ECO Partners with California-Based Organization SEMA to Modify a Jeep

Santa Fe, NM – The Early College Opportunities Applied Science Magnet School (ECO) in partnership with Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), a California-based organization, has begun transforming a stock fire engine red 2015 Jeep Wrangler into a high performance off-road vehicle. SEMA donated up to $35,000 for the project including the Jeep, while ECO will modify the Jeep and develop a written curriculum and a how-to guide intended to be used for similar projects in other secondary schools across the nation.

The Jeep was delivered to ECO on August 29, 2017, and the project is scheduled for completion during the 2017-2018 school year. Chris Coriz, the automotive technology instructor at ECO, said, “The wish list for the build includes: a six inch long arm suspension lift with 35”-37″ beadlock wheel kit, aftermarket hood and exhaust, upgraded differentials, a supercharger, front and rear bumpers with a winch, body armor, rock sliders, light bars, a stereo system and other interior upgrades.”

It is SEMA’s intention to sell the final upgraded vehicle and use the proceeds for a similar project at ECO during the 2018-2019 school year. Students will learn many real-world auto tech skills and the project will promote the interest and knowledge of young people in the accessorization, customization, building and/or upgrade of motor vehicles using aftermarket auto parts.

Enthusiastic students will be showing off the bright red Jeep in its earliest stages of modification at Franklin Miles Park on Saturday, September 23rd from 11:00am-2:00pm during the Santa Fe Public Schools’ Back to School Bash event. The public is invited to see the beginnings of what the students are planning to be one tough Jeep.

SEMA History

Founded in 1963, the Specialty Equipment Market Association is a trade association dedicated to helping businesses involved with vehicle customizations. Businesses include manufacturers, distributors, resellers and promoters. Products includes those that enhance a vehicle’s

performance, styling, comfort, convenience or safety. The history of the automotive aftermarket industry dates back to the 1950s, when hot rod and racing hobbies were just beginning.

SEMA is governed by a board of directors who volunteer their time to lead and guide the association. A professional staff is responsible for the day-to-day execution of the programs and services.

SEMA Membership Profile

SEMA’s member companies include manufacturing, selling, distributing and marketing automotive specialty-equipment parts and accessories. The typical SEMA member company is a small to midsize business, with an owner entering the industry as an enthusiast whose passion led to a career. SEMA membership complements their existing staff by providing education, training, research, legislative advocacy, international outreach, as well as group discounts on insurance, shipping and more.

For further information contact:

Early College Opportunities Applied Science Magnet School, 2100 Yucca, Santa Fe, NM 87505; Attn: Chris Coriz T: 505-467-2833 E: ccoriz@sfps.k12.nm.us

SEMA, 1575 Valley Vista Drive, Diamond Bar, CA, 91765; Attn: Zane Clark T: 909-978-6743 E: zanec@sema.org; Santa Fe