A Decade at Speedmaster

Jay Verduzco started in the automotive industry changing oil and replacing brakes. His trajectory shifted when he joined Speedmaster in an entry-level sales role. Within two years, he earned the company's Sales Rep of the Year award. Over the following decade, he advanced to USA Operations Manager, contributing to new-product development and building out Speedmaster's online presence.

SEMA 35 Under 35 Recognition

In 2016, SEMA News selected Verduzco for its annual 35 Under 35 list, which identifies emerging talent across the automotive specialty-equipment industry. Nominees are put forward by industry peers and evaluated on leadership, entrepreneurship, and measurable impact within their organizations.

This marks the fifth year of the program, with the selection process drawing an increasing volume of nominations each cycle.

Perspective on the Industry

Verduzco sees e-commerce reshaping the traditional speed-shop model, requiring companies to build a meaningful presence in digital marketplaces. He also points to the resurgence of the American muscle car market, driven in part by television exposure and social media, which has broadened the demographic and brought younger, more diverse enthusiasts into the space.

"E-commerce has had an effect on the speed-shop business model, making it necessary to adapt to an electronic marketplace to ensure that a company stays successful and thriving. Social media can create an impact for a company and its brand soul, ensuring that a company stays relevant." - Jay Verduzco, USA Operations Manager, Speedmaster

In his briefcase: the Race Monitor app, the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series schedule, a Speedmaster catalog, and a copy of Days of Thunder.