Live OTR Tire Service Demonstration
Moderator: Kevin Rohlwing, IOM, Chief Technical Officer, Tire Industry Association
Presenter: Matt White, Director of Off-Road Tire Service, Tire Industry Association
Join TIA Director of Off-Road Tire Service Matt White as he leads the conference’s live OTR tire and wheel service demonstration. This popular session provides valuable insight into the techniques, tools, and best practices used to safely service a variety of off-road equipment. Watch as Matt and his team tackle the everyday challenges technicians face, offering practical tips and expert guidance you can apply in the field.
OTR Tire Repair & Retreading
Damage to OTR tires is inevitable, and with the high cost of replacement, repair is an essential part of any effective tire maintenance program. OTR tire repair is a highly specialized segment of the industry that requires significant investments in technician training, specialized tools, equipment, and repair materials.
In this session, a panel of OTR tire repair experts and retread professionals will discuss what types of tire damage can be repaired, the methods and processes used to perform those repairs, and the key factors that determine repairability. Attendees will also learn how dealers can help customers set realistic expectations by evaluating tire injuries based on their size, application, and wheel position.
Valve Stem Selection & Installation
The valve stem is a critical component of every OTR tire and wheel assembly, playing an essential role in maintaining proper inflation and overall tire performance. Selecting the correct valve assembly is just as important as following proper installation procedures. In this session, attendees will explore the various types of OTR valve assemblies, their intended applications, and best practices for selection and installation. The discussion will also highlight the critical role proper torque plays in maximizing valve stem performance, reliability, and service life.
Navigating the New Landscape: Federal Policy Priorities for the OTR Tire Industry in 2027
Presenter: Roy Littlefield IV, Vice President of Government Affairs, Tire Industry Association
With a new Congress taking office and a new policy agenda emerging, the OTR tire industry faces both opportunities and challenges in 2027. From trade and tariffs to tax policy, infrastructure, and regulatory reform, Roy Littlefield IV will provide an update on the key legislative and regulatory developments shaping the industry, examine where momentum is building, and highlight potential roadblocks businesses should be prepared to navigate.
U.S. and Canada Economic Forecasts
Presenter: Kevin Rohlwing, IOM, Chief Technical Officer, Tire Industry Association
The OTR tire industry is controlled by a number of different factors including construction, mining, and infrastructure investments. TIA Chief Technical Officer Kevin Rohlwing will compile data and information from various sources to provide attendees with an industry forecast for the U.S. and Canada that will help attendees plan for the rest of 2027.
The Future of Technology and AI in Equipment
Earthmoving equipment continues to evolve as technology and AI change how it is designed, manufactured, operated and maintained. CAT is the world’s largest manufacturer of earthmoving and construction equipment and technological advances are shaping the future of the market. This session will discuss those changes and what it means for the future of the tire and wheel industry as the next generation of equipment is introduced.
Technician Training: What Works and What Doesn’t
Well-trained technicians work safer and effectively partner with sales personnel to provide the customer with the best value for OTR tires and wheels. A panel of OTR tire dealers will discuss their experiences with different types of technician training and how it has impacted their safety performance, operating costs and sales.
#1. From Risk to Resilience: Cybersecurity Starts with Your Team
Presenter: Dean Rhoades, First Vice President, Director of Special Projects – Risk Management, Federated Insurance
Cybercrime is no longer a distant threat—it’s a daily risk. From phishing scams to ransomware, the majority of breaches stem from employee actions, whether accidental or uninformed. In this high-impact session, Dean Rhoades of Federated Insurance will spotlight the crucial role employees play in safeguarding operations and outline the training strategies every business should implement before the inevitable strikes. Don’t miss this eye-opening session to learn how you can turn today’s vulnerabilities into tomorrow’s resilience.
#2. TBD
*As of 8/3/2026 Subject to Change
2027 Conference Sponsors as of 07/28/2026