Excerpt from SEMA Member News - July/August 2008
Jim Barber, (ARMO) chairman recently shared his thoughts with SEMA Member News about the industry, the council and important issues facing its members.
SEMA Member News: What is your two-year vision for ARMO as its new chairman?
Jim Barber: My vision is to continue the growth of the council by adding new members from all segments of the restoration industry and to ensure that the council is the forum members use to address their business needs. I intend to have the Select Committee accessible and in front of our membership as much as possible.
SMN: There are specific challenges facing the restoration industry, such as the graying of the hobby, legislative concerns and youth awareness. How do you hope to overcome those challenges?
JB: There are many challenges facing our industry; depending on one’s perspective, some more important than others. Certainly youth awareness and legislative issues are two areas we should never ignore and continue to keep in the forefront of our work as a council. I am proud of the Take-a-Kid-to-a-Car-Show program and will continue to grow this awareness program. Education, I believe, is still a big challenge for us.
At this year’s Hotrod and Restoration Trade Show, ARMO provided a forum for members to learn “who is teaching our youth and what are they teaching them.” I believe ARMO members, especially manufacturers, need to work with the various schools to ensure that the curriculum being taught is correct and meeting the needs of our industry. When students graduate, they will be better equipped to come into our industry with the skills needed. As for overcoming these challenges, last year the council was “reorganized” into two subcommittees with specific task forces. This reorganization will allow the Select Committee to address challenges and industry issues in a much more effective manner than ever before.
SMN: Why should more restoration companies join SEMA and ARMO?
JB: It is simple in my eyes: to benefit the industry and themselves! In my opinion, you are going to get out what you put in to any trade association. By giving one’s time and working on industry issues, the industry and your company both reap the rewards.
ABOUT THE CHAIRMAN
Jim Barber founded Classic Automotive Restoration Specialists Inc. (CARS) in March of 1999 after working at Eaton Corporation as territory manager, sales manager, account manager, OEM account manager and national account executive for the company’s truck division. His goal was to create a restoration business that could serve middle- to high-end restorations, as well as build customs and street rods. Starting with two employees and $90,000 in annual sales, CARS has grown to 25 employees and more than $2.2 million in sales. During that time, the company has received a number of awards, including first place at the Chrysler Nationals, as well as two Concours d’Elegance wins and numerous best-of-show awards, magazine features and cover cars. Several of the company’s creations have also been featured on television segments, and two restorations set world-record prices at Barrett-Jackson events.