Trigard’s 2025 Dealer Conference at the Talking Stick Resort & Casino in Scottsdale, Arizona delivered fresh perspectives for navigating our industry’s changing landscape and countless memories. Attendees enjoyed all that the venue had to offer—from exceptional food with a Southwest flair to relaxing poolside downtime and a bit of casino fun.
We welcomed everyone during the Sundown & Spirits Cocktail Evening to reconnect and celebrate. With the event falling on Veterans Day, we honored those present who have served—as well as all who have worn our nation’s uniform—against the backdrop of panoramic desert views.
Guided by the theme “Where Legacy Meets the Future,” the conference officially kicked off the following morning with a memorial video dedicated to Trigard’s founder, James “Big Jim” Darby. After this reverent moment, the atmosphere transitioned to an energizing, future-focused outlook.
There was a genuine “rally the troops” feel throughout the conference—a chance to reflect, recognize where we stand today, and align on where we’re headed. Conversations also gravitated toward how dealers can elevate their business models and define their own legacy.
We always appreciate our guest speakers. The Candid Conversations session explored our profession’s outlook through a panel with diverse backgrounds and tenures, earning top reviews. Welton Hong, founder of Ring Ring Marketing, then underscored the importance of a strong social media presence and email communications.
Mark Harrison, President of Certified Safety Training, also joined us remotely to outline new initiatives to standardize vault placement procedures. AWEBCO’s Tyler Taylor shared new strategies and opportunities for elevating website performance.
Our site visits didn’t disappoint. Handley Precast Systems, Inc. opened their first-class operations to everyone, greeting us with a camel—a fun nod to a long-standing inside joke. We also ventured to Camino del Sol Funeral Chapel & Cremation Center, getting an inside look at how Big Jim Darby has influenced remembrance and memorialization.
And let’s not forget the Topgolf outing—it was an absolute blast! A big shout-out to the winners of the Longest Drives: Jordan Weaver from Holland Supply and Trigard’s Director of Business Development, Emma Miller-Pool. Rumor has it she’d never swung a golf club before!
Speaking of accolades, congratulations to this year’s award winners: Coyote Commitment: Connie Knauer, Knauer Industries; Desert Trailblazer: Steve Handley, Handley Precast Systems; and Saguaro Standout: Pennsylvania Vault, Rick Rhodes.
The Darby family and team Trigard would like to thank everyone who joined us. We sincerely appreciate all of the insightful feedback shared. Our wheels are already spinning with ways to incorporate your ideas in the future. For those who couldn’t make it, we hope to see you next year.
Last but not least, we’d like to extend gratitude to our Gold Sponsors—American Cemetery Supplies, Holland Supply Inc., Plastic Plaque Products, and Mixer Systems, Inc.—as well as our Silver Sponsor, HD Williams.
Until next year!
