Wednesday Night Opening Session: Round Tables!
Art & Noah Smith “Transitioning” Bringing in and Working with the Next Generation
Art Smith Auctioneers specializes in Farm, Estate and Real Estate Auctions, hosting events with some of the biggest crowds you’ll ever see. Art and Noah have a proven method of handling these crowds and the merchandise that attracted them, all while making it look easy and having fun in the process. They are both past President’s and Auctioneer Champions of the Michigan Auctioneers Association. Art was inducted into the MAA Hall of Fame in 2007.
Brad Stoecker “Virtual Simulcast Auction” The Benefit of Bringing in the Virtual Crowd
Brad and his Epic Auctions team have conducted over 300 auctions in and around the Michigan area. Over his 20-year career, Brad has assisted other auctioneers with over 500 auctions around Michigan, Ohio, and Indiana. He and his wife Rachel have created a niche in the specialty auction gallery market, holding specialty online auctions and managing large amounts of inventory in a limited space. He is the Past President and a Life Member of the Michigan Auctioneers Association.
Leroy Yoder “Live Auctions” The Mechanics of a Successful Live Auction
Leroy and his brother Willis conduct auctions of all types, including cattle, farm, estates, benefits and more. They conduct consignment auctions every year, which have grown to host 800 sellers and over 3000 buyers. Leroy is a Life Member of the Michigan Auctioneers Association and served on the MAA Board of Directors. He was inducted into the MAA Hall of Fame in 2018. He holds multiple championships, including Michigan Auctioneer, Michigan Ringman Champion & Midwest Auctioneer Champion.
John Beechy “Working as a Contract Auctioneer” The Backgrounds of the Auto Auction Industry and Contract Auctioneer
John is an experienced contract auctioneer specializing in automobiles, equipment, and livestock. With a keen understanding of the fast-paced auction industry, John has honed his craft to deliver engaging, efficient, and high-performing auctions. Known for his clear communication and commanding presence, he consistently maximizes value for his clients and bidders alike. Drawing on years of hands-on expertise, John has built a reputation for professionalism and adaptability, excelling in a variety of auction settings while focusing on the unique needs of each sale. His dedication to excellence has made him a trusted name in the auctioneering. John is a Michigan Auctioneer Champion, Michigan Ringman Champion & Midwest Auctioneer Champion.
Jason Buher “Online Auctions” Set Up to Load Out
Jason is a Sale Manager and Appraiser for Sheridan Realty & Auction Co. for over 20 years. He has been a part of the development and implementation of numerous online sales each year. He uses his appraisal skills to develop lots, set sale order and to create accurate descriptions of items to be sold. This discussion will discuss steps to organize, photo and describe lots, ways to increase views and bids and the best way to control and load out items after the auction. Bring your best practices and advice learned in each of your online sales. Jason believes we can all learn something new in each online sale we are a part of.