The Oklahoma Autobody Association (OKABA) Trade Show, happening Feb. 7-8, 2025, in Oklahoma City, OK, is becoming an unmissable event for collision repair industry professionals in the Midwest.
Called the “Year of the Vendor,” the 2025 edition of the two-day show will be packed with product showcases, educational sessions, networking and entertainment -- all tailored to empower attendees with knowledge and connections that last beyond the event.
Why Attend the OKABA Trade Show?
Brian Davis.
Brian Davis of Davis Paint & Collision Auto Centers, an OKABA board member, pointed to the show’s unique value: “As an essential event in our calendar, the OKABA trade show offers an unparalleled opportunity for our members to connect, learn and grow,” Davis said. “Attendees will gain access to exclusive industry insights, innovative products, and services that can propel their businesses forward. It’s not just about networking; it’s about fostering meaningful relationships and collaborations that last well beyond the event.”
Event Highlights: What to Expect
Attendees can look forward to numerous engaging activities and perks, including:
Product Showcases and Vendor Exhibits: The Trade Show Floor is free and open to all attendees. It features a variety of vendors with the latest products and innovations. It’s an ideal opportunity to explore new tools, technology and industry trends up close.
Industry-Focused Sessions: The event features a range of breakout sessions that explore topics crucial for today’s collision repair shops. Each session is capped at 50 participants to maximize the learning experience, so early registration is highly recommended.
Friday Night Vendor Social and Comedy Night: The weekend kicks off Feb. 7 with a casual vendor social from 6 to 8 p.m., followed by an 8:30 p.m. comedy show to add a bit of fun to the networking experience.
Speakers and Presentations
OKABA has a lineup of top industry voices who will share their insights, including:
• Drew Bryant of DB Collision, offering insights from the perspective of a successful shop owner.
• Kena Dacus from Dacus Auto Body, who will discuss the benefits of a four-day workweek for productivity and work-life balance.
• Jeff Oldenettel of Collision Advice, presents strategic guidance for collision repair success.
• Daniel Buckholder on effective body shop marketing to attract new clients.
• Rick Selover with an empowering session focused on mindset and growth.
• Jerry Gastineau from Mitchell International, discussing the critical role of database development in collision repair.
The breakout sessions will run from 9 to 10:30 a.m. and 10:40 a.m. to 12:45 p.m., offering concentrated learning opportunities with these industry leaders.
“Our primary goals for attendees are to provide valuable educational sessions, offer networking opportunities, and inspire innovation,” said Davis. “We want our members to leave the trade show with new knowledge, connections and a renewed sense of motivation to implement what they’ve learned in their own practices.”
Registration Details
Before Jan. 26, 2025, registration is $45 per person, and includes access to the vendor social, comedy night, continental breakfast, breakout sessions and lunch. After Jan. 26, the fee will increase to $75 per person.
Entry to the Trade Show Floor remains free, so professionals are encouraged to take advantage of this invaluable opportunity to explore the latest vendor offerings.
Vendor Opportunities
Vendor registration is now open, with booths filling up fast. For those looking to showcase products and services, this is an ideal chance to connect with potential clients face-to-face.
Join OKABA in Celebrating the Year of the Vendor
With a diverse lineup of speakers and exhibitors, the OKABA Trade Show 2025 promises something for everyone, from valuable industry insights and networking to entertainment and product exploration.
“We’re excited about the diverse lineup of speakers and exhibitors this year,” Davis added, “including some of the brightest minds and most influential companies in the industry. I encourage everyone to make the most of this opportunity to learn, network, and grow together. It will be an event you won't want to miss.”
Leona Scott