2026 Convention

Company: Lock Labs Instructors: Steven Gaudette & David Doehling Course Level: Beginner TLA Members: $200.00 Non-members: $350.00 Class Objective – The student will learn to: Understand the history and evolution of automotive security systems. Identify the different types of automotive keys, remotes, and transponder systems. Learn professional vehicle entry techniques and best practices. Understand lock decoding, rekeying, and basic lock repair procedures. Gain an introduction to automotive key cutting and programming. Learn the fundamentals of transponder chip cloning. Become familiar with Original Lishi tools and...

Instructor: To Be Announced TLA Members: $125.00 Non-members: $250.00 Class Objective – The student will learn to: Understand how entertainment can be used as a powerful marketing tool. Learn simple, easy-to-perform magic effects that create memorable customer experiences. Discover techniques for making business cards and promotional materials stand out. Use sleight-of-hand demonstrations to engage customers during service calls. Build stronger customer relationships through positive, memorable interactions. Increase referrals and repeat business by creating a unique customer experience. Develop confidence in using performance-based marketing...

Instructor: Takoda Hulen TLA Members: $75.00 Non-members: $150.00 Class Objective – The student will learn to: Understand the fundamentals of Corbin Russwin and Sargent Large Format Interchangeable Core (LFIC) systems. Identify the components and operation of LFIC cylinders. Learn proper pinning procedures for Corbin Russwin and Sargent LFIC cores. Understand the mathematics behind LFIC keying systems and how to apply them correctly. Learn proper key cutting techniques for LFIC keys. Recognize common pinning and keying errors and how to avoid them. Develop confidence...

Instructor: Bill Deahl TLA Members: $0.00 Non-members: $150.00 Class Objective – The student will learn to: Understand the purpose and advantages of continuous hinges. Identify the different types of continuous hinges and their intended applications. Learn proper installation techniques for continuous hinges. Understand how continuous hinges improve door performance, durability, and security. Become familiar with applicable building, fire, and life safety codes related to continuous hinges. Recognize common installation errors and how to avoid them. Learn basic maintenance and troubleshooting techniques for continuous...

Instructor: Russell Hansmann TLA Members: $75.00 Non-members: $225.00 Class Objective – The student will learn to: Understand the features and applications of Detex weatherized door hardware products. Identify the proper applications for Delayed Egress systems in commercial and institutional facilities. Learn the operation and functionality of Detex Advantex exit devices. Understand applicable life safety and building code considerations for Detex products. Identify common installation requirements and best practices. Learn basic troubleshooting and maintenance procedures for Detex hardware. Recognize the advantages of Detex products...

Instructor: Jerry Dionisio TLA Members: $0.00 Non-members: $150.00 Class Objective – The student will learn to: Understand the fundamentals of professional master key system design. Design and deploy master key systems using a modern cloud-based platform. Build manufacturer-specific master key systems using proper pinning logic. Import and digitize existing paper-based master key records. Generate change keys, pinning charts, and system documentation quickly and accurately. Track doors and hardware using QR code door tags and digital records. Perform comprehensive door health assessments to improve...

Instructor: Joe Smith TLA Members: $75.00 Non-members: $250.00 Class Objective – The student will learn to: Understand the fundamentals of safe deposit box service and security. Identify the major types of safe deposit locks and their components. Learn professional procedures for opening safe deposit box locks. Perform basic repair and recombination of safe deposit locks. Understand proper methods for securing safe deposit work and maintaining customer security. Identify the specialized tools used in safe deposit box service and understand their applications. Disassemble and...

Instructor: To Be Announced TLA Members: $0.00 Non-members: $150.00 Class Objective – The student will learn to: Understand a variety of non-destructive lock opening techniques used by professional locksmiths. Identify the appropriate opening method based on lock type and situation. Gain hands-on experience using both traditional and modern lock opening tools. Learn techniques that go beyond conventional lock picking and bump key methods. Recognize common residential and commercial lock types encountered in everyday service calls. Develop efficient, professional methods for opening locks while...

Instructor: Glen Kinsey, Airborne Locksmith Course Level: Intermediate TLA Members: $250.00 Non-members: $350.00 Class Objective – The student will learn to: Understand the architecture and operation of the Mercedes-Benz DAS3 vehicle security system. Identify the functions of the Key, Electronic Ignition Switch (EIS), Electronic Steering Lock (ESL), Motor Electronics (ME), Intelligent Shift Module (ISM), and 7G-Tronic Conductor Plate. Understand how DAS3 system components communicate during the drive authorization process. Read and interpret key data required for Mercedes key generation. Generate and program DAS3 keys...

Instructor: Eric "The Beast" Lambert TLA Members: $200.00 Non-members: $350.00 Course Description Stop letting your business run you—it's time to run your business. In this hands-on, full-day workshop, automotive locksmithing veteran Eric "The Beast" Lambert shares more than 15 years of real-world experience to help you master the business side of your operation. Whether you're launching a new business or looking to grow an established company, you'll gain practical, field-tested strategies that can be implemented immediately. This course focuses on building efficient systems that increase profitability,...