Alternative Revenue Streams – The Lifeblood of this Year’s Education

by Jill Tuggle, ABAT Executive Director

As we prepare for this year’s trade show, I’m especially excited to share the powerful educational lineup we’ve curated because now, more than ever, we need to think outside the box to keep our shops thriving in a slower market.

At ABAT, we’ve always delivered top-tier education, and this year we’re doubling down at the Texas Auto Body Trade Show by offering certifications and fresh strategies to drive new business.

We always encourage shops to bring several of their staff members. We have educational offerings for everyone and this year is no different. Technicians and painters will find more value than ever! We’re featuring glass repair clinics, urethane certification courses and a full-day windshield repair session. We also have the one-and-only Mike Anderson (Collision Advice) returning to the show! Mike – our industry’s celebrity educator – will be moderating a must-attend panel on refinishing. This session is not just for painters – the whole shop needs to hear from the top five paint manufacturers who will share innovations to boost your bottom line.

Another highlight is our annual “Industry Over a Pint” happy hour seminar focusing on alternative income streams like glass repair, ceramic coatings, wheel restorations and more. Come hear from shops who have met the slowdown face-on by redefining what the body shop offering can look like.

Plus, we have attorney Sean Preston from Coverall Law, who will teach you how to “Own Your Legal Argument” and guide us on how to protect our businesses with bulletproof customer intake forms and legal terms.

I’m also proud to spotlight Kyle Bradshaw, owner of K&M Collision (Hickory; NC) and president of the Carolina’s Collision Association, whose insights on customer service will inspire us all – showing how to build customers for life. K&M’s founding principles combined with the liberties he gives his CSRs to take care of customers are a big reason why they are one of the best shops in the country.

Mike Anderson will close out the weekend with a powerful seminar on negotiation and estimate writing, ensuring you get paid for every safe, proper repair. And if you know Mike, the ah-ha moments, laughs and noteworthy nuggets will be plentiful.

I can’t wait to see you all and take these next steps together. Registration can be found at abat.us.

This year will truly be one you absolutely cannot afford to miss.

Want more? Check out the June 2026 issue of Texas Automotive!