As the days grow shorter and the first leaves fall on the lawn, it’s still hard to believe it’s already that time of year to prepare for the SEMA Show. If there’s one constant in Las Vegas, it’s change. I’ve been many times (not every year in the beginning) since 2000, back when one could hail a taxi curbside at the Las Vegas Convention Center. It’s since grown to add another hall and total 4.6 million square feet. Fortunately, most of the collision repair-oriented training events and exhibits are centrally located in the upper South Hall. Part of a $600 million renovation is now complete on the South Hall, which includes a Grand Lobby between the North and Central halls with natural light (as is found in the newer West Hall). If you’re making the long walk between exhibits in the North and South Halls, there is now a climate-controlled interior concourse.
Still, making the most of your time at the show requires careful planning and a good bit of strategy. To help you make the most of your time and travel investment, I humbly offer some suggestions. Pre-run the show by referring to our SEMA Show guide within this issue, which includes a training schedule for I-CAR and SCRS Repairer Driven Education sessions. Also, check out the semashow.com website, where you can map out the vendors you want to visit and their locations. Paper maps are available at the show, but the mobile app can not only guide you as you navigate the expansive halls and outdoor exhibits; you can scan products in the New Products Showcase to get more information and find the manufacturers’ booths. To cover the most ground possible while you’re there, one must be strategic.
Still, it’s easy to regularly walk seven miles a day. Wear two pairs of comfortable and broken-in shoes and alternate them. It’s the desert, so don't forget to pack saline nasal spray and lip balm. It’s noisy inside the halls, so don’t forget a mint or chewing gum. (There will be a lot of "close-talking!")
I hope to get the chance to say hello to many of you there. See you soon!
