It’s hard to believe we’re already heading into the final stretch of the year, and for us on the PTEN team, that means one thing: The AAPEX and The SEMA Shows are coming up!

In November, we’ll be heading to Las Vegas to cover both shows and see what manufacturers have been working on this year. AAPEX and SEMA are always two of the biggest events on our calendar, especially when it comes to getting an early look at the tools, equipment, and technology that will be making their way into shops in the new year.

Leading up to the shows, my inbox usually starts filling up with announcements about what companies are planning to debut. Some make updates to tools we already know, while others introduce something completely new. To me, though, there’s a big difference between reading about a product and actually getting to see it in action, ask questions, and talk with the people behind it.

That’s one of the things I’m looking forward to most this year. So much of our communication with manufacturers happens through emails, phone calls, and video interviews throughout the year, which makes getting to catch up with everyone in person one of my favorite parts of the shows.

It also gives us a chance to hear about what’s happening beyond individual product launches. What are manufacturers hearing from technicians? What problems are they trying to solve with their newest tools? What technology is becoming more important in the bay? Those conversations help us get a better sense of what’s coming next and what it could mean for technicians.

Of course, we’ll also be covering plenty of new products. The team will be walking both show floors, attending demonstrations, talking with manufacturers, shooting videos, and sharing what catches our attention throughout the week. We’ll also be recognizing this year’s PTEN Innovation Award winners during AAPEX, which is always a highlight for our team.

If you’re heading to AAPEX or SEMA in November, come find us and say hi! I always like hearing directly from our readers about what you’re seeing in the industry and what you want us to be covering.

If you’re not making the trip this year, don't worry, we’ll bring the shows to you. Keep an eye on VehicleServicePros.com and PTEN’s social channels for our coverage from Las Vegas.

See you next month!