It's All Looking Up in Baltimore


by Kara Bishop
NOLN Staff Writer

It hasn't been done in two decades. It's happening in Baltimore, Maryland, and being planned and facilitated by some of the most capable operators of the industry. It's the Automotive Oil Change Association's first Regional Meeting for 2012.

On March 21, fast lube owners and operators can begin networking, participate in open discussions about hot issues that interest them, and still be home for supper (depending on where you are) the next night.

"It's an exciting challenge to be able to put together these regional meetings for 2012," said Leanne Stump, executive director for AOCA. "A meeting like this hasn't been done in a while by our organization, and we feel it will be beneficial and effective for fast lube operators to participate in."

Operators can sit in on facilitated open discussions during the day, and then join industry vendors for a banquet that night. Operators will enjoy a nice meal while perusing the latest and greatest from industry vendors.

The day's activities will consist of a facilitator-led segment followed by an open forum to further discuss important issues. Kevin Davis, owner/operator of FastChange Lube & Oil will be the facilitator for the Baltimore meeting.

"I think the regional meeting in Baltimore is an incredible opportunity for operators to get together and have open discussions," said Adam Sturdivant, director of operations for Avis Lube and chairperson of the Regional Meetings Committee for AOCA. "This is not simply a 'sit-and-listen' seminar. It is an interactive meeting designed to be operator-focused and operator-led. Kevin Davis has a great segment on leadership to present for the meeting coming up in Baltimore, and it would be a shame to miss it."

The association hopes the convenient location and duration of the event will be appealing, as well. Operators only have to be away from their shops for a single night, and the city of Baltimore is easy to get to. Baltimore/Washington International airport hosts 15 different airlines and also provides transportation to and from the airport.

Need a place to stay? No problem. The meeting will be held at the DoubleTree by Hilton conveniently close to the airport.

There are plenty of great reasons to attend the first AOCA Regional Meeting of the Year. It's convenient, easy and chock full of networking and education opportunities. If you want to stay ahead of the competition and increase your business, be in Baltimore on March 21-22.