Workshops and forums

Unlock Innovation and Master Your Craft: A Preview of Educational Workshops and Technical Forums at the 2025 NATM Convention & Trade Show 

Get ready to experience an extraordinary lineup of workshops and technical forums at the 2025 NATM Convention & Trade Show in Nashville, Tennessee, from Feb. 17-20, 2025. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Music City, this year’s event is packed with valuable sessions tailored to empower trailer manufacturers, and suppliers with the knowledge and tools they need to excel. Here’s a glimpse of what to expect: 

Educational Workshop & Technical Forum Line-Up*
Tuesday, February 18

Workshop Session 1 - Capitol Hill Insights: Navigating Government Affairs for 2025 
Presenter: Brody Garland, K&L Gates and Member Panelists 

Date: Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025 | Time: 9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. | Location: Governors Ballroom C 

Dive into the latest developments in government affairs with Brody Garland from K&L Gates and a panel of industry experts. This workshop will provide a comprehensive overview of current Congressional activities and their potential impact on the trailer manufacturing industry. Attendees will gain critical insights into NATM’s advocacy efforts on Capitol Hill and learn strategies to navigate the evolving legislative landscape in 2025.

Technical Forum Session 1 - Comprehensive Look at Trailer Axle & Braking Systems 
Presenter: Bill Snider, Dexter 

Date: Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025 | Time: 9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. | Location: Governors Ballroom D 

Join Bill Snider from Dexter for a detailed exploration of trailer axle and braking systems. This forum will cover everything from braking mechanisms on trailer axles to vehicle limitations and controller compatibility. Participants will gain insights into various brake types, installation considerations, and Dexter’s innovative Tow Assist® system, which features advanced safety technologies like anti-lock braking and sway mitigation. Perfect for those looking to enhance performance and safety in their trailer operations. 

Workshop Session 2 - How to Build a High Velocity Sales Team 
Presenter: Dr. Rick Goodman 

Date: Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025 | Time: 2:00 p.m. - 3:45 p.m. | Location: Governors Ballroom C 

In a world where competition is fierce, creating a high-performing sales team is essential. Join Dr. Rick Goodman for an engaging session on how to transform your organization into a valuable resource for your clients. Learn how to effectively communicate your ability to solve client challenges, build strong relationships, and foster long-term partnerships. Discover actionable strategies to position your business for success by adding value and delivering results.  

Technical Forum Session 2 -  Hidden Uses of GPS Technology for Dealerships and Manufacturers 
Presenter: Cameron Smith, Matrack, Inc 

Date: Tuesday, Feb. 18, 2025 | Time: 2:00 p.m. - 3:45 p.m. | Location: Governors Ballroom D 

Revolutionize your approach to fleet management with Cameron Smith from Matrack, Inc. This forum will delve into the latest advancements in GPS technology and how they can transform your trailers into smart trailers. Discover how to leverage wireless GPS trackers for theft protection, inventory monitoring, and fleet optimization, and explore innovative features such as extended battery life, motion sensing, and high-speed connectivity. Learn how these technologies can enhance your operational efficiency and strategic planning. 

Wednesday, February 19

Workshop Session 3 - No Sweat OSHA Inspections for Trailer Manufacturers, Dealers, and Suppliers 
Presenters: Kevin Hess and Curt Moore, Fisher Phillips 

Date: Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025 | Time: 8:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. | Location: Governors Ballroom C 

Prepare your business for OSHA inspections with confidence. Attorneys Kevin Hess and Curt Moore from Fisher Phillips will guide you through the critical steps to managing OSHA inspections effectively. From understanding your rights as an employer to navigating potential pitfalls, this workshop will equip you with the knowledge to minimize risks, reduce administrative costs, and ensure compliance with OSHA regulations.  

Technical Forum Session 3 - 10 Steps to Optimize Your Powder Coating Operation (Advanced Session) 
Presenter: Steve Houston, Vitracoat 

Date: Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025 | Time: 8:00 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. | Location: Governors Ballroom D 

For those looking to refine their powder coating processes, this advanced session with Steve Houston from Vitracoat is a must-attend. Gain expert insights into optimizing powder coating operations for trailers, with a focus on achieving consistent, high-quality results. Whether you’re considering implementing a new powder operation or looking to enhance an existing one, this session will provide practical strategies and tips to ensure efficiency and performance.  

Workshop Session 4 - Trash Talking: A Guide to Sustainability 
Presenter: Bo Howard, Shapiro Metals 

Date: Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025 | Time: 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. | Location: Governors Ballroom C 

Sustainability is more than just a buzzword — it's a necessity. Join Bo Howard from Shapiro Metals for a thought-provoking session on enhancing sustainability within your operations. This workshop will provide practical guidance on handling hard-to-recycle materials, implementing innovative practices, and staying ahead of regulatory requirements. Learn how to foster a culture of sustainability that not only meets but exceeds industry standards, ensuring a greener future for trailer manufacturing.  

Technical Forum Session 4: The Future of Towing with Autonomous Driving (ADS) 

Presenter: General Motors (GM)

Date: Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025 | Time: 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. | Location: Governors Ballroom D 


As advancements in Autonomous Driving Systems (ADS) continue to transform the automotive landscape, their impact on the trailer industry could be equally profound. This forward-looking session led by GM will explore how ADS technologies can enhance towing capabilities, improve safety, and optimize trailer design. Attendees will learn about the latest innovations in ADS and their practical applications for light and medium-duty trailers.  Whether you're a manufacturer seeking to future-proof your designs or a dealer preparing for evolving customer expectations, this presentation will provide insights into the next era of towing technology.  

*As of 10/4/2023– Topics/presenters are subject to change.