2021 Seminars

Dave Hobbs – 48 Volts and Beyond

48-volt systems will become the new normal as OEMs bridge the gap between more expensive higher voltage hybrid and electric vehicles and older conventional gas engine powertrains. This course will bring you up to date with the DC and AC side of 48-volt and higher electrification.  We’ll go through how they work, common failures and diagnostic tips to help you master the variables of hybrid systems. 

• Diagnosing System Main Relays & High Voltage Interlock Circuits (P0A0D) • HV Isolation Fault Circuits & Battery Pack Data PIDs / Load Tests • New 48-Volt Systems Coming Soon • Real World In Bay Testing You Can Do

Part A

1. Hybrid & EV Technology & Safety
2. Dealing with common Hybrid & EV DTCs
3. High voltage battery pack diagnostics & scan tool PIDs
4. Hybrid & EV Thermal Management (passenger & power electronics)

Part B

1. Using Insulation Testers (Meggers) & Micro Ohmmeters
2. Understanding Single amp; 3-Phase AC
3. Diagnosing HEV / EV smart braking systems
4. Real Case Studies - Diagnosing Hybrid No Starts

*Two Part Hybrid Class. Part A to be held Friday Morning & Part B Friday Afternoon. Attendance to both sessions is not required.

Brandon Steckler - Pressure Waveform Acquisition and Analysis, From The Inside-Out

Course objective is to take the pressure-transducer novice to a whole new level. The goal is for someone with labscope/engine mechanical operation knowledge, to gain the ability to capture pressure waveforms (from the intake manifold/tailpipe and in-cylinder) and be able to use the information to make diagnostic-decisions. The course will cover transducer functionality with both absolute transducers as well as delta transducers. It will touch on the benefits and characteristics of both types of transducers and how they can be used to gain an edge. Diagnostic-approach will be carried out using real world examples and actual case studies from my own library. Attendees leave with confidence to invest in the tooling to perform pressure testing and analysis to improve accuracy and efficiency.

Isaac Rodell - Advance Fundamentals of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles

• High Voltage components that can kill you, even with the safety switch OFF!
• Special Tooling and Safety Equipment Requirements
• High Voltage battery best practices, NiMH & Lithium
• Should you recondition NiMH batteries in-house?
• Loss of High Voltage Isolation: Best practices

Mark Kenyon – How to Use Your Labscope

CLASS FULL

In this clinic, we will present how to set up and operate a lab scope for the purpose of testing automotive sensors and components of various types. As the saying goes, “A picture is worth a thousand words.” We cover set up procedures, voltage and time base settings, and waveform capturing techniques. Waveforms captured from many different component types are reviewed to differentiate ‘good’ and ‘bad’ waveforms. A color clinic book is provided showcasing popular aftermarket lab scope waveforms for take home reference.

After completing this clinic, the student will have the knowledge to:

• Set up and capture automotive waveforms using a lab scope
• Configure lab scope settings for optimized viewing of waveforms
• Properly connect a lab scope to various solenoids, actuators, speed and position sensors and DC motors found under hood and undercar
• Identify when going for the lab scope is necessary
• Utilize multiple channels of the lab scope to aid in diagnostic situations

Rick White – Skyrocket Your Profits

You’re a shop owner who feels like your business is broken and you’re frustrated because you just can’t seem to fix it. You know you are leaving money on the table every time work is presented to a customer, but for the life of you, you can't get any change to happen.  Sound familiar? In our time together, you will quickly learn that your shop isn’t broken; it’s out of adjustment. 
As a group, you'll come up with some great ideas to make immediate changes that will drastically improve your profits. I'm going to teach you how to quickly turn things around using a sure-fire six-step process to grow your business and skyrocket your bottom line! You'll be able to identify what has been holding you back and what you can do about it – RIGHT NOW. 
Your business will thank you for attending this course. So will your bank account.

Brian Walker & Kim Walker – Idea Factory: Using Integration to Supercharge Your Existing Marketing

Are you missing out on important opportunities to get your message in front of new customers? Maybe you're using video on social media. What else can you do with that video? Does your website help grow your email list? In this hands-on class you'll learn how what you're already doing can be improved, see real world integrated marketing examples, and leave with a notebook of ideas to implement when you get back home! Some common questions to be answered are: Does integrated marketing help me get new customers? When do social & SEO work together? How does my traditional marketing complement my digital marketing? Past shop owners Brian & Kim Walker will present this class together creating a fun, engaging environment where conversation & practical tips will be shared freely.

Niel Speetjens – TRW Chassis and ADAS Technology

ZF/TRW chassis systems are present in every second car on our planet. This shows the large OE business what TRW is representing. In this class, you will learn a deep inside in TRW chassis technology. 

The class we starting with the foundations of chassis dynamics and with different axle systems like Mc Pherson and Multi-link suspension systems.

The participant will understand why the count of control arms is increasing in today’s vehicles and why TRW OE designed, low friction ball joint generation is so important for servicing current vehicles.

Electro-mechanical steering systems was the first step to autonomous driving and vehicles are equipped with this system since the beginning of this century.

TRW is as well one of the largest steering systems producers and the participant will learn the influence of these systems to the suspension system. Replacing, servicing and diagnostic of this system will be taught as well.

TRW Driver assistance functions is in today’s vehicles more and more present and vehicles starting to see, think and act. The attendee will learn how to identify this systems and how assistance systems have an influence on the steering and brake system. At the end, the participant will learn how to perform a basic setting on radar systems.

After completing this training, the participant will be able to:

• Describe components within the suspension system
• Explain different chassis angles and angle settings
• Describe Kamm’s circle
• Differentiate between popular chassis systems
• Describe multi-link suspension system
• Explain toe in curve and proper settings of the toe in curve
• Identify electric steering systems
• Describe common failures related to the suspension in steering systems
• Identify proper wheel alignment
• Identify different driver-assist functions and their operations
• Describe functions and impacts of radar and camera systems 

• Show basic settings of radar and camera systems

Pete Meier – "To Catch A Thief - Electrical Testing Techniques That Work!"

Join Motor Age technical editor Pete Meier for this informative presentation focused at helping technicians overcome a common weakness - troubleshooting electrical faults. Pete has helped hundreds of technicians become comfortable tackling electrical problems. How? By helping them master fundamental electrical principles and testing techniques. In this session, Pete will help you shore up any holes in your understanding of electrical circuit operation as well as the factors that affect their function. Then, he'll share essential testing techniques you can apply your first day back in the shop!

David Patrick – Gasoline Direct Injection: Practical Diagnostic Techniques

This course focuses on practical testing techniques applied to gasoline direct injected (GDI) engines supported by a working understanding of system and component operation. This class introduces essential testing techniques which can be applied to a variety GDI equipped vehicles regardless of make or model. This class focuses on the proper use of common diagnostic tools, scan data analysis and proper test drive techniques to help accurately diagnose some of the more common issues found on GDI engines.

Jimmy Lea – The 7 Proven Methods of Marketing

Don’t use the Spaghetti Method for your Marketing!! You need to measure and manage your marketing for the most significant results possible. Stop spending money on methods don't produce or even work against you. In this session, we will talk about the top 7 methods you can implement in your shop today that are proven to put your shop on top.

Dave Hobbs – 48 Volts and Beyond [Part A]

48-volt systems will become the new normal as OEMs bridge the gap between more expensive higher voltage hybrid and electric vehicles and older conventional gas engine powertrains. This course will bring you up to date with the DC and AC side of 48-volt and higher electrification.  We’ll go through how they work, common failures and diagnostic tips to help you master the variables of hybrid systems. 

• Diagnosing System Main Relays & High Voltage Interlock Circuits (P0A0D) • HV Isolation Fault Circuits & Battery Pack Data PIDs / Load Tests • New 48-Volt Systems Coming Soon • Real World In Bay Testing You Can Do

Part A

1. Hybrid & EV Technology & Safety
2. Dealing with common Hybrid & EV DTCs
3. High voltage battery pack diagnostics & scan tool PIDs
4. Hybrid & EV Thermal Management (passenger & power electronics)

*Two Part Hybrid Class. Part B to be held Friday Afternoon.

Clifford Beisler - A8 Test Prep for Engine Performance

CLASS FULL

This workshop reviews the needs for the A8 Engine Performance ASE Test. A Garage Guru overviews general test taking proceduresand guidelines. This workshop includes reviewing several ASE sample questions and the logic behind the way they were written. We provide a summary of the description and operation for the following items taken from the task list for the ASE A8 test:

• General Engine Diagnosis
• Ignition System Diagnosis and Repair
• Fuel, Air Induction and Exhaust System Diagnosis and Repair
• Emission Control Systems Diagnosis and Repair
• Computerized Engine Control Diagnosis

Dave Hobbs – 48 Volts and Beyond [Part B]

CLASS FULL

48-volt systems will become the new normal as OEMs bridge the gap between more expensive higher voltage hybrid and electric vehicles and older conventional gas engine powertrains. This course will bring you up to date with the DC and AC side of 48-volt and higher electrification.  We’ll go through how they work, common failures and diagnostic tips to help you master the variables of hybrid systems. 

• Diagnosing System Main Relays & High Voltage Interlock Circuits (P0A0D) • HV Isolation Fault Circuits & Battery Pack Data PIDs / Load Tests • New 48-Volt Systems Coming Soon • Real World In Bay Testing You Can Do

Part B

1. Using Insulation Testers (Meggers) & Micro Ohmmeters
2. Understanding Single amp; 3-Phase AC
3. Diagnosing HEV / EV smart braking systems
4. Real Case Studies - Diagnosing Hybrid No Starts

*Two Part Hybrid Class. Part A to be held Friday Morning.

Chris Cloutier – Adopting Technology in your Operations

As owners, we want to increase productivity, improve efficiency, and enhance the customer experience we provide in our automotive repair shops. But, now that we all offer a free bottle of water, we need to make a bigger impact. We need technology to help build our competitive advantage to separate us from the rest of the pack. In this class, Chris Cloutier will discuss the three stages of technology, describe where the majority of shop owners are, and define the progression of advanced shop owners. Do you have a web presence? Are you using a digital vehicle inspection? Are you adopting telematics? Find technologies that make a difference in your day to day operations that will help push your shop forward.

Darrin Barney - Pay Plans Used by the Top Shops in America

If you want to build a more profitable, successful shop, you need to have a pay plan in place that will attract the superstars, and keep your employees operating at peak performance. The best way to achieve this goal is by having a well-designed compensation and incentive program that is good for you, your employees, and your bottom line. During this industry-acclaimed course, you will learn:

What every superstar is looking for. 

How to incentivize your employees to consistently be top producers.

The safeguards you’ll need to help you control your payroll costs .

Priceless tips on how the top shops in America are rewarding their employees

David Patrick – Light Duty Diesel: Exhaust Aftertreatment Systems

Since 2007, all light duty diesel vehicles sold in the United States are equipped with an exhaust aftertreatment system of some type. Those technologies can include diesel oxidation catalysts, NOx catalysts, diesel particulate filters, selective catalyst reduction using diesel emissions fluids, or any combination of these subsystems. This class will present the operation and design of these complex systems along with techniques for effective diagnosis. Skills and knowledge from this class cannot only be applied to today’s pickups and vans, but also diesel equipped cars.

David Roman – Stop the Guesswork and Take Control: How to Develop a Unique and Effective Marketing Plan Yourself

"The marketing landscape has changed..."  That's what you're told, right? 

But, has it?

You're told that you need to understand Facebook ads, Instagram stories, YouTube, SnapChat, TikTok, and on and on.  You're told that you need to have your "SEO" managed on an ongoing basis and have a website filled with keyword-rich content in the hopes that Google will find you.  Otherwise... "They won't find you online", they scream! But THEY aren't telling you everything.  You just want to know what to do, how to do it, and when to do it. But, there's so much getting thrown at you that it seems easier to have someone else come in and take care of your marketing.  So you sign up with agency after agency.  You buy mountains of mailers, a website, and ads galore.  All to get some results. 

Knowing that there's more to gain, you start chasing the elusive "silver bullet".   You sign up for one webinar after another. You even fly across the country to attend expensive "advanced marketing" classes.  But, you don't get any answers. Everyone skirts the issue. Despite having stellar customer service, a fantastic online reputation, and excellent technical abilities, you're left staring at empty bays. What's even worse, no one can give you a straight answer!

What you need is your marketing simplified. A straight-forward, pragmatic formula to create the underlying strategy that will then dictate what tactics you need to use.  In other words, you need a simple marketing plan with easy to follow repeatable steps. You don't need to chase the next hot trend. You don't need to keep dumping money into marketing that doesn't get you predictable results.

You just need a place to start.
In this class you'll get:

• The three foundational tenants of every marketing plan. 
• A basic framework that will help you KNOW where to spend your money.
• How to track your marketing so that you know what IS working but more importantly: what -ISN'T- working. You work too hard to waste your money on ineffective and expensive campaigns.
• An introduction to the single most useful skill any business owner must have in order to market effectively.  
• A formula to diagnose a drop in sales or car count, giving you the tools to attack the REAL problem. 

After this class, you'll know EXACTLY what your next steps will be. 

You'll have the clarity to put together a unique marketing plan that will drive the exact car count you need and want. 

Scott Brown - Engine Controller Calibrations - Developing New Perspectives for Driveability Technicians

In this class Scott will take attendees inside of the ECU's various calibration tables, functions, constants and more with the overall goal of generating a deeper understanding into how the controller can manage air-fuel ratio, torque management, catalyst warm-up, engine noise management, NVH, power enrichment emissions, boost, and driveability. Scott will also be using high-performance "Tuner" scan tools and sharing examples of how these fairly inexpensive tools can become a great asset for driveability diagnostic technicians, especially those who have come to appreciate charting and plotting data and documenting their work.

Prerequisites:

Solid understanding of engine operation, fuel injection and fuel delivery systems. Knowledge of ignition systems, emissions controls and a desire to gain a deeper understanding of scan tool data and how to leverage it.

Tanner Brandt - Turbocharger Designs and Operation

Turbocharger Components:

• • Exhaust and Compressor Turbine Technology
  • Recirculating Valves
  • Wastegate Actuator variations (Pressure, Vacuum and Electrical)
• Common Problems – symptoms, diagnostics and failure analysis
• Oil Consumption – The 4 failures not caused by turbo failure
• Positive Pressure Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) Systems – symptoms, failures, and diagnostics
• Diagnosing Turbo Driveability Problems
• High-Pressure Leak Testing – tools and techniques
• Maintenance Practices – need to know information
• Best Installation Procedures

Tony Mercury – Top Internet Marketing Trends for your Repair Shop

This class will cover the top 10 best marketing practices you can be doing right now for FREE. We will show you how to gain a competitive advantage in your local market against your competitors. You WILL leave this class with an actionable list to implement when you get back to your shop!

Gary Smith – Diagnosing Difficult Deposit Related Drivability Concerns

This class covers how to use your scope, pressure transducer and scanner data to identify, locate and correct fuel and oil deposit related driveability concerns quickly and effectively. 

This is eye-opening training for techs, service advisors and shop owners alike. Covers critical knowledge regarding today's fuels and oils that the OEMs are NOT teaching today.

• Fuel and oil depositing is a major contributor to driveability concerns on modern close tolerance turbo GDI vehicles. And it’s one of the hardest to diagnose. Using this field-tested strategy, you will diagnose driveability issues RIGHT THE FIRST TIME. 
• Identify and verify these engine conditions using unique testing techniques that differ from typical DTC flow chart diagnosis on GDI vehicles. 
• Adding these techniques to your diagnostic strategy saves time, unnecessary parts replacement and LESS COMEBACKS. A must-see class.

Richard Falco - Advanced Technology Vehicles: Advanced Driver Assist Systems

You have seen them publicized on television. Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS) that are developed to automate/adapt/enhance vehicle systems for safety and improved vehicle control. Some features are designed to avoid collisions and accidents by offering technologies that alert the driver to potential problems. Others to avoid collisions by implementing safeguards and taking over control of the vehicle. Adaptive features may automate lighting, provide adaptive cruise control, automate braking, incorporate GPS/ traffic warnings, connect to smartphones, alert driver to other cars or dangers, keep the driver in the correct lane or show what is in blind spots. These systems are entering the aftermarket repair world. Be up to date on operation and diagnostic techniques that will enable you to keep these jobs profitably in your shop.

Danny Sanchez – Wisdom vs. Knowledge, Good Decisions Lead to Great Results!

CLASS FULL

Owners, managers, and technicians make multiple decisions every day that affect the outcome in business growth and ultimately profitability. Join AMI instructor and automotive industry icon, Danny Sanchez, as he outlines the key steps he has used to build one of the most successful shops in the United States along with building the top marketing agency in the automotive aftermarket. It's more than just what is right or wrong, decisions are strategic. In this class, you will walk away with the tools to make better decisions based on proven strategies. Be a stronger leader, be independent, and see the results in your business and personal life by investing in yourself! Join Danny for this brand new class and hear his seldom shared wisdom.

Jim Morton - Sherlock Holmes Diagnostics

CLASS FULL

In this seminar with Jim Morton of Morton’s Automotive Technical Services (aka, Sherlock Holmes with a Wrench) we will be going into detail of Testing Procedures in order to keep the repair in a Profitable Zone. The theme behind this seminar is whether or not we have actually found the problem or the EFFECT of the problem.

The main topics that will be covered are:

Approach of the Diagnostics using the “G” and the “P”s Testing – The BEST test in the world are not worth anything if you are in the wrong area of the issue. With Proper “G” General Test taking you into the correct Funnel, then the “P” Pinpoint Test will drive you down the correct funnel to the “Root Cause” of the issue.

Detailed Electrical Testing Procedures – We will be covering the WHAT and WHY you really need to be proficient in your electrical system testing.

Understand what the Ignition Waveforms are Telling Us – We will be covering just how much information is within those Ignition waveforms, even with the newer Digital representation of the waveform.

Ryan Payne - Modern Ignition System Testing to Read

CLASS FULL

This clinic is designed to enhance the professional level technician’s knowledge of modern ignition system diagnostics. P0300 misfire DTC diagnostic strategies are covered using modern scan tools and ignition system test equipment. Information covered reviews digital storage oscilloscopes (DSOs) patterns captured using current probes, inductive wands and voltage test leads to validate modern ignition system components ranging from crankshaft and camshaft position sensors to today’s COP (Coil on Plug) assemblies. Misfire information obtained from the scan tool is explained and reviewed through Case Study vehicles. PCM (Powertrain Control Module) operational strategies are defined pertaining to OBD II Misfire Monitoring standards.

After completing this clinic, the student will have the knowledge to:

• Recognize different manufacturers’ operational strategy during misfire conditions
• Navigate quickly through valuable scan tool data to gain diagnostic direction
• Accurately test crankshaft position and camshaft position sensors
• Distinguish the difference in testing procedures for conventional ignition coils versus ‘smart coil’ assemblies
• Interpret various ignition component waveforms captured from a DSO (Digital Storage Oscilloscope)
• Understand fuel trim corrections during misfire conditions to isolate system faults

Dave Hobbs – Diagnosing Variable Displacement Engines

To cope with increasing C.A.F.E. government mandates automakers are utilizing more variable displacement engines with technology like the new Delphi "Skip Fire" system which constantly picks the right combination of cylinders to give the driver the perfect mix of power, economy and engine smoothness. This course will bring you up to date on these systems covering their mechanical and hydraulic aspects along with electronic engine controls.  We’ll go through how they work, common failures and diagnostic tips to help you master the variables of variable displacement engines. 

• GM AFM, Chrysler / Dodge MDS and Honda VCM Operation 
• The brand-new GM DFM (Dynamic Fuel Management) 
• Service Issues for Variable Displacement Engines  
• Real World In Bay Testing You Can Do

David Patrick – Vehicle Communication Breakdown

The expansion and use of multiple on‐board control units that communicate with each other in one or more networks in the vehicle has become complex. In addition, modern day networks such as Bluetooth and Ethernet that allow customers to run programs in the vehicle such as email, GPS navigation, calendar management, etc. means that diagnosing today's vehicle network related problems can be challenging to say the least. This course will give you a thorough understanding of how modern vehicle networks operate and communicate, have resources for gathering information concerning network codes and protocols, and enhance your network diagnostic capability through case studies of actual vehicle network communication problems.

Donny Seyfer - The Cyber Secure Shop: You do Have Something They Want

• They aren’t interested in me. What do I have to lose?  The facts are A LOT!    
• Learn how bad guys are trying (and possibly succeeding) to get your information
• Why If all of your employees are not up to speed the consequences could be huge
• What can a cell phone do?
• What is account take over?
• What is social engineering?
• How about a little phishing?
• Networks enable our work. Networks enable the bad guys.

Join NASTF Executive Officer and Cyber Security evangelist, Donny Seyfer and learn how to protect your business, your customers and your personal life. Some of the stories will scare you. Some will make you laugh. By the time it is over you will see that you do have something THEY want.

Rick White – Why Can’t We All Just Get Along?

Conflict in the shop between the Service Advisor and the Technician is all too familiar – particularly under increased business pressures. As shop owners, we expect higher billed hours per ticket as well as higher efficiency and productivity in the bays. Whether we are ON or OFF, it all reflects directly on the bottom line. The reality is that work is accomplished through collaborative efforts of many and differences are actually a positive force if you know how to harness them. Your ability to develop good interpersonal skills can create rapport in your shop environment can make – or break – the success of the shop. Are you ready to become a “Conscious Communicator”? In this class you will develop self-awareness, learn to analyze situations, and consciously select and use productive communication strategies. You will also find YOUR relationship style, identify your own strengths and weaknesses and master the winning tactics to work harmoniously with your counterpart in the shop or on the front counter to achieve your goals. Audience: Shop Owner, Manager, Advisor, Technician

Vin Waterhouse - Using Labor Intensive & Diagnostic Labor Rates

Research shows Internal combustion engine vehicles (ICE) have 28-30,000 parts counting every nut, bolt, rivet etc. The average electric vehicle ( EV) has about 7-10,000 parts. As our industry morphs toward electric vehicles shops could sell 2/3rds less parts per vehicle. As shops evolve to earning the majority of their profit in labor like accountants, carpenters, electricians, lawyers and plumbers (who don't sell any parts) shop expenses continue to rise so the time to act is now.

With formula based labor rates you can sell parts at cost and make your full average gross profit per billed hour. Many have increased their profit by $3-$4,000 per month using Labor Intensive and Diagnostic labor Rates.

Bill Haas – Advanced Financial Strategies for Peace of Mind

The money is what really matters. Managing the money is the difference between enjoying your role as an owner or manager and struggling to make ends meet. You don’t need to be an accountant. You need to understand the realities of what really affects your profits. Those same realities give you the ability to make decisions for your business based on current and projected financial performance.

• Understanding the Profit and Loss statement
• Properly pricing labor and parts sales
• Staff efficiency and productivity
• Key Performance Indicators – the numbers you need to monitor and the frequency they should be checked
• Budgets for forecasting sales and managing expenses

Chris Aldridge - Ride Control Master Class

The Around the Wheel Master Class is a session designed for technicians, advisors/service writers, service managers, store managers, and owners. Learn how brakes, chassis, steering, tires, and ride control interact – and why your customer should think about replacing their shocks and struts. One of the most undersold categories for any service facility is ride control. Replacing shocks and struts helps to extend the life of a vehicle, increasing the bottom line today and increasing the potential of maintenance and repair opportunities in the future. A four-step process walks you through the customer interview, test drive, component inspection, and replacement recommendations. Involving both the bay technician and the service advisor roles, the course stresses the importance of your shop team working together. Learn how to overcome objections, easily track ride control performance, and provide your customer with the best recommendation for this typically high-dollar service. Join us for this fast-paced session to generate revenue for your business and keep your customers in their current vehicles longer.

David Patrick – Automotive HVAC Update

This HVAC Update class is designed to familiarize the shop and technicians with the current state of A/C  service. While it is not designed as a complete A/C refresher course it touches on many foundations from previous courses and adds current information regarding new technologies, diagnostic techniques and the critical nature of HVAC systems today. Who should attend? Both technicians and customer service personnel.

Topics include:

• Current equipment standards and how to verify capabilities.
• The future with R‐ 1234yf and how it will impact the service bays and customer satisfaction.
• Real  information on safety with new refrigerants.
• Changes in leak detection and how to verify equipment operation.
• A thorough review of the new service process and machines including video demonstrations.
• A review of testing practices with added tools and techniques to save time and increase accuracy.

George Zeeks – The Three Managers You Need to be Successful!

Who can you trust to run your baby? You started this business and grew it all by yourself. Now you want to have time off for yourself and your family. It’s an incredibly hard decision. Whether you are a Manager or an Owner this session will cover what you need to take your shop to the next level. As a Manager, you will discover why the best shops run great numbers and you don’t drown in the process. For Owners, learn the things you need to do to be able to coach and mentor the best Managers to success. You need three different types of managers, all wrapped in one to give you the best results. Attend this session to learn: What three Managers do I need? How do I find them, train them & hold them accountable? What do I do if I can’t find this “perfect” Manager?

Justin Morgan - BMW 101

Dive into the world of BMW, or get a healthy refresher on BMW. Justin Morgan will take you thru all things BMW to prepare you for working on them. Covering vehicle chassis numbers, engine platform codes, and transmission identifications. Demystifying the BMW service info by breaking down; component designations, wiring diagram symbols, and document types. Moving into covering European specified terminal numbers, circuit identifications, and BMW acronyms. Then closing with the differences between the different BMW software’s; ISTA, ISTA P, AIR. Lots of information and some tricks to make navigating BMW information much easier for both the novice and experienced BMW tech.

Rick White – Service Advisors: The Key to Business Success

Becoming a Leader - Like vision and purpose, the word “leader” can be a tough one to wrap your head around. A real leader gives a company a distinct advantage as they generally have many managers, but few leaders. This half-day workshop will help you to understand that there is a distinct difference between a manager and a leader. It will expose the greatest misconceptions about leadership and give you the tools to become a great leader. Audience: Shop Owner, Manager

Service Advisors - The role of an advisor in today's shop has never been more critical to its success or failure than it is today. There is less repair work to do, the time between service intervals is increasing, and buying habits have certainly changed. This means you're dealing with less trust, more customer stress & scrutiny, and less loyalty. Think your advisor is important? This session delivers the strategies you NEED to help your advisor sell more every day - during every appointment Attendees will learn: • Why service advisors are key to business success. • Best practices for service advisors. • The owner’s role. Audience: Shop Owner, Manager

Ryan Payne- Advanced Alignment Diagnostics SS 1041.1 FC

This seminar enhances the skills of the professional undercar technician in the area of advanced wheel alignment. It covers suspension and steering diagnosis due to bent parts from accidents and road hazards, vehicle modifications, tire/wheel resizing and height issues. A review of basic alignment angles followed by thorough explanation of steering axis inclination (SAI), included angle (IA), scrub radius and toe out on turns (TOOT) will assist the alignment technician in utilizing the aligner as a diagnostic tool. Related electronic systems are also covered in this course. Vehicle component inspection and customer communication skills are necessary traits for any successful alignment tech and the importance of these skills are stressed in this class. After completing this seminar, the student will have the knowledge to:

• Utilize the alignment machine as a diagnostic tool for the alignment and repair of vehicles involved in road hazard incidents and vehicle collisions
• Identify root causes for uneven or erratic tire wear and handling problems. Effectively communicate the results to the vehicle owners
• Identify how vehicle modifications and tire/wheel changes affect alignment and dynamic operation
• Analyze related electronic systems that interact with the chassis system in need of recalibration or adjustment after the alignment procedure

Tim McDonnell - Shop Management Unleashed: Optimizing Shop Efficiency with Mitchell 1’s Manager SE

Do you feel like you’re “in control” of your shop?  This seminar will help you achieve better results for your business and your customers by using Mitchell 1’s Manager SE shop management system. Based on content from Mitchell 1’s popular two-day live shop management workshop, this 3-hour session will help you unleash the time-saving power of your Mitchell 1 or ShopKey shop management software, including going mobile. Topics include: 

• Configuring Work-In-Progress screen, Shortcuts, User Preferences
• Automating HazMat, Shop Supplies, Labor Rates, Customer Types
• Vehicle Recommendations, Symptoms, Revisions, History
• Manager SE overdrive: connecting to industry’s widest selection of parts catalogs
• Inventory and purchase orders enhance workflow
• Learn about NEW features & options

This session is suitable for new and advanced users of the Mitchell 1 shop management system, as well as anyone interested in learning about the features and benefits the software offers to increase efficiency in all aspects of an auto repair business.