Thank you for your interest in attending
Powertrain Expo 2026!
Below is a list of this year’s speakers! Click the image to expand it for a closer look!
Thank you for your interest in attending
Technical Sessions
Wednesday Sessions
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM - Identifying Counterfeit Transmission Parts: The Rest of… “The Rest of the Story”
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM - Identifying Counterfeit Transmission Parts: The Rest of… “The Rest of the Story”
Speaker: Bob White
Finding the right transmission parts is getting harder. While online options are everywhere, the source and quality are often suspect—or even illegal. Using counterfeit parts leads to misdiagnosis, wasted labor, and failed repairs. Industry expert Bob White shares his experiences spotting “fly-by-night” online sellers peddling fakes. Learn how to quickly identify substandard components and implement policies to protect your shop’s reputation and bottom line.
Thursday Sessions
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM - Don Smith (Elitek) - Programming the Powertrain: Unlocking Stellantis Transmission Success
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM - Eric Ziegler - Misfire: Efficient and Effective Diagnosis
10:00 AM - 11:30 PM - Eric Ziegler - Misfire: Efficient and Effective Diagnosis
10:00 AM - 11:30 PM - Why the PowerLine Is Different: PC vs. CV Foundations and Technician Focused Diagnostics
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM - Lunch
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM - Vital Primary Ignition Amps Tests You Should Know
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM - Hydraulic Controls: Following the Circuit for 8, 9 & 10 Speed TCC Control
3:00 PM - 4:30 PM - Blame it on the Tuner – Part 8
3:00 PM - 4:30 PM - Understanding and Measuring Current Part 2
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM - Understanding and Measuring Current Part 2
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM - Audi S-Tronic DL382 – Operation and Service
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM - Don Smith (Elitek) - Programming the Powertrain: Unlocking Stellantis Transmission Success
Speaker: Don Smith (Elitek)
As modern transmissions become increasingly software-driven, proper OEM programming is critical to a successful repair. This session focuses on Stellantis transmission programming using OEM tools, covering the complete process from setup to execution. We will explore the full range of programming options available—including in-house programming, mobile providers, remote solutions, and dealership support—helping you determine the best approach for your operation. Gain practical insights to avoid common pitfalls, ensure accurate programming, and deliver reliable results.
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM - Eric Ziegler - Misfire: Efficient and Effective Diagnosis
Speaker: Eric Ziegler
Misfires typically result from problems with ignition, fuel, or mechanical systems, and are often confused with transmission or driveline issues. This course teaches diagnostic methods to quickly identify the responsible factor. The focus is on applying logical procedures and making effective use of testing tools. We will particularly highlight the use of scan tools and lab scopes, though other diagnostic equipment will also be demonstrated.
10:00 AM - 11:30 PM - Eric Ziegler - Misfire: Efficient and Effective Diagnosis
Speaker: Eric Ziegler
Misfires typically result from problems with ignition, fuel, or mechanical systems, and are often confused with transmission or driveline issues. This course teaches diagnostic methods to quickly identify the responsible factor. The focus is on applying logical procedures and making effective use of testing tools. We will particularly highlight the use of scan tools and lab scopes, though other diagnostic equipment will also be demonstrated.
10:00 AM - 11:30 PM - Why the PowerLine Is Different: PC vs. CV Foundations and Technician Focused Diagnostics
Speaker: Francisco Moreno & Buffy Schlak (ZF Aftermarket)
This session introduces the ZF PowerLine transmission by comparing passenger‑car (PC) and commercial‑vehicle (CV) transmission designs, highlighting differences in torque capacity, shift strategy, and control logic. The class then transitions into PowerLine‑specific operation, common service issues, failure patterns, and practical diagnostic approaches for real-world fleet environments.
Participants will be able to:
- Understand key differences between PC and CV transmissions.
- Identify major mechanical and electronic features of the ZF PowerLine.
- Recognize common failure patterns and service issues.
- Apply practical diagnostic approaches for commercial applications.
- Use best‑practice service steps to support durability and performance.
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM - Lunch
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM - Vital Primary Ignition Amps Tests You Should Know
Speaker: Dan Marinucci
This seminar shows attendees how to pinpoint common primary ignition failures (like coils and modules) using a relatively inexpensive lab scope and an inductive current clamp. While technicians can simply swap coil-on-plug assemblies between cylinders, this quick current check is highly accurate and finds problems that swapping methods often miss. Furthermore, it enables techs to print the before-and-after results—a physical record that is invaluable for impressing customers and documenting the diagnostic tests. Test instead of guess!
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM - Hydraulic Controls: Following the Circuit for 8, 9 & 10 Speed TCC Control
Speaker: Bob Warnke
Understanding the fundamental hydraulic architecture of today’s 8-, 9-, and 10-speed units is mandatory for determining root-cause lock-up issues. Bob Warnke will take you in-depth into the Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) hydraulic controls of these modern units. Covering everything from reading hydraulic diagrams to identifying specific problems, Bob’s extensive experience will provide you with a confident diagnostic path for any TCC problem you encounter.
3:00 PM - 4:30 PM - Blame it on the Tuner – Part 8
Speaker: Pepe Torres
Pepe gives us a concise look at recurring gearbox headaches and fixes. Topics include 10R140 overheating causes, repeat failures on the 10L1000 and how to stop comebacks, and 10L80 software tunes paired with valve-body kits. He will dive into AISIN valve body wear diagnostics, repair options, and the intricacies of setting hydraulic pressure versus applying electronic tuning. Pepe will also cover diagnosing diesel torque-converter stall and common drivability issues following overhauls.
3:00 PM - 4:30 PM - Understanding and Measuring Current Part 2
Speaker: Adam Robertson
The measurement of current tells an incredible story about the integrity of circuits and components. If done correctly, it is a simple, non-intrusive “quick test.” To win the electrical diagnostic game, you must properly measure and understand current flow using probes and lab scopes.
Topics include:
- Current behavior in inductor circuits (motors, injectors, solenoids, coils) and the “current ramp.”
- The “filling and dumping” of stored magnetic fields.
- Differences in current behavior in resistor and capacitive circuits (e.g., Piezo electric injectors).
- Using current as a first step in diagnosing systems before disassembly.
(Recommended for technicians of advanced skill levels.)
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM - Understanding and Measuring Current Part 2
Speaker: Adam Robertson
The measurement of current tells an incredible story about the integrity of circuits and components. If done correctly, it is a simple, non-intrusive “quick test.” To win the electrical diagnostic game, you must properly measure and understand current flow using probes and lab scopes.
Topics include:
- Current behavior in inductor circuits (motors, injectors, solenoids, coils) and the “current ramp.”
- The “filling and dumping” of stored magnetic fields.
- Differences in current behavior in resistor and capacitive circuits (e.g., Piezo electric injectors).
- Using current as a first step in diagnosing systems before disassembly.
(Recommended for technicians of advanced skill levels.)
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM - Audi S-Tronic DL382 – Operation and Service
Speaker: Wes Dickens
We will dive into the Audi DL382, a sophisticated 7-speed transmission combining the efficiency of a manual gearbox with the lightning-fast gear changes of an automatic. We will break down its operation (from its dual-clutch design to its electronic control systems), review common error codes, and walk through its complex oil change procedure.
Technicians will be able to:
- Identify sections of the DL382 transmission.
- Detect signs of transmission vulnerability during an oil change.
- Explain the special functions of the ATF and MTF pumps.
- Explain the operation of shift solenoids and valves.
- Execute the proper steps to change the transmission oil.
Friday Sessions
Friday is a special training day! We have four speakers breaking down the 10L80 transmission from diagnostics, R&R, to delivery. Each session is packed with real-time need-to-know information on finding the root-cause problems and solving the issues.
Attending technicians will be divided into 4 separate groups. Each group will attend a session and move to the next session as a group until completing all four sessions. Each speaker will repeat the same material for each session they present to. The time slots are as follows:
| Pearl #1 Aaron Golas |
Pearl #2 Bill Anthony |
Pearl #3 Jim Dial |
Pearl #4 Mark Wheeler |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10L80: R&R, Diagnosis Before and After | 10L80 Build: Do’s and Don’ts | 10L80 Valve Body: What you Need to Know | 10L80 Programming and Tuning |
| 8:00 am – 9:00 am | 8:00 am – 9:00 am | 8:00 am – 9:00 am | 8:00 am – 9:00 am |
| 9:15 am – 10:15 am | 9:15 am – 10:15 am | 9:15 am – 10:15 am | 9:15 am – 10:15 am |
| 10:30 am – 11:30 am | 10:30 am – 11:30 am | 10:30 am – 11:30 am | 10:30 am – 11:30 am |
| 11:45 am – 12:45 pm | 11:45 am – 12:45 pm | 11:45 am – 12:45 pm | 11:45 am – 12:45 pm |
Pearl #1: Session: 10L80: R&R, Diagnosis Before and After
Speaker: Aaron Golas
When a vehicle equipped with a 10L80 transmission enters the shop, there are critical things you need to know before laying a wrench on it. Aaron will provide a practical pathway to bring a car from initial diagnosis to final delivery, emphasizing the must-do tasks that ensure a proper repair. All important steps—including vehicle intake, diagnosis, and R&R—will be explored to make the job easier and far more predictable.
Pearl #2: Session: 10L80 Build: Do’s and Don’ts
Speaker: Bill Anthony
As the 10-speed unit ages, these transmissions are increasingly entering aftermarket shops in need of a rebuild. While the unit may seem easy, hidden pitfalls can cost you time and money. Bill will guide you through the specific issues and fixes necessary to confidently return this unit to working condition for the long haul. He will cover component inspection, known failure points, and proven solutions to help you build it right the first time.
Pearl #3: Session: 10L80 Valve Body: What You Need to Know
Speaker: Jim Dial
Jim will cover the three generations of the 10L80 Non-ETRS and ETRS valve bodies and the key differences between them. He will introduce the hydraulic changes between the Gen 1 latch valves and the Gen 2 boost ball type, explaining how they work in conjunction with the Clutch Control Valves. The session also covers the Gen 3 valve body and the specific hydraulic changes GM made to eliminate wheel lockup.
Pearl #4: Session: 10L80 Programming and Tuning
Speaker: Mark Wheeler
Today’s transmissions require precise programming to ensure the unit operates correctly after repairs are completed. Mark will provide essential, must-do information specific to the 10L80 transmission. He will also cover exclusive tuning tips designed to significantly increase the durability and performance of this unit. Gain the confidence to program and tune with purpose, guided by an industry leader.
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM - Lunch
2:30 PM - 6:30 PM - Tradeshow
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM - Reception
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM - Lunch
2:30 PM - 6:30 PM - Tradeshow
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM - Reception
Saturday Sessions
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM - Keynote – “Developing and Maintaining a Winning Culture Under Pressure”
3:00 PM - 4:30 PM - Tips and Tricks from the Builder’s Bench
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM - Tradeshow
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM - Knowing Limitations for Successful Diagnostics
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM - Keynote – “Developing and Maintaining a Winning Culture Under Pressure”
Speaker: Major Jon Tschetter (Retired)
How do trust, clarity, and accountability build teams that win every time? Major Jon Tschetter will teach you how to forge an unbreakable culture capable of thriving under the most intense operational pressure, drawing on elite military leadership principles translated specifically for the automotive repair industry.
3:00 PM - 4:30 PM - Tips and Tricks from the Builder’s Bench
Speaker: John Parmenter
Discover the latest solutions from one of the industry’s most renowned transmission specialists! Take a journey into the complaint, cause, and cure process, exploring some of the latest, most effective fixes that you can use in your shop immediately. Be ready to take extensive notes and bring your best questions for this highly practical session!
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM - Tradeshow
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM - Knowing Limitations for Successful Diagnostics
Speaker: Sean Boyle
A properly functioning transmission now relies on a sound engine, reliable communication networks, fine-tuned hydraulics, tight tolerances, and consistent electro-mechanical operation. In this seminar, Sean explores common diagnostic issues—whether it’s misinterpreting DMM, Scope, or scan data, battling stubborn hydraulic controls, or struggling to confirm electronic operation. Learn which diagnostic methods to trust, which to confirm, and which to avoid entirely. Sean will share a bulletproof process to guide you logically through symptoms and develop efficient, timely repairs.
Saturday Spanish Sessions
3:00 PM - 4:30 PM - Cambios Continuos, Sin Límites: Descubriendo el poder secreto de la CVT
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM - Pepe Torres - Vamonos Recio 3
3:00 PM - 4:30 PM - Cambios Continuos, Sin Límites: Descubriendo el poder secreto de la CVT
Speaker: Maria Erazo
Biografía y Descripción: María Fernanda Erazo Gallegos es una ingeniera mecánica ecuatoriana con un MBA en negocios internacionales y más de 28 años de experiencia. Como actual Presidenta del Capítulo Latinoamericano de ATRA y propietaria de “Talleres Caja Rosa” en Cuenca, Ecuador, su trayectoria combina experiencia técnica, emprendimiento y activismo por la equidad de género en la industria.
En este curso técnico, exploraremos los nuevos desafíos de la CVT8, incluyendo su diagnóstico y reparación. Además, María Fernanda presentará una introducción a la CVT25 (o CFT25) utilizada en vehículos GM y chinos, cubriendo diagnósticos y fallas comunes. Finalmente, daremos un vistazo a la CVT de Honda, el nuevo rompecabezas para los reconstructores de transmisiones automáticas. ¡Es hora de ponernos a prueba, podemos hacerlo!
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM - Pepe Torres - Vamonos Recio 3
Speaker: Pepe Torres
En esta sesión técnica, Pepe Torres demuestra el aprendizaje de adaptes en cajas de 6, 8 y 10 cambios, junto con el diagnóstico preciso de solenoides con códigos de circuito. Además, explicará paso a paso cómo seleccionar la mejor configuración para unidades de alto desempeño y compartirá soluciones efectivas para combatir el molesto shudder (vibración) del convertidor en transmisiones modernas. Finalmente, Pepe abordará los problemas más comunes de fugas hidráulicas y fallas de enfriamiento en los modelos Toyota AB60, A760 y A750.
Sunday Sessions
9:00 AM - 3:30 PM - 2026 ATRA Seminar
9:00 AM - 3:30 PM - 2026 ATRA Seminar
Speakers: ATRA Staff
Topic: 2026 ATRA Seminar
Sunday Spanish Sessions
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM - Reese Blalock - Director Técnico, AAMCO University / Miembro de ATRA por más de 30 años
11:00 AM - 12:30 PM - ZF PowerLine: Diferencias Entre la Transmisión de ZF 8HP vs ZF PowerLine
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM - Reese Blalock - Director Técnico, AAMCO University / Miembro de ATRA por más de 30 años
Speaker: Reese Blalock
Director Técnico, AAMCO University / Miembro de ATRA por más de 30 años
Con más de tres décadas de experiencia en la industria de transmisiones, Reese Blalock aporta una combinación única de conocimiento práctico, dominio en diagnóstico y pasión por el desarrollo de técnicos. Como exespecialista en soporte técnico y miembro de ATRA, ha dedicado su carrera a apoyar talleres en todo el país. Como Director Técnico de AAMCO University, lidera iniciativas de formación enfocadas en diagnósticos prácticos, desafíos modernos de manejo y crecimiento profesional, honrando siempre el oficio de quienes trabajan con las manos.
11:00 AM - 12:30 PM - ZF PowerLine: Diferencias Entre la Transmisión de ZF 8HP vs ZF PowerLine
Speaker: Francisco Moreno
Esta sesión introduce la transmisión ZF PowerLine comparando los diseños de la ZF 8HP (vehículos de pasajeros) y transmisiones de vehículos comerciales. Destaca las principales diferencias en capacidad de par, estrategia de cambio, durabilidad y lógica de control. Posteriormente, la sesión pasa a la operación específica de PowerLine, problemas comunes de servicio, patrones de fallo y diagnósticos prácticos.
Al final de esta sesión, los participantes podrán:
- Entender las diferencias clave entre transmisiones PC y CV y su influencia en el diseño PowerLine.
- Identificar características mecánicas y electrónicas de la ZF PowerLine.
- Reconocer patrones comunes de fallos.
- Aplicar enfoques diagnósticos para vehículos comerciales.
- Utilizar las mejores prácticas de servicio para apoyar el rendimiento.
Management Sessions
Wednesday Sessions
4:30 PM - 5:45 PM - Creating a WINNING Culture
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM - Being in business with the one you love / How to survive and thrive
4:30 PM - 5:45 PM - Creating a WINNING Culture
Speakers: Lance Wiggins and Rodger Bland
The Game Plan: Creating a WINNING Culture
Success in the transmission industry requires a deliberate strategy. Whether you’re a new shop owner or a seasoned veteran, this interactive session provides the ultimate playbook for running a high-performing shop. Industry experts Lance Wiggins and Rodger Bland will break down the 5 Key Elements needed to win every day.
You will learn to cultivate a culture of trust, bridge the gap between the front office and back shop for total alignment, and leverage KPIs for data-driven decisions. Additionally, the session covers implementing continuous training and staying agile to adjust to new technologies and economic shifts. Ditch the theory and focus on actionable, real-world strategies to finalize your game plan!
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM - Being in business with the one you love / How to survive and thrive
Speakers: Kit and Amy Lindsay
Being in business with the one you love / How to survive and thrive
Join Kit and Amy Lindsay as they share their unique journey of navigating the business world, first individually, and then together as a couple. In this candid session, they will share their laughter, tears, and hard-earned wisdom. Attendees will receive practical tips, suggestions, and real-world insight into what it truly takes to build a solid, successful entrepreneurial partnership—without sacrificing your personal relationship.
Kit is a lifelong veteran of the automotive/transmission industry. Opening his shop in 1984 at the age of 22, and retiring and selling the business in 2021. For Portlanders, that’s 37 years. He is an AP/IA and spends most days at his hangar tinkering with airplanes and rebuilding antique transmissions.
Amy is a lifelong veteran of the professional ballroom dancing industry. She has owned and operated two ballroom studios individually and one ballroom studio/event center with her husband Kit. She is the co-founder of Act for Missouri, a political watchdog organization hellbent on exposing corruption in our state politics.
Thursday Sessions
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM - The Complete Customer Experience – Stop Losing Them Before, During, and After the Sale
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM - Built to Last
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM - Lunch
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM - Beyond the Build: Leadership & Systems for a Stronger Transmission Shop
3:00 PM - 4:30 PM - Shifting Gears & Changing Lanes
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM - Speed Traps, Potholes & Idiots
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM - The Complete Customer Experience – Stop Losing Them Before, During, and After the Sale
Speaker: Carl Borsani of Graphic Home, LLC
The Complete Customer Experience – Stop Losing Them Before, During, and After the Sale
Today’s automotive customers decide who they trust long before calling your shop. This presentation shows owners and managers exactly where customers are being lost—from outdated websites and poor online visibility to missed opportunities on the phone or in the waiting area. You will learn how modern website design, Google Ads, clear communication, and a professional shop environment work together seamlessly. By mastering these elements, you can build trust, generate better leads, and turn first-time customers into long-term advocates.
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM - Built to Last
Speaker: Melissa “Birdie” Patterson
Winning looks different when you’ve been in the business a while. Drawing on 30 years of shop floor and leadership experience, Melissa “Birdie” Patterson focuses on what actually works. Explore how a winning culture is built through consistency, clarity, and follow-through. Learn why strong shops rely on clear standards and repeatable systems instead of constant hustle or heroics. This session introduces practical tools that align your team, reduce dependency on one person, and stabilize operations. If you want your shop to run without you chasing every loose end, this class is for you.
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM - Lunch
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM - Beyond the Build: Leadership & Systems for a Stronger Transmission Shop
Speaker: Maryann Croce
Technical excellence is essential, but it’s not enough to build a resilient shop. This session reveals how leadership clarity, role alignment, and simple business systems directly impact cycle times, comebacks, customer trust, and profitability. You will learn actionable strategies to reduce operational bottlenecks, improve decision flow, and create shop-wide consistency. This session is ideal for shop owners, general managers, service advisors, lead technicians, and any leader responsible for workflow and team performance.
3:00 PM - 4:30 PM - Shifting Gears & Changing Lanes
Speaker: Jay Gubrud
Focus: Mastering the art of change before it masters you.
Change doesn’t ease in with a signal; it demands you keep up. This high-energy session equips participants with the clarity, courage, and practical tools to navigate change confidently. Participants will learn to set bold expectations amid uncertainty, turn resistance into results, and build adaptable mindsets. Jay will help you pinpoint common action blockers, overcome paralyzing fears, and break free from limiting routines. Gain proven strategies to stop dreading change and start driving it.
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM - Speed Traps, Potholes & Idiots
Speaker: Jay Gubrud
Focus: Eliminating everyday roadblocks to accelerate success.
The road to success is cluttered with detours, delays, and distractions. This fast-paced session helps participants spot and steer around daily roadblocks that stall growth. Whether dealing with mindset issues, conflict, fear, or difficult personalities, this program equips your team to power forward with resilience. You will master techniques for productive conflict, handling tough personalities without losing your cool, and creating meaningful connections. Leave with the skills to deliver and receive feedback that inspires real action.
Friday Sessions
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM - Mission Accomplished - Special Forces Leadership Tactics Can Boost Your Shop's Performance
9:45 AM – 11:15 AM - Culture Connection
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM - Winning Culture: From the Curb and Back Again
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM - Lunch
2:30 PM - 6:30 PM - Tradeshow
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM - Reception
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM - Mission Accomplished - Special Forces Leadership Tactics Can Boost Your Shop's Performance
Speaker: Major Jon Tschetter (Retired)
In this session, Major Jon Tschetter explains how to apply Special Forces leadership tactics directly to your shop. Featuring real-world combat stories, Jon highlights the critical importance of teamwork centered on mission success. Treating self-directed work teams as your ODA teams, he will cover defining your company’s “HOOAH!”, establishing measurable targets, and taking strategies from creation to execution. Learn to conduct brutally honest SWOT analyses and plan missions with the team you have, rather than the one you wish you had.
9:45 AM – 11:15 AM - Culture Connection
Speaker: Lauralee Schmidt
You hear the word “culture” all the time, but what does it really mean? Let’s dig deep and have honest conversations about improving team dynamics and daily experiences in your shop. This session covers actionable ways to empower your team and elevate your shop’s standards, leading to less turnover and faster growth. Key takeaways include holding firm to shop standards, engaging and empowering your people, implementing effective community strategies, and ensuring you have the right people in place for the right reasons.
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM - Winning Culture: From the Curb and Back Again
Speaker: Thom Tschetter
A winning culture begins when a customer pulls up and continues through the front office and shop floor. Coach Thom Tschetter explores an overlooked aspect of culture: understanding profitability. This presentation breaks down where paychecks come from, how profit is created, and how every role impacts the bottom line. We will examine the psychology of winning and the true cost of a comeback. Attendees will receive a downloadable slide deck, “Where Does My Paycheck Come From?”, to use for their own team meetings to empower employees to think like business owners.
1:00 PM - 2:30 PM - Lunch
2:30 PM - 6:30 PM - Tradeshow
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM - Reception
Saturday Sessions
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM - Developing and Maintaining a Winning Culture Under Pressure
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM - Tradeshow
1:30 PM – 3:00 PM - CULTURE IS KING
3:15 PM – 4:45 PM - TEAM DEVELOPMENT
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM - How to Build an Intelligent Culture that is Fun to be a Part of
9:00 AM - 10:00 AM - Developing and Maintaining a Winning Culture Under Pressure
Speaker: Major Jon Tschetter (Retired)
How do trust, clarity, and accountability build teams that win every time? In this keynote address, Major Jon Tschetter will teach you how to forge an unbreakable culture capable of thriving under the most intense operational pressure, drawing on elite military leadership principles translated specifically for the automotive repair industry.
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM - Tradeshow
1:30 PM – 3:00 PM - CULTURE IS KING
Speaker: Thomas Andrews (Shop Fix Academy)
You can copy pricing, marketing, and systems, but you cannot copy culture. In this high-energy session, you will learn how to build leaders at every level so your team can lead from every seat. Discover how to replace exhausting micromanagement with real, effective coaching. You will learn to create healthy accountability and the right kind of pressure that naturally drives performance. Walk away with a proven blueprint to drastically reduce turnover, increase overall performance, and ultimately build a shop that runs smoothly without you.
3:15 PM – 4:45 PM - TEAM DEVELOPMENT
Speaker: Thomas Andrews (Shop Fix Academy)
Running a shop isn’t a solo sport—it’s a team game. Learn how to build a team that wins without you carrying the load. You will discover how to hire, onboard, and train team members correctly from Day 1. The session covers setting clear expectations, KPIs, and accountability standards that actually stick. Walk away with a proven, repeatable system to develop your people, improve operational metrics, and create a highly effective team that drives tangible results. Stop managing employees and start developing a winning team.
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM - How to Build an Intelligent Culture that is Fun to be a Part of
Speaker: Jim Cathcart
Every shop has a culture, but very few are intentional—most just happen by accident. Learn how to actively grow a Winning Culture based on the PEACE framework: Professionalism, Engagement, Awareness, Caring, and Excellence. You will discover how to design policies that produce the outcomes you need and implement practices that keep everyone informed. Learn to follow workflows that guarantee consistent excellence and build strong relationships that prove you genuinely care.
Sunday Session
9:00 AM - 11:00 AM - The Walk Thru: It’s Game time!
9:00 AM - 11:00 AM - The Walk Thru: It’s Game time!
Speakers: Lance Wiggins and Rodger Bland
The Walk Thru: It’s Game time!
Join Lance and Rodger for this final, high-impact session designed to consolidate all the strategies, insights, and action plans you’ve gathered throughout the Expo. Prepare to head back to your shop on Monday morning ready to execute your ultimate winning playbook!
