Matt Agosta, Chip Foose and Gary Hooker will receive one of the industry’s highest honors and will be inducted into the SEMA Hall of Fame as part of the festivities during the SEMA Installation Gala on Friday, July 29, at the Sheraton Fairplex Conference Center in Pomona, California. They represent an accomplished group of leaders who have shaped and inspired the automotive specialty equipment market, according to the association.
Agosta: As a former SEMA Board member, past chairman of a SEMA council, and a President’s Club member of the SEMA Political Action Committee, Agosta is among the most active members in SEMA history. The President and CEO of Steele Rubber Products is a pioneer in advocating for legislative issues, forging relationships with OEMs and supporting the success of small businesses. He is responsible for advancing educational opportunities for the industry, and has been at the forefront of utilizing the newest digital strategies for the industry’s growth. Past honors include the Chairman’s Award from the SEMA Automotive Restoration Market Organization (ARMO), the ARMO Person of the Year award and the SEMA Ambassador award.
Foose: As the star of the hit television show “Overhaulin’,” Foose is among the most well-known builders in the industry, and arguably responsible for introducing car customization and hot rodding to a mainstream audience worldwide. Before launching Foose Design, Foose created and fabricated projects for influential corporations and OEMs. His work can be seen in the National Football League, Major League Baseball and movies, including “Blade Runner,” ‘Robo Cop” and “Gone in 60 Seconds.” In 1997, Foose was the youngest person to ever be inducted into the Hot Rod Hall of Fame. He also has received the Good Guys Trendsetter Award, and dozens of awards for winning vehicle builds.
Hooker: Hooker Headers is arguably one of the most iconic brands in the automotive performance industry. Even before the SEMA association was formed, Gary Hooker was on the forefront of the industry producing products used by winning racers, including Bill “Grumpy” Jenkins and Bob Glidden. As a junior stock car racer and world-class Ironman competitor in the early 1960s, Hooker launched his business after creating a header for his personal use. The immediate interest and demand for his product led to a business that has grown along with the industry. Hooker’s innovation and passion continued to pave a path for what is now a $36 billion industry.
The SEMA Hall of Fame’s three newest members join an elite group of industry icons and innovators who have already been enshrined in the SEMA Hall of Fame. To partake in the celebration where the inductees will be honored and recognized, visit sema.org/gala or contact Jamie Eriksen at [email protected], 909-978-6737. For more information about the SEMA Hall of Fame, visit sema.org/hof.
