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Coming Soon: Safe-Opening Party and SAFETECH 2026
Hope this edition of Safe & Vault Technology finds you well and happy. The holidays are upon us, and I want to take a moment to wish you all Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and Happy New Year, and wish you all good health and joy.
I’m excited to announce that your SAVTA Board has come up with and developed an extra event this year: a Safe Opening Party. If you want to hang out with veteran safe technicians, hobnob with the SAVTA Board, talk safes and safe locks, and generally do what safe technicians love to do, this is for you. This event will be open to SAVTA members only. Where and when? At the facilities of McElheney Security Solutions in Toledo, OH, on February 7 and 8, 2026. Look for information in Around the Dial on page 61.
Looking Ahead to SAFETECH 2026
For the last couple of months, your SAVTA Board has been busy planning for the new year. With the 40th anniversary of SAVTA happening in 2026, SAFETECH 2026 will have some special moments that you won’t want to miss. I do not want to divulge anything, but we think you will most definitely enjoy the event.
The class grid has been finalized. Instructors are being contracted. Staff is working overtime. SAFETECH 2026 will have some new classes. There will be factory certification classes from several safe lock manufacturers. Watch for the brochure when it comes out in early January.
Speaking of the class grid, your SAVTA Board spent a lot of time developing classes and finding instructors to teach those classes. We see this as being one of the most diverse class offerings in years. Additionally, we are continuing to work on developing new classes for future conventions or educational events.
At the convention, there will be a few evening seminars available for your enjoyment. These have yet to be fully developed, but we think you will enjoy the “Ask the Experts” forum. Last year’s forum was a resounding success, with Dan Milligan, Matt McManis and Phil Sutherland making up the panel of “Experts.” I know you all want to know who the new panel will be, but I am not going to ruin the surprise.
We have moved the Swap Meet back to Thursday night this year. The Kick-Off Party and Friends of SAVTA Auction will be on Friday night. As always, we are looking for items for the auction. The proceeds from the auction support and help to offset the expenses necessary to fund the SAFETECH Convention and trade show. The better the auction does, the better SAFETECH does. If you would like to donate items for the auction, please find the donation information on page 59.
I am looking forward to seeing some of you in Toledo in February. Then, I can’t wait to see you all in Waukesha, WI, in April. Until then, may you all have a happy and prosperous New Year. Be safe out there.