Preparing for NADA 2026: The OWL Team Weighs In on Superlatives, Strategy, and Showtime
We’ve been busy planning for NADA and are thrilled to be bringing our full leadership team to the show. In the spirit of fun, we’ve also made some guesses about each team member’s “conference superlative” — from most likely to know everyone to most likely to sneak into a session. These predictions are just part of the excitement as we gear up for the biggest event in automotive retail. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned attendee, there's always something new to discover. We sat down with our team and partners to hear their thoughts, tips, and expectations for this year's show. Here's what they had to say, plus a few fun superlatives to keep things interestingTom Olney - Partner
Tom’s network runs deep, and his experience shows. He’s the guy who can connect the dots between a dealership in Ohio and a vendor in Vegas and probably has a story to go with it.
How many NADAs have you attended?
"10+."
What’s your best tip for first-timers?
"Pre-planning. Prioritize your most important contacts and hound them for hard meeting times the week before."
What are you most excited for this year?
"The group attending with us. I plan to meet fewer people but spend more quality time with those that matter."
Who are you hoping to connect with?
"CPA firms that know us but don’t refer yet."
Shannon Davis - Director of Operations
Voted: Most Likely to Sneak into a Dealer Learning Session
Shannon’s dealership roots run deep, and she’s bringing that energy to her first NADA as a vendor. You can take the girl out of retail, but you can’t take the retail-loving girl out of a good NADA session.
How many NADAs have you attended?
"I think this is lucky number five, but my first as a vendor and not with the dealer tag on my badge."
What’s your best tip for first-timers?
“Don’t just set up meetings with vendors you already work with or the really trendy vendors. Challenge yourself to read through the list of speakers and exhibitors and try to find something you wouldn’t normally. This is your time to learn about new offerings and make new connections."
What are you most excited for this year?
"Meeting new clients, seeing current ones in person, and hearing what they’re learning and loving at the show. Plus, I want to meet new strategic partners to help us continue to grow OWL!"
Tammie Johnson - VP of Professional Services
Tammie is always in demand and knows how to work a show floor like a pro. Her calendar is color-coded, her walking shoes are broken in, and her energy is unmatched.
How many NADAs have you attended?
"Many, both as a dealer and vendor when I worked with Cox Automotive."
What’s your best tip for first-timers?
"Coffee and good walking shoes. Define specific objectives, schedule one-on-one appointments, and create a list of questions for vendors. Also, try to schedule appointments in the direction booths are set up to save time."
What are you most excited for this year?
"Catching up with clients, hearing about their 2026 initiatives, and seeing new, innovative products."
What trends will dominate the show?
"AI, from the showroom to the accounting office."
Sally Lopez - Partner
Voted: Most Likely to Know Everyone in the Room
Sally has been in automotive for nearly 40 years and has the kind of industry Rolodex that makes LinkedIn jealous. If you are attending NADA, chances are Sally’s already met you, worked with you, or knows your boss.
How many NADAs have you attended?
"20+. I've been doing this a long time."
What’s your best tip for first-timers?
"Do your homework. Take advantage of the information NADA provides beforehand and get familiar with the Expo layout. Pre-plan your top priority vendors and locate their booths. Book appointments early with strategic partners and be mindful of locations in the Expo halls when laying out your schedule."
What sets you up for a successful week?
"Pre-planning and logistics. Comfortable shoes are a must. I always bring snacks and water in my backpack. Food is usually forgotten when you're in back-to-back meetings."
What are you most excited for this year?
"OWL has expanded our presence this year bringing our full leadership team to represent OWL at the show, and I'm excited to share in some of their first-time experiences."
Must-see list?
"Women in Automotive session and vendor partners we don’t get to see face-to-face very often."
Stephanie Bentleys - Director of IT Project Management
Voted: Most Likely to Wander Around in Awe for the First Hour
Stephanie has been with OWL for 4 years and has worked in retail automotive IT for 15. This is her first NADA, and she’s ready to dive in. She’s bringing fresh energy, a curious mind, and probably a backup battery for her phone because she plans to take it all in.
What’s the number one thing you’re most curious or nervous about for your first NADA?
"The sheer scale and energy of it all. I’ve heard stories about how dynamic and fast-paced the show is, but experiencing it firsthand is a whole different story."
What do you hope to experience or take away?
"Inspiration. I want to walk away with fresh ideas, new connections, and a deeper understanding of the trends shaping our industry. I’m especially looking forward to hearing from thought leaders and innovators who are pushing boundaries in technology, customer experience, and dealership operations."
Who are you hoping to connect with?
"Strategic partners in construction and facility planning. I don’t think enough people know about all we can do for dealerships during construction. It’s an absolute game changer."
Wrapping It Up
From seasoned veterans to first-time attendees, our team is heading into NADA 2026 with energy, strategy, and curiosity. Whether it’s AI, new partnerships, or just surviving the Expo floor with snacks and sneakers, everyone has their own approach to making the most of the show. We’ll see you there!