We kicked off the new year with a long list of opportunities for The Hog Ring community. We covered upcoming contests, scholarships, awards and more. Here’s a look back at January 2026.
Know Someone Doing Good? AACF Opens Nominations for Humanitarian Award
Do you know anyone in the industry who helps a lot of people but never asks for anything in return?
The Tesla Model Y Standard Has a Surprise Under the Headliner
The Tesla Model Y Standard is an affordable entryway into the world of Tesla vehicles.
Win a Scholarship to Study Auto Upholstery
Are you preparing for a career in auto upholstery? Then apply for a SEMA scholarship.
Wayne Harris is Bringing His Iconic Terminator Hearse to MasterTech Expo
MasterTech Expo attendees will see one of the most iconic vehicles in car audio history.
These Robots Can Assemble Two Vehicle Door Panels in Only 40 Seconds
KraussMaffei says it’s developed intelligent robots that can assemble interior trim in just seconds.
The Man Behind the Little Arrow on Your Fuel Gauge Has Died
Ford’s James Moylan had a simple but brilliant idea that changed automotive history.
Dimmable Sun Visors are Coming in 2027… But Haven’t We Seen this Before?
Gentex says it plans to introduce see-through, dimmable sun visors beginning in 2027.
Trimmer Charles William Fife Dies at 88
Trimmer Charles William Fife, Sr., who was known to friends and family as “Bill,” has died at age 88.
Nominate a Trimmer to SEMA’s Hall of Fame
It’s about time SEMA inducts an auto trimmer into its Hall of Fame — don’t you think?
A ‘Sunroof’ and ‘Moonroof’ are Not the Same
Most people use the terms “sunroof” and “moonroof” interchangeably, but they’re not the same thing.
Show Off Your Craftsmanship in the 2026 Keyston Choice Awards
The Keyston Choice Awards are back and ready to recognize standout upholstery installations!
Trimmer Tyler Kent Hamilton Dies at 72
Trimmer Tyler Kent Hamilton of Abilene, Texas has died at age 72.
Miami Madness is Back: Enter Your Best Upholstery Work
Miami Corporation’s 2026 Miami Madness Photo Contest is officially underway!
Driver Seriously Hurt After Car Slams into Kansas Upholstery Shop
A driver was hospitalized after crashing a vehicle into an upholstery shop in Kansas.
Serious About Interiors? Don’t Miss These Upholstery Classes at MasterTech Expo
MasterTech Expo 2026 includes a noticeable expansion in upholstery-focused education.
That’s not all! Visit our Facebook and Instagram pages to see what other trimmers are up to. You can also join in the latest industry discussions by registering for our Auto Upholstery Forum. And don’t forget to subscribe to our FREE newsletter!