Education That Pays for Itself
by Jill Tuggle, ABAT Executive Director
If you’ve attended the Texas Auto Body Trade Show before, you know that education has always been a cornerstone of our event. This year, however, we challenged ourselves to build a lineup that goes beyond theory and delivers practical solutions that shops can implement immediately. This year is going to hit.
Let’s be honest – the collision repair industry is facing some real challenges. That’s why every educational session at this year’s show was selected with one question in mind:
Will this help a shop become more profitable or efficient?
One of the hottest topics in the industry right now is Artificial Intelligence, and we’re bringing in James Spears of Tractable AI to demonstrate how visual AI, automated inspections and streamlined lead generation are changing the way shops operate. This isn’t futuristic technology – it’s happening right now. Following that session, Deric Krist of Kritech Solutions will show attendees how to identify missed operations and leverage technology to reduce labor waste and improve profitability.
For shops looking to create new revenue streams, our expanded glass education may be worth the price of admission all by itself. Through our partnership with Kaizen Glass, technicians can participate in hands-on windshield repair training and learn proper chip and crack repair techniques using industry-leading equipment. This isn’t just training – it’s a potential new profit center. Add to that urethane certification opportunities from both Sika and DuPont – in English and in Spanish! You’ll want to be sure to bring your technicians so they can leave the show with valuable credentials and new skills they can immediately put to work.
Customer experience is another area where shops can gain a competitive advantage. Kyle Bradshaw of K&M Collision (Hickory, NC) will share lessons inspired by Ritz-Carlton founder Horst Schulze, demonstrating how a hospitality-focused approach can transform customer interactions, strengthen your brand and create loyal advocates for your business.
We’re also excited to bring together some of the industry’s top refinish experts for a panel moderated by Mike Anderson (Collision Advice). Representatives from leading paint manufacturers will discuss innovations in refinish technology, improving efficiency and how stronger partnerships between shops and suppliers is an often underutilized tool that can lead to better outcomes and higher profits.
One session I am particularly excited about is our fan favorite happy hour panel, The Industry Over a Pint. This year, we are talking about Alternative Revenue Sources for Body Shops. Industry experts and shop operators will discuss how they are navigating today’s challenging market by implementing services such as glass repair, ceramic coatings, alignments and other opportunities outside of traditional collision repair. Every attendee will receive a commemorative glass and beverage while learning practical ideas that could help diversify their business.
Of course, we can’t talk about education without addressing the legal and legislative landscape. Our “Fair Repair Plans” panel will feature industry leaders discussing Texas’ new Right to Appraisal law, why it was needed, how it works in practice and what shops need to know moving forward. The legal talk doesn’t stop there as we will have Sean Preston with Coverall Law talking to us about the importance of owning your legal argument and having customer intake forms that back it up.
As if that weren’t enough, we’re bringing in two of the industry’s most engaging speakers: Ryan Taylor of Body Shop Booster will share proven strategies for bringing more business through your doors with his dynamic stage presence and super innovative ideas, and of course, you will see plenty of our favorite presenter and friend, Mike Anderson!
Whether you’re a technician, painter, estimator, repair planner, manager or owner, there is something on this year’s educational agenda designed specifically for you.
The Texas Auto Body Trade Show has always been about helping shops succeed. This year’s educational lineup may be our strongest yet, and I can’t wait to see you there.
Want more? Check out the July 2026 issue of Texas Automotive!