Performance Racing Industry (PRI) is launching NextGen Connect presented by Carlyle Tools at the 2026 PRI Show, an initiative designed to help students, educators, and motorsports professionals build connections and explore career pathways across the industry. The program will debut Dec. 10-12 at the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
At the 2026 PRI Show, students and young adults can explore careers in motorsports and connect directly with industry professionals through NextGen Connect. Located in Wabash 1 & 2 at the Indiana Convention Center, the space will feature educational seminars, resume reviews, professional headshots provided by SimpleTire, networking opportunities, career guidance, and access to motorsports company representatives.
“The future of motorsports depends on having a strong pipeline of people who are excited to build careers in this industry,” said PRI Managing Director Doug Bresnahan. “NextGen Connect creates opportunities for students, educators and industry professionals to build relationships and explore the many career paths available in motorsports.”
Each day of the Show will feature a Lunch & Learn session presented by SimpleTire, giving participants the opportunity to hear directly from industry professionals while building their understanding of career development and the business of motorsports. The first session, “Building an Intentional Brand,” will be led by Amanda Van Den Elzen of Racer on Demand on Thursday, Dec. 10, at 1 p.m. Additional Lunch & Learn speakers and topics will be announced at a later date.
“We wanted to create a place at the PRI Show where students and young adults can have meaningful conversations with people working in motorsports and get a better understanding of what it takes to build a career in the industry,” said PRI Show Director Karin Davidson. “It’s an opportunity to ask questions, make connections, and get a firsthand look at the people and companies that make the motorsports industry what it is.”
In addition to the daily educational sessions, the NextGen Connect Breakfast will take place Saturday, Dec. 12, from 9:30-10:30 a.m. in Wabash 1 & 2 and feature a keynote presentation from Hendrick Motorsports Director of Technical Partnerships Alba Colon. Hendrick Motorsports is also a supporting sponsor of the program.
Beyond the PRI Show, NextGen Connect will connect academic and trade programs with industry employers, promote career pathways including internships, apprenticeships and co-ops, and create opportunities for ongoing dialogue between educators and companies.
The 2026 PRI Show takes place Dec. 10-12 at the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, bringing together motorsports professionals from across the globe.
Register today to connect with more than 1,000 exhibiting companies, explore new products and technologies, attend education sessions, network with industry professionals, and experience everything the PRI Show has to offer.
To register and learn more, visit PRI2026.com/Attend. PRI membership is no longer required to attend.
