The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) announced the winners of its Person of the Year and Content Creator of the Year awards:
- 2026 SEMA Person of the Year: Dawson Druesedow (4 Wheel Performance)
- 2026 SEMA Content Creator of the Year: Tom’s Refurb (YouTube: tomsrefurb; Instagram: @ogtomsrefurb; TikTok: tomsrefurb; Facebook: tomsrefurb)
Presented at SEMA Industry Honors during the 2026 SEMA Show, these awards recognize industry members for their leadership, service and measurable contributions to the automotive aftermarket during the past year, SEMA officials said in a press release.
“Dawson and Tom have made a significant impact on the automotive aftermarket through industry leadership, hands-on expertise and authentic engagement with enthusiasts,” said SEMA CEO Mike Spagnola. “Their work expands participation, strengthens the industry and inspires the next generation.”
Dawson Druesedow: Off-Road Business Leader & SEMA Volunteer
Druesedow’s business leadership and nearly decade-long record of SEMA service exemplify the passion, leadership and service that define SEMA’s Person of the Year, the release noted. Since founding 4 Wheel Performance in 2005, he has grown the company into a respected business in the off-road and performance industry, while dedicating nearly a decade to advancing the broader aftermarket community.
He has served on the SEMA Truck & Off-Road Alliance (TORA) Select Committee since 2017 and currently serves as chair. Druesedow has consistently demonstrated leadership, collaboration and a commitment to shaping the future of the truck and off-road segment. He also volunteers as a New Products Awards judge and supports SEMA Cares, where he gives his time to youth, education and charitable outreach.
Tom’s Refurb: Building a Car Culture Audience of 2.4 Million
Tom’s Refurb has expanded participation in automotive culture through accessible, entertaining content. Across YouTube, Instagram and TikTok, Tom’s Refurb has built a combined following of roughly 2.4 million by resurrecting abandoned muscle cars on a budget, pairing real mechanical skill with self-deprecating humor and an unpredictable storytelling style that stands apart from typical tutorial content.
His authentic craftsmanship, humor and consistent output have made him a fresh, relatable entry point into car culture for a broad audience, the kind of positive, enthusiast-driven impact this award recognizes, SEMA officials said.