Workshops and forums

The convention will offer educational workshops and technical forums on Feb. 14-15, 2023.

The educational workshops and technical forums for NATM’s 2023 Convention & Trade Show were carefully selected for both trailer manufacturers and suppliers.

Educational Workshops*

Tuesday, February 14:

Workshop Session 1: How to Handle Accelerated Inflation Price Increases

Presenter: Jim Pancero, Keynote Speaker and Sales Expert

9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

A consistent problem today in distribution and equipment sales is your customer places an order but receives a delivery date that stretches out for months. Learn how to proactively manage this process and reduce your buyer stress and push-back.

Workshop 2: From Turnover to Retention: Keeping Your Top Talent

Presenter: Jim Pancero, Keynote Speaker and Sales Expert

2:00 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.

Is the skilled labor shortage creating a challenge to your long-term growth goals? Learn best practice solutions in attracting and retaining top talent to help your business succeed.

Wednesday, February 15:

Workshop Session 3: Hedging and Risk Management for Metal Commodities

Presenters: Nick Webb, Ryerson

8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

Learn how commodity hedging can mitigate price risk and protect your bottom line.

Workshop Session 4: Government Affairs Update

Presenters: Brody Garland, K&L Gates

10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Interested in learning more about NATM’s work on Capitol Hill? Come join the Government Affairs discussion covering Congressional activities and what can be expected in 2023.

technical forums*

Tuesday, February 14:

Technical Forum Session 1: What’s New in Paint Pretreatment

Presenters: Michael Burbey Integration Manager GMF NA, Brian List, Global Product Director - Paint Support Technology at Atotech USA LLC

9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

A forum on how the latest generation of pretreatment chemistry can improve corrosion protection and provide a lower cost.

Technical Forum Session 2: Unlocking the Hidden Cost of Welding

Presenter: Bill Pharmer, Airgas

2:00 p.m. – 3:45 p.m.

A discussion on how welding inputs can impact welding costs. And how small, hidden differences can have a great impact on the cost of welding.

Wednesday, February 15:

Technical Forum Session 3: Trailer Stability, Load Line Placement and Design Considerations

Presenter: William Craig, U-Haul International, Inc.

8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

A discussion on trailer stability standards, load line placement and design considerations including lean principles and human factors.

Technical Forum Session 4: Emerging Trends in Trailering; NATM Compliance Program Overview

Presenters: NATM Compliance Team and Jeff Gray, ASA Electronics

10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Join NATM as the compliance team provides an update on towing trends, including both tow vehicle and trailer technology advancements such as the “smart trailer,” advanced towing features, v2i communication, and more.

*As of 12/1/2022– Topics/presenters are subject to change.