For professionals in the torque converter and transmission rebuilding industry, the start of May signals an exciting opportunity to network, learn, and deepen their technical expertise. The Torque Converter Rebuilders Association (TCRA) returns with its much-anticipated 2026 Seminar, scheduled for May 1 & 2 in Salt Lake City, Utah—a hub of industry innovation and collaboration that brings together shop owners, technicians, suppliers, and thought leaders from across the nation.
Held at the Hilton Salt Lake City Center, located at 255 South West Temple in Salt Lake City, Utah, this two-day gathering blends education, networking, hands-on learning, and real-world industry insight. With a negotiated room rate for attendees and a deadline for discounted reservations set for March 31, the event encourages early planning for those who want to make the most of their trip to the Beehive State.
A TRADITION OF EXCELLENCE
The TCRA Seminar has earned a reputation as one of the premiere events for professionals in the transmission and torque converter sector. Past events have been praised for their quality content, inclusive networking opportunities, and the unique blend of technical detail and big-picture perspectives they provide. Attendees consistently highlight the seminar’s ability to offer both actionable skills and broader insights into industry trends— a combination that helps businesses thrive in an increasingly competitive and complex environment.
In previous years, participants have benefited from vendor displays, technical sessions, live demonstrations, and the chance to share strategies with peers and industry veterans alike. Many credit the seminar with helping them stay ahead of evolving technologies, improve shop procedures, and build valuable relationships that extend well beyond the seminar’s official end.
AN ENGAGING EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE
The 2026 agenda promises to continue that tradition with a lineup of expert speakers and technical authorities who bring decades of combined experience to the stage. Featured presenters include:
- Rodger Bland (Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Association) – Known for his industry leadership and insight into both technical and business challenges.
- Bobby Mace (Babcox – Transmission Digest) – A respected voice on market trends, industry shifts, and strategic business direction.
- John Parmenter (Precision International) – Brings deep technical know-how and practical troubleshooting approaches.
- Bob Warnke (Warnke Consulting, LLC) – Offers expertise in complex diagnostic techniques for torque converters.
- Jim Dial (Sonnax) – Frequently discusses control strategies and component innovation for modern transmissions.
- Pepe Torres (AUS-TEX Transmission, LLC) – Shares hands-on experience from the shop floor and tuning insights.
This lineup reflects the seminar’s commitment to addressing both current technical hurdles and forward-looking industry trends. Whether you’re focused on torque converter design, drivability concerns, diagnostic strategies, or business leadership, the sessions are designed to offer content that is immediately useful in your daily work environment.
NETWORKING, TOURS, AND MORE
Beyond the classroom, the event offers social and networking opportunities that help foster deeper professional connections. One of the highlights planned around the seminar is a tour of Randy’s Transmissions and Industrial Injection—a facility known for its high-performance diesel transmissions and quality parts manufacturing. These tours allow attendees to see real-world operations in action, ask questions of industry peers, and bring back ideas that can be implemented in their own shops.
Evenings offer additional chances to mingle over meals and relaxed conversation, letting participants build relationships that often lead to future collaborations, referrals, and business growth.
WHY YOU SHOULD ATTEND
In an era where transmission and torque converter technologies are rapidly advancing, staying current is essential. The TCRA Seminar represents more than just a conference—it’s a knowledge hub where attendees can sharpen their technical skills, discover new tools and suppliers, and engage in dialogue with the minds shaping the future of the industry.
Each year, attendees say they leave feeling inspired, equipped with new strategies, and connected with a network of professionals who share their commitment to quality, innovation, and excellence. From seasoned shop owners to technicians early in their careers, the seminar offers something valuable for everyone involved in the rebuild industry.
PLAN YOUR TRIP
If you’re planning to attend, make your hotel reservations soon and take advantage of the discounted room block before it closes on March 31. Whether you come for the education, the networking, the tours, or a combination of all three, the 2026 TCRA Seminar in Salt Lake City is set to be a dynamic and rewarding event you won’t want to miss.
To register, visit tcraonline.com.
See you at the 2026 TCRA Annual Seminar!
