David Boyes is the President of Today's Class, an online learning organization that has been supporting the automotive industry for more than 20 years. Prior to joining Today's Class, David managed software consulting organizations for ABB, Oracle, and Accenture. He holds an MBA from Purdue University and a BS in Industrial Engineering from Kettering University.

Paul Pate is the Director of Professional Services for Today’s Class. Paul drives the strategy and development of technical content for the groundbreaking, adaptive learning platform – Today’s Class Technician. Paul has demonstrated a proven track record of developing relevant training courses, programs, relationships and partnerships within the automotive industry.

Paul’s passion is helping adults succeed. He has done this by serving in the role of training program developer and training manager. Prior to his most recent experience as a training manager for a major OEM, Paul served as a college Dean of Applied Technologies, and as an automotive instructor. His service in public education lasted for 25 years. Paul earned his Master’s Degree in Instructional and Curricular studies, with an emphasis specifically in adult learner development.

Paul has been an ASE Master Certified Technician for nearly 30 years and holds many other manufacturer level certifications and an SAE credential in Advanced Hybrid Diagnostics. Well versed in the alternative fuels’ technologies of natural gas and hybrid/electric vehicles, Paul has authored numerous technical articles and developed technical curriculum in these areas. As a technical instructor in the alternative fuels area his clients have included Frito Lay/PepsiCo, Fed Ex, UPS, Volvo, Mack, Ford, Chrysler and many others in the U.S. as well as other companies abroad.

Paul has been twice appointed by two different Governors to serve on committees that developed legislation to protect automotive consumers and he has served on committees with ASE and with SAE.

Key Talking Points

• Training during the last 20 years- audience has changedLess patient, want information immediately
• Expectations are higher for format and accessibility and desire for information to be targeted
• Make training efficient- jump in and get knowledge, ask and answer questions then move on
• Vehicles are rapidly changing- have to change training from event based to daily part of culture  
• Today’s ClassFocused on what you need to learn
• Focused on data to make experience impactful
• Traditional learning management system (LMS) the learner signs up for a class vs training sessions day to day basis 4-6 minutes long, assesses and trains you from foundation level, as gathers more data it can start push new content, or focus on new release (technology or safety) or knowledge retention
• Confidence plays a role in employee performance- measure confidence and knowledge over time, and track weaknesses through algorithm. 
• Employees can evaluate team individually with strengths and weaknesses    
• Don’t have “Tests” instead it is termed Adaptive Learning Interactions- wrong answers are greeted with why it was wrong and why the correct answer is correct. Not designed to quiz or test technicians but to teach.
• Technicians enrolled in Today’s ClassHigh engagement with technicians logging in multiple times a week because short classes
• Rewards points allows them to compete with each other    
• COVID-19Reassured where online training is going
• Forced businesses to find different way to train
• Todaysclass.com and todaysclasstechnician.comEasy to get started and manage

Resources:

• Thanks to David Boyes and Paul Pate for their contribution to the aftermarket’s premier podcast.
• Link to the ‘BOOKS‘ page highlighting all books discussed in the podcast library HERE. Leaders are readers.
• Find every podcast episode HERE.
• Every episode segmented by Series HERE.
• Key Word Search HERE.

Be socially involved and in touch with the show:

Facebook   Twitter   Linked In   Email

Listen for free on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spreaker, iHeart Radio, Spotify, Podchaser and many more. Mobile Listening APP's HERE

Join the Ecosystem - Subscribe to the INSIDER NEWSLETTER HERE.

Buy me a coffee

This episode is brought to you by Shop-Ware Shop Management. It’s time to run your business at its fullest potential with the industry’s leading technology. Shop-Ware Shop Management will increase your efficiency with lightning-fast workflows, help your staff capture more sales every day, and create very happy customers who promote your business. Shops running Shop-Ware have More Time and generate More Profit—join them! Schedule a free live demonstration and find out how 30 minutes can transform your shop at getshopware.com/carm

This episode is brought to you by AAPEX, the Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo. AAPEX represents the $740 billion global automotive aftermarket industry and has everything you need to stay ahead of the curve. With 2,500 exhibiting companies, you’ll see the latest products, parts, and technologies for your business. As a result, the event also offers advanced training for shop owners, technicians, warehouse distributors (WDs) and auto parts retailers, as well as networking opportunities to grow your business. AAPEX 2020 will take place Tuesday, Nov. 3 through Thursday, Nov. 5, 2020 at the Sands Expo in Las Vegas. Therefore, more than 48,000 targeted buyers are expected to attend, and approximately 162,000 automotive aftermarket professionals. They will be from 135 countries which are projected to be in Las Vegas during AAPEX 2020. For information, visit aapexshow.com