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Matt Wagg
Great leaders are great communicators. In this session, Matt Wagg will share practical tools for improving communication in your shop—from active listening and setting clear expectations to navigating tough conversations with confidence.
About the Speaker: Matt Wagg has nearly 20 years of experience in the automotive and diesel industries, including roles as a technician, instructor, and shop owner. He currently runs Accelerated Diagnostic & Automotive in Bennington, NE, and brings a deep blend of technical and leadership knowledge to every session.
Brett Kinsfather Brett will explore how today’s top shops are using software and digital tools to create more efficient operations, deliver a better customer experience, and confidently charge for the value they provide. Whether it’s workflow automation, customer communication, or data-driven decisions, this session will help you see where technology can level up your business.
About the Speaker: Brett Kinsfather is a senior leader with 20+ years of experience across the SaaS, automotive, and distribution sectors. He’s led teams through transformational growth by aligning sales, marketing, and technology to drive real-world results and stronger customer connections
Dean Cole Dean will unpack the importance of having the right financial expert in your corner—someone who can help you make smart decisions around big purchases, deductions, and long-term strategy. This session isn’t about pushing a product, but about understanding when it’s time to bring in a financial advisor who can help you plan for sustainable growth and avoid costly mistakes.
About the Speaker: Dean Cole brings over 40 years of experience in finance and entrepreneurship. A graduate of The Ohio State University with a degree in honors accounting, Dean has served as a CFO, business owner, and trusted advisor to entrepreneurs across a variety of industries. Today, he’s part of the FocusCFO team, where he helps small businesses grow with confidence.
Zack Wright Customer expectations are changing fast—and meeting them is no longer optional. In this session, Zack Wright will explore how shops can create a seamless, tech-enabled experience that builds trust, boosts approvals, and drives repeat business. From service writers to technicians, everyone has a role to play in delivering the kind of experience that keeps customers coming back.
About the Speaker: Zack Wright is the Inside Sales Manager at Tekmetric and brings nearly a decade of experience in software sales. He’s helped shops of all sizes streamline operations, improve customer interactions, and increase profitability. Known for his educational approach and focus on real-world value, Zack is passionate about helping shop owners grow through smarter technology and stronger relationships.
Chris Gayne In 2023, Chris Gayne came to Survive or Thrive a little reluctantly—but left with a new perspective on how to grow his business. This year, he returns as a speaker to share his journey: how applying what he learned at the event helped him transform Dale County Diesel into a thriving, high-performing shop. His story is a real-world example of what can happen when you stop surviving and start leading with purpose.
About the Speaker: Chris is the owner of Dale County Diesel in Daleville, AL. He’s a hands-on business owner who understands the challenges of running a diesel performance shop—and the power of taking the right steps toward growth.
Cecil Bullard Back for his second year at Survive or Thrive, Cecil Bullard returns with a new focus: how to keep the money your shop earns. Last year, Cecil broke down the numbers behind charging properly and paying fairly. This year, he’ll take it a step further—exploring profit retention, smart financial habits, and building a business that supports the life you want.
About the Speaker: Cecil Bullard has spent his entire career in the automotive service and repair industry. He’s held every position, run successful shops, and now serves as a respected consultant and trainer. Cecil believes today’s shops have unlimited potential—and that every owner deserves to build a business that truly works for them.
Tony Salas Light-duty diesel technology continues to evolve—and staying ahead of it is critical. In this live seminar, Tony Salas of Powertrain Training will cover the latest diagnostic and repair trends across Powerstroke, Duramax, and RAM Cummins platforms. Topics include electrical testing (voltage drop, starting/charging systems), CAN network diagnostics, labscope usage, fuel system failures (like the CP4 and L5P’s 3-phase pump), and the growing impact of aftertreatment and fuel quality.
Tony will also share real diagnostic scenarios from the field, breaking down what technicians are seeing in shops every day and how to fix them with confidence.
About the Speaker: Antonio “Tony” Salas has been teaching nationwide for over 35 years. He currently serves as lead instructor for Powertrain Training and is a recognized expert in both light- and medium-duty diesel applications. With real-world shop experience and extensive knowledge of electronics, diagnostics, and networks, Tony brings practical, up-to-date insight to every session.