INSTRUCTORS
INDUSTRY EXPERTS
ABOUT
instructors
The Dealer Institute is committed to recruiting top-notch instructors with deep expertise in the equipment dealership business or specific field of expertise. Our instructors often have hands-on experience as owner-operators or specialize in specific departments within the industry. Their extensive tenure and knowledge in the equipment industry are testament to their dedication. They continually contribute by sharing their expertise with others.
ARTHUR WARD
INSTRUCTOR
Arthur grew up on a ranch in southern Saskatchewan and began his ag career in 1994 as a sales rep for a small manufacturer. He later held leadership roles including branch and general sales manager before joining JayDee Equipment in 2006. Following mergers and acquisitions, he became president of Pattison Agriculture in 2017 and, in 2020, vice president with The Jim Pattison Group. In 2024, he partnered with a longtime friend in a joint venture that includes a seed potato operation, a 20,000-acre grain farm, and a farm supply distribution company with marketing and media services.
Arthur and his wife Kim live in Swift Current, Saskatchewan. They have two adult sons, a daughter-in-law, and a grandson.
SPECIALTIES: WHOLEGOODS | SALES | LEADERSHIP
TRENT HUMMEL
INSTRUCTOR
Trent is a lead management consultant and trainer at the North American Equipment Dealers Association’s Dealer Institute. With over 30 years of experience as a fourth-generation equipment dealer, Trent brings invaluable expertise in managing dealership operations. He specializes in inventory management, particularly in used equipment, and is renowned for his innovative strategies that have revitalized wholegoods departments across North America.
Since 2011, Trent has been actively involved in curriculum-based training, onsite consulting, and guiding dealer peer groups. NAEDA’s Dealer Institute offers tailored solutions and resources to help dealerships enhance business growth, employee training, and operational efficiency. With a focus on affordable training programs and consulting services, Trent ensures dealers have access to the support they need to thrive.
SPECIALTIES: WHOLEGOODS | OPERATIONS | SALES | FINANCIALS
SCOTT BRIGDEN
INSTRUCTOR
Scott, raised on a Manitoba farm, gained early work experience at a local furniture shop before pursuing business studies at Brandon University. His career journey led him through various roles, from managing a furniture store to overseeing hospitality establishments. Transitioning to the John Deere dealership, Countryside Equipment, he honed skills in customer service and management, eventually becoming a service manager at Enns Brothers. There, he delved into strategic analysis and team coaching. Scott’s passion for improvement led him to a project coordinator role, refining processes across multiple locations.
Recently, he transitioned to a Truck and Trailer Repair shop, eager to tackle new challenges. Now a Dealer Institute trainer, he aims to empower dealers in enhancing their parts and service operations.
SPECIALTIES: AFTERMARKET | PARTS | SERVICE