ETI ToolTech 2016 conference puts major focus on trending vehicle technologies

May 11, 2016

Discussion topics included the increased focus on technology in the modern vehicle, vehicle autonomy and the increasing complexities of collision repair.

Tom Kotenko, Snap-on, moderates a discussion panel on 'Understanding the Heavy Duty MOU.' Panelists, from left to right: Tom Marchini, Senior Manager, Hino Motor Sales USA, Inc; Jeff Wurster, Senior Manager, Technical Support - Hino Motors Sales USA, Inc.; Mike Hasinec, Penske Trucking; Philip Aiello, Senior Project Manager Corporate Automotive Engineering, UPS; Larry Lovejoy, Senior Technical Advisor, Technology, Strategy & Architecture, Cummins; Dave Scheer, CEO of Inland Truck Parts; Mark Karon, President, Total Truck Parts; Roland Kingsbury, Isuzu Commercial Trucks. — Tom Kotenko, Snap-on, moderates a discussion panel on "Understanding the Heavy Duty MOU." Panelists, from left to right: Tom Marchini, Senior Manager, Hino Motor Sales USA, Inc; Jeff Wurster, Senior Manager, Technical Support - Hino Motors Sales USA, Inc.; Mike Hasinec, Penske Trucking; Philip Aiello, Senior Project Manager Corporate Automotive Engineering, UPS; Larry Lovejoy, Senior Technical Advisor, Technology, Strategy & Architecture, Cummins; Dave Scheer, CEO of Inland Truck Parts; Mark Karon, President, Total Truck Parts; Roland Kingsbury, Isuzu Commercial Trucks.

Held April 25-28 at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa, the Equipment and Tool Institute's (ETI) Annual ToolTech conference for the tool and equipment industry provided an opportunity for attendees to participate in industry-focused presentations and take away valuable information. With more than 108 professionals from over 50 companies in attendance at this year’s ToolTech, this year's theme, "Life in the Fast Lane," focused on the continually evolving changes in vehicle technology.

The event kicked off Monday, April 25 with a spouse luncheon, annual ETI meeting and opening session, and keynote speaker John Ellis of Ellis and Associates, who discussed "The Zero Dollar Car" and how technology companies are reaching the automotive industry due to the continual evolvement of the connected car.

Discussion topics included the increased focus on technology in the modern vehicle, with an emphasis on vehicle security, the continual shift of vehicle autonomy and the increasing complexities of collision repair.

Specifically, industry presentations included "Technology Trends in the Modern Vehicle" presented by Mark Seng, Global Aftermarket Practice Leader, IHS; "The Implications of Vehicle Cyber Security" by John Ellis and Gloria D'Anna, General Telcom Systems; "The Consumer View of In-Car Technology and Security" by Karl Brauer of Kelley Blue Book.

Panel discussions included "How Collision Repair Diagnostics are Key to Repair Planning;" "Control in the Fast Lane: Shop Owners Panel;" "OEM Vehicle Technology Panel;" as well as "Understanding the Heavy Duty Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)" and "New Trends and Technologies in Collision Repair."

Attendees also had the opportunity to schedule one-on-ones with other industry officials, network at the opening reception, company spotlight happy hour and closing receptions.

ToolTech focuses solely on automotive-related tool and equipment companies and the individuals at the forefront of the industry and technological advances. Attendees come to ToolTech to network with industry insiders, peers, OEM personnel, and meet with key companies in the marketplace.

For more information on Equipment and Tool Institute, visit www.etools.org.