Equip Exposition, the international landscape, outdoor living and equipment exposition being held October 18-21, 2022 at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, is broadening educational tracks to help contractors, dealers and landscapers explore business growth opportunities and work smarter.

“Attendees can explore new, profitable business opportunities with expanded education at this year’s Equip Exposition,” said Kris Kiser, president & CEO of the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI), which owns and manages Equip Exposition. “This trade show is the best place to learn about new business segments, network, learn, try out equipment, see what’s new and gain a competitive business edge.”

New education tracks for landscapers are designed to boost bottom lines. Details include:

  • The Sales and Profitability track will overview sustainable snow management, estimating and bidding, benchmarking for profit, pricing and supply chain hacks. 
  • The Technology track covers new software, drone technology, irrigation troubleshooting and estimating and bidding. Expect a two-day, 13-hour course that will equip registrants for the Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification exam necessary for commercial drone use.
  • The Grow Your Team track highlights how company culture impacts performance and profitability, recruiting and retaining team members, and promoting a diverse industry. 
  • The Leadership track focuses on developing a second-in-command, mergers and acquisitions in the landscape industry, and what you need to know about selling your business. 

Education partners will include Landscape Management magazine, Professional Grounds Management Society, the Irrigation Association and the Association of Outdoor Lighting Professionals.

Landscape and hardscape contractors can attend six live sessions presented by Hardscape North America, which co-locates with Equip Expo. Topics such as industry best-practices, business strategy and construction techniques will be taught by hardscape experts.

A free session called “The California Equation” overviews new equipment mandates and its impact. A panel will discuss how the industry is adapting to changing regulations in California, and how the state’s trends are impacting business across the country. Open to landscapers, dealers and manufacturers.

Influencer LIVE, sponsored by Kohler Engines will feature influential voices that have inspired attendees to grow and invest into their business. Hosted by Naylor Taliaferro, Paul Jamison and Caleb Auman.

Energize will be a candid discussion with contractors working in the field. This motivational discussion will be hosted by Brian Fullerton, Mike Andes, Blake Albertson and Paul Jamison, who will give their first-hand perspective on everything from marketing and hiring to sales and purchasing. 

Equip Exposition offers outdoor power equipment dealers and retailers two new education tracks in 2022 – one for managers and one for technicians. Equipment dealers will find training with Bob Clements and Sara Hey to help grow their businesses, including advice on unconventional hiring strategies, a peek at the dealership's future and how to price service jobs. Power Equipment Trade’s Dan Shell and Jessica Johnson will lead a panel discussion on how to take your business to the next level.

The Equipment & Engine Training Council returns with their popular technician training program on a wide range of engines and technologies. Dealer and retailer education partners include Bob Clements International, the Equipment & Engine Training Council and Power Equipment Trade magazine. Education and training costs vary based on individual selections. Visit www.equipexposition.com/education for full details. 

Attendees can also test drive the latest equipment in the Outdoor Demo Yard, which has expanded to nearly 30 acres and is included with every Equip Exposition registration. A larger UTV test track allows attendees to put the latest UTVs through their paces on curves, hills, rocks and bumps. Attendees age 16 or older with a valid driver’s license can test equipment.

For landscapers, the trade show will open earlier this year, starting at noon on Wednesday, Oct. 19. They’ll find the latest equipment, technology and solutions to growing their businesses among the 1,000+ exhibits. Registration is open at www.equipexposition.com. Early Bird registration ends after September 9, 2022.

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