"The idea is to get the whole shop involved," Anderson said, noting that the speed dating theme is designed for collision repair and mechanical repair shop employees and owners to gain a lot of information in a short period of time.  In addition to educational opportunities, there is space for 20 table-top vendors, she said, adding that table-top vender spaces can be reserved for $400 and $1,000 for vendors in a speed-dating pod.

The setup includes three to four "pods," where speakers will present for 30 minutes on specific topics in the areas of business services and support, tools and equipment, information technology, and government and compliance, Anderson said. 

Business services and support
This pod is aimed at shop owners and operators, Anderson said.  The featured speaker is Discovery Outsourcing, a Greenwood Village, Colo.-based firm that handles employee benefits, payroll, and human resources, she said, adding that Sisk & Co. is slated to cover issues surrounding workers' comp. 

Tools and equipment/information technology
This portion of the show will cover the latest available tools and equipment available to shops, in addition to repair information and its increasing role in enabling independent shops to properly repair vehicles, Anderson said.

"Some shops may not know what repair information is available to them," Anderson said, adding that affordable services will be discussed. 

Government and compliance
Presenters in this category include the state Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), and the Attorney General's office, Anderson said, covering a variety of topics as they pertain to repair shop compliance.

In the past, CDPHE and Air Care Colorado have focused their efforts on exempting vehicles from the required I/M240 test through the roadside Rapid Screen program, Anderson said, pointing out that they're now focusing on vehicles emitting the most pollutants.  "They estimate that the majority of our pollutants come from a small percentage of high emitters," she said.

Another presenter in this segment is KPA, a third-party organization that works with dealership service departments and repair shops on state and federal compliance.  "KPA specializes in identifying violations and recommending solutions.  They also conduct training and safety meetings," Anderson said.  "This is especially important for collision repair shops.

ASA has been instrumental in supporting an amendment to the Clean Air Act that has been passed, Anderson said.  "You now have to have a paint booth to spray paint," she said.  "Surprisingly you didn't have to before."  Additionally, she added, all extra paint must be released through the spray gun in the booth now.

"We think the balance of education and networking events will give attendees great exposure," Anderson said.

"With the museum, the thought was that owners can bring their spouse and children and make it a family event," Anderson said.

The ASA-CO expo is scheduled to be held every other year, Anderson said.  The cost per shop, regardless of how many employees are present, is $50; however, all participants who plan to attend must register to ensure adequate space is available.  To register, contact Anderson at 303-202-5231 or e-mail her at sarah@asacolorado.org.