2022 NATM Convention Workshop & Technical Forum Lineup
The educational workshops and technical forums for National Association of Trailer Manufacturers’ (NATM) 2022 Convention & Trade Show were carefully selected for both trailer manufacturers and suppliers alike to address the workforce shortage and best practices for trailer manufacturing. In 2022, all booth worker registrations are eligible to attend all workshops and forums. The convention schedule is currently set as follows:
Tuesday, Feb. 1:
Workshop 1 - Addressing the Workforce Shortage
Presenter: Dr. Jerry Parrish, Florida Chamber Foundation Chief Economist | 8:30-10 a.m.
Dr. Parrish is the Chief Economist and the Director of Research for the Florida Chamber Foundation and is responsible for conducting in-depth analyses on the economy and on solutions to help secure the future. Dr. Parrish has many years of experience in the private sector in management roles at international manufacturing companies. The presentation will discuss what tactics Florida has taken to address the workforce crisis, and a 2022 economic outlook.
Technical Forum 1 – Tire Construction and Fundamentals
Presenters: Al Henderson, Kenda/Americana Tire and Wheel | 8:30-10 a.m.
This session will cover the anatomy of tires and explain what the different components of an automotive tire are as well as how they affect performance. Overview on the different tire compounds and uses. Discus the different type of tire prefixes and applications. The difference between radial and bias tires will be reviewed in addition to tire storage for winterization and best practices before returning tires to operation.
Workshop 2 – How to Recruit & Retain a Multi-Generational Workforce
Presenter: Jim Pancero, Keynote Speaker & Sales Expert | 1:30-3 p.m.
This information-intensive program will review and discuss the significant motivational differences with the four generations present in today’s workforce, and what you as the coach and leader of your team can do to attract these groups. The workshop will talk in detail about the latest entry onto your team… The Gen Z worker (under 27 years old) and how to attract, manage, motivate and retain them.
Technical Forum 2 – Robotics & Automation
Presenters: Mike Mueller, B&W Hitches, and Bill Monti, Miller Electric Mfg. Co. | 1:30-3 p.m.
This introduction to welding robotics workshop will review the many benefits of implementing automation on your shop floor, including addressing the workforce shortage and increasing current employee retention and productivity; improving the consistency and quality of welds; increasing production and speed; and reducing waste and rework.
Wednesday, Feb. 2:
Workshop 3 - Government Affairs/Trade & Tariff Update
Presenters: Brody Garland and Stacey Ettinger, K&L Gates | 8-11 a.m.
Interested in learning more about NATM’s work on Capitol Hill and trade and tariff updates? Come join the Government Affairs discussion covering Congressional activities, trade topics and what can be expected in 2022.
Technical Forum 3: Common Trailer Failures & Top NATM Compliance Verification Program Failures and Benefits
8-11 a.m.
Common Trailer Failures
Presenters: Steve Tuskan and Mark Leonard, Rimkus Consulting Group;
This presentation will address the most common trailer failures seen in the field, how they were or could be used in claims or litigation, and standards and industry practices for trailers. verification, as well as strategies for enhancing trailer safety for both owners and other drivers testing different applications.
Top NATM Compliance Verification Program Failures and Benefits
Presenters: NATM Compliance Team and Andy Derr, M.H. Eby
Join the NATM Compliance Team to review top compliance failures as well as learn more about under-utilized membership benefits.
Dealer Workshop & Luncheon*
Wednesday, Feb. 2 at 11:30 AM
NATM CVP & Trailer Compliance, NATM Resources, and Marketing the NATM Decal
Presenters: NATM Compliance Team | 11:30 -12:30 PM
Learn more about the NATM Compliance Verification Program, accessing trailer safety resources, and how to market the NATM Decal and the value of compliant trailers to your customers.
Axles & Brakes 101
Presenter: Bill Snider, Dexter | 12:45 -2:30 PM
Dexter product training manager Bill Snider will educate dealer attendees about brake laws, the basics of trailer axles and brakes, how trailers should be equipped, and how best to sell those options.
Dealer Sales
Presenter: Sara Hey, Bob Clements International | 2:45-3:45 PM
Join co-author of You’re The Problem - and the Solution: Proven Habits to Reclaim Your Sanity, Your Life and Your Dealership Sara Hey to learn how to move your business forward to create a strong and profitable dealership.
(*Dealer-Only Event)
*As of 12/1/2021 – Topics/presenters are subject to change.