They say ignorance is bliss, but when contemporary customers are better informed than your staff, ignorance is a quick ticket to early retirement. National Powersports Dealer Association (NPDA) has expanded its education program for DealerConnect networking event, bringing together industry experts and dealership leaders to help dealers solve the business challenges that have the greatest impact on profitability and long-term success. Set for September 19–22, 2026, DealerConnect will feature a full slate of solution-driven curriculum designed specifically for powersports dealers.
“Rather than focusing on theory, every session is built around practical strategies dealers can apply immediately in their businesses,” says NPDA immediate past chair and leader of the association’s education committee, Bob Kee. At the head of the class will be industry thought leaders, trainers and 20 Group facilitators, all addressing the challenges of a smarter customer base (sounds better than saying blissfully ignorant dealers). Specifically strategizing on how dealers can meet the expectations of today’s better-informed customer will be Tom O’Connor. The headmaster of Tom O’Connor Sales Academy will share modern selling techniques, while additional sessions will focus on lead management, customer response and improving the overall customer experience.
Additional sessions on the syllabus will offer Dealers practical insights into several key topics, including:
• Designing the dealership of the future
• Protecting the business with effective insurance coverage
• Running more productive dealership meetings
• Maximizing Lightspeed reporting and operational efficiencies
• Preventing costly cybersecurity attacks through employee education
• Dealership turnaround strategies from successful real-world experiences
“The education program brings together respected dealership operators, consultants and industry professionals who understand the realities of operating a powersports dealership in today’s competitive marketplace,” concludes Kee, noting DealerConnect’s other compelling reason for being: “While the education delivers practical strategies dealers can immediately implement, the relationships built through candid conversations with peers, industry experts and trusted business partners continue long after the conference ends. In an industry built on relationships, there is no substitute for connecting in person.”
Registration is now open but NPDA member Early Bird registration rates end July 31! Not currently a member of NPDA? Dealers can also take advantage of a special first-time membership offer, making it the ideal time to join the Association and experience DealerConnect… but wait, there is more! Early birds can use the code “DIS” for a DIScount to bring an additional team member to connect with NPDA in Columbus for just $99!
For the complete agenda, hotel information, registration details and membership information, visit:
https://www.npda.org/event-details/dealerconnect-2026
About Tom O’Connor
Tom O’Connor is known for providing the most effective word tracks in the Powersports Industry. His ability to transfer that knowledge to salespeople and managers is what makes him a great trainer and why he is always in demand.
Tom has put his strongest content on this interactive training platform that will inspire your people to take a tactical approach to mastering the Greet & Probe, increase Sit Downs & Write Ups, and utilize the telephone to explode their income.
Managers will learn how to more effectively present & navigate the worksheet, handle price, trade and payment objections, and close on the first pencil. Managers nationwide have been clamoring for his 20 Closes to Maintain Margin and it’s all here with a whole lot more!
