THE AUTO BUILDER
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ENGINE BAY ART FORM
The goal of many builders in today’s high-class, high-dollar world of rodding is to develop new trends to help keep the hobby fresh with new ideas. For some time, the focus has been on the bigger picture—the external appearance of a vehicle. Now builders are focusing a lot more on the details and areas such as the engine compartment, as they become a canvas on which to display the latest and slickest art form.
STUBAN’S STATEMENT
If you think you’re particular about your street rod—the quality of the build, the effectiveness of the drivetrain and chassis, and the aesthetics of the entire effort—consider what it must be like for someone who has specialized in high-level manufacturing for most of his life.
So it’s been for Joe Stuban, a lifelong car enthusiast who has been closer to the source of automotive invention than most us will ever have the chance to explore, creating tens of thousands of stampings and assemblies for every imaginable vehicle that’s rolled out of Detroit over a period of 25 years. Yet, while his experiences have certainly been a blessing, in that he knows what it takes to achieve greatness, it’s that much more of a challenge to attain those goals building the cars he loves so much.
Inside the Hottest Booths at SEMA 2025
The SEMA Show stands alone as the ultimate proving ground for the automotive aftermarket world. No other event brings this level of innovation, craftsmanship, and straight-up creativity together in one place. Everywhere you turn, there’s something new—fresh tech, wild ideas, and custom builds that push boundaries in ways only SEMA can inspire.
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Chris Raschke Legacy Scholarship: Fueling the Next Generation of Builders and Racers
SEMA Legacy Scholarship Pays Tribute to Late Racer and ARP Brand Ambassador Chris Raschke
Chris wasn’t just a driver or ARP ambassador—he was a mentor, a connector, and a lifer in motorsports. From racing ATCs and sprint cars to building engines and guiding builders at ARP, he left his mark everywhere he went. His encyclopedic knowledge, hands-on approach, and love for teaching made him a cornerstone of the performance world.
Author
The Auto Builder Staff
Images Courtesy of Speed Demon 715 & SEMA
The automotive world lost a legend on August 3, 2025, when Chris Raschke tragically passed while piloting the Speed Demon streamliner at Bonneville Speed Week. But his passion, expertise, and drive won’t be gone—they’ll live on through the Chris Raschke Legacy Scholarship, established by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA).
More Than a Driver
Chris wasn’t just a driver or ARP ambassador—he was a mentor, a connector, and a lifer in motorsports. From racing ATCs and sprint cars to building engines and guiding builders at ARP, he left his mark everywhere he went. His encyclopedic knowledge, hands-on approach, and love for teaching made him a cornerstone of the performance industry.
A Legacy of Opportunity
Now, SEMA is giving his legacy a permanent home in the SEMA Scholarship Memorial Fund. The Chris Raschke Legacy Scholarship will support students chasing careers in the automotive aftermarket, giving the next generation of builders, racers, and innovators the tools—and inspiration—to reach their full potential.
How to Contribute
Industry members and fans can contribute to the scholarship fund, ensuring that Chris’ energy, curiosity, and mentorship continue to drive the automotive industry forward. Applications for the 2026 SEMA Scholarship Program open January 1, 2026, at sema.org/scholarships.
Carrying the Torch
Chris Raschke’s legacy was defined by speed, skill, and passion for helping others succeed. Through this SEMA Legacy Scholarship, that same drive will continue to shape the builders, racers, and automotive leaders of tomorrow.
Chris Raschke Legacy Scholarship
To honor his legacy and passion for the industry, SEMA will be establishing the Chris Raschke Legacy Scholarship, supporting students pursuing careers in the automotive aftermarket. Chris was a beloved member of the ARP family and a respected figure in the automotive industry. This scholarship will help ensure Chris’ influence and dedication continue to inspire the next generation. Donations to the fund can be made via the link provided: CLICK HERE to learn more and to contribute.
Specialty Equipment Market Association
1575 S. Valley Vista Drive
Diamond Bar, CA 91765
