


Take Command of Your Shop’s Marketing Mission
Whether you’re just getting started or refining a plan that’s already in orbit, the MARS Intensive is the most hands-on, results-driven marketing training this industry has to offer. Over three days, you’ll build a complete marketing strategy that attracts more customers, boosts your average ticket, and finally puts you in full control of your growth.
MARS Intensive Launch Countdown
OGDEN, UT SEPTEMBER 4-6, 2025

they came with questions. they left with a plan.
MISSION objectives
Everything You Need to Market with Confidence

Complete, Custom Marketing Strategy
Walk away with a personalized roadmap built for your shop, including content calendars, campaign templates, and lead-generation systems that are ready for immediate launch.

Messaging That Sets Your shop Apart
Define your ideal customer, dial in your strongest service offerings, and create brand messaging that positions your shop as the top choice in your market.


Real-World Tools & Systems
Learn how to execute across key channels—local SEO, Google Maps, ads, email, content, and reviews—with proven systems that drive growth.

Clarity That Replaces Confusion
No more guessing or spinning your wheels. You’ll understand what works, why it works, and how to make every marketing move count.

Expert Feedback & Peer Collaboration
Build your strategy in a high-energy environment alongside shop owners like you, with expert guidance at every step of the mission.
YOUR MISSION TO MARS:
WHAT YOU'LL FLY AWAY WITH

MARKETING PLAN TAILORED TO YOUR SHOP

Clarity on your perfect customer

Strategies that actually grow your traffic

A strong, unified online presence

CONFIDENCE TO EXECUTE & MEASURE SUCCESS

TAKE YOUR MARKETING OUT OF THIS WORLD WITH LESSONS FROM:



Building a Brand that Attracts
Cecil Bullard

The marketing horizon: what's next for shop owners
marissa pinkowski

what makes a remarkable experience
wayne marshall


Creating Your Customer Avatar
Kim & BRian Walker


WEBSITE, SEO, AI, GOOGLE MARKETING
DAN VANCE


AUTO SHOP
SOCIAL MEDIA IN 2025
KELSEY OUTRAM




DEVELOPING YOUR REFERRAL PROGRAM
JEFF RUDNICK
PITT CREW LOYALTY

EMAIL/SMS MARKETING, CRM, DVI'S
CRAIG O'NEILL

TRADITIONAL SHOP MARKETING
LOLA SCHMIDT


Stellar highlights
Designing Your Ideal Customer Profile
Identify your perfect customers and build targeted marketing strategies to find your perfect customer who loves your service, refers others, and keeps coming back.
Building a Brand That Sticks
Create a powerful brand story that sets your shop apart from the competition.
Mastering Digital Marketing Channels
Learn the best strategies for SEO, SEM, and social media to increase visibility and drive traffic.
Referral Programs & Community Engagement
Turn your happiest customers into your best marketing ambassadors.
Actionable Marketing Plan Development
Define your goals, budget, and key strategies to ensure immediate and lasting impact. Develop a custom, multi-channel marketing plan that’s ready for execution.



what attendees have said about past mars events:


STELLAR SPONSORS
Event INformation
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WHAT'S INCLUDED
GENERAL ADMISSION
$1,495
Welcome Package & Resources
delicious food & beverage
(MEALS INCLUDED)
access to attendee-only online group
industry exposure & networking opportunities
Attendee Exclusivity
(Limited Seating)
Access to Expert Presenters
in-depth strategy sessions
access to event-exclusive room rates

LOCATION // INSTITUTE HEADQUARTERS //
3789 WALL AVE, OGDEN, UT 84405
RECOMMENDED HOTELS
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Hampton Inn & Suites - 2401 Washington Blvd, Ogden, UT 84401
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Hilton Garden Inn - 2271 Washington Blvd, Ogden, UT 84401
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Courtyard by Marriott - 247 24th St, Ogden, UT 84401
*ATTENDEES WILL RECEIVE LINKS/CODES FOR DISCOUNTED RATES IN TICKET CONFIRMATION EMAIL*
INSTITUTE CLIENT & MEMBER PRICE
$1,195
INSTITUTE CLIENTS BENEFIT FROM SPECIAL MEMBER PRICING - SAVE $300!
frequently asked questions
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How much time does this program require from me?In-Person Meetings This program requires a minimum of 3 group meetings per year. Attendance is mandatory unless otherwise determined by the facilitator. Each group meeting will be partially on-location at a member’s shop, with the rest of the time being spent at a high-quality venue. Meetings are 3 days long, typically held on Wednesday-Friday to give you the opportunity to adventure in the local city. Online Meetings Online financial performance reviews are 1.5-2 hours long and happen during months where there are no in-person meetings (8 per year). Coaching sessions can be utilized whenever necessary, but an hour a month with your facilitator is preferred. Workshops & The Institute Summit Attendance at The Institute Summit and workshops are not required. However, members do have a seat included in their membership and we encourage attendance to foster community and further support your education. The Summit is typically 4-5 days in length, held Tuesday-Saturday. Workshops are typically 2 days, held Thursday-Sunday. Remember that the GPG isn’t just a feel-good program – what you get out of it depends on the time and effort you put into it.
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How much does this program cost?Members are billed $1,400 each month on either the 1st or 15th. Special rates may apply to participating alumni. Have questions about the details of our comprehensive program? Set up a meeting with one of our consultants and get more information. The $1,400 includes everything listed below Business Financial Reviews Monthly online review of business financial performance with peers. Individual Coaching One-on-one coaching as requested not to exceed 1 hr each month. Peer Masterminds Monthly online group peer meeting of requested topic discussions. Group Meetings, Shop Visits 3 group meeting/shop evaluations per year, 3-day in-person, facilitator lead. Institute Workshops Member is permitted 1 seat per workshop for any member of their staff. Annual Institute Summit When you purchase a ticket to the summit get a plus one (1+) for free! Financial & Performance Tracking Dashboard Access to Shop Dashboard, API integration for shop performance reporting. Financial Compositing Tool Access to financial compositing tool for full-performance review & analysis. Resource LibraryAccess Access to a library of document resources created by successful shops. Course LibraryAccess Access to a library of online courses, user access for entire shop. Business Evaluation and Assessment Business evaluation, assessment & action plan provided by group facilitator. Marketing & Business Strategy Planning Regular marketing and business strategy sessions with peers and facilitator. 10%-20% Discounts on Other Institute Products Discounted rates for other Institute programs/products not included here. Private Group NetworkApp Private group networking application to share resources, events, tools, etc.
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Is there a contract?Heck-no! The GEAR Performance Groups are no-contract. That means you may attend and participate as long as you’d like without a long-term commitment. We know that once you experience what it’s like to be a part of the GPG, you’ll never want to go anywhere else.
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How do I join a group?Joining the GEAR Performance Groups follows a simple 1-2-3 structure: 1 – You’ll book an interview and speak with our Group expert to determine if the program is right for you. We want to make sure you have the most relevant solution to your situation. 2 – Once it’s determined the GPG is the best solution for you, you’ll submit an application form to be reviewed by our Head Facilitator. You’ll meet with the Head Facilitator to identify your strengths, weaknesses, personality, experience, and a variety of other criteria to make a determination as to which group would best suit you. 3 – Current members of the chosen group will also deliberate on your application and ensure a proper fit for everyone. Once accepted, you’ll be introduced to your new facilitator and group members to begin your journey. To get started, click here to schedule a meeting with one of our consultants, or call us at 1-385-238-4534.
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Why do I need an interview to join?We want to make sure you have the most relevant solution to your situation, and that’s not always our Group program. The interview helps our team get a better idea of where your business is currently and where you want to be. That way we can place you in the program or Group that will get you the most results! You can also get a complimentary business analysis! Schedule a meeting with one of our consultants here.
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What tools do I have access to as a member?As a GPG member, you’ll have access to a wide range of tools developed by The Institute. And since we believe in having the most comprehensive program in the industry, any new tools or resources developed will be included within your membership in the future. Currently, these tools include: GEAR Course Library – Videos on marketing, finances, management, and more that you can watch anywhere and anytime! GEAR Resource Library – Resources like financial documents, hiring templates, and more available when you need them. GEAR for Shops Dashboard – A KPI and business management tracking dashboard that integrates directly with your point-of-sale system. GEAR Financial Composite – Financial tracking tool for your monthly performance reviews. GEARheads Network – A private group on the Network for GPG members to share your wins, ask questions, and get help when you need it. And more... We like to make sure our members have access to our entire GEAR Platform building a community of automotive professionals supported by Great Education And Resources.
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Who are the facilitators and coaches?Coaches include Cecil Bullard, Jennifer Hulbert, Aaron Woods, Kent Bullard, Fred Hules, Mark Seawell, Mike Pasman, Kevin Clark and Bj Lee from The Institute. Any other coaches or facilitators that present or attend the meetings will be hand-picked by our team to ensure they’re only providing the best education for our members.
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What events can I attend as a member?We strive to create an all-access comprehensive program, so GPG membership includes access to nearly every event held by The Institute! We have resources that can help you, so why not include them. Events Include: Group Meetings Institute Workshops (2-day only, special rates apply for alternate workshops) Webinars & Online Training The Institute Summit Members receive 1 ticket for each of these events at no cost, with additional tickets available at a 20% discount. Special pricing will be given for any additional conferences (the ITTC, Marketing For Auto Repair Shops, etc.) 1 free seat with the purchase of a ticket. Free Plus 1+
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What if I have more questions?Great! We know that your business is important to you and would be surprised if you didn’t have more questions. You can email our team at info@wearetheinstitute.com or book a call with our team. Click here to schedule a call or call our office at 1-385-238-4534.