Read the Press Full Release
Mobile Electronics Industry Hall of Fame Announces the Class of 2026 Inductees
The Mobile Electronics Association proudly introduces the 2026 class for the Mobile Electronics Industry Hall of Fame, honoring individuals whose contributions have profoundly shaped the industry.
Mike Anderson
Former Executive Director, Alpine Brand Business Unit – Alps Alpine North America, Inc.
Mr. Anderson has over 33 years of dedicated service, Mike Anderson is a highly respected veteran in the automotive electronics industry. He retired in February 2023 as Executive Director of the Alpine Brand Business Unit at Alps Alpine North America, concluding a remarkable career that began in 1990 as Northeast U.S. Sales Manager.
Throughout his tenure, Anderson progressed through numerous leadership roles, including sales, marketing, OEM business, and product planning. In 2017, he was selected to lead the aftermarket brand division, overseeing all aspects of sales, product strategy, and marketing across North America.
Under Mike’s guidance, Alpine achieved major industry recognition, including being named the 2023 Vendor of the Year by Mobile Electronics and earning the GM Supplier of the Year award in 2022—marking the company’s 11th consecutive honor.
Known for his collaborative leadership and deep commitment to retail partners, Mike successfully cultivated a robust aftermarket presence for Alpine products. Colleagues and industry peers credit him with strategic vision and unwavering advocacy for quality and service.
Mr. Anderson retired in early 2023. He plans to remain connected to the industry while focusing on family, personal interests, and new endeavors.
Micah Ansley
Founder, AAMP of America / American Garage
Mr. Ansley is a renowned entrepreneur and business leader best known for founding AAMP of America in 1987 during his time at Missouri State University. With a lifelong passion for cars and electronics—particularly classic automobiles—he transformed AAMP into a market-leading provider of automotive electronic accessories, including the globally recognized brands Stinger and Peripheral.
Under Ansley’s visionary leadership as CEO and president, AAMP of America achieved remarkable success. The company became #33 on the INC 500 list of America’s fastest-growing privately held businesses and doubled its growth approximately every five years, even through three separate exits—while Ansley retained significant equity. Stinger and Peripheral remain top-tier brands in the automotive electronics industry, celebrated for their blend of performance, quality, and affordability.
Born into a military family, Ansley spent his youth moving frequently, instilling in him a strong work ethic, adaptability, and a deep appreciation for engineering and innovation. These qualities have fueled both his corporate achievements and his current venture, American Garage, which applies the same customer-first principles—quality products, fair pricing, and exceptional support—to elevate the home-garage lifestyle.
Now based in Pisgah Forest, North Carolina, Ansley maintains a balanced life that blends business acumen with outdoor pursuits—his interests include working with horses, hiking, and caring for trout—as well as a commitment to family. With over three decades of industry leadership, Ansley remains a respected voice in automotive electronics and garage innovation.
Peggy Finley
Former President and Owner of K40
Ms. Finley is a celebrated leader and innovator in the mobile electronics industry, best known for her transformative tenure as President and Owner of K40 Electronics, a custom radar and laser detection systems firm based in Elgin, Illinois. She joined the company in 1981 as an executive assistant and quickly distinguished herself by rising through the ranks to become its top salesperson by 1985. In 1992, she was appointed President and, in 2009, she acquired ownership of the company. Under Finley’s leadership, K40 evolved into a nationally recognized brand, revered for its high-quality products, exceptional customer service, and strong dealer relationships. She emphasized a culture of employee empowerment, profit-sharing, and community engagement—guiding the company to contribute around $600,000 to the Boys & Girls Club of Dundee Township and earning accolades such as West Dundee’s declaration of “Peggy Finley Day” in 2014.
Finley also secured her place as an inventor in the radar detection space, co-authoring patents such as U.S. Patent No. 7,298,248 for a vehicular communication system designed to monitor and communicate speed detection alerts. Her leadership was recognized with the 2013 Lifetime Achievement Entrepreneurial Excellence Award from the Daily Herald and Business Ledger.
In February 2025, after more than four decades of commitment, Finley announced that K40 would cease operations in May, marking the end of its remarkable legacy. Throughout her career, she remained dedicated to innovation, customer-first values, and social responsibility—leaving behind a legacy of leadership, community impact, and technical achievement.
Ron Freeman
Former President and CEO of AAMP Global
Mr. Freeman is a seasoned executive renowned for his pivotal role in transforming AAMP of America (later AAMP Global) into a global powerhouse in automotive and mobile electronics. Freeman assumed the position of President and CEO in early 2015, and was appointed Chairman in January 2015, overseeing the company’s strategic direction through a period of aggressive expansion.
Under his leadership, AAMP Global executed a bold growth strategy, including the acquisition of seven companies and expanding its workforce to roughly 250 employees, servicing more than 5,000 customers worldwide ceoutlook.com. During this time, the company broadened its footprint into new markets and reinforced its position as an international innovator in automotive electronics and engineering.
Freeman also played an active role in industry leadership as Chairman of AAMP Global, and served on the Executive Board of the Consumer Technology Association (CTA)—including the Board of Industry Leaders through at least 2017.
In June 2016, he stepped into a new challenge as President and CEO of Instrument Sales & Service Inc. (ISS) in Portland, Oregon, bringing his strategic leadership to a 60-year-old GM remanufacturing and parts organization.
Darrell Edward Issa
Founded Directed Electronics
Mr. Issa is a prominent entrepreneur and public figure who founded Directed Electronics—the company behind the Viper car alarm brand—in 1982. He served as Director and CEO until January 2000, when he stepped down to pursue a career in politics.
Under Issa’s leadership, Directed Electronics rapidly grew from a small startup in Cleveland to a nationally recognized automotive security and convenience products company. Revenues escalated from $1 million in the mid-80s to over $200 million by the late 1990s. In 2005, Directed restructured into a holding company—DEI Holdings, Inc.—as it expanded into consumer audio brands like Definitive Technology and Polk Audio. DEI later launched Sound United, adding Denon, Marantz, and Bowers & Wilkins to its portfolio before being acquired by Harman in May 2025.
Issa’s departure from Directed marked the start of a significant political career. Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2000 as a Republican from California, he served continuously until 2019, returned in 2021, and has represented districts in the San Diego area (most recently the 48th). During his years in business and government, he has maintained a strong focus on technology, entrepreneurship, and intellectual property.
Today, Issa is recognized for building a major consumer electronics enterprise centered on the Viper brand and for a lengthy tenure in public service spanning more than two decades.
Rick Kojan
Former National Sales Manager for Sony Car Audio
Mr. Kojan is a long-serving Sony executive whose more than three decades with the company include a pivotal role in rebuilding its aftermarket car audio business into a competitive Tier 1 brand. As Head of Sales for North America Mobile Electronics, he has been a steady advocate for the independent specialty dealer channel and a consistent presence at industry events.
Kojan’s path into mobile electronics began in Northeast Ohio. While attending Kent State University, he worked full-time at Ohio Sound Stereo, a multi-store specialty retailer in the Cleveland area. After graduation he faced early rejections from other brands due to limited outside sales experience, but a Sony representative named Zack Blocker took time to coach him on interview preparation. That act of kindness opened the door, and Kojan joined Sony, beginning as a regional sales assistant focused on store detailing and training.
In 2002 he moved to the car audio headquarters team in Park Ridge, New Jersey—his first extended time away from Northeast Ohio—where he gained broader product and operations experience that included travel to Japan. Around 2011 he assumed greater responsibility for the aftermarket car audio division at a challenging moment. The business faced distributor issues, product leakage, and persistent rumors that Sony might exit the category. Kojan has described the situation candidly as “a dumpster fire.”
Under his sales leadership the division recovered. Sony Car Audio earned Mobile Electronics magazine’s Vendor of the Year award for multiple consecutive years. The turnaround centered on strengthening relationships with independent specialty dealers served through authorized distributors across the United States, Alaska, Hawaii, and Canada, as well as Crutchfield. Product strategy shifted toward amplifiers, speakers, and subwoofers to better position the brand as factory integration increased. Kojan also oversaw the relaunch of the Mobile ES (“Elevated Standard”) line, returning the brand to its roots in high-performance sound quality for specialty retailers.
Throughout his career Kojan has emphasized loyalty to dealers, long-term brand rebuilding, and the value of mentorship—frequently citing the early guidance he received as a model for how the industry should operate. He remains a familiar face at distributor shows, KnowledgeFest, SEMA, CES, and other industry gatherings, representing the realities of running a focused 12-volt business inside a large global company.Rick Kojan’s career reflects persistence, relationship-driven sales leadership, and a sustained commitment to the specialty mobile electronics channel.
Patrick M. Lavelle
Former President and CEO of VOXX International
Mr. Lavelle is a renowned executive in the consumer and automotive electronics industry, celebrated for his transformative leadership of VOXX International Corp. Over a distinguished 48-year tenure, he rose from a regional audio salesperson in 1970 to President and CEO in May 2005. He also served on VOXX’s Board of Directors beginning in 1993.
As CEO, Lavelle oversaw VOXX’s growth into a diversified global enterprise—leading strategic acquisitions including Klipsch, Acoustic Research, Jensen, Code Alarm, RCA, Magnat, and Heco, and building robust international market channels. Under his guidance, the company became a dominant force in automotive entertainment and vehicle security systems.
During his leadership, Lavelle also held pivotal roles in the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), including Chairman of the In-Vehicle Electronics Board and sits on the CEA’s Executive Board as a past chair. He remains actively involved in broader industry dialogue and mentorship.
Under his stewardship, VOXX maintained stable executive leadership: in October 2023, the company extended his CEO contract through February 2025, underscoring the board’s confidence amidst market challenges. His compensation for FY 2023 totaled approximately $1.03 million, reflective of his leadership and operational responsibility.
Pat Lavelle’s legacy lies in his strategic vision, capacity-building through mergers and brand integration, and steadfast presence in industry governance. His influence has left a lasting impact on VOXX’s trajectory and the consumer electronics sector at large.
Keith Lehmann
Former Executive Vice President of Kenwood USA Corporation
Mr. Lehmann is a seasoned executive in the consumer electronics industry, most notably serving as Senior Vice President of Consumer Electronics Sales at Kenwood USA Corporation beginning in 2006. With over two decades of industry experience at that time, he led significant growth initiatives in Kenwood’s car electronics business, after having served as Vice President of the company’s Car Electronics Division.
Before joining Kenwood, Lehmann accumulated substantial experience at major audio brands, including roles at Harman Consumer Group and Alpine Electronics, where he developed deep expertise in market strategy, product integration, and field sales leadership.
Despite limited publicly available information about his subsequent career, Lehmann’s impact at Kenwood is underscored by his leadership during a period of product expansion and elevated retail partnerships across North America.
Jeffrey Maron
Founder Osprey Car Audio and Alarms
Mr. Maron is the founder and visionary behind Osprey (Osprey Car Audio & Alarms / Osprey Wireless / Osprey Automile), a family-owned leader in mobile electronics and vehicle outfitting since 1985.
Born in Hartford, CT, and raised in low-income housing, Maron turned an early passion for cars, CB radios, and aftermarket audio into a thriving business. He began by installing car phones from his garage, rapidly expanding into auto security, remote starts, and premium car audio installations.
Under his leadership, Osprey grew into a prominent Greater Boston retailer (now based in Canton, MA), known for expert craftsmanship, superior customer service, and strong dealer partnerships. The company later diversified into Boston Truck & Van Outfitters, providing commercial van and truck upfitting solutions.
With over 40 years of experience, Maron serves as Vice President of Business Development for The Osprey Companies, emphasizing integrity, quality, and innovation in the mobile electronics and automotive aftermarket industries.
Mobile Electronics Industry Hall of Fame Class of 2025 Inductees
David Black – Chief Operating Officer, On-Board Engineering & Sales Inc. (2002–Present)
David Black is a seasoned executive with over four decades of leadership in the mobile electronics industry. As a founding member of Alpine Electronics of America’s U.S. team, Dave played a pivotal role in introducing Alpine to North America. He served as a Board Member and Executive Vice President of Aftermarket from 1979 to 1994. In 1994, Clarion Sales Corp., recruited Dave as EVP to lead its Aftermarket group and collaborate with the Product Development Team on innovative technologies, including telematics platforms like the AutoPC. In 1997, he took on the role of President at McIntosh Labs’ Sales Corp., a Clarion subsidiary, where he successfully restructured the company’s operations. Dave returned to Clarion in 1999, serving until 2001.
Recognizing a market gap in marine audio solutions, Dave founded On-Board Engineering & Sales Inc. (OBES) in 2002. Under his leadership, OBES designed and sourced advanced marine audio platforms, including digital radio systems with transport-free streaming, Digital AM/FM tuners, and IP66-rated platforms. These designs became the standard for major OEM boat builders.
Dave resides in Rancho Palos Verdes, CA, with his wife of 56 years, Jan. They have three sons and seven grandchildren. A former car racing participant, Dave now enjoys the sport as a fan. He’s currently producing a historical DocuCast on Alpine Electronics’ introduction to the USA, where he was one of the six founding members.
Richard Clark (Autosound 2000) is a leading authority on the Buick Grand National (1984–1987) and GNX, operating his celebrated Grand National Garage in Burlington, North Carolina. His passion began in the late 1980s after a forced street race between his Ferrari Testarossa and a turbocharged 1987 Buick Grand National—an experience that inspired him to pursue and master the Buick V6 turbo platform.
Over the years, Clark has meticulously built the largest private collection of Buick Grand Nationals and GNX vehicles in the world. He is widely recognized for his deep mechanical knowledge, self-taught tuning expertise, and the ability to restore and enhance these cars to street and drag-strip perfection.
Each spring, Richard hosts a much-anticipated gathering at his garage, attracting turbo Buick enthusiasts from far and wide. Events feature dyno tuning sessions, horsepower contests, tech seminars, and informal drag races at nearby Piedmont Dragway. Community members describe his shop as a hub of expertise and passion:
“Friendly and knowledgeable… what an experience!”
“He hardly ever makes money off Turbo Buicks and his love is the preservation of them.”
Richard’s technical prowess extends beyond tuning; in the 1990s he developed a vintage Clark Audio noise gate for competition vehicles—a rare artifact among car-audio collectors.
His reputation is further cemented through recurring appearances in documentaries such as Black Air: The Buick Grand National Documentary, articles, and interviews showcasing his depth of knowledge and enthusiasm. With a full-time crew, dyno facilities, complete fabrication equipment, and a staggering parts inventory, Richard’s Grand National Garage remains the epicenter for Buick GN preservation and performance.
David Navone (Autosound 2000) is the founder and President of Navone Engineering, Inc., based in Stockton, California. With a career spanning nearly four decades in high-performance automotive audio and engineering, David has earned recognition as a pioneering expert in the field.
He began his entrepreneurial journey in March 1976 when he founded Navone Electronics, Inc., which he led for ten years before evolving the business into Navone Engineering in 1986—an organization he continues to lead 39 years later. Under his direction, the company has become known for inventive audio solutions and specialized engineering services.
David’s influence extends into the broader audio engineering community. He is regularly cited as a “god‑father of car audio” in enthusiast forums, where his technical designs and innovations are celebrated. He has also contributed to the body of knowledge in the field, authoring numerous technical publications and books on topics such as speaker placement, noise filtering, and amplifier optimization—including The Art of Grounding and Determining Optimal Speaker Placement.
In a 2018 episode of the SQOLOGY Car Audio podcast, David discussed his background in automotive audio, his competition experience, and his ongoing projects—revealing a deep passion for sound quality and technical excellence.
David Navone’s legacy is defined by sustained leadership in audio engineering, a relentless drive for innovation, and a significant influence on both industry practices and enthusiast culture.
Autosound 2000 was a technical seminar series and publication co-created by David Navone and Richard Clark in the 1990s, aimed at advancing the understanding of automotive audio design and installation best practices.
They released a hefty collection of technical essays and “tech briefs”—often referred to as the Autosound 2000 Tech Briefs—which totaled hundreds of pages covering topics like grounding, noise troubleshooting, battery sizing, enclosure tuning, and detailed wiring methodologies. One standout topic, “The Art of Grounding,” delved into chassis grounding principles, helping installers understand how to avoid unwanted noise and interference.
These seminars weren’t just classroom lectures. Attendees witnessed live demonstrations such as an exercise-bike-powered car stereo setup, which Navone and Clark used to prove a controversial point: oversized battery systems could burden the alternator and reduce power available to the audio system—challenging the popular multi‑battery trend among mobile audio enthusiasts.
The legacy of Autosound 2000 lives on through:
-
- Technical Influence: Their noise-troubleshooting flowcharts and grounding guides are still recommended today, showing up frequently in online forums.
- Community Mentions: Enthusiasts recall the seminars as eye-opening. One described Richard Clark as “Super genius… mystifying us mortals with ideas and installs that seemed like they were from 50 years in the future”.
- Lasting Relevance: Even into the 2020s, users on DIYAudio still regard Autosound 2000 as essential—“a good start to understanding mobile audio” from papers written in the ’90s.
In short, Autosound 2000 was a deep-dive educational initiative from two pioneering minds in car audio—Navone and Clark—which remains a touchstone for high-level installation techniques, electrical system design, and noise mitigation in the mobile audio community.
Rich Coe’s career reflects a deep passion and expertise in the car audio industry. Before joining Alpine, he was a member of Paul Stary’s Audiomobile team. In the early 1970s, he also showcased his talents as the lead singer and lead guitarist for the Rock Band “Truth,” performing along the West Coast of the USA.
In 1980, Rich made a significant move to Alpine Electronics of America Inc. He quickly rose through the ranks, eventually becoming AVP Technology and leading the company’s Product Development & Engineering efforts for over a decade. During this time, Rich’s impact extended beyond domestic operations; he established the Global Alpine Technology & Education (GATE) project. The GATE project focused on harmonizing product development and advancing custom installation techniques globally, working to upgrade Alpine’s international affiliates and mobile electronics installation standards. Rich and his GATE team are also credited with developing and publishing the Car Audio Nationals Judging standards and executing the contest consumer systems across the US.
Notably, Rich is recognized for his groundbreaking work in car audio, including designing, engineering, and installing the first commercial car audio subwoofer system using a pair of 15” subwoofers four 8” X 13” mid bass drivers two pair of mid tweeters which changed the car audio industry forever. This innovative subwoofer system was tested in a 1967 VW Bug. The industry nick-name it the 1KWVW . It was powerful enough to be heard nearly a mile away, a truly remarkable achievement for its time. And what many feel was the beginning of a new generation of extraordinary mobile audio products and custom installations.
Lucio Proni
Founder and CEO (retired), JL Audio
Lucio Proni is the founder and visionary behind JL Audio, which is celebrating its 50th Anniversary this year. Throughout his career, Proni pushed the boundaries of product design and manufacturing, leading JL Audio from startup to globally respected audio brand.
Born in Italy and raised in the United States, Proni’s fascination with acoustics and electronics began at a young age under the guidance of his father, who was also a talented engineer. In 1975, while on break from his university studies, he co-founded JL Audio with James Birch—turning a shared interest in home speaker design into a fun summer business. Pretty soon, their little project became more serious, and the partners started Speaker Warehouse, an audio retailer in Hollywood, Florida, where the they sold their own JL Audio home speakers and other audio products.
While operating Speaker Warehouse, Lucio pioneered many groundbreaking car audio installation techniques and found creative ways of installing subwoofers into cars. When IASCA competitions arrived, Lucio went after it in a big way, leading his Speaker Warehouse team to multiple IASCA Finals championships in the early 1990’s, using JL Audio subwoofers of his own design, and dazzling the car audio world with his innovative installations. This spark ignited JL Audio’s rocket ride to prominence in the car audio industry.
Under Proni’s technical leadership over the following decades, with his wife Maria and a team that shared his vision, JL Audio grew steadily, earning a reputation for engineering excellence, creativity and dealer support. The company expanded into electronics, marine and powersports products, and once again entered the home audio business. Lucio’s hands-on approach, retailer-centered thinking and commitment to U.S.-based engineering and manufacturing set JL Audio apart in each marketplace.
Throughout his career, Proni remained dedicated to sound quality, technical precision, and continual innovation. With Lucio now retired, his commitments to product innovation and excellence will continue under JL Audio’s ownership by Garmin, with the continued efforts of many of the people who helped him build a great American success story.
Laura Puente was a dedicated industry leader and compassionate entrepreneur who served as President of Premiere Services, a California-based mobile electronics and vehicle safety installation company. As one of the key figures in building the organization alongside her brother, Mark Puente, Laura played an instrumental role in growing the company from its roots into a trusted provider of comprehensive vehicle outfitting services, including insurance claims and later safety system installations.
Laura began her career at Premiere in an early stage of the company, helping to lay the groundwork for its emphasis on ethical practices, quality workmanship, and customer care. She championed initiatives such as “Operation Safe Road,” a groundbreaking campaign that introduced rear‑view cameras, parking sensors, event recorders, and collision‑avoidance systems—demonstrating her commitment to improving vehicle safety and protecting families on the road.
Described in a remembrance by her brother as “kind and generous, loving and honest, and always ethical and considerate,” Laura’s leadership style blended business acumen with genuine empathy. She fostered strong team dynamics and inspired a culture of urgency and integrity throughout the organization, working closely with technicians, insurance carriers, and community partners.
Beyond business, Laura was driven by a deep sense of social responsibility. Under her direction, Premiere collaborated with philanthropic groups like Wounded Warrior, Kids and Cars, and Hire Patriots, donating a portion of proceeds to support safety awareness and community initiatives.
Laura Puente passed away peacefully on October 27, 2023, leaving a lasting legacy of leadership that combined innovation, compassion, and ethical entrepreneurship. Her vision continues to guide Premiere Services, ensuring that each vehicle and each customer is treated with care reflective of her values.
George “Doc Thunder” Reed is a revered figure in the mobile electronics industry, best known as the founder of Marketing Pro’s Inc., a leading manufacturer’s rep firm based in Conroe, Texas. With over 40 years of hands-on experience, George earned the nickname “Doc Thunder” for his groundbreaking role in creating and promoting “sound-off” car audio competitions in the early 1980s.
Under George’s leadership, Marketing Pro’s became one of the most respected representation firms in the aftermarket mobile electronics sector. The company has amassed more than 50 “Rep of the Year” awards, including multiple clean sweeps, and was recognized as Firm of the Year by Mobile Electronics Magazine from 2014 to 2018. Brands and vendors regularly praised George’s professionalism, organization, and dedication to exceeding sales targets.
In addition to his industry influence, George was noted for mentoring emerging reps and growing Marketing Pro’s into a powerhouse with over 200 combined years of field experience across its staff. He officially retired in January 2021, leaving behind a legacy of old-school values—emphasizing integrity, personal relationships, and exceptional service—that continue to guide the company.
Mark Rutledge was a groundbreaking automotive‑electronics engineer and innovator, best known for developing the Maestro interface at Automotive Data Systems (ADS). Beginning his career in tech support at Directed, he returned to school to earn an electrical engineering degree while raising a family—a reflection of his dedication and intellect.
At ADS, Mark envisioned and spearheaded the Maestro project, creating a pioneering tool that seamlessly integrates aftermarket radios into modern vehicle systems. His work revolutionized installation practices and is now employed in over 750,000 vehicles. He also secured multiple patents related to graphical interfaces and routing technologies for automotive systems.
Colleagues remember Mark not just for his technical genius but for his personal qualities—humility, integrity, and mentorship. Frank Barassi, President of ADS, described him as a visionary engineering leader who demanded excellence from himself and others. Jason Ewing, a team member, said, “Mark never made me feel like I worked for him, but more with him,” while Ken Ward noted that Mark possessed “a deep understanding of head-unit replacement and OEM audio integration”. Peers emphasized that his combination of engineering acumen and personal warmth made him a rare and irreplaceable leader.
Tragically, Mark passed away in August 2021 at the age of 51. His death shook the industry, with many remembering his “infectious passion” and character as “straight‑up, honest, no BS”. He is survived by his wife, Amy, and four children, and leaves behind a legacy marked by enduring technical contributions and profound human impact.
John J. Shalam is a pioneering entrepreneur whose transformative journey began with importing thousands of car radios in 1965—marking the birth of Audiovox. A 1954 graduate of Wharton, he departed from a promising career at Continental Grain to launch his own import business. That pivotal radio order sparked an industry-defining moment, reshaping his company’s trajectory and laying the foundation for what became a major force in consumer and automotive electronics.
Under Shalam’s leadership, Audiovox went public in 1987 (ticker: VOXX) and steadily expanded beyond car audio into cell phones, consumer electronics, mobile video, and vehicle security products. His strategic acquisition-driven approach in the 2000s—bolstered by a corporate relocation to Florida—helped Voxx evolve into a diversified global player with brands such as Acoustic Research, Jensen, Klipsch, and Code Alarm. He also oversaw the purchase of Onkyo and Directed Electronics in 2020.
Recognized as Chairman of Voxx International and instrumental in bringing Klipsch into the fold, Shalam’s leadership spanned decades and included board service at the CEA Foundation. Voxx’s sale to Gentex for nearly $200 million in early 2025 capped a legacy of sustained value creation.
Beginning with a single pallet of car radios, John J. Shalam built a billion-dollar enterprise—guiding its growth from audio imports into cellular, consumer, and vehicle electronics, and extending its brand footprint through acquisitions and strategic partnerships. His legacy combines entrepreneurial courage.
Rick Snelson (1955–2021) was a trailblazing entrepreneur and industry leader in the mobile electronics sector, renowned for founding and leading Car-Fi, a premier car audio and electronics retailer based in Springfield, Missouri.
Born on December 28, 1955, in Jefferson City, Missouri, Snelson developed a passion for audio technology early in his career, accumulating over 50 years of experience in the field.
In 1986, he launched Car-Fi, initially as a modest operation with hand-built displays and a two-car installation bay, which grew into multiple locations, including stores in Springfield and Nixa.
Under his presidency, the company became a staple in the Midwest, specializing in car stereos, mobile electronics, and custom installations, while building strong partnerships with brands like KENWOOD for more than four decades.
Snelson’s innovative spirit and business acumen earned him recognition as a “legend” in the industry.
He founded “Springfield’s Best,” a local business group dedicated to promoting excellence in the community, and was actively involved in charitable initiatives, such as the “Take a Coat, Leave a Coat” program, which provided winter coats to those in need in collaboration with his wife, Reba Brew.
His leadership extended to roles like owner of the CMT Group, further solidifying his influence in audio and electronics retail.
After a distinguished career, Snelson retired in 2021, selling Car-Fi following a battle with cancer
He passed away on December 31, 2021, at the age of 66, leaving a lasting legacy in the mobile electronics community and his hometown
Pictures from the 2024 Event in Dallas
Mobile Electronics Industry Hall of Fame Inaugural Class of 2024 Inductees
The Mobile Electronics Association proudly introduces the inaugural class of the Mobile Electronics Industry Hall of Fame, honoring individuals whose contributions have profoundly shaped the industry. Selected by a distinguished nomination committee, including executive leadership from the Mobile Electronics Association, this first class is dedicated in memoriam of the manufacturing sector.
Jim Fosgate (1937-2022)
Emmy Award-Winning and surround sound pioneer, an American Inventor and Engineer. His father Louis (Louie) Fosgate was a radio and television repairman. Jim always said that he was Brilliant and understood electronics and audio, which he taught to Jim. His love for sound was natural and normal, already programmed into him. His entire career was defined by music and technology that inspired and changed the lives of those who listened to his Sound Demos. He created a Human Experience in Sound with an inexhaustible PASSION for The Perfect Sound. In his early teens, he built a portable radio from scavenged parts and installed it on his Cruiser Bicycle. He told stories of riding it all over Indianapolis and grinned as he said “It was a Hit.” FOZ realized that music and the human ear didn’t have the same “curve” or signature; so, in 1973 the solution was invented and patented as the FOSGATE PUNCH EQ Car amplifier. That same punch is the sound of Rockford Fosgate and it is heard in everything made today. In 2000 after working with quadraphonic sound and producing the Tate II processor, Jim made improvements to his stereophonic technology which Norma and Lex called “Surround Sound”. The name was adopted by competitors and Dolby Laboratories announced the introduction of DOLBY PRO LOGIC II. Roger Dressler of Dolby Laboratories said, “Jim’s system, his invention, made him become one of the most prolific developers of Surround Decoding Technologies since the Quadraphonic era”. This circuity is now enjoyed by more than 500 million stereo receivers, video game consoles, car stereos, and commercial theater decoders throughout the world. In 2003 Jim was Honored with the Ultimate recognition in his field.… An Emmy Award for his remarkable achievement and contributions in the development of Surround Sound for Television.
Larry Frederick (1949 – 2023)
Larry’s early career included working at Altech Lansing Professional, Audiomobile, a few years later, Larry joined Coustic, and drove the mix to include the famous XM3, AMP190 and AMP380 among many other products. He joined Keith Peterson at Phoenix Gold in 1989 when they were only an audio accessory company. In a short amount of time Larry and Keith introduced the MS-250 and MS-2125 with 24 karat gold plated PCB’s that placed Phoenix Gold with a reputation for high quality products. Larry went on to develop many amps including the “Frank AMP’n stein”. A large portion of Larry’s career was training, he trained 1000’s of enthusiasts and installers all over the world. He was famous for a flowerful tongue and his nerf gun, shooting students who were not paying attention or answering with a wrong answer. Also, in the early 90’s Larry was also instrumental in the rules committee and judging of 1000’s of vehicles that competed in ISACA events nationwide. He was very passionate about the fact that the only seat in the car that mattered was the driver’s seat and would only judge a car from that seat. His career path then took him to elettromedia USA where he was instrumental in the introduction and training of the industry’s first serious aftermarket DSP, the Bit One. Larry helped to tune over 250 cars and could make any one of them sound good. Followed by 10 years at Diamond Audio where he reintroduced the brand as a leader in Harley Davidson Audio. Finally, he was presented with the opportunity to form his own company. His daughter, Catherine, came up with naming it Cicada, after the loudest bug on earth. Cicada Audio which was formed during the pandemic and started selling to the Motorcycle market just over a year ago. The successful introduction of his first Cicada product, the CH65 6-1/2” Coax Horn Loudspeaker and was first to stock 2 or 4 ohm versions. With its ability to fit into most locations with little or no modification it was a home run. Larry designed and developed 80 additional products in the current line. His passion for the category led him to a product plan of an additional 40 new products arriving to market in 2023 the second year of Cicada Audio’s existence. Larry’s presence in the electronics industry was a guiding light, and he was a reliable source of support and guidance for all who had the good fortune of knowing him. His legacy in the industry will live on through the many people he touched with his vast knowledge and expertise.
Reese Haggott (1940 – 2010)
Haggott, a key leader in building the mobile electronics aftermarket, was employed at Alpine Electronics during the mid-1970s through the mid-1980s and rose to become sales and marketing VP, where he was known for building a nationwide network of Alpine specialty retailers who numbered about 600 at the time. “Reese understood the concept of building relationships with the specialist retailers, which eventually led to Alpine hosting its retailers at national sales meetings in exotic locations like Hawaii and Mexico. He was known as a visionary who helped transform car audio from a low fi hobby to a thriving business that included hifi components worthy of any Lamborghini. From 1978 to 1986, he led Alpine Electronics, where he became senior VP, and then worked at Eclipse and Coustic. Haggott, with his cowboy style, big personality and bold vision, continues to influence many of today’s market leaders. Haggott created a business distribution model that became the gold standard. He demanded that each retailer be visited personally by an Alpine rep before it was authorized. And he convinced home audio dealers to enter the new car stereo category at the time.
Loyd Ivey (1951 – 2023)
Loyd was a Consumer Technology Association Hall of Fame (CTA) member. He loved car audio, and while his business expanded into a large commercial audio enterprise, he always retained a soft spot for the 12 volt industry. Back in the day, Loyd was director of IASCA, serving from 1985 to 1994. And he was a former member of the board of directors for MERA, now the Mobile Electronics Association. He was also past chairman and board member for the CTA. As the story goes, Loyd left rural Missouri on a bus bound for Chicago at the age of 16. One of his first jobs was at a wood mill that made speaker enclosures. He founded his own company in 1971 making bookshelf speakers, according to a 2015 article by Systems Contractor News. He founded Mitek in 1979 and soon launched the MTX car audio brand. Mitek grew to include AtlasIED and it has owned AV brands Xtant Technologies, Coustic Car Audio, Streetwires, Esoteric Audio USA and others. Loyd’s impact reached far beyond awards and recognition. An entrepreneur through and though, Loyd built his businesses both organically and through strategic acquisition. Many of the acquired brands were consolidated into and added to the success of the well-known commercial and consumer audio brands -AtlasIED and MTX, the two largest entities that fall under the MiTek umbrella. In addition to his entrepreneurial passion, Loyd’s commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a culture of growth within and outside the companies transformed the lives and careers of countless employees and industry individuals. His mentorship inspired innovation and creativity, yielding confident pioneers in this ever-evolving industry.
Rob Limbaugh (1955 – 2021)
With an illustrious career spanning nearly five decades, Rob made a lasting impact in the consumer electronics industry. As the Vice President of Business Development at KICKER Stillwater Designs, Inc., Rob was a driving force behind the company’s innovation and growth for 18 years, since December 2003.
Before his role at KICKER, Rob served as the Vice President of Sales and Marketing at MTX from 2001 to 2002. His distinguished career included a decade as VP Managing Director at Polk Audio from June 1991 to August 2001, and six years as Sales Manager at Linear Power from January 1985 to June 1991. His journey in the industry began with a five-year role in sales at Pacific Stereo from 1975 to 1980.
Outside of his professional achievements, Rob was known for his diverse interests and passions. He was an avid golfer, often finding joy on the green and sharing his enthusiasm for the sport with friends and family. Rob was also a talented storyteller, delighting those around him with engaging narratives and vivid accounts of his adventures.
His love for travel and racing cars led him to participate in the challenging “One Lap of America” four times (1998, 2000, 2002, and 2018). He also enjoyed planning incentive trips for KICKER, with Mexico being a particular favorite destination.
A devoted family man, Rob cherished time spent cooking, sharing his love for Disney with his grandkids, and creating everlasting memories with his family. His visionary spirit, combined with his love for golf and storytelling, made him a beloved figure both in and out of the office.
Rob is remembered for his dedication to his career, his innovative approach, and his deep love for family, golf, and the art of storytelling.
Tom Malone (1954 – 2020)
Tom was a well-respected veteran of the consumer electronics industry and joined VOXX (then Audiovox) in 1986 as a product manager for car security. He consistently moved up the ranks over the next three decades…and most recently served as President of VOXX Advanced Solutions. His contributions to our business, our partners and the industry as a whole have been numerous, and he will always be remembered, respected and loved by those he touched. Tom was the consummate professional who lit up the room when he entered, believed anything could be accomplished and had such a deep passion for changing our industry for the better. Malone helped create and grow the car audio, mobile video and advanced driver safety markets. He was a gracious, caring, and devoted member of the consumer electronics industry and a highly respected leader at Audiovox/VOXX for 33 years. He is an icon in the 12 volt industry with deep passion and admiration for the business. Tom was on the forefront and a pioneer of many 12 volt categories that are still being sold and manufactured by VOXX and others today. Those who worked with Tom knew what a strong work ethic he had and mentored many of us in the industry. He was in command of the facts and not afraid to speak the truth, he was candid in his interviews and held a clear vision of where the industry was heading. His contributions to our industry have had and will continue to make a positive impact on our future.”
Kevan Morris (1957 – 2021)
A well-respected and cherished member of the Pioneer family, Kevan’s affiliation with Pioneer began in 1984. While working at Pacific Stereo selling car stereo components directly to consumers, he was recruited into the role of Product Specialist at NLS Marketing, a rep firm in Bellevue, Washington, selling Pioneer car electronics to retailers throughout Washington state. In August 1986, Kevan officially joined Pioneer Electronics (USA) Inc. as a District Sales Manager covering car electronics in the Pacific Northwest territory. In the 35 years since, Kevan quickly ascended the ranks of Pioneer and held numerous sales and management positions related to Pioneer’s car electronics, home electronics, and television businesses, culminating as executive vice president, a position in which he served with distinction since May 2011. Kevan’s expansive sales knowledge, strong leadership and tireless work ethic have been the backbone of Pioneer’s growth and success throughout North America. Kevan could always be counted on to meet any challenge with a calm demeanor and comforting smile. Kevan conducted himself with the utmost integrity and he earned the admiration and respect of all with whom he has worked. Kevan was proud of his life-long career at Pioneer, and he valued every friendship that developed during the past thirty-five years. Kevan’s legacy continues in the strong bonds he developed with his customers as well as the Pioneer staff that he mentored and guided throughout his Pioneer career.
Clyde Podraza (1954 – 2022)
Clyde began his professional career at Motorola, then moving into executive positions at Panasonic, International Jensen, Recoton, Dual Electronics, and AAMP Global. Clyde spent more than 25 years in the 12V industry. Starting his career at Motorola, he then moved on to work in executive positions at Panasonic, International Jensen, Recoton, Dual Electronics, and AAMP Global. Clyde was one of the founding partners at Dual Electronics and spent a decade as a top executive there. He was a pillar of the 12Volt industry during his time with Jensen and Dual. Clyde spent the last several years of his career at AAMP Global prior to retiring in 2020.
Michael Somma (1927 – 2021)
Somma started out by opening a television sales and service shop with his brother-in-law, after serving proudly and with honor in the United States Navy in World War II. He was a graduate of Brooklyn Technical School, where he learned electrical and mechanical engineering skills. Somma built and sold his first television while attending school, which became his first official TV sale. After the war, where he served as a radioman, he knew where his passion and interests would be best utilized, and thus, Metra Radio and TV was founded. They went on to sell and install numerous car radios because cars at this time did not come equipped with a radio and the option from the factory was, as it is now, an expensive addition. Installing a car radio was a time-consuming and complex undertaking. These trials and tribulations gave Somma the idea of standardizing the design and creation of kits instead of tackling each installation one at a time. Several innovations at the time pushed Metra’s focus more towards automotive. Although AM technology was still the rule and FM the exception up until the 1970s, Somma’s forward-thinking saw the potential on the broader bandwidth of FM and its ability to attain Hi-Fidelity sound, as it was called at that time. Somma’s other innovation was the manufacturing of car radio installation kits, which greatly facilitated an easier installation of car radios. At the beginning of car radio installations, it could take two men several hours to install the earlier and primitive units. Somma used his considerable mechanical skills to fashion Metra’s earliest kits out of metal and find whatever way he could fasten the radio to the car. This change led Metra to pre-fabricate kits as their radio and installation business took off! As the 1950s rolled on, more and more installations meant fabricating more radio kits. This is where Somma’s talents came into play, thinking of the bigger, Somma’s boldness led him to eliminate the installation bays and fill them with machinery and equipment to manufacture the myriad of kits required to fit the many different types of cars on the road. He hired engineers and designers, set up a shipping department, and hired a sales and marketing staff to take Metra nationwide. As time went by, Metra went full circle and introduced a line of car radios called MetraVox in the early 1960s that included 4-track players, AM and FM radio, and eventually became a public company in 1969. MetraVox’s radios, which were manufactured in Italy and Japan, were discontinued as Somma determined that the true profit center was in the installation kit business.