Products are everywhere at The 2023 SEMA Show. The event features exhibitors from the automotive window film, paint protection film (PPF), vinyl wrap, and ceramic coatings industries. The professionals behind the brands power this Sin City showcase.
Chris DeLuca, Owner of All Pro Window Tinting in Atlanta, Ga., and Tennessee Film Solutions in Chattanooga, Tenn. (Fourth SEMA Show)
“I can’t put it into words,” says DeLuca, who’s attending the show with his 19-year-old son Nicholas. “This is heaven for him. You cherish every moment where you can do something one on one. I haven’t seen him smile like this in over a year. He’s got an ear-to-ear grin; he’s so happy.”
At two years old, DeLuca’s son, Nicholas, was diagnosed with brain and spinal cancer. In The Loop Newsletter’s first-ever feature, Shorts, Sandals, and Self-Made Success: Chris DeLuca’s Story, DeLuca talked about his son’s inspiring journey.
“He’s done 11 different bouts of chemotherapy,” DeLuca shared. “He’s done a full round of radiation; he’s had multiple brain and spine surgeries over the years as well. I think we’re up to 15 or 16 surgeries at this point … He’s special to me. He is probably the strongest person you will ever meet—physically and mentally. He just keeps going. He is an inspiration to me.”
Brodie Mathews, Territory Manager at Autobahn/Edge, and Owner of DeCo Tint, PPF, Wrap, and Tint America in Arvada, Colo. (Third SEMA Show)
“I use SEMA to build connections,” Mathews shares. “Everyone is in a buying mode. They’re excited and hyped. I try to book meetings and get as much accomplished as possible. Everyone is in one place. A few individuals wanted to meet in person before they would fully commit to joining Autobahn; some wanted to sign a contract in person. You get that personal element.”
Matthew Jones, Owner of Harker Heights Ceramic Coatings in Harker Heights, Texas (First SEMA Show)
“I’m working at the Autofiber booth,” Jones says. “One of the things I like is teaching. I spent a lot of time teaching in the U.S. Army. I’m explaining how to use products and making recommendations for PPF installers. Coming to Autofiber, I get to meet people that have seen my videos; people that I’ve interacted with a lot online. I can put faces to names.”
Eric Escobedo, Owner of Mobitint in Palmdale, Calif. (Fourth SEMA Show)
“Coming here–it sends chills down my spine,” says Escobedo, who enjoys off-roading and camping with his friends and family. “I was raised in Mexico in a rural area. I grew up camping behind our house. I always come back revitalized and ready to go back to work after [a camping trip].”
For off-roading enthusiasts like Escobedo, the SEMA Overland Experience feels like home.
Dave Dellinger, Territory Manager at Autobahn and Edge (First SEMA Show)
“I’ve always wanted to come to SEMA,” says Dellinger, an industry veteran of 27 years. “It’s huge. Being around your people and having a good time–that’s how you build relationships. It’s like getting to see your extended family.”