DIAMOND BAR, Calif. — Myles Kovacs, founder of DUB Publishing Inc. and TIS Wheels, was named the SEMA Person of Year for 2020 in recognition of his role in transforming the way aftermarket businesses approach and succeed in reaching the youth market.
Mr. Kovacs, who founded DUB Publishing in 2000, is an avid supporter of the Specialty Equipment Market Association and uses his influence to promote the industry, SEMA said.
He has volunteered for and served on several SEMA task forces, including the chair of the Gen-III Innovator of the Year task force and the SEMA Show committee and has served as a SEMA Scholarship judge.
Mr. Kovacs said being recognized by his peers is "emotional and overwhelming, … this is such a great industry to be a part of. And, they praise you for being different. That's what I love about SEMA."
Mr. Kovacs and other honorees were recognized during an online presentation that aired on the SEMA Show YouTube Channel. The 50-minute program provided the industry, honorees and friends and family with an opportunity to celebrate top leaders in the industry.
Other top honorees recognized were:
- Brendan McGrath, CEO of Dyme Performance Systems Inc. — SEMA Gen-III Innovator of the Year; and
- Redline Detection L.L.C. — SEMA Manufacturer of the Year.
As founder of Los Angeles-based Dyme PSI, Mr. McGrath developed a patent-pending technology and system of hose measuring that simplifies the design and delivery experience, providing assembled, tested, cleaned custom hose assembly parts anywhere in the world.
Orange, Calif.-based Redline Detection designs, engineers and builds professional-grade diagnostic leak detection equipment for the automotive aftermarket, OEMs, and the heavy-duty industry.
The awards recognize outstanding commitment to the industry and a high level of involvement with SEMA committees, task forces, councils or board of directors' participation.
"Through these extraordinary times, we are honored to recognize individuals and companies that have met the challenges of this year and embody the spirit of our industry," SEMA President Chris Kersting said. "Now more than ever, it is important for our community to come together and celebrate our successes."
During the meeting, SEMA also recognized new Hall of Fame inductees Rich Barsamian, Advanced Clutch Technology; Jack Chisenhall, Vintage Air; John Gaines, G&M Performance Parts; and Joe St. Lawrence, RTM Productions.
