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Survive or Thrive 2026

Two Events. One Mission. Real Growth for the Diesel & Automotive Industry.

The diesel and automotive industry isn’t just about horsepower and parts—it’s about building strong, sustainable businesses in a market that never stops changing. That’s why Survive or Thrive exists.

Hosted by Driven Warehouse Distributing (DWD), the wholesale arm of Thoroughbred Diesel, Survive or Thrive is a two-day, in-person industry event built specifically for shop owners, technicians, and automotive professionals who want more than surface-level motivation. This is about real strategies, real experiences, and real results.

In 2026, Survive or Thrive expands to two locations, giving more people access to the same proven format—while keeping the hands-on, high-value experience attendees expect.


2026 Event Locations & Dates

Survive or Thrive Texas
Carrollton, TX
April 17–18, 2026 (Friday & Saturday)

The Texas event will utilize both an event venue and our Texas warehouse, all located in Carrollton. This allows us to keep the same Survive or Thrive format everyone is familiar with—while expanding the experience through our growing Texas footprint.

Expect:

  1. Classroom-style business and technical sessions

  2. Manufacturer education and product insight

  3. Vendor engagement with real access to industry experts

  4. A hands-on environment that blends education with real-world application

 

Survive or Thrive Kentucky
Winchester, KY
October 9–10, 2026 (Friday & Saturday)

The Kentucky event returns to the same facilities used in past years, including The Barn and our main headquarters in Winchester. This location has become the heart of Survive or Thrive—and continues to deliver the experience attendees have come to expect.

Expect the same proven format with updated content, new speakers, and expanded vendor participation.

 

A Two-Day Blueprint for Growth

Each Survive or Thrive event follows a two-day structure designed to balance business strategy with technical and industry education.

Day 1: Business Growth & Development

Technical skill alone doesn’t build a great business. Day 1 focuses on the behind-the-scenes decisions that determine whether a shop struggles—or scales.

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Topics include:

  1. Leadership and team development

  2. Shop profitability and financial clarity

  3. Process improvement and operational efficiency

  4. Marketing, branding, and customer acquisition

  5. Hiring, retention, and long-term growth strategy

Sessions are led by industry professionals who have built, grown, and operated real businesses, not just consultants with theories.

Attendees leave Day 1 with clear takeaways they can apply immediately—not vague ideas or generic advice.

 

Day 2: Products, Technology & Industry Trends

Day 2 shifts gears to what’s happening right now in the diesel and automotive space—and what’s coming next.

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Expect:

  1. Manufacturer-led product education

  2. Diagnostic and technical training

  3. Insights into new tools, software, and technology

  4. Industry trends impacting shops and installers

The day wraps with an extended vendor hall, giving attendees direct access to manufacturers, product experts, and decision-makers—not just sales reps.

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Why Attend Survive or Thrive?

✅ Learn from people actively building and running successful businesses

✅ Gain practical strategies you can implement immediately

✅ Stay ahead of product, technology, and industry changes

✅ Build real connections with shop owners, technicians, and manufacturers

✅ Experience an event designed for value, not hype
 

More Than a Conference

Survive or Thrive isn’t about checking a box or sitting through generic presentations. It’s about equipping the industry with knowledge that actually moves the needle.

Whether you attend in TexasKentucky, or both—Survive or Thrive 2026 is built to help you adapt, grow, and lead in an industry that rewards those willing to evolve.

 

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