Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week (HDAW) is set to kick off next week at the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center. This year, HDAW'24 will welcome executives and managers from various sectors of the industry, including distributors, suppliers, service providers, and thought leaders. From Jan. 22-25, 2024, HDAW'24 will feature four days of networking, personalized business meetings, a product expo highlighting the latest innovations, and expert-led education.
"HDAW isn't just another event—it's where industry leaders come together, creating a vibrant hub of inspiration and collaboration. We're looking forward to gaining fresh insights, forging meaningful connections, and driving our businesses to new heights," said Michael Callison Jr., president and CEO at Midwest Wheel Companies, co-chair for HDAW'24.
Nicole Oreskovic, vice president of Sales and Marketing at Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems and HDAW'24 co-chair, added, "I'm thrilled about HDAW'24—a pivotal event where innovation converges with opportunity. Suppliers are gearing up to showcase groundbreaking products, cultivate meaningful relationships, and elevate the heavy-duty aftermarket industry."
Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week 2024 highlights
Covering 140,000+ square feet, the product expo show floor is the hub for the heavy-duty aftermarket industry to explore the latest products. Boasting a lineup of over 330 suppliers, including over 47 first-timers, attendees can take advantage of show deals, access detailed product specifications, and establish relationships with suppliers and manufacturers, all geared towards optimizing their ROI.
Attendees under the age of 45 can also engage in the Leaders of Tomorrow (LOT) networking experience before the HDAW Welcome Reception on Monday, Jan. 22. This year, the program features content tailored to young professionals. Structured speed mentoring takes center stage, offering exclusive interaction with over 20 industry veterans. Attendees can gain insights on optimizing time at HDAW and discover best practices for a thriving career. This program was developed through a joint effort between Auto Care Association's YANG, CVSN's GenNext, and MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers' MiX. Additionally, the HDAWomen Reception will celebrate women in the industry while encouraging community-building. There is no fee to attend either event, but pre-registration is recommended.
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Additionally, HDAW’24’s One-on-One Business Meeting program will host 1,900+ meeting sessions during the event across Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. For added flexibility, optional self-scheduled meetings are available on Thursday from 1:45 p.m. to 4:20 p.m. CT.
Taking the stage on Tuesday, NFL legend Cris Carter will share insights from his career, life, and media journey, aiming to inspire leaders to navigate change and overcome challenges. Carter's experiences, marked by excellence, draw parallels with the heavy-duty aftermarket industry's dynamics and align with HDAW's renewed commitment to adaptability in a changing landscape.
Later in the week, Wednesday's education session, ‘Fully Equipped for What's Next: What's Keeping the Industry Moving the Next 3-5 Years,’ will examine critical elements shaping the heavy-duty aftermarket industry. Featuring a series of three rapid-style presentations, this session will cover electrification, recruitment and retention, and Right to Repair legislation.
Finally, for the past 17 years, a rotating committee of suppliers and distributors anonymously nominate and select each new member of the Heavy Duty Aftermarket Industry Hall of Fame (HOF), an elite group of outstanding industry leaders. The 2024 HOF Inductee will be announced during the Opening Session on Tuesday. HDAW also honors the Distributor of the Year annually, presented by Trucks, Parts & Service Magazine.
To celebrate the close of HDAW'24, AT&T Stadium, home to the NFL's storied Dallas Cowboys, will host attendees on the field on Wednesday for a once-in-a-lifetime experience featuring exclusive access to the stadium, music, food, drinks, and more. Onsite tickets are available for $125.
For more information and to register, visit www.hdaw.org.