The 83rd Annual Convention & Exposition, October 14–17, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia, brings together industry professionals from around the world. Here is some of what you can expect.
By Jessica Andrews
83 Years of Industry-Leading Education!
ARA has assembled an exciting lineup of speakers and topics, featuring several new voices and an expanded number of sessions. “We’re focused on listening to attendee and exhibitor feedback,” said Natalie Miller, Chair of ARA’s Annual Convention Educational Programming Committee. “We know our weekends are valuable, and we do our best to build a program that makes the most of everyone’s time away from their businesses and families.”
Throughout Friday and Saturday, dozens of automotive recyclers and industry experts will share insights on the topics members have been asking for most. Sessions will cover key metrics for self-service facilities, visual AI and damage codes, transitioning family businesses, sales coaching, compensation structures, building culture, and more.
The popular Tech Talks have become a core part of ARA’s lineup and will continue this year, giving even more attendees the chance to take advantage of these focused sessions.
Designed to spotlight new tools and smarter ways to use the tools you already have, Tech Talks offer a valuable opportunity to step away from the trade show floor and connect in a quieter, more conversational setting.
Attendees can also look forward to the Exhibit Hall, the largest in the industry, with dedicated trade show hours and valuable opportunities to connect face-to-face with industry vendors. The Cobb Galleria Centre in Atlanta can accommodate large equipment, which is always a major draw. Explore what’s new from some of your favorite companies, watch demonstrations of innovative products and software, and head home with fresh ideas and new technologies to strengthen your business.
“We are looking forward to Atlanta,” said ARA Executive Director Vince Edivan. “As a major airline hub and a vibrant metropolitan destination, we expect a strong turnout.
We’ve worked hard to keep costs reasonable, with nightly rates of $234, while still delivering a memorable attendee experience. We also refreshed our sponsorship options, adjusted the schedule based on last year’s feedback to include more educational sessions, and wrapped things up a little earlier on Saturday evening so attendees can get home more easily. Our volunteers and staff have been working hard all year.”
Networking Opportunities Abound
Time spent with peers exchanging ideas and sharing insights is one of the most valuable reasons to attend the ARA Convention & Exposition each year. This year’s programming includes several opportunities to connect with colleagues and vendors throughout the event.
If you arrive early, be sure to stop by one of ARA’s volunteer committee meetings on Thursday. These meetings are open to the public and offer a great chance to see what your peers and volunteer leaders are working on behind the scenes for you and your business. If you are interested in joining a committee, this is an excellent opportunity to explore where your interests might fit. Meeting locations and details will be available in the Convention mobile app.
Start your day at our daily Prayer Meetings. This group gathers to share prayer needs, and attendees leave with a strong sense of camaraderie and togetherness that has long been a hallmark of ARA’s annual event.
The Ladies of Automotive Recycling Association (LARA) continues to grow. This hallmark event draws women representing all facets of ARA membership and the industry. We encourage all women attendees, exhibitors, and family members to join us for the LARA Wine & Cheese social before the Friday night Networking Dinner. It’s a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with friends and make new connections.
Friday night’s Networking Dinner is open to all, and we encourage you to come as you are. Based on attendee feedback over the last few years, we’ve made this popular event more relaxed and fun—and the growing attendance shows we’re moving in the right direction.
Enjoy a live DJ, celebrate the 2026 STAR Award winners as they are recognized, and get ready to bid on several exciting experiences auctioned off to benefit the Automotive Recycling Training Institute (ARTI). ARTI is the industry’s only not-for-profit organization dedicated to meeting its education and training needs.
Closing out this year’s event will be a departing reception—your chance to relax, share a few last-minute insights with colleagues, and make any final connections before heading home.
Stay current on all the latest convention updates at https://www.a-r-a.org/annual-convention/. Attendee, Sponsorship and Exposition Registration is now open. We look forward to seeing everyone in Atlanta!
AI Keynote Speaker: Igniting Innovationand Impact
“We are looking forward to welcoming Susan Frew as our Opening Keynote this year,” said Natalie Miller. “Susan has been on our radar for some time because she is both an AI innovator and an entrepreneur, and we believe our attendees will gain a great deal from hearing her speak.”
Susan’s professional journey began in the fast-paced tech industry of New York City, where she built her career at a Fortune 20 company. Her leadership skills later led her to serve as General Manager for AT&T Wireless in two Caribbean countries, overseeing international operations and driving growth strategies in competitive markets.
Transitioning from corporate leadership to entrepreneurship, Susan founded Sunshine Home Services, a plumbing and heating company in Colorado. Under her leadership, the company achieved 535% growth, earned a place on the Inc. 5000 list, and was recognized as one of Inc.’s Best Places to Work. “Susan’s experience scaling a small business is something I think will resonate with many of our members,” added Edivan.
Susan is an expert in applying AI to solve real-world business challenges. She has implemented AI-driven strategies in her own company, delivering significant cost savings and operational efficiencies. Her keynote presentation will offer actionable ideas for using AI to drive growth and innovation.
