The Commercial Vehicle Solutions Network (CVSN) has opened registration for The Seminar "Heavy Duty Education Week," the new expansion of its popular in-person education offerings built on the success of its highly attended Distributor Training Expo (DTE).
Set for May 14-16 in Dallas this year, Heavy Duty Education Week will feature education and training tracks for employees of distributors, parts suppliers, and service technicians with classroom time during the day and an industry product training expo in the evening.
To simplify the planning process for attendees, CVSN has developed an all-inclusive registration package that take care of all logistics, including airfare (up to $500), two nights of hotel accommodation, all meals provided and three days of training from suppliers across multiple product categories. Distributors and suppliers alike can register for the event on the CVSN website.
Each event track is described as follows:
Distributor Training Expo (DTE) training track
The DTE Training Track brings together 25 to 30 of the industry's top suppliers across a range of product groups, all in one comprehensive event. Attendees will experience a dynamic blend of expo hall and classroom settings, offering hands-on learning and direct, one-on-one access to industry experts. The training covers product features, real-world applications, and product sales techniques ensuring an immersive and thorough learning experience that equips you with the knowledge and skills to stay ahead in the industry.
GenFirst certification
The GenFirst Certification was developed for newcomers to the industry with up to two years of experience. This introductory course provides attendees with essential knowledge, including how trucks and trailers operate, industry vocabulary, key players, and the economic landscape of the industry. The goal is to answer questions attendees may be hesitant to ask in a work setting and to equip them with the vital knowledge needed to excel in their roles.
GenNext certification
The GenNext Certification is designed for employees seeking additional training, making it ideal for parts counter staff, outside sales representatives, mid-level managers, branch managers, purchasing managers, or those preparing for these positions. Candidates typically have at least two years of industry experience, but those with less experience may benefit more from the GenFirst track. This certification provides attendees with comprehensive knowledge to improve their performance in current roles and prepares them for advancement within your company.
GenNext 2.0 certification
The GenNext 2.0 Certification is designed for experienced employees seeking advanced training to elevate their skills and knowledge in the CV aftermarket industry. This program is ideal for mid-level managers, branch managers, and purchasing managers with at least three to five years of industry experience. For those with less experience, the GenNext or GenFirst track may be a better fit. GenNext 2.0 offers an in-depth exploration of advanced concepts, strategies, and best practices, empowering participants to enhance their current performance and prepare for leadership roles within their organizations.
AI & Innovation workshop
This track offers both a hands-on approach to learning the basics of artificial intelligence (AI) as well as a comprehensive view of where AI is being implemented across the industry. Featuring leading experts, this track will include an introductory workshop on AI, presentations and round table conversations about how AI is being implemented into your business processes, and speed networking opportunities for CVSN members to learn how to best utilize these new technologies to improve your operational efficiencies.
Bendix installer workshop
The two-day workshop will provide a comprehensive overview of the Bendix product portfolio. On day one, participants will explore Bendix's online resources, including Bendix.com, B2Bendix.com, Brake-School.com, and the Acom AE Diagnostic Software. This will be followed by in-depth training on air system diagnostics, covering charging systems, park brake systems, primary and secondary brake systems, and tractor protection values. The second day will focus on advanced technologies, such as Air Disc Brakes, ABS, trailer ABS, ATC, ESP, and Acom diagnostics. This hands-on training will equip participants with a deep understanding of Bendix's cutting-edge solutions.
Meritor installer workshop
This 16-hour course will provide instruction on information and procedures required to perform a brake job resulting in a vehicle that is able to safely stop in a straight line within the legal stopping distance, operate correctly until the next scheduled brake service, pass DOT inspection, avoid costly downtime, and keep the customer happy. Students will have the opportunity to install brake shoes and air disc brake pads, correctly setup a slack adjuster, and perform the measurements necessary to diagnose and maintain heavy-duty cam and air disc brake systems.
Advanced electrical workshop
This two-day course, presented by instructor Keith Littleton, is an essential opportunity for experienced technicians to master advanced diagnostic techniques for computer-controlled systems. Participants will gain practical skills to quickly distinguish between mechanical and electrical failures, isolate circuit faults, and utilize diagnostic tools like oscilloscopes, DVOMs, and scan tools. The course emphasizes real-world applications, including reading electrical wiring diagrams, interpreting scan tool data, and using sensor simulations to diagnose complex issues. By the end, technicians will be equipped to identify root causes and repair communication (J1939) issues, greatly enhancing their ability to tackle even the most difficult system challenges.
