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Behind The Scenes: PRI Show Setup
The buzz continues to build in downtown Indianapolis as the motorsports industry gathers in anticipation of the 2023 PRI Show. While the Show officially kicks off on Thursday, attendees have already begun attending industry meetings, exclusive programs and educational sessions.
"The education is why we started coming, because the seminars are so good," said Jeff Baldwin, owner of Baldwin Racing Engines in Freidheim, Missouri. "I bring my guys from the shop here; it's just a good way to get out and learn stuff you don't see every day. We can take it back to the shop and apply it."
The AERA Engine Builders Association held its Engine Professional Industry Conference Presented by Motor State Distributing, a series of educational seminars covering the latest tricks, tips and technology for engine builders of all different stripes and disciplines.
"Randy Neal from CWT Industries did a really good presentation about engine harmonics, and he opened my eyes a little more to a broader spectrum," said John Mosetti of Boats Unlimited from Dallas, Texas. "The educational aspect is why I come in early. The education is great, and it's needed."
The Hot Rodders of Tomorrow engine build competition also began on Wednesday with preliminary rounds of the PRI Show Playoffs. The contest, held year-round at events around the country, pits teams of five high-school-aged students against each other in a timed engine teardown and rebuild and will culminate this weekend with the crowning of a National Champion.
In addition to recognizing this week's top team, the Hot Rodders of Tomorrow gives PRI Show attendees a glimpse into the future of the industry. According to Rodney Bingham, president of Hot Rodders of Tomorrow, somewhere between 25-50% of program participants go on to careers in the automotive industry, thanks in part to the skills learned in the heat of competition.
"This program highlights the kids who want [to work], and there are a lot of kids that are looking to join the industry or be involved with the automotive industry as a whole," Bingham said. "This helps draw talent back into the industry and helps companies fill jobs."
It also serves as a launching pad into further education for students, distributing over $3 million in scholarship funds through partners like Universal Technical Institute, the School of Automotive Machinists and Technology and others.
That includes Eli Boudreaux, a student competing this week with Forsyth Central High School. Boudreaux, from Cumming, Georgia, will be continuing his automotive education on a full-ride scholarship to the Hennessey Performance Tuning School. He credits Hot Rodders of Tomorrow with giving him the boost he needed to secure his spot in the program.
"It rocket-launched my education," Boudreax said. "It was everything. It's what introduced me to the school, and it's the reason I'm getting the scholarship." Hot Rodders of Tomorrow competition continues through Saturday in Meeting Rooms 125-128. Add it to your PRI Show Planner here.These events took place as exhibitors built their booths on the PRI Show floor, gearing up for the tens of thousands of motorsports professionals to fill the halls in search of the latest racing innovations and technology. The day ended with PRI's Exhibitor Reception in Lucas Oil Stadium, where exhibitors were treated to beers and appetizers.
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