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2026 TMDA Conference Information

January 11-12, 2026 • Lakeway Resort & Spa • Austin, Texas


Join Texas Powersports Dealers at the TMDA Annual Conference

Join us January 11–12, 2026 at Lakeway Resort & Spa for the TMDA Annual Conference - the premier event built exclusively for Texas powersports dealers.


Over two days, you’ll gain fresh industry insights, actionable education, and meaningful connections with other Texas dealers, all in an inspiring resort setting. Developed by dealers, for dealers, every session is designed to help you stay informed, competitive, and connected.


This year’s conference will also include a special keynote by renowned economist and best-selling author Jerry Robinson, whose expertise in global markets and financial strategy will empower you to navigate an ever-changing industry.


We value dealer perspectives, and this is your chance to help shape the discussions at this year’s conference. Submit your questions in advance, and our speakers will use your feedback to guide their presentations and Q&A sessions.

  • Schedule

    January 11, 2025 - Arrival & Welcome Mixer (On-Site)

    5:00PM Informal Welcome Mixer at Lakeway Resort & Spa

    Music provided by Gigi Worth - Acoustic Classic Rock, R&B, and Pop Artist

    • 5:00PM - 6:00PM OPEN BAR
    • 6:00PM - 7:00PM CASH BAR

    January 12, 2025 - Tentative Schedule (Colorado Ballroom)

    7:00AM - 8:00AM Breakfast Sponsored by Synchrony Financial

    8:00AM - 8:40AM Welcome Members, Sponsors, & Associate Member Intros

    8:40AM - 9:30AM Susan Berry, Texas Comptroller Policies/Sales and Use Tax Audit Specialist

    9:35AM - 10:35AM Jerry Robinson, Keynote Speaker/Economist & Author

    10:35AM - 10:50AM Snack Break Sponsored by Torque Group

    10:55AM - 11:40AM Pixel Motion, speaking on Ai as a Tool for Your Business (Presentation Format May Be Virtual)

    11:45AM - 12:20PM Dara Benoit, TxDMV Updates

    12:20PM - 1:20PM Lunch Sponsored by Rider's Advantage with Legislative Update by TMDA Lobbyist, Royce Poinsett

    1:25PM - 2:15PM Michelle Lingo, DMV Complaints & Protests

    2:20PM - 3:20PM Mark Sheffield, Risks and Opportunities for Today’s Powersports Dealers

    3:20PM - 3:40PM TMDA Official Business Meeting

    3:40PM Recognition of Sponsors & Speakers/Adjourn Meeting


    *Board of Directors Meeting will take place after adjournment of the 2026 TMDA Official Business Meeting. Non-Board Dealer Members are encouraged to visit with our sponsors and socialize.

  • Registration

    2026 TMDA Annual Conference - 2025 Conference Photos (Photo: Dave McMahon, NPDA)

    TMDA Annual Conference Pricing:


    TMDA Members: $200 (after discount)

    PROMO CODE WAS SENT OUT TO DEALER & ASSOCIATE MEMBERS. 

    CONTACT INFO@TXMDA.ORG IF YOU DIDN'T RECEIVE IT OR NEED A REMINDER.


    Non-Members / Industry Rate: $300


    Register
  • Venue

    2026 TMDA Annual Conference Venue - Lakeway Resort in Austin, TX

    TMDA Annual Conference Venue & Booking:


    Lakeway Resort & Spa

    101 Lakeway Drive, Lakeway, TX 78734

    (512) 261-6600 • MAP


    More rooms have been added! Book today!


    The TMDA group rate is good until January 11, 2026 (subject to availability). Rooms at this lakeside property fill quickly, so early booking is encouraged.


    Reserve Your Room
  • Venue Amenities

    Woman enjoying a glass of champagne at Lakeway Resort and Spa in Lakeway, TX while enjoying their spa amenities.

    While you focus on impactful sessions and networking during the conference, why not gift your partner a luxurious time-out at the resort’s stunning spa?


    • Unwind in a serene, Hill Country-inspired treatment room overlooking Lake Travis - the perfect backdrop for restoration and renewal.
    • Choose from a full spectrum of services: healing massages, invigorating body treatments, private couples’ showers, dry saunas - all tailored for both men and women. 
    • Your companion can relax while you attend the conference - then you can both enjoy the on-site dining and atmosphere that Lakeway Resort and Spa has to offer.

    Book by calling (512) 261-7350 directly. The spa staff has updated their booking schedule for January and slots are AVAILABLE. Mention your attendance at the TMDA Conference to ask for convenient booking times. 

    Spa Services
  • 2026 Keynote Speaker

    2026 TMDA Annual Conference Keynote Speaker - Jerry Robinson, Economist

    This year’s TMDA Annual Conference welcomes an expert voice at the intersection of economics and industry insight. Our keynote session will feature a deep dive into the economic forces shaping today’s powersports market - offering clarity, foresight, and practical takeaways for dealers navigating an evolving financial landscape. Attendees can expect a thought-provoking presentation designed to illuminate global trends, consumer behavior shifts, and strategic opportunities for long-term dealership growth.


    Jerry Robinson is an economist, best-selling author, and international conference speaker and is well known for his expertise in global financial markets and economic trends. He is the founder of FollowtheMoney.com, a financial education and media company dedicated to providing cutting-edge economic, investment and trading insights. Robinson's best-selling book, "Bankruptcy of Our Nation," offers an in-depth analysis of America's economic challenges and presents strategic solutions for individuals and businesses. As the host of the "Follow the Money Weekly" podcast, he delves into economic and financial news, providing listeners with timely analysis and actionable advice. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Economics and has taught macroeconomics at the college level. Robinson has spoken on topics of money and economics around the globe, including the United States, Israel, Turkey, and Greece.

  • Sunday Evening Entertainment

    We’re excited to welcome Gigi Worth as our live entertainment for Sunday evening’s Welcome Mixer. Gigi is an accomplished singer, musician, and performer whose career includes touring with Kenny Loggins, J.D. Souther, Michael McDonald, and Christopher Cross. Her versatile background spans major commercial work for brands such as Toyota, McDonald’s, and Barbie, and her vocals can be heard on soundtracks for Nash Bridges, At First Sight, Rock of Ages, and more.


    Gigi’s recording credits include collaborations with legendary artists such as Whitney Houston, Gladys Knight, Cher, Miley Cyrus, Karla Bonoff, Dave Koz, Robbee Dupree, Sheila E., and Christopher Cross. Blending acoustic rock, pop, R&B, and singer-songwriter influences, her performance will set the perfect tone for a relaxed and welcoming start to our conference.

  • Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the TMDA Annual Conference?

    The TMDA Annual Conference is the ONLY in-person event SPECIFICALLY FOR Texas powersports dealers to promote education and information and collaboration.


    What can I expect?

    Not only will you get industry updates along with educational seminars given by expert speakers, but you'll also get a chance to network with other Texas powersports dealers.


    Why should I attend? Who should attend?

    The high quality education and information you will receive is a great reason to attend alone! AND since this is an in-person event, you will have plenty of opportunity to network with other Texas powersports dealers. This can lead to potential collaborations and open doors to new opportunities and solutions! Dealership Owners, General Managers, Dealer Principles, and Dealership Management are encouraged to attend as the information is high-level.


    What makes this meeting different?

    TMDA operates under an elected Board of Directors, all of which are Texas powersports dealers. The TMDA Annual Conference is developed by both our Dealer Members and Board Members who have weighed-in on the topics they know are important to their fellow Texas dealers.​


    Why is the Annual Conference in Austin, TX?

    We listen to our Dealer Members! Every year, we put the conference location to a vote and Austin, TX has consistently been the winner. We know you'll enjoy everything the city has to offer, along with the beautifully appointed Lone Star Court.


    How do I register and book a room?

    Click the red buttons located in the Registration and Venue tabs on this page to register for the meeting or reserve your room. We encourage attendees to book early to ensure access to the group rate and preferred room types. The TMDA room block is being held until December 12, 2025, with the group rate also extended one day prior to arrival, based on hotel availability. Hotel FAQ can be accessed HERE.

    What is the closest airport?

    The nearest commercial airport is Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), located about 27–28 miles (roughly 36 minutes by car) from Lakeway Resort & Spa.


    ​Is there parking?

    The Lakeway Resort and Spa offers self-parking at $10/night.

  • Become a Sponsor

    Sponsoring the TMDA Annual Conference means more than placing your logo at an event  - it means investing in the success and longevity of Texas powersports dealers. Each sponsorship directly supports the advocacy, education, and resources that TMDA delivers year-round, helping dealers navigate an evolving industry while staying connected to the partners who power their businesses. With dealers, OEM representatives, and subject-matter experts gathered in one place, the conference offers sponsors an unmatched opportunity for visibility, engagement, and meaningful relationship-building.


    We welcome the chance to learn more about your goals and help you find the sponsorship level that’s the best fit for your organization. Whether you want to highlight your brand through programming, visibility, networking opportunities, or specialty placements, our team is here to support you. Please reach out when you’re ready. We would be honored to partner with you in shaping the future of the Texas powersports community.


    Ready to see what’s possible? Take a moment to browse the 2026 TMDA Annual Conference Sponsorship Packet linked below. It highlights every sponsorship opportunity available this year and the unique benefits each tier offers. When you’re ready, we’re here to help you get started.

    Become a Sponsor

meet the presenters

Photos from the 2025 TMDA Annual Conference at the Lone Star Court in Austin, TX
  • Susan Berry - Founder & Managing Partner, Brown Goertz & Co.

    2026 TMDA Annual Conference Presenter - Susan Berry, Founder & Managing Partner, Brown Goertz & Co.

    For more than two decades, Susan Berry has specialized in representing Texas businesses in Sales and Use Tax Audits conducted by the Texas Comptroller. As Founder and Managing Partner of Brown Goertz & Co., Susan and her firm have successfully saved Texas businesses millions of dollars in tax assessments and refunds since 2001.


    Known for her meticulous attention to detail and practical, real-world approach, Susan helps business owners understand how Texas Sales and Use Tax laws apply to their specific industries - from construction and manufacturing to motor vehicle and dealership operations. Her firm’s mission is simple: protect Texas businesses from overpayment and ensure fair, accurate treatment under the law.


    At the TMDA Conference, Susan will draw on her extensive audit experience to shed light on the most common sales tax pitfalls affecting Texas motor vehicle dealers, how to prepare for a Comptroller audit, and what steps to take if you’re already under review.


    Susan has asked TMDA dealer members and attendees to submit suggestions for topics they'd like covered by following the link below. Please submit to Susan ASAP via email.

    Topics Questionnaire
  • Mark J. Sheffield - NPDA & TMDA Board Member, Strategic Advisor

    2026 TMDA Annual Conference Presenter - Mark J. Sheffield, Dealer Strategic Advisor

    Mark Sheffield was born in Letchworth Garden City, England, and eventually made his way to Beaumont, Texas. After graduating from Lumberton High School in 1989, he joined the U.S. Army, completing training as an M1 Abrams Tank Systems Specialist and serving a combat tour in Iraq during Operation Desert Storm. Following his four-year enlistment, Sheffield immediately transitioned into civilian life and began what would become a three-decade career in the Powersports and Motorcycle industry.


    Over the years, he has held leadership roles at prominent dealerships and organizations such as Yamaha of Killeen, Texas Motorsports, Woods Fun Center, America’s Powersports, Honda of Houston, Woods Cycle Country, and Woods Indian Motorcycle. Today, he serves as Strategic Advisor for Woods Cycle Country and Woods Indian Motorcycle while supporting large dealers with operational optimization. A board member of the Texas Motorcycle Dealer Association, Massimo Motors, and the National Powersports Dealer Association (NPDA), Sheffield is also an outspoken industry voice. Since 2016, he has written for Powersports Business and shares daily insights on LinkedIn, advocating for fair dealer-OEM relationships and working to build a stronger, more balanced powersports industry.


    At the 2025 TMDA Dealer Summit, Sheffield will lead an engaging session exploring the risks and opportunities facing powersports dealers in 2025 - from shifting consumer demand and tightening credit to evolving OEM programs, new technology, and changes in vendor relationships. His presentation will focus on what’s working, what’s not, and how dealers can adapt to keep margins strong and operations resilient in a changing market. Drawing from data, experience, and real-world dealer insights, Sheffield invites attendees to join an open, forward-looking discussion on navigating the road ahead together.

  • Dara Benoit - TXDMV Assistant Chief Investigator

    2026 TMDA Annual Conference Presenter - Dara Benoit, TXDMV Assistant Chief Investigator

    Bio Coming Soon.

  • Michelle Lingo - Former In-House Staff Attorney Motor Vehicle Division of TXDMV & Attorney, Padfield & Stout, LLC

    Michelle Lingo has served Texas in government and regulatory law as an attorney, mediator, hearings examiner, policy analyst, and industry regulator in the areas of natural resources, industrial hazardous waste, low-level radioactive waste, and underground injection wells; natural gas utility regulation and rate setting; telecommunication and electrical utility service and restructuring; and residential construction and remodeling.


    Having served for more than 14 years as the in-house staff attorney to the Motor Vehicle Division of the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles, Michelle has extensive expertise in the distribution and sale of vehicles and motor vehicles in Texas. In this role, Michelle conducted more than 200 mediations involving motor vehicle manufacturers, distributers, or franchised dealers.


    Culminating and relying upon this diverse experience, today Michelle navigates complex regulatory issues and provides dedicated legal representation to Padfield & Stout, LLC’s clients, in her of counsel relationship with the law firm.


    Michelle was awarded her Bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M at College Station. She is licensed by the State Bar of Texas, having earned her Juris Doctorate law degree from the University of Houston.


    With decades of experience navigating some of Texas’ most complex regulatory landscapes - and more than 14 years spent resolving disputes between manufacturers, distributors, and franchised dealers -Michelle brings unmatched perspective to one of the most important topics facing dealerships today: how to effectively handle complaints and protests against manufacturers. Her session will break down what dealers need to know, what’s changing, and how to protect their businesses in an evolving regulatory environment. Attendees can expect practical guidance, real-world insight, and a clear understanding of the processes that shape dealer–manufacturer relations in Texas.

  • Royce Poinsett - TMDA Lobbyist

    Royce Poinsett is an attorney and lobbyist who guides businesses in solving their high-stakes problems at the Texas Capitol. He is principal at Poinsett PLLC. 


    Royce has been recognized as a Top 10 Texas Lobbyist by Texas Scorecard, as a Top 15 Texas Lobbyist by Capitol Inside and as one of “20 Politically-Minded People to Know” by the Austin Business Journal.

     

    He has guided many prominent companies and associations at the Texas Capitol, including ExxonMobil, Anheuser-Busch InBev, Netflix, Walmart, Pew Charitable Trusts, Kinder Morgan, the Texas Motorcycle Dealers Association, the Texas Oil & Gas Association and the Texas Veterinary Medical Association. 


    Royce first developed his experience and relationships inside government, while serving as a policy advisor and legal counselor to Texas political leaders for over two decades. Royce eventually served as a senior advisor and legal counsel to the Texas Governor and then to the Speaker of the Texas House, counseling the state’s leadership in resolving high-profile, complicated disputes with businesses and other governments. 


    Following his government service, Royce joined the prominent global law firm Baker Botts and began lobbying at the Texas Capitol for leading corporations. Royce founded the Poinsett firm in 2018 to further focus on his specialized niche of legal and lobby work.


    Royce is a seventh-generation Texan from Dallas, where he attended St. Mark’s School of Texas.  Royce is also a graduate of The Johns Hopkins University, where he was Phi Beta Kappa, and of the London School of Economics.  He received his law degree from The University of Texas School of Law, where he was a member of the Texas Law Review. 


    Royce is a past chair of the Legislative and Campaign Law Section of the State Bar of Texas.  He is a director of The Austin Club, an alumnus of the Texas Lyceum and a past president of the board of directors of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Texas. Royce and his family are members of Covenant Presbyterian Church of Austin.