SIM’s Account Manager Bernice Sanders Receives SEMA’s 2011 Businesswoman of the Year Award

Bonita Springs, FL (November 16, 2011) – Source Interlink Media’s National Account Manager, Bernice Sanders, was recently awarded the 2011 Businesswoman of the Year Award at this year’s Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas. This outstanding achievement award was presented by the SEMA Businesswomen’s Network (SBN), a dynamic group of professionals representing the women of SEMA.

SBN not only supports women pursuing careers in the specialty-equipment industry, but also oversees the continued development and management of the SEMA Mentoring Program, the Annual SEMA Speed Networking Breakfast, opportunities for SBN Member Networking, SBN Communications, SBN Projects, development of articles and member features, contributes regularly to SEMA Member News, and much more! The SBN is the fastest growing group within the SEMA membership.

Bernice was recognized as one of a select group of women who have become icons in the automotive aftermarket,devoting her entire career to the industry and SEMA.  From early on, in a male dominated field where not many women pursued careers, Bernice has established an outstanding reputation for her hard work, professionalism and work ethic.  She has earned and maintained great respect from her clients, co-workers, and business associates.

Starting her career at the National Hot Rod Association (NHRA)as a receptionist, Bernice was quickly promoted toadvertising coordinator for National DRAGSTER.  Her reputation at NHRA did not go un-noticed.  Hired by SCORE International, the leading off-road racing organization, Bernice wore many hats – from administrative assistant to its president Sal Fish to handling SCORE’s advertising and contingency programs.  In 1999, she was recruited by Petersen Publishing to become the first female on their west coast automotive sales team.  Success within the automotive publishing industry has led to Sander’s current dual position as Aftermarket Sales Director for the Motor Trend Auto Group and Senior Sales Rep for 50+ Source Interlink Media automotive publications. Bernice has been with Source Interlink Media for over 13 years.

Currently serving on SEMA’s Scholarship Fund Select Committee and the SEMA Cares Charity Committee, Bernice was an SBN founding member and served on the SBN Select Committee for many years.  She has also provided informative advice to consumer women on automotive related topics as a member of the Ask Patty.com automotive advisory panel.

As a mentor to countless young women coming into the aftermarket automotive industry, Bernice has paved the way of acceptance for women wanting a career in this traditionally male dominated industry. Her belief is that, “Having great mentors in my career has been a blessing and has given me many opportunities to give back to others … it is the only way I know to pay it forward.”  Bernice truly deserves to be recognized and honored with the “SBN women of the Year Award.”

Congratulations on this outstanding achievement!

About Source Interlink Media

Source Interlink Media is the premier source of special interest media in the United States. With more than 70 publications, 90 websites, 400 branded products, 65+ events, and TV and radio programs, SIM is the largest provider of content to enthusiast communities interested in automotive, action sports, marine and other niche activities. The division’s strategy is to wholly focus on targeted audiences by leveraging and expanding upon its core market-leading brands through a multiplatform media approach.