Southern Lock of Charlotte

Jun 2024

Review of the Southern Lock & Supply 2024 Learning Expo and Trade Show The Southern Lock & Supply 2024 Learning Expo and Trade Show in St. Petersburg, Florida, was a remarkable event, skillfully planned and executed. Sarah, who was largely responsible for the show's organization, deserves extra kudos for her meticulous planning, clear communication, and the seamless layout of the classes and trade show. The sign-up process, confirmation emails, itinerary summaries with dates, times, locations, room numbers, and learning opportunities were incredibly effective and easy to use, creating a great sense of thoroughness and comfort. The venue at the Hyatt Place was conducive to both learning and networking. It offered a fine facility with reasonable pricing accommodations. Its centralized location was perfect for all locksmiths, instructors, students, and staff to congregate socially, which can often be just as educational as formal classes. The classes and instructors were well-prepared and demonstrated valuable topics. Dale from Assa Abloy's update class on Medeco M4 high-security locks provided an excellent overview of the entire product line. This session was a good refresher for many who had not interacted with Medeco cylinders or newer products, offering valuable reference materials and technical contacts. Jeremy Crocker's NASTF class was particularly noteworthy. It provided an excellent myth-busting and thorough overview for individuals unfamiliar with NASTF or SDRM. The class also introduced the value and benefits of these services, including access to OEM service information, software, programming resources, training, and references. All questions were answered, and even skeptical or dissenting opinions were addressed effectively. Jamie Skinner's Range Rover/Land Rover class was incredibly thorough. It not only introduced many individuals to the processes and procedures but also provided updated techniques that dramatically improve the safety and reliability of programming these vehicles across their entire lifespan. The focus on OEM programming for newer vehicles effectively communicated the elimination of common problems associated with aftermarket programming. Jeremy Crocker’s Mercedes class covered a wide range of Mercedes programming, from the earliest systems to the most modern ones, with a strong focus on using reliable, repeatable techniques that are least invasive. The class also evaluated virtually all tools available for their strengths, weaknesses, and feasibility. The electronic steering lock portion of the class expanded the capabilities of most trainees. The trade show was easily accessible for everyone at the St. Petersburg Coliseum, a facility that was very accommodating for individuals with disabilities. The booths represented virtually every facet of modern locksmithing, from automotive tools and equipment to access control and power operators. The use of a bingo-style card and stamps provided a fun and effective way to ensure attendees visited all booths, resulting in the discovery of many vendors and products. All events, including the training sessions and trade show, offered free drinks, water, and coffee. A major highlight was the reception and social timeframe, where excellent food and drinks were provided, allowing attendees to interact more personally. This setting enabled attendees to get to know each other better and build more personalized relationships. In conclusion, the Southern Lock & Supply Learning Expo and Trade Show was an excellent use of time and resources. It provided valuable technical, operational, financial, and instructional material, along with updated knowledge and techniques. The event also expanded my network of locksmith and vendor resources. This well-staffed and venerable organization is expanding and modernizing its offerings and technological systems, presenting an impressive outlook for its future as a leader in our industry.