MLA EXPO
25
REVIEW
ALA AT THE MLA EXPO: A WEEKEND OF SKILLS, SUCCESS AND STANDOUT TRAINING
Over three days, the Auto Locksmith Association( ALA) welcomed visitors to Stand G27, delivered a packed programme in The Garage, and showcased exactly why specialist, practical and industry-led training matters more than ever.
» ONE OF THE WEEKEND’ S BIGGEST achievements was the ALA entrance exam. 14 auto locksmiths sat the assessment at the show, and every single one passed. With the exam held only twice a year, the Expo offers a rare chance for locksmiths to take that next professional step, and the 100 % pass rate created a celebratory atmosphere around the stand.
Throughout the weekend, the ALA committee, all working locksmiths themselves, met with visitors to discuss training, tools, challenges on the job and routes into membership. The committee extends a sincere thank you to everyone who visited the stand, attended a session or stopped for a chat. Your involvement is what keeps the association moving forward.
Training from The Garage
ALA training played a major role at this year’ s Expo, and the line-up of sessions drew consistently strong attendance. Each trainer brought their own specialist insight, creating a programme that reflected both the rising complexity of modern vehicle systems and the opportunities available to locksmiths who keep their skills sharp.
Here are some of the highlights …
Gerry’ s Volvo Programming Masterclasses
With almost 30 years of military experience behind him, Gerry delivered two detailed sessions on Volvo key and module programming. His precision and depth of knowledge made these classes a standout feature of the weekend. Covering system overviews, diagnostics, electronic repair, software use and realistic pricing guidance, Gerry showed attendees exactly how to work to genuine dealer standards. For many locksmiths, this training opened the door to confidently handling one of the industry’ s most demanding brands.
Simon Pilling’ s Introduction to the TBD 023 Tool
Technology took centre stage in Simon Pilling’ s sessions on the new TBD 023 Proximity & Remote Function Fault Diagnostics Tool. Designed for Ford, Jaguar and Land Rover models, the device offers an entirely new way of approaching keyless entry and remote function issues. Simon’ s demonstrations and hands-on opportunities showed attendees how the tool can reduce uncertainty, save time and transform diagnostic workflows. For many, it provided a glimpse of the future of diagnostics and a reminder of the importance of staying ahead of industry developments.
Iain Baron on Car Remote Key Repair
Iain’ s practical, structured sessions were particularly valuable for those wary of remote key repair after previous costly errors. He broke the process down clearly, covering required tools, recommended suppliers, essential parts and common pitfalls to avoid. His guidance gave newcomers, and those rebuilding confidence, a realistic and reliable entry point into a profitable service area. Attendees left with a deeper understanding of how to incorporate remote key repair into their business without unnecessary risk.
Gary Turner and Tim Hart’ s Lock Picking for Beginners
For novices, Gary’ s HU66 and HU101 picking workshops were the ideal starting point. Known for his patient, supportive teaching style, Gary guided attendees through the basics of identifying lock types, choosing the right picks and understanding how vehicle locks function. Combining theory with hands-on practice, the sessions helped attendees overcome the hesitation many feel when approaching lock picking for the first time. By the end, participants had gained practical skills they could immediately apply in real jobs.
With another successful MLA Expo now complete, the ALA would like to thank everyone who contributed, learned something new or supported the association across the weekend. Congratulations again to the fourteen newly qualified members. We look forward to seeing you, and many more, at the next Expo in two years’ time …
ALA Member Benefits The ALA remains committed to supporting locksmiths through high-quality member-only training, responsive community support, strong supplier partnerships and clear professional standards.
Get in touch to find out more about membership and how to unlock these exclusive benefits:
• Free member-only specialist training
• Real-time technical support via the active WhatsApp group
• Access to leading suppliers with exclusive discounts and early product information
• Professional recognition through the ALA entrance exam
• A community of working auto locksmiths ready to share knowledge
www. autolocksmiths. net
56
NOVEMBER 2025
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