Balancing Family, Work, and Custom Trucks

This year, as I walk through the busy halls of the SEMA show, I can’t help but feel a mix of excitement and nostalgia. For me, this annual event in Las Vegas has become more than just a showcase of the latest automotive innovations; it’s a celebration of my passion for custom classic trucks and decades given to the automotive industry as a whole.

Juggling my work, passion, and my responsibilities to my family as a professional in the automotive industry is no small feat (especially this time of year). Each year, the SEMA show serves as the perfect opportunity to build and grow professional relationships, but these days I ensure that these hard weeks and months DON’T distract or take away from what truly matters—my family.

My kids have helped reshape my priorities for the better. Having them by my side not only strengthens our bond, but as they get older and start to show interest in the automotive industry, it’s more fun to bring them along and see that same sparkle in their eye the first time they see a truck air out flat on the ground!

You see, it’s not all about work! We make it a point to enjoy some of these experiences as a family (they’re not ready for the Vegas madness quite yet, but some day …). Of course, the challenge of balancing everything can be daunting at times. There are those times when deadlines loom, and the demands of work can feel a bit overwhelming. I’ve learned to prioritize and communicate with my family, ensuring they understand my commitments. It’s a delicate balance, but the rewards in both my personal life and my automotive pursuits have been well worth the effort.

As the SEMA show wraps up each year, I leave feeling inspired and renewed. It’s a reminder of why I originally pursued a career in the automotive aftermarket, and I look forward to what the next year will bring. Ultimately, it’s about creating lasting memories and sharing a passion that spans generations. In the end, that’s what makes this journey so fulfilling and I look forward to sharing more of it with my boys as they continue to show interest in the custom automotive industry!

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