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SEMA Names Sheffer VP-OEM Relations

24 May 1999

SEMA Names Sheffer VP-OEM Relations

    DIAMOND BAR, Calif., May 24 -- The appointment of Carl E.
Sheffer as vice president -- original equipment manufacturer relations, was
announced today by SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) president,
Charles R. Blum.
    In establishing and maintaining relationships with the various
manufacturers, Sheffer's primary focus will be to address the exchange of
technical information, mutual legislative and regulatory concerns, member
product quality and sales related issues.
    "Carl's outstanding professional reputation and rapport with various
manufacturers, SEMA members and the media community across the country will
greatly assist us in meeting SEMA's goals and objectives going forward," said
Blum.  "His diversified background covering twenty-seven years in the
automotive industry brings a great deal of knowledge and talent to our
organization."
    Sheffer began his automotive career at General Motors in 1972 at Pontiac
Motor Division.  Following several supervisory positions within the personnel
staff, he moved to the materials management staff and was appointed general
supervisor of material control within the manufacturing staff.
    In 1982, Sheffer moved to Pontiac's public relations staff and was
primarily responsible for product and technical information publicity.
Sheffer was promoted to senior staff assistant, and in l985 transferred to
GM's corporate office in Los Angeles as assistant regional manager handling
public policy and corporate issues.  In 1987, he was appointed western
regional manager for Pontiac Motor Division where he directed all product
programs and communications activities for the western half of the United
States.
    In 1993, Sheffer was promoted to director, North American Communications
Operations -- Western Region.  In 1995, he was appointed director of
communications for GMC Truck Division in Michigan.  In l996, he returned to
California as director of regional communications operations for Chevrolet
with responsibility for all communications activities along with car and truck
product publicity nationwide.  In addition, Sheffer was responsible for GM's
cross-divisional brand, sales/service/ marketing and product publicity
efforts.
    Sheffer graduated from Central Michigan University with a Bachelor of
Science degree in business administration.  He also earned a master's degree
from Oakland University.  He is a member of the Motor Press Guild's board of
directors and also holds membership in the Automotive Press Association.
    Sheffer and his wife, Beverly, reside in Westlake Village, California.
They have two adult sons, Brian and Brett.
    SEMA is a trade group comprised of more than 3,400 member companies that
represent the specialty automotive aftermarket industry.  SEMA members
manufacture and distribute products for seven niche markets, including street
rod and restoration, racing and performance, light-truck, off-road and
restyling.
    Contact Carl at SEMA headquarters, 909/396-0289, ext. 187.