Author: A.J. Hecht

A.J. Hecht is the managing editor of THE SHOP and host of the In Gear with THE SHOP podcast. Have an idea, a tip, or a question you’d like to see answered? Contact A.J. at ahecht@cahabamedia.com.

Gentex Opens Grand Rapids Technology Hub

Gentex Corporation has opened a new technology hub in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan, designed to help the company support, attract, and retain engineering and software talent, the company announced. The new technology hub is located in downtown Grand Rapids. Gentex is leasing the space, which is designed to support over 100 team members, with modern… Continue reading Gentex Opens Grand Rapids Technology Hub

Restylers Partner to Create Specialized Shop Management Software

Two restylers have partnered to launch Restyler Connect, a provider of a specialized shop management software designed for restylers and vehicle accessory businesses, the company announced. Josh Poulson, owner of Ohio-based Auto Additions and winner of both the 2022 SEMA Person of the Year and 2012 SEMA PRO Restyler of the Year awards, has partnered… Continue reading Restylers Partner to Create Specialized Shop Management Software

HRIA Membership Meeting to Include Panel on Financial Planning

SEMA’s Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA) will host a panel on financial planning during its upcoming general membership meeting, the SEMA council announced. Scheduled for Oct. 10, the meeting will provide an update on HRIA’s current events, member resources and top priorities, followed by the panel moderated by Amy Fitzgerald of Cool Hand Customs. Featuring… Continue reading HRIA Membership Meeting to Include Panel on Financial Planning

Ford Launches Track School for Mustang Owners

Ford is launching an on-track driving course for seventh-generation Ford Mustang buyers, the company announced. The automaker will also be organizing new lifestyle events and an online portal for Mustang owners. “The Ford Mustang is all about two things: its community of passionate fans and racing. We’re combining those qualities and giving owners the opportunity… Continue reading Ford Launches Track School for Mustang Owners

AAPEX Webinar to Cover Global Supply Chain

The AAPEX Webinar Series is hosting an upcoming webinar that will cover how to navigate global trade, the organization announced. The webinar, “Reducing Risk and Cost in the Global Supply Chain: Top 5 Strategies,” is scheduled for Sept. 26, and will be hosted by Thomas Cook, managing director of Blue Tiger International (bluetigerintl.com). Cook will… Continue reading AAPEX Webinar to Cover Global Supply Chain

UAW Strike Update

The United Auto Workers (UAW) union has launched a series of simultaneous strikes at three factories owned by General Motors, Ford and Stellantis, Reuters reported. The walkouts will halt production of the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler and Chevrolet Colorado pickup truck, along with other models, the report said. The strikes involve a combined 12,700 workers… Continue reading UAW Strike Update

NASCAR Technical Institute Plans Campus Tours, Demos for Fundraiser Event

The NASCAR Technical Institute (NTI) will showcase more than 800 cars and host car enthusiasts for the Executive Car Events CLT23 fall fundraiser, Universal Technical Institute announced. Scheduled for Sept. 16 from 5 to 9 p.m., the event is organized by Speedology Lifestyle Solutions with co-hosts Columbia Car Meets and Audi Charlotte and is open… Continue reading NASCAR Technical Institute Plans Campus Tours, Demos for Fundraiser Event

SBA Hosting Cybersecurity Summit for Small Businesses

The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is hosting a cybersecurity summit to help provide small businesses with resources and guidance on how to best protect themselves online, the organization announced. Scheduled for each Wednesday in October, the virtual SBA Cyber Summit will feature industry leaders, experts and entrepreneurs to share knowledge and tools to protect… Continue reading SBA Hosting Cybersecurity Summit for Small Businesses

Mothers Polish Returns as Battle of the Builders Sponsor

Mothers Polish is returning as the presenting sponsor of the 2023 SEMA Show Battle of the Builders, SEMA announced. 2023 will be the 10th anniversary of the first Battle of the Builders, an annual competition hosted at the SEMA Show to highlight custom car builders. “Battle of the Builders embraces everything that makes the automotive… Continue reading Mothers Polish Returns as Battle of the Builders Sponsor

THE SHOP Expands Sales Team

THE SHOP announces a sales team promotion and two new hires to better serve aftermarket companies with their business-to business marketing programs. Stacy Marshall, formerly associate publisher of THE SHOP, has been named Director of Sales for the brand’s parent company, Alabama-based Cahaba Media Group. She will oversee the sales teams for CMG’s three Colorado-based… Continue reading THE SHOP Expands Sales Team