2024 Connect Schedule

Registration (Sunday)

Programmed By:

Introduction to ACES® & PIES™ (aka Bootcamp)

Learn about the ABCs of technology with respect to your job. Learn how others have conformed to the industry Standards and avoid the mistakes others have experienced.

The ACPN Introduction to Introduction to ACES® & PIES™ (aka bootcamp) provides the foundation, or a refresher, for the Auto Care Technology Standards of ACES® & PIES™ , and their supporting databases (VCdb, Qdb, PCdb, PAdb, Brand). Additionally, this session will introduce you to the Auto Care Association Technology Department Staff and how to make changes to your industry Standards.

This is a high-level session recommended for first time attendees or those new to the industry and/or content management space. However, all are welcome.

• 

  Courtney Pedler

  Partner
  Autology Data Management Group
  

   Speaker Bio

• 

  Luke Smith

  CTO
  Momentum USA
  

   Speaker Bio

Programmed By:

The JNPSoft OptiCat Interactive Experience

Streamline Your Work One Solution at a Time

May 5, 2024
2:00pm - 4:00pm

Register here. 

Join us for an exciting in-person event at Hyatt Regency Chicago May 5th from 2pm to 4pm. Get ready to immerse yourself in a unique interactive experience brought to you by JNPSoft OptiCat. Our North American team will be there to answer any questions and show you our latest innovations. Don't miss out on this opportunity to gain valuable insights into the world of technology. Mark your calendars and get ready for an unforgettable event!

Any questions? sales@jnpopticat.com

Session Sponsor:

YANG Community Remarks

Programmed By:

Work Smarter, Not Harder

• Cope with information bombardment
• Improve your leadership ability to manage change
• Lift productivity and efficiency
• Speed up innovation through collaboration 
• Achieve industry leading competitiveness 
• Determine what leadership action you can take tomorrow
  

• 

  Dr. Nick Bontis, Ph.D.

  Award-winning professor of strategy, McMaster University
  Director, Institute for Intellectual Capital Research; and 3M National Teaching Fellow
  

   Speaker Bio

Programmed By:

Unlock Your Impact with Real-Time Flash Mentoring

There is certainly no shortage of advice on tools and resources to elevate your work. Yet, it can be information overload trying to filter through it all and determine what works and what doesn’t. In this roundtable style session, hear directly from industry veterans as they share insights on increasing effectiveness in your job role and building your path to success. Additionally, unpack these actionable ideas further through follow on discussion within your peers in your roundtable group. Themes covered will include cultivating professional relationships and leadership challenges and opportunities. 

Programmed By:

Auto Zone Vendor Summit (Registration Required)

Registration is required.

This session is for AutoZone vendors only.

Please contact Derek Acosta (derek.acosta@autozone.com) for questions and to register.

Session Sponsor:

ACPN Community Only | First Time Attendee Orientation

First time ACPN conference attendees are invited to a special meet-and-greet reception and orientation. This informal gathering is a great way to meet other new attendees, the ACPN leadership council, and learn helpful tips on how to get the most out of the conference.

Programmed By:

Welcome Reception

Let's kick off the 2024 Connect at the Sunday evening Welcome Reception to reconnect with old friends and make new ones!

SOLD OUT - YANG Community Only Dinner at Spin!

YANG Community exclusive event. Enjoy dinner and networking with fellow YANG community members at Chicago hotspot - SPIN!. Pre-registration is required and should be indicated in the conference registration process. 

To be placed on a waitlist for this dinner, please reach out to tomell.harbison@autocare.org.

Programmed By:

ACPN Community Only | Sunday Networking Hospitality Suite

This is an ACPN Community exclusive event for registrants who purchased the "ACPN Networking Package" when they register for the conference.

Join ACPN community members for evening networking. Pre-registration is required and should be indicated in the conference registration process. Registration at the event doors will not be available.

Sponsored by ACPN's Platinum and Gold Annual Sponsors:





      

Programmed By:

Registration (Sunday)

Check-in to pick up your Connect conference badge and other helpful materials to enjoy Connect! 

Registration (Monday)

Check-in to pick up your Connect conference badge and other helpful materials to enjoy Connect! 

Programmed By:

Monday Breakfast

Casual breakfast to fuel you for the morning.

Programmed By:

PBES Remarks

Hear what's top of mind for the PBES community and learn more about the upcoming sessions programmed by PBES at Connect. 

Programmed By:

Profiles in Leadership featuring Chase Baxley

What does it mean to be a leader? Join us for YANG’s hallmark session as we profile an aftermarket leader - Chase Baxley. Hear their leadership journey and gain new insights into leadership best practices, lessons learned leading through change, and their thoughts on what’s next for our industry. 

Speaker(s): Chase Baxley, Executive Vice President of Category Management & Supply Chain at XL Parts / The Parts House

After graduating from the University of Florida, Chase found the aftermarket and 18 years later still calls this industry home.  Chase is the Executive Vice President of Category Management & Supply Chain at XL Parts / The Parts House.   He held various positions in sales, purchasing, and management during his 18 year career with XL Parts / The Parts House: Intern, Buyer, Sales Representative, Director of Purchasing, Vice President of Product & Supply Chain, Chief Operating Officer, and Executive Vice President of Category Management & Supply Chain.    

Volunteer service remains a priority to continue growth within the industry and help provide a path for others to join.  Industry volunteer service includes: Auto Care Association Marketing and Communications Committee, Auto Care Association Education Committee, YANG founding member, Automotive Distribution Network Product Committee Chairman and member, Delphi Distributor Council, Veyance Distributor Council, Motorcraft Catalog Committee, ACDelco Battery Committee, Denso WD Council, Timken WD Council, AWDA Board of Governors, and ProntoNetwork Product Committee.

• 

  Chase Baxley

  Executive Vice President of Category Management & Supply Chain
  XL Parts / The Parts House.
  

   Speaker Bio

Programmed By:

ACPN Opening Remarks

This sessions kicks off the ACPN learning track at the 2024 Connect conference. Hear what's going on with the ACPN community, some announcements, as well as recognizing the 2024 ACPN Scholarship winner!

Programmed By:

The Dangers of Dirty Data & Beyond

We all think we know what bad data looks like, but no one tells us how to do it, or what the consequences are. Well fear not, with a decade of experience fixing your dirty data, Susan Walsh The Classification Guru will guide you through these murky waters and help you work with cleaner, more accurate data.

She will share real-life examples of dirty data, and the consequences it has, such as on decision making, reporting, analytics, AI and machine learning and the hot topic of the moment - GenAI.  You’ll also learn how to make quick, accurate checks and changes to your own data in excel, regardless of your level of experience, explain why data accuracy and maintenance is so important and implement best practices for this.
Takeaways include:

• What is dirty data
• The consequences of dirty data
• How to ensure data accuracy
• Make sure your data has its COAT on
• How to spot-check your data

Susan Walsh is The Classification Guru. She has been cleaning, classifying and fixing dirty data for over a decade and set up The Classification Guru Ltd 2017 to solve dirty data problems in the procurement world.

As well as an entrepreneur, Susan is an industry thought leader, an influencer and a global speaker. She has been listed in the DataIQ100 for the last two years, as well as winning DataIQ Data Champion 2022 and 2023. She’s also a Key Influencer for the Accounts Payable Association, promoting the benefits of clean data across many industries.

She’s a published author of Between the Spreadsheets: Classifying and Fixing Dirty Data and has her own online course: Fixing Dirty Data – The Basics of Data Cleaning. In addition to this, Susan also has a TEDx Talk Say NO to NO about resilience, which has amassed 3k views and counting.

Susan has created the data COAT framework, which has helped companies across the globe save time and money thanks to seeing the value in cleaning their ‘dirty data’.

She has attended well over a hundred events in the data and procurement space, whether that be as a speaker, an exhibitor, or as an influencer, and is still been active in tackling your dirty data!

• 

  Susan Walsh

  The Classification Guru
  
  

   Speaker Bio

Programmed By:

Disruptions or Opportunities: Trends and Technologies that are Changing Industry Segments Forever

All aspects of the PBE, auto repair, collision and insurance industries are experiencing structural and technological changes that are challenging how businesses in these segments operate and succeed today and tomorrow.

In this exciting, eye-opening session, Frank Terlep, the author of Auto Industry Disruption, will share his views on industry trends like consolidation, specialization and ADAS Services & Calibrations while presenting how existing and future technologies like Telematics, Electrification, AI (Artificial Intelligence), Augmented Reality, Robotics and more will create major disruptions and HUGE opportunities!

• 

  Frank Terlep

  VP ADAS Solutions
  OPUS IVS
  

   Speaker Bio

Programmed By:

Five for Five: Lightning-Style Talks

Rapid-Fire style presentations have become a popular way of sharing ideas in a concise, engaging way. In these Five for Five sessions, presenters will give a five-minute presentation, using just five slides, on professional development topics relevant to the YANG community.

Programmed By:

Opportunities in an Ever Changing Environment: Outlier Success Secrets

Outlier Success Secrets

“Leaving mediocrity and competition in the dust.”

In today's world, businesses are in a constant race to the bottom, competing for everything in a hopeless manner. However, there is a different breed of businesspeople who choose to challenge the status quo and achieve new heights of success and meaning in their business. These businesspeople are known as Outliers!

Join collision industry expert Dave Luehr for an exciting presentation and a unique perspective on how successful businesses think, design processes, and build teams that dominate the markets they serve. This program is relevant to anyone who operates or serves automotive repair businesses and will provide practical takeaways.
Here's what you can expect to learn from this program:

Here's what you can expect to learn from this program:

• How outliers think and act differently.
• How to dominate the market instead of competing.
• How to embrace opportunities in a fast-paced technology-driven world.
• How to build a team culture that is excited about change.
• How to build better processes for consistent quality and less chaos.
• How to take back control of your time and your business.

Dave Luehr has spent 40 years in the automotive collision repair industry and now helps independently owned collision repair professionals discover their limitless potential. Distributors will find his expertise and unique perspectives useful to better serve their collision or automotive customers.

• 

  Dave Luehr

  Collision repair industry expert, keynote speaker, and author of The Secrets of America’s Greatest Body Shops
  
  

   Speaker Bio

Programmed By:

AI Unveiled Panel: Real-World Insights & Applications

 Join us for an enlightening Fireside Chat featuring industry leaders as they discuss the practical applications and impacts of AI in business and content management. This session provides a comprehensive look at the challenges and triumphs of integrating AI into diverse business models.

• 

  Ryan Henderson

  Principal
  CarParts.com
  

   Speaker Bio

• 

  Ryan Bachman

  CIO and VP of Product, United Motor Products (UMP)
  Principal, Endless Technologies
  

   Speaker Bio

• 

  Jason Popillion, CISSP

  Director, Automotive Aftermarket
  SPS Commerce
  

   Speaker Bio

• 

  Johannes Crepon

  Founder
  PDM
  

   Speaker Bio

Programmed By:

The Aftermarket Industry Update: Gameshow Edition

Join us for a session that combines the thrill of a gameshow with insightful discussion on industry trends. We’ll put your knowledge to the test - do you truly know the latest developments shaping our industry? 

Challenge yourself and your peers as we explore the depths of your industry expertise. Have the opportunity to answer a gameshow-style question and then brace yourself as we unravel each the tend, providing you with a deeper understanding of its implications. Hear the background on the answers from industry thought leaders and walk away with new knowledge, insights and perspectives.

Programmed By:

ACPN Content Excellence Awards

The ACPN Content Excellence Awards recognizes both companies and individuals for excellence in the content management space.

In this session, ACPN will announce and recognize it's company-based award winners for the award categories of :

• Web-based
• ACES^® and PIES^TM data

• ACPN Trailblazer

Programmed By:

Career Conversations: Navigating Crucial Work Conversations

From just starting out to more senior roles, we all find ourselves having to navigate challenging conversations in the workplace. Moreover, failing to address difficult situations head-on can lead to misunderstandings and lack of clarity. Join us for a candid discussion on effective ways to tackle challenging work conversations. Listen in as industry professionals share their own firsthand experience and perspective, and walk away with strategies and tips you can apply in your own communication. 

Conversation will include: 

• Benefits of having a difficult yet productive conversations in the workplace
• Importance of building mutual trust and cultivating connections
• How to prepare and better manage tough conversations, so they aren't so hard
• Learn ways to approach situations to facilitate conflict resolution 

• Jason Riegel, MAAP, CTO, Auto-Wares Group of Companies
• Kim Nolan, Senior Vice President of Sales, Traditional Market and NAPA, BBB Industries 
• Melissa Petrucelli, Manager, Process Improvement, AutoZone & YANG Council Member (moderator)

• 

  Kim Nolan

  Senior Vice President of Sales, Traditional Market and NAPA
  BBB Industries
  

   Speaker Bio

• 

  Jason Riegel

  Chief Technology Officer
  Auto-Wares Group of Companies
  

   Speaker Bio

Focus on the Future: Panel Discussion on Industry Talent

Sponsored by Collision Careers



While an often -discussed topic, this session is designed to bring different perspectives and actionable recommendations from different levels of the industry. Rather than admiring the problem, the goal of this session is to discuss how the industry at different points of the journey can help attract and retain talent to the workforce, with a focus on technicians. We will hear from a shop owner, an industry educator, and an employer organization on their perspectives on the workforce and what each entity can do now and, in the future, to fix the faucet on the flow of talent into the industry.

Key Takeaways:

• Learn the current situation of the trade skill workforce and specifically within the automotive/collision industry.
• Identify successful, proven, tactics for recruitment and retention.
• Walk away with insights and recommendations to elevate your organization and the industry.

Panelists include:

• Jeff Wildman (Moderator), Aftermarket Collision Industry Expert,  BASF
• Dwayne Myers, Co-Owner and Managing Partner of Dynamic Automotive
• Arianna Sherlock, Sr. Director of Marketing for I-CAR

Session Sponsor:

• 

  Jeff Wildman

  Expert, Automotive Aftermarket Industry
  BASF Automotive Refinish Coatings North America
  

   Speaker Bio

• 

  Arianna Sherlock

  Senior Marketing Director
  I-CAR
  

   Speaker Bio

• 

  Dwayne Myers

  CEO & President
  Dynamic Automotive
  

   Speaker Bio

Programmed By:

The Importance of ACES® & PIES™ to the Aftermarket

In today's rapidly evolving vehicle aftermarket, the success of suppliers and receivers hinge on rich and complete product content and collaboration. Join Jason Chesek from retail giant AutoZone, for an insight session, where he will be discussing the importance of:

• Collaboration between supplier and receivers;
• Removing data silos;
• Investing in content and cataloging, and;
  
• Data Integrity

• 

  Jason Chesek

  Director of Catalog and Content, Customer Satisfaction
  AutoZone
  

   Speaker Bio

Programmed By:

Monday Morning Coffee Break

Coffee and networking! 

Keynote: Impact of Microgenerations

Forecasting Micro-Generational Desire
Through an exploration of each of the 9 Micro-Generations' formative years, impactful global events, media and pop culture, attendees will walk away with a thorough understanding of who each group is today, and the trends relevant to them over the next 3-5 years. Armida Ascano is the Chief Content Officer at Trend Hunter and the brain behind its trend sessions and workshops.

Armida is Trend Hunter’s most-booked Futurist and has crafted numerous trend frameworks and innovation tools to bring Trend Hunter’s content to life. With these tools in her arsenal, she has helped hundreds of brands innovate -- including Chicago Tribune, Red Bull, and Wal-Mart -- and has spoken at conferences like Foresight and Trends, OmniShopper, Dreamforce, and Future Festival. She specializes in generational trends, our 18 Megatrends matrix, Innovation Workshop facilitation, and more.

Trend Hunter is a renowned source of inspiration for industry professionals, aspiring entrepreneurs, and the insatiably curious. With an impressive monthly view count of 20,000,000, Trend Hunter AI stands as the world's largest and most popular trend community.

• 

  Armida Ascano

  Chief Content Officer
  Trend Hunter
  

   Speaker Bio

Programmed By:

Trade Show

Meet with companies offering business solutions and services for the industry. Check out the list of last year's exhibitors. 

Programmed By:

Connect Trade Show Networking Lucnheon

Enjoy lunch with all attendees of Connect before exploring the business and service solution opportunities on the trade show floor.

Programmed By:

CCPN Committee Meeting

Car Care Professionals Network Committee Meeting. Staff Liaison Missy Stephens.

Programmed By:

Auto Care Board of Directors Meeting (Closed Meeting)

Programmed By:

Insights with Mike: Auto Care Industry Trends

Join Auto Care Association's Senior Director of Market Intelligence, Mike Chung for his take on market-influencing trends and their potential effects on your business and the auto care industry. In this session, Mike will explore economic conditions to describe the current context for the U.S. consumer. He'll then do a deep-dive into recent e-commerce data to highlight automotive category sales and brand performance. Mike will then preview some collision and driving behavior data, as well as vehicle composition, EV adoption, and vehicle registration stats and projections as a bit of a preview for what to expect in this year's Factbook. You won’t want to miss Mike’s take on these trends as well as this exclusive sneak peak of new data coming out in the 2025 Auto Care Factbook!  

Key session topics:

• Economic climate and industry performance
• E-commerce trends
• Collision and driving behavior data
• A sneak peek at some not yet release 2025 Factbook data!

• 

  Mike Chung

  Senior Director, Market Intelligence
  Auto Care Association
  

   Speaker Bio

Programmed By:

Trend Hunters Workshop: How to Persuade

Sponsored by APSG



Dig into more insights and communication resources from Tuesday's earlier keynote, Trend Hunter's Armida Ascano.

This workshop will help your team pitch new ideas internally. It begins with basic trend hunting training and moves into exercises based on strategies gleaned from the most innovative groups Trend Hunters has partnered with over the years. The workshop includes both interpersonal communication insights and structural recommendations to help facilitate a more innovative culture. This workshop offers insights into interpersonal communication as well as structural suggestions to support the development of a more innovative culture.

• 

  Armida Ascano

  Chief Content Officer
  Trend Hunter
  

   Speaker Bio

Programmed By:

Leverage Your Industry Resources to Grow Your Career

Engaging in the industry and this event is a great step in growing your career. So how do you continue to grow your knowledge and career even further? What are some actionable ways to continue your professional development and bring value to your businesses and organizations?

This session will show you how to leverage the tools and resources, both here and in the industry at large, to grow even further. From market data and education to community engagement and grassroots advocacy, we'll breakdown the opportunities and provide tips and tricks for making the most out of them. Walk away with a roadmap for the next steps in your continue growth. 

Programmed By:

Braintrust: Roundtable Discussions for the PBE and Collision Segment

Collaborate with the PBE and Collision industry to share your experiences and learn directly from others.

Trade Show ACPAC Early Access Happy Hour

ACPAC donors start happy hour half an hour earlier! 

Programmed By:

Trade Show Happy Hour

Unwind from the first full day of Connect with the trade show happy hour before enjoying all the great sites and restaurants Chicago has to offer.

Programmed By:

ACPN Community Only | Monday Networking Hospitality Suite

This is an ACPN Community exclusive event for registrants who purchased the "ACPN Networking Package" when they register for the conference.

Join ACPN community members for evening networking. Pre-registration is required and should be indicated in the conference registration process. Registration at the event doors will not be available.

Sponsored by ACPN's Platinum and Gold Annual Sponsors:





      

Programmed By:

Tuesday Breakfast

Start the day with a light breakfast before hitting the learning sessions!

Registration (Tuesday)

Check-in to pick up your Connect conference badge and other helpful materials to enjoy Connect! 

Programmed By:

Keynote: Establishing Competitive Advantage Through Customer Centricity

Establishing Competitive Advantage Through Customer Centricity

Sponsored by Epicor 

More companies – whether large vs. small, product- vs. service-oriented, or B2B vs. B2C – are talking about customer centricity as a new management framework that allows them to build stronger (and more profitable) relationships with customers by better understanding their behaviors and anticipating their needs. But firms have different perspectives about what customer centricity really means, and how to best to implement it.

Professor Fader will clarify this important concept and convey what business professionals really need to know about this emerging strategic perspective. He will provide a brief overview of the traditional product-centric approach and some of the evolving concerns arising from it. He will then focus on the nature of customer centricity in different business settings (e.g., how does a local auto care shop compare to a national chain?), the key factors in implementing it successfully today, and how it can help transform a company and drive profitable growth.

Peter Fader

Peter Fader is the Frances and Pei-Yuan Chia Professor of Marketing at The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. His expertise centers around the analysis of behavioral data to understand and forecast customer shopping/purchasing activities. He works with firms from a wide range of industries, such as telecommunications, financial services, gaming/entertainment, retailing, and pharmaceuticals. Managerial applications focus on topics such as customer relationship management, lifetime value of the customer, and sales forecasting for new products. Much of his research highlights the consistent (but often surprising) behavioral patterns that exist across these industries and other seemingly different domains.

In addition to his various roles and responsibilities at Wharton, Professor Fader co-founded a predictive analytics firm (Zodiac) in 2015, which was sold to Nike in 2018. He then co-founded (and continues to run) Theta to commercialize his more recent work on “customer-based corporate valuation.”

Fader is the author of three books: “Customer Centricity: Focus on the Right Customers for Strategic Advantage” (2020), “The Customer Centricity Playbook” with Sarah Toms (2018), and “The Customer-Base Audit” with Bruce Hardie and Michael Ross (2022).

He has won many awards for his research and teaching accomplishments. Among these achievements, he was named by Advertising Age as one of its inaugural “25 Marketing Technology Trailblazers” in 2017 (and was the only academic on the list).

• 

  Peter Fader

  Frances and Pei-Yuan Chia Professor of Marketing
  The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania
  

   Speaker Bio

Programmed By:

Tuesday Morning Coffee Break

Coffee and networking! 

Programmed By:

The Golden Egg: Minimizing Effort and Maximizing Impact

Changes to the data standards are inevitable and necessary, but also disruptive. How can we minimize wasted effort and maximize positive impact? Join us for this session where a panel of industry experts will discuss the features of an ideal data standards update. 

• 

  Frank D’Agostino, MAAP, ACP

  Senior Catalog Manager
  JNPSoft. Inc.
  

   Speaker Bio

Programmed By:

The Future of Automotive Repair: EV Service, ADAS, and Tools for the Next Decade

Explore the evolving landscape of automotive repair, focusing on the challenges and opportunities presented by emerging technologies such as Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). You may ask yourself what do these emerging technologies mean in practice for me and or my business? Listen in as the panelists delve into the critical role of diagnostic tools in addressing the complexities of these systems, and discuss strategies for collaboration between parts manufacturers and tool manufacturers – as well as the ecosystem at-large- to ensure timely availability of necessary equipment as new parts enter the market. 

We all want the best experience for our customers as possible and, through having these conversations, you can gain insights into the innovative approaches and partnerships driving the automotive repair shop of the future – which will require all of our support. 

Programmed By:

AI Essentials: Transforming the Automotive Landscape

This breakout session is an introductory journey into how AI is reshaping the automotive sector. It will provide a foundational understanding of AI's role in enhancing key areas such as marketing, sales, and data governance, coupled with real-world examples of innovative AI applications driving the industry forward.

Speaker(s): 

• Ryan Bachman, Principal, Endless Technologies
• Ryan Henderson, Director of Category Management, Carparts.com

• 

  Ryan Bachman

  CIO and VP of Product, United Motor Products (UMP)
  Principal, Endless Technologies
  

   Speaker Bio

• 

  Ryan Henderson

  Principal
  CarParts.com
  

   Speaker Bio

Programmed By:

PIES™ - Beyond the Basics: Don't Hold Anything Back

Is your PIES™ file creation process holding you back from scalability? This intermediate level session will explore why sending the most rich, meaningful, and complete data, beyond data receiver requirements, is critical to you, your data receivers, and the industry.

Additionally, this session will explore areas of the PIES™ data standard that users commonly misuse or don’t take advantage of. This session will allow attendees to walk away with tips on how to use PIES™ more effectively.

Attendees will gain insight into:

• Why its important to not hold back data;
• Why sending rich, meaning and complete data is critical
• How to properly use areas of PIES™ that are commonly misused;
• How to take advantage of areas of PIES™ that users typically do not.

• Luke Smith, CTO, Momentum USA Inc.
• Tom Schiavo, Data Quality Manager, Auto Care Association 

Programmed By:

Industry Update: Insights into Today's Aftermarket Trends & Tomorrow's Outlook (Mike & Friends)

Mike Chung, Senior Director of Market Intelligence at Auto Care, will discuss trends with each of our panelists and invite questions from the audience in this informative session. You won't wan to miss this! 

• Anthony Johnson, Sales Engineer at Arity, will show exciting use cases of transportation data to quantify driving behavior. He will share examples of how telematics data, including mileage, braking, acceleration, time of day, and other characteristics can be used to understand consumer behavior.
• Chris Sutton, Vice President of J.D. Power’s Automotive Retail division, will preview findings from this year’s Aftermarket Service Index (ASI) study. This annual study of customer experience with aftermarket service providers in the Do it for Me (DIFM) market, with an emphasis on 4-10 year-old vehicles. Chris will highlight how vehicle owners choose their service providers and why.
• Bill Della Giustina, Senior Vice President at Jefferies, will highlight capital market developments in the aftermarket space, including mergers and acquisition activity, particularly in the collision space. Bill will provide insights that will be valuable for collision and repair industry shop owners and managers.

• 

  Mike Chung

  Senior Director, Market Intelligence
  Auto Care Association
  

   Speaker Bio

• 

  Chris Sutton

  Vice President, Global Automotive Retail
  J.D. Power.
  

   Speaker Bio

Programmed By:

Harnessing the Potential of Auto Care’s Catalog Assessment Tool and API’s

Are you ready to make your catalog content best in class and embrace API technology? This session, presented by the Auto Care Association, will review its new Auto Care VIP Catalog Assessment tool and how an ACES® and PIES™ user integrates this tool as part of their catalog process. Additionally, Auto Care will review its current API capabilities and direction for API usage in the near future for communication of its ACES® and PIES™ databases.

Attendees will gain insight into:

• How to use the AutoCareVIP.com catalog assessment tool.
• How they can leverage this assessment tool to improve their catalog process.
• Where Auto Care currently is with its API offering.
• What Auto Care will be looking at next for future API releases to improve data distribution across the industry.

• 

  Jonathan Larsen

  VP Digital Products and Standards
  Auto Care Association
  

   Speaker Bio

Programmed By:

Mobilizing Ideas: ACPN Pitch Competition

ACPN & Tromml will launch its first pitch competition event during the ACPN learning tracks at the 2024 Auto Care Connect conference. This event is designed to unearth groundbreaking ideas in the content management space of the aftermarket.

Participants will have the opportunity to submit their innovative concepts, addressing significant challenges and offering potential solutions that could reshape the future of content management in the aftermarket. (Submit your pitch here!) A select group of finalists will present their ideas in a high-energy breakout session during the ACPN learning tracks at the 2024 Auto Care Connect conference, vying for a chance to win a $500 prize, courtesy of Tromml, and gain industry recognition.

The challenge is not just about winning; it's a platform to influence industry trends, network with key stakeholders, and contribute to the evolving landscape of the content management space of the aftermarket. We invite you to be a part of this exciting journey of innovation and industry advancement.

Programmed By:

Shaping the Future: Industry Standards and Innovations in Latin America

This panel presentation brings together leading experts to explore the dynamic evolution of industry standards in Latin America over the past decade and to forecast the trends poised to shape these standards in the years to come. Our panelists will delve into the impact of digital transformation, the importance of cross-industry collaboration, and the challenges of standardization, among other pivotal topics. From the regulatory landscapes affecting standard enforcement to the integration of sustainability, social responsibility, and emerging technologies, this discussion aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how businesses are responding to and driving changes within their sectors. Attendees will gain insights into the role of consumer expectations, data security, and the overarching vision for the future of industry standards across Latin American markets.

• 

  Jesus Duran

  Mexico Content Operations Director
  O'Reilly Auto Parts
  

   Speaker Bio

• 

  Evaristo Garcia

  CEO & Founder, IDF - Integrate Data Facts
  IDF (Integrate Data Facts)
  

   Speaker Bio

• 

  Stefania Pokladek

  Head of Autoparts Commercial Strategy Latam
  Mercado Libre
  

   Speaker Bio

• 

  Arnoldo Ventura

  CEO
  Frontera Radiators
  

   Speaker Bio

Programmed By:

Networking Luncheon & Roundtables

Networking luncheon where identified tables will be designated with trending industry topics for attendees to discuss as they enjoy lunch. 

Programmed By:

INNOVATE! How to Create Relevancy in the Age of Disruption

Dirk Beveridge believes, every distributor that wins the future, will in fact be an innovative distributor. His research for the NAW’s Institute for Distribution Excellence discovered that 76% of leaders throughout distribution believe we are living in an environment we could call the Age of Disruption. And in this age of disruption, 85% feel they need to reinvent their business before someone else does. But as you continue to operate the business for today, how can you unleash the spirit of innovation to build a relevant, stronger, and more profitable future? In this inspiring and research based presentation, you will explore The Innovative DistributorTM framework that provides a practical model for creating transformative and innovative change.

Dirk Beveridge
Dirk Beveridge is a renowned thought leader, speaker, and advocate in the distribution industry, with over 35 years of experience in inspiring change and fostering innovation. As the founder of UnleashWD and the visionary behind the We Supply America tour, Dirk has redefined the narrative around distribution, emphasizing its role as a force for good in society. His work is deeply influenced by positive psychology and centers on empowering leaders and organizations to create environments where individuals can thrive. Dirk’s compelling storytelling, combined with his insights into business strategy and leadership, makes him a sought-after voice in reshaping the future of distribution and leadership.

• 

  Dirk Beveridge

  Founder
  UnleashWD
  

   Speaker Bio

Programmed By:

From Rockets to Retail: Growing Sales with Aerospace AI Techniques by ACPN Featured Speaker Levi Fawcett

Sponsored by Highline Warren



Discover how aerospace AI methods are transforming the auto parts industry. We look at straightforward, real-life examples where bleeding edge techniques boost sales, reduce customer complaints, and minimize returns. It's a practical journey into the applications of high-tech solutions for everyday business success.

Levi Fawcett 

Levi has a passion for vehicles having fixed his own cars and farm equipment from a young age. Now he is a successful entrepreneur with a proven track record of building four successful companies prior to Partly and has been recognized as a Forbes’ 30 under 30.

His expertise extends beyond busines; as an accomplished engineer, he led the guidance and simulation team at RocketLab, Nasdaq (RKLB). Today, as the Founder and CEO of Partly, Levi sets the vision and mission while also staying close to the technical side of the business.

• 

  Levi Fawcett

  Chief Executive Officer
  Partly
  

   Speaker Bio

Programmed By:

Driving Green Success: Empowering Business Impact Through Sustainability Strategies

Calling all automotive aftermarket business professionals!  This session explores the critical topic of environmental sustainability and its impact across the industry and your business – from manufacturing and distribution to installation and repair.  

Environmental sustainability has never been more impactful for businesses. You might think the green movement is new, but the aftermarket has been practicing sustainability for years. Join us for an engaging panel discussion with industry experts to gain valuable insights on:

• Gaining a competitive edge: Learn how to embrace sustainable practices, reducing waste and potentially save costs. This can attract environmentally conscious customers
• Unpack regulatory compliance: Environmental regulations are becoming more comprehensive. Understand the current landscape and how to stay ahead.  
• Help future proof your business: Explore strategies and partnerships to ensure long-term success in a rapidly changing market.
  

• Sharing Your Sustainability Story:  Get ideas for communicating your green practices across the aftermarket value chain. 

Programmed By:

How we Can Drive Change? One Ally at a Time

Organizations achieve better results when people can be their authentic selves, and feel safe sharing different perspectives. During this session, we will define Allyship and explore what Allyship looks like in the world of business. Participants can learn how easy it is to serve as an Ally every day through a variety of actions including raising awareness, removing barriers and serving as a bridge to access opportunities for all. We can drive change “One Ally at a Time”.

• 

  Christine Mobley

  VP, Talent Management & Belonging
  Dorman Products
  

   Speaker Bio

• 

  Kristine Frost

  Chief Human Resources Officer
  Standard Motor Products, Inc.
  

   Speaker Bio

• 

  Jillian Weishaar

  Manager of Education and Diversity & Inclusion
  Parts Authority
  

   Speaker Bio

• 

  Michelle Tansey

  Co-Founder
  Euro Clinic
  

   Speaker Bio

Programmed By:

ACP Graduation

ACP graduation presented by Dr. Thomas Litzinger, AAP, Executive Director, Aftermarket Education, University of the Aftermarket, Industry Chair, Northwood University.

Narrowed Look at AI

More details coming soon! 

Programmed By:

ACES - Beyond The Basics: Goat Rodeo (The ACES Edition)

“Goat rodeo” is a term for something going totally, unbelievably, disastrously wrong.  This session is designed to prevent goat rodeos by elevating your understanding and skills in managing ACES content.  Tailored for people with beginner to intermediate knowledge, this session aims to provide practical strategies and tips to enhance your ACES proficiency.

Key takeaways from this session will include:

• Strategies for efficient ACES data management and error minimization
• Tips for leveraging ACES to improve catalog accuracy and user experience
• Real-world examples demonstrating what to do, and what not to do, for effective ACES data management
• Pictures of car mods that may cause laughter and/or tears
  

• 

  Courtney Pedler

  Partner
  Autology Data Management Group
  

   Speaker Bio

Programmed By:

Top Taxonomy Tips from The Classification Guru and Your Data Crew Chief

Having a good taxonomy is the backbone of your data success. When you have a good taxonomy, it shows you what's going on in your business and when you don't, well, it could mislead you. Join Susan Walsh and Sam Russo as they delve into all things taxonomy - the good, the bad, and how you can get started.

This session will explore: 

• What is good?
• What is bad?
• What can you unlock with a good taxonomy?
• Internal vs. your Web Taxonomy.
• Tips and tricks on how you can get started today.
  

• Susan Walsh, The Classification Guru 
• Sam Russo, Practice Director, Automotive & Heavy Duty, Pivotree

• 

  Sam Russo

  Practice Director, Automotive & Heavy-Duty
  Pivotree
  

   Speaker Bio

• 

  Susan Walsh

  The Classification Guru
  
  

   Speaker Bio

Programmed By:

110010110011....Binary To Buck$....Strategies For Getting To Yes On Your Data Needs

You've got an idea and a vision, now all you need is the green light. Learn strategies for getting leadership to yes on your big ideas! You'll learn how to effectively pitch an idea to leadership in a way that's easily understandable and relatable so that you can get the dollars needed for your data projects!

Speaker(s): Eric Lough, VP of Customer Experience, All Star Auto Parts

• 

  Eric Lough

  VP of Customer Connectivity
  All Star Auto Parts
  

   Speaker Bio

Programmed By:

Keynote: CAVU: Live Unlimited

Speaking with conviction and as a man who has also found success in the military, philanthropy and professional golf, Lt Col. Dan Rooney life experiences demonstrate lessons of teamwork, trust, compassion and triumph.

In his keynote, Rooney will consider how CAVU offers a daily pathway for clarity of purpose, fulfillment, and pressing through life storms. This Air Force acronym, which stands for Ceiling and Visibility Unlimited, translates to describe the prefect conditions to be a fighter pilot - when steel blue skies invite them to spread their wings like a supersonic eagle. Fighter pilots cherish CAVU days because they know tomorrow can bring challenging conditions. Life is no different. Hyper-focused on the precise areas that are immediately under your control, CAVU is a disciplined approach to each day that will help you re-shape, motivate, prioritize and ultimately thrive. Listen in as Rooney shares his insights on leadership, fighter pilot lessons, Folds of Honor, and embracing resistance with a resilient spirit.

Lt Col. Dan Rooney, USAF

Lt Col Dan Rooney is the founder of the Folds of Honor, an F-16 Fighter Pilot (1,800 hours of flight time) with 3 combat tours in Iraq, and a PGA Golf Professional. He is a Fox News contributor and host of the Fox Nation’s series “Fly Into the Wind.”

As an author he has written two bestselling books, A Patriot’s Calling—Living Life between Fear and Faith and Fly Into the Wind-How to Harness Faith and Fearlessness On Your Ascent to Greatness. Lt Col Rooney was the motivational team speaker for two US Ryder Cup teams.

As a PGA Golf Professional, he started Patriot Golf Day to benefit Folds of Honor and founded two nationally ranked golf clubs, The Patriot Golf Club and American Dunes Golf Club in collaboration with Jack Nicklaus.

From humble beginnings above his garage, Lt Col Rooney started the non-profit Folds of Honor. Its singular mission is to provide educational scholarships to the spouses and children of wounded or killed military service members. In 13 years, Folds of Honor has provided 44,000 life changing scholarships

totaling over $200 million dollars. Lt Col Rooney continues his military service as aggressor pilot as a proud member of the 301st Fighter Squadron at Eglin AFB in Destin Florida. Rooney is a decorated military aviator; he is a two-time recipient of the Top Gun award and was honored with the Spirit of Attack award as a top graduate of F-16 training.

He has received many decorations to include the Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Medal, Antiterrorism Medal, Combat Readiness Medal and Air Expeditionary Medal. For his service and patriotism—Rooney was presented the White House's “Presidential Volunteer Service Award” by President George W. Bush, the Air National Guard's Distinguished Service Medal”, the Air National Guard’s “Directors Service Award” and the Ellis Island “Medal of Honor”.

Lt Col Rooney is a Kansas University Distinguished Alumni, Significant Sigma Chi, and recipient of the Oklahoma Medal of Freedom. He was honored at The Masters Invitational with the “William D. Richardson Award” for his outstanding contributions to golf and received the PGA of America's first-ever

“Patriot Award”. He has been recognized as one of People Magazine's “Heroes of the Year”, Money

Magazine’s “Hero of the Year” and ABC World News Tonight's “Persons of the Year.” He was a CNN Hero and awarded the Fox Nation Ultimate Patriot Award.

He lives in Owasso Oklahoma with his wife, five daughters, and three dogs.

Programmed By:

Industry Reception

Sponsored by ZF



Celebrate the industry and your Connect experience at the Tuesday evening networking reception.

Programmed By:

ACPN Community Only | ACPN Chair's Dinner

This is an ACPN Community exclusive event for registrants who purchased the "ACPN Networking Package" when they register for the conference.

Celebrate the 51 years of ACPN with friends and colleagues from across the industry. Welcome newcomers and catch up with old acquaintances while enjoying dinner and an evening of great entertainment. A huge thank you to ACPN's Platinum Annual Sponsors.

Sponsored by ACPN's Platinum Annual Sponsors:

Programmed By:

ACPAC $365 and Above Donor Architecture Cruise

This event is available for ACPAC donors that have contributed $365 or above for this donation year. 
Just a short walk from the Hyatt Regency Chicago, guests will board the Chicago Classic Lady for an evening reception and cruise to see the renowned buildings and architecture of the iconic city of Chicago. 

The Chicago Classic Lady will stay docked from 7pm - 7:30pm before embarking on the 1.5 hour cruise. Dinner and drinks will be served on the boat. Seating and restrooms are available on the boat. Guests are unable to de-board the boat until the end of the cruise and until it returns to the Hyatt Regency Chicago.

RSVP to acpac@autocare.org

Charity Euchre Tournament (Registration Required)

Euchre Tournament to benefit AACF and University of the Aftermarket Foundation. 

Join in some healthy competition for a good cause! This tournament requires a $50 buy-in  and players will be scored individually. Partners will change each round and number of rounds will be determined by final amount of players. 

Wednesday Breakfast

Light breakfast before participating in Auto Care's committee and community volunteer meetings.

Connect Registration (Wednesday)

Check-in to pick up your Connect conference badge and other helpful materials to enjoy Connect!

Category Management Meeting (Closed 8:00 am - 9:45 am)

Staff liaison Daniel Zenko

Programmed By:

Import Vehicle Community Meeting

Staff liaison Angela Chiang

Programmed By:

ACPN Awards and Recognitions

The ACPN Content Excellence Awards recognizes both companies and individuals for excellence in the content management space.

In this session, ACPN will announce and recognize the winners of the following categories:

• Trailblazer Award
• Receiver's Choice Awards

Programmed By:

Filter Manufacturers' Council Meeting

Staff liaison Jackie Johnson

Programmed By:

Women in Auto Care Meeting

Staff liaison Missy Stephens

Programmed By:

AWDA Council of Governors Meeting

Staff liaison Ted Hughes. Aftermarket Warehouse Distributors Association meeting of volunteer distributor/program group leaders.

Programmed By:

Manufacturers' Reps Meeting

Staff liaison Mary Ieng

Programmed By:

Market Intelligence Committee Meeting

Staff liaison Mike Chung

Programmed By:

Emerging Technology Meeting

Staff Liaison - Mike Tanner

State of the Standards (formerly called “TSC Open Session”)

Formerly called “TSC Open Session”

This session, presented by Auto Care Association and the Technology Standards Committee (TSC), will provide an update on the state of YOUR standards. Whether you are a subscriber of the data standards or not, attend this session to stay informed with critical updates, initiatives, and products related to the Auto Care data standards (ACES®, PIES™, IPO™, iShop™).

Programmed By:

Wednesday Morning Coffee Break

Your Standards, Your Voice (formerly called “TSC Open Session”)

Formerly called “TSC Open Session”

This session, presented by Auto Care Association and the Technology Standards Committee (TSC), is an interactive session where the TSC is calling for industry feedback. These are Your Standards, and Your Voice is critical to the evolution of the data standards

Programmed By:

ACPN Announcements and Closing Remarks

ACPN will close it's learning track at the 2024 Auto Care connect conference with some announcements, recognitions, and closing remarks from the ACPN Chair.

Networking Lunch

Networking luncheon for the attendees and volunteer leaders participating in the Auto Care committee and community meetings. 

Education Committee Meeting

Staff Liaison Amanda Bischoping

Events Committee Meeting

Staff Liaison Jessica Finnerty

Sustainability Committee Meeting (Open 1 pm - 2:45 pm; Closed 3:15 pm - 5 pm)

Staff liaison Danielle Thomas-Pollard
Open 1 pm - 2:45 pm; Closed 3:15 pm - 5 pm

Programmed By:

International Trade Committee Meeting

Staff liaison Angela Chiang and Carolina Arregoces

Government Affairs Committee Meeting

Staff liaison Jennifer Keaton & Tod Moore

Marketing & Communications Committee Meeting

Staff liaison Stacey Miller

Tool & Equipment Community Meeting

Staff liaison Missy Stephens

Wednesday Afternoon Coffee Break

Coffee and networking!