Tom Gattuso is the Vice President of Events for SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association. With more than three decades of experience in the automotive events industry, Tom has overseen the growth of the SEMA Show into one of the largest and most influential trade shows in the world, drawing more than 160,000 attendees from 145 countries. His career began in auto shows and consumer events before joining SEMA in 2011, where he has continued to build a global marketplace that connects manufacturers, distributors, dealers, and enthusiasts under one roof.

In this episode…

The SEMA Show has long been a bucket-list event in the automotive world… But what makes it so important for tire dealers today? With so many industry events competing for attention, why should dealers prioritize SEMA 2025?

According to Tom Gattuso, the answer lies in more than just product displays. He explains that SEMA is about conversations, connections, and opportunities that can transform a business. Tire dealers will find everything from tier 2 and tier 3 brands offering high-quality products, to the latest tools, equipment, and ADAS technologies that are driving revenue growth for shops across the country. Beyond that, SEMA provides education, training, and access to innovations that help shops stay competitive in an evolving market.

On this episode of Gain Traction, Mike Edge sits down with Tom Gattuso for a conversation about why tire dealers should attend SEMA 2025. They explore the value of networking at an event that draws attendees from around the globe, the ways SEMA is expanding beyond wheels and tires into service innovations and restyling opportunities, and how the show continues to evolve while staying true to its mission. Tom also shares his personal mantra about kindness, the role of art and design in shaping the event’s identity, and a book recommendation that emphasizes authentic fan experiences.

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: 

[01:02] Tom Gattuso’s background and how he entered the automotive event industry

[04:18] The career path that led him to join SEMA in 2011

[06:42] Why the tire industry’s engagement at SEMA has shifted in recent years

[09:09] What tire dealers can discover beyond wheels and tires at the show

[12:27] Opportunities in tools, equipment, and ADAS technology for shop owners

[15:15] Restyling, service innovations, and new revenue streams showcased at SEMA

[17:48] How registration works and who can attend the show in 2025

[20:24] Tom’s guiding mantra: being kind to yourself, others, and the process

[23:02] How artists like Chip Foose and Larry Chen shape SEMA’s creative identity

[25:20] A favorite book recommendation and lessons from the Savannah Bananas story

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Tom Gattuso LinkedIn
• SEMA Registration and Event Details
• SEMA Website
• Tread Partners
• Gain Traction Podcast on YouTube
• Gain Traction Podcast Website
• Mike Edge on LinkedIn

Quotable Moments:

• “As long as we can get people to connect and talk, we win.”
• “If you focus only on business, you’re focused on the wrong thing. The conversations are where it starts.”
• “Be kind to yourself, be kind to others, and be kind to the process.”
• “SEMA reflects the industry back onto itself; it’s about innovation, education, and connection.”

Action Steps:

1. Reconsider SEMA as more than just a trade show. It’s a global marketplace and education hub.
2. Explore revenue opportunities outside of tires, such as tools, ADAS, and restyling.
3. Focus on conversations first: authentic connections drive long-term business growth.
4. Register early for SEMA 2025 to secure access to the full range of events, demos, and learning sessions.
5. Take inspiration from Tom’s mantra and remember that how you make people feel is what drives lasting impact.