This September, our industry came together in vibrant San Antonio, TX, for the 2025 Powertrain EXPO—and what a week it was! From the moment the first seminar kicked off to the final handshake on the tradeshow floor, the energy was undeniable.
Whether you attended technical seminars, explored new technologies in the exhibit hall, or networked with colleagues, you were part of the heartbeat of this year’s EXPO. The packed rooms during sessions reminded us of the incredible thirst for knowledge across our community. Every conversation, every question, every shared success story underscored why this event continues to thrive.
To everyone who joined us—thank you. You helped create an atmosphere of learning, collaboration, and optimism. Your presence supported, a dynamic exchange of ideas and breakthroughs, growth in technical and professional expertise and lasting connections that will carry us forward. If you weren’t able to attend this year, I encourage you to plan ahead for next year. I promise, we won’t disappoint you.
ATRA’s purpose has never been clearer, unify the transmission industry. Since 1954 the ATRA forefathers paved a road that has been a central hub where shop owners, technicians, suppliers, and educators connect to share knowledge, set standards, and raise professionalism. Through training, collaboration, and support, we safeguard the integrity of our craft and ensure the long-term health of the transmission repair industry worldwide.
If there was one takeaway from Powertrain EXPO 2025, it’s this: training isn’t optional—it’s essential. Our field is evolving faster than ever. Today’s transmissions—from advanced 8-, 9-, and 10-speed units to complex CAN bus systems—demand precision and confidence. That comes only through constant learning.
Highlights from this year’s program included sessions on wiring, electronics, and hydraulics that will help technicians cut through misdiagnoses and save their customers money and practical skills for immediate shop use. Emerging technology courses prepared shops for the next wave of challenges in tuning, circuits, and communication networks.
It wasn’t just technical. Leadership sessions on how successful shops need both strong tools and strong teams filled the schedule each day. The fact is, investing in training is investing in your team’s—and your business’s— future success.
Technology should empower, not overwhelm. At ATRA, we believe technology serves people, never the other way around. That’s why we’re leaning into smart, practical tools:
- The ATRA Pro App puts training, resources, and support right in your pocket.
- Soon, our AI-powered Technical Support Center will give members instant access to proven solutions from ATRA’s knowledge base—speeding up repairs and reducing frustration. These aren’t gimmicks; they’re real tools designed to multiply efficiency and improve outcomes for your shop.
The momentum from Powertrain EXPO doesn’t stop when the event closes. It carries forward in your shops, your classrooms, your boardrooms, and your daily work with customers. Together, we are shaping not only the future of transmission repair, but the strength of our entire industry.
Thank you again for being part of the journey in San Antonio. I look forward to seeing you at future ATRA events as we continue to learn, grow, and unify this great industry.
Lance Wiggins
CEO, ATRA
