive aftermarket often flies under the radar—but it plays a major role in advancing engineering, manufacturing, and performance. In this episode, Mike Spagnola, President & CEO of SEMA and PRI, joins me to explore how the specialty automotive sector is driving innovation across ICE, hybrid, EV, hydrogen, and beyond.We dive into how SEMA supports manufacturers with hands-on product development, CAD data, vehicle scanning, emissions testing, and ADAS calibration. Mike also shares his perspective on regulatory trends, technology-neutral advocacy, and what makes the SEMA Show such a powerful platform for connection and growth.If you care about how products actually get developed—and how small and mid-size companies are building the future of transportation—this conversation is for you.About MikeMike Spagnola is the President & CEO of SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) and PRI (Performance Racing Industry). Before stepping into this leadership role, Mike built and sold multiple companies in the automotive aftermarket, led product development efforts, and served on SEMA’s board. He’s a hands-on car guy who understands the needs of manufacturers, retailers, regulators, and racers alike.About SEMASEMA is a nonprofit trade association that supports over 7,000 member companies across the automotive aftermarket. From CAD access and regulatory guidance to emissions labs and the world-renowned SEMA Show, their mission is to help small and mid-sized companies grow and compete globally.Key Topics:What the automotive aftermarket actually is—and why it mattersSEMA Garages and how they help manufacturers develop, test, and certify productsNavigating CARB, EPA, and emissions compliance for performance partsWhy access to CAD data and pre-release vehicles is a game changerWhat happens to ADAS systems when you modify ride height, tires, or wrap a carHow SEMA advocates for a technology-neutral approach (ICE, hybrid, EV, hydrogen)Behind the scenes of the SEMA Show—and what success really looks likeThe real impact of aftermarket innovation on the transportation ecosystemChapters:Mike’s Background and Passion for the IndustryWhat SEMA Is and Who They SupportHow the SEMA Garages Enable Product DevelopmentNavigating Emissions Compliance and CARB RegulationsADAS Technology, Vehicle Modification, and Future StandardsProtecting the Industry Through Advocacy and EducationThe SEMA Show and What Makes It WorkClosing Reflections on Innovation, Community, and Impact