In this episode, Matt recaps his trip to VISION 2026 in Kansas City. What starts as a simple event recap turns into a reflection on why conferences like VISION matter so much: the training, the conversations, the hallway discussions, the tools, the friendships, and the people pushing the industry forward.
Matt talks about recording with Carm Capriotto, bouncing between classes with friends, teaching hands-on PicoScope and key programming classes, and sitting in on standout sessions covering EEPROM work, AI for shop management, and lab scope strategy.
He also highlights the Tech Talks session, where several presenters stepped up and delivered impressive case studies, tool insights, and even a strong last-minute presentation. This episode is part recap, part appreciation, and part reminder that the real value of events like VISION is not just the information. It is the people.
In this episode, Matt discusses:
His trip to VISION 2026 in Kansas City
Connecting with friends including Bryn Klein and Carlos Mercado
Recording with Carm Capriotto about his NAPA Insights article
How that article builds on ideas about relationships, communication, and lessons from marriage counseling
Sitting in on the EEPROM / used module programming class with Mike Christofferson, Ira Waldman, Tim Iezzi, Chris Farley, and Kai
Seth Thorson’s class on using AI and large language models for shop management
Teaching an all-day hands-on PicoScope class with Scott Shotten
Help from Keith DeFazio and Brandon Steckler during the Pico class
The packed AESwave booth at the trade show
Teaching an essential key cutting and programming class with Andrew Sexton
Why he has come around on the value of Lishi tools
The Tech Talks session and the presenters who stood out
Joe Glass and his case studies
Mike Blackeney’s diagnostic process and presentation on the MT Pro lab scope
Trevor from AutoNerdz stepping in on short notice and delivering a strong presentation
Why Tech Talks is such a valuable entry point for future presenters
Jerry Holcomb’s recognition and legacy within VISION
Why VISION remains one of the best places for training, networking, and reconnecting with people in the industry
People mentioned in this episode:
Carm Capriotto
Brin Klein
Carlos Mercado
Tanner Brandt
Mike Christofferson
Ira Waldman
Tim Iezzi
Chris Farley
Kaimana Holokahi
Seth Thorson
Michael Becker
Scott Shotton
Keith DeFazio
Brandon Steckler
Andrew Sexton
Kirk Holland
Pedro de la Torre
Joe Glass
Mike Blacconaire
Trevor from AutoNerdz
Jerry Holcomb
Tools and topics mentioned:
PicoScope
Lab scopes
EEPROM and used module programming
AI and large language models in shop management
Key cutting and programming
Lishi tools
MT Pro lab scope
Diagnostic process
Technical training
Networking in the automotive repair industry
Key takeaway:
VISION is never just about the classes. It is about sharpening skills, seeing tools used in real-world contexts, learning from smart people, and reconnecting with the kinds of people who make this industry better.
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