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Las Vegas Locksmith University (LVLU)

Las Vegas Locksmith University by American Key Supply

The Las Vegas Locksmith University (LVLU) provides classroom and hands-on instruction for American locksmiths. Our course catalog contains educational offerings for those with limited experience to experts seeking alternative advanced methodologies. All students will receive the most current information on automotive security. What makes us special?

  • Multiple Instructors for Advanced Courses | We strongly believe that varying viewpoints are necessary for advanced topics. This not only makes the instruction more effective, but provides different approaches when discussing complex topics.
  • Rotating Instructor Lineup | As security measures evolve year after year, we realize the importance of persistent education for locksmiths. It is our intention to make LVLU attendance an annual affair for our students, and we accomplish this by evolving every class, and cycling through our impressive line-up of instructors. Even when retaking the same class as the previous year, the progressive materials and instruction will provide a completely new and current experience.
  • Half-Price Deals for Continuing Education | Because of our progressive materials and instruction, and our acknowledgement that education should, at the very least, be an annual affair, we encourage students to retake any prvious course at HALF the current price.
  • Focus on Hands-On Learning | There's nothing more effective and confidence-building than having performed classroom study on the actual vehicle. We typically provide 3-5 vehicles to demonstrate the coursework covered in class. This absolutely sets us apart from the PowerPoint-based presentations and theoretical discussions taught by rival academies. We want you to return to your business ready to put your new skills to work.
  • Frequent Opportunities for Maximum Flexibility | Educational events in our industry typically provide as many classes as possible within the span of a single week. LVLU spreads class schedules out to one or two classes per month, usually overlapping a weekend. This gives students more opportunities to attend and ensures that locksmith businesses will see as little disruption as possible.
  • Location, Location, Location | Who doesn't love an excuse to visit Las Vegas? The gambling industry subsidizes flights to Las Vegas so that at any given time, they are the cheapest destination airline tickets you can find anywhere. Hotel rooms away from The Strip are typically inexpensive and plentiful, so lodging is never a problem. Now you have an excuse to give your spouse to come to town and have some fun.

NOTE: There will be exclusive specials for students on most of the products we cover in the class, and even more deals on the products you need to keep your business moving.


Calendar of Upcoming Classes

May 10-11 Introduction to Soldering & EEPROM September 19 Hands-On Lishi Training
May 18 TBD September 20-21 Advanced VW/Audi Programming
May 18 Hands-On Lishi Training October 3 Hands-On Lishi Training
June 13 Hands-On Lishi Training October 4-5 Advanced Motorcycle Keymaking
June 14-15 Automotive Locksmith Training Blitz TBD Advanced Troubleshooting & J2534 Module
Programming for Automotive Locksmiths

Hands-On Lishi Training

Upcoming Dates: Saturday, May 18
Thursday, June 13
Thursday, September 19
Thursday, October 3
Times: 1pm-4pm
Location: American Key Supply
Las Vegas, NV
Food & Drink: Water, coffee, sodas and snacks will be provided throughout the class. Please notify us if you have any special dietary restrictions. And no, requiring Kopi Luwak doesn't count as a dietary restriction.
Class Size: 10-20 students
Instructors: Tyler Anzalone
Lock Labs
Las Vegas, Nevada
Ikaika Pladera
American Key Supply
Las Vegas, Nevada
   
Class Description:

Comprehensive, hands-on training on picking and decoding vehicle locks with Lishi Original locksmith tools.

Learn and really understand the tools and procedures that will help you pick and decode both automotive and residential locks. The class will begin with approximately an hour of classroom learning, understanding the basics of the tools and the locks that you will see in the field. We then jump into the hands-on portion of the class where you will be able to pick and decode as many locks as possible. Feel free to focus your attention and get help on a difficult lock that always seems to gives you trouble.

Yes, we will cover residential Lishi tools also, as well as the new Kwikset SmartKey Decoder by LockTech.

These tools are on your vans to make you money and we will teach you how to get the most out of them.

Cost: $50
Sign-Up:

Click here to reserve your spot

  • If, when attempting to add the class to your shopping cart, it says Out Of Stock, the class is full. You may still check out to be added to the waiting list and you will be contacted by a member of our staff.
  • The seats for this class are limited. If you cancel without enough notice, seats go unncessarily unfilled. If you need to cancel, we would appreciate if you do so at least 7 days before the event. Cancellations between 2 and 7 days before the class will be issued a 50% refund. Cancellations made in less than 2 days before the class will not receive a refund.

Introduction to Soldering and EEPROM

Dates: May 10-11 (Friday-Saturday)
Times: 9am-5pm
Location: American Key Supply
Las Vegas, NV
Food & Drink: A light breakfast & lunch will be provided as well as water, coffee, sodas and snacks throughout the class. Please notify us if you have any special dietary restrictions. And no, requiring Kopi Luwak doesn't count as a dietary restriction.
Class Size: 20-30 students
Instructors: Brandon Tucker
Expert Key Solutions
Alabama
Eric Lambert
The Locksmith Co
Tennesse & Kentucky
Eric Demers
Advanced Key Solutions
California
Class Description:

This hands-on classroom training serves to introduce the topics of advanced EEPROM programming methods that require soldering irons and specialized device programmers. Students will develop an understanding of memory functionality, discover various methods of reading and processing BIN files, and participate in practical training on surface-mount soldering and de-soldering.

Soldering:

  • The science of soldering
  • Soldering iron anatomy and basics
  • Cored and multicored soldering wires
  • Soldering station benefits, including hot air rework
  • Tip selection and use cases for iron work and hot air
  • Flux types and practical applications
  • PCB construction and characteristics
  • ESD (electrical static discharge)
  • Soldering through hole and surface-mounted components
  • Post-solder cleaning and inspection (microscope)
  • Exploring Surface-Mount Technology (SMT)—DIP, SOIC, PLCC, QFP
  • Practical application (as time allows)

EEPROM:

  • EPROM vs. EEPROM
  • Hexadecimal vs. ASCII
  • The anatomy of an EEPROM and recognizing pin location
  • How to identify an EEPROM and decode its original manufacture, size, & capacity
  • Reading an EEPROM, immobilizer, & ECU memory out-of-circuit
  • Reading an EEPROM, immobilizer, & ECU memory in-circuit (and its challenges)
  • Component removal techniques
  • Solder removal techniques
  • Verifying read/write data integrity
  • BIN files for used module replacement and key making
  • Introduction to microcontrollers (MCU)
  • In-circuit MCU data harvesting
  • Connectivity tips and tricks (no diagram present)  
  • The benefits of a quality microscope
  • Practical application (as time allows)
  • Overview of locksmith related specialty programmers
  • Security bypass potential of applicable memory using specialty programmers

Featured Hardware:

Some of the products discussed or used in class include:

  • Memory Device Readers:
    • Xhorse VVDI Prog
    • Orange5
    • SMOK
  • Transponder Configuration/Programmers
    • Scorpio Tango
    • TMPro2
  • All-in-Ones
    • AutoProPAD G2 Turbo
    • Autel IM608 Pro

Learning Objectives:

Upon completion of the course, students will gain an understanding of advanced immobilizer and ECU programming techniques, which may require soldering/desoldering of components or wires onto a PCB using specialty tools.

Cost: SIGN UP BY APRIL 26:
$885 (bring your own tools)
$1109.62 (includes soldering station and hot air rework station)

SIGN UP AFTER APRIL 26:
$985 (bring your own tools)
$1209.62 (includes soldering station and hot air rework station)
Sign-Up:

Click here to reserve your spot

  • If, when attempting to add the class to your shopping cart, it says Out Of Stock, the class is full. You may still check out to be added to the waiting list and you will be contacted by a member of our staff.
  • The seats for this class are limited. If you cancel without enough notice, seats go unncessarily unfilled. If you need to cancel, we would appreciate if you do so at least 7 days before the event. Cancellations between 2 and 7 days before the class will be issued a 50% refund. Cancellations made in less than 2 days before the class will not receive a refund.

Advanced VW/Audi Key Programming

Dates: September 20-21 (Friday-Saturday)
Times: 9am-5pm
Location: American Key Supply
Las Vegas, NV
Food & Drink: A light breakfast & lunch will be provided as well as water, coffee, sodas and snacks throughout the class. Please notify us if you have any special dietary restrictions. And no, requiring Kopi Luwak doesn't count as a dietary restriction.
Class Size: 20-30 students
Instructors: Brandon Tucker
Expert Key Solutions
Alabama
Eric Lambert
The Locksmith Co
Tennesse & Kentucky
Eric Demers
Advanced Key Solutions
California
Class Description:

Unlock the secrets behind programming Volkswagen and Audi keys in this comprehensive and hands-on advanced workshop. Delve into the intricacies of modern vehicle key systems and gain a deep understanding of the techniques required to program and reprogram keys for these prestigious automotive brands.

- Introduction to Key Programming: Explore the fundamentals of key programming, including key types, transponders, and communication protocols used in Volkswagen and Audi vehicles.
- Vehicle Security Systems: Understand the security mechanisms integrated into Volkswagen and Audi key systems including IMMO 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, MQB, and MLB systems.
- Diagnostics and Troubleshooting: Develop skills to diagnose key programming issues, troubleshoot errors, and address common challenges encountered during the programming process.
- Software and Tools: Abrites, Smart Pro, Autel, Auto Pro Pad, Odis.
- Hands-On Practice: Apply theoretical knowledge through hands-on exercises and programming on actual Volkswagen and Audi vehicles.
- Case Studies: Analyze real-world scenarios and case studies to understand key programming strategies and decision-making in complex situations.
- Best Practices and Regulations: Familiarize yourself with industry best practices.


If you're a locksmith looking to enhance your skills, this workshop will equip you with the expertise needed to confidently program keys for VW/Audi, ensuring successful outcomes and satisfied customers.

Cost: $485
Sign-Up: Coming Soon

Advanced Motorcycle Keymaking

Dates: October 4-5 (Friday-Saturday)
Times: 9am-5pm
Location: American Key Supply
Las Vegas, NV
Food & Drink: A light breakfast & lunch will be provided as well as water, coffee, sodas and snacks throughout the class. Please notify us if you have any special dietary restrictions. And no, requiring Kopi Luwak doesn't count as a dietary restriction.
Class Size: 15-20 students
Instructors: Mark Willadsen
Arrington Lock and Key
Central Texas
       
Class Description:

TBD

Cost: TBD
Sign-Up: Coming Soon

Location Information

Airport: LAS—McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas
Class Location:

American Key Supply
2895 W Capovilla Ave #100
Las Vegas, NV 89119

We are located in a 26,000 square foot warehouse in the city of Las Vegas, Nevada, around 10 minutes west of the airport, very close to the south end of the Las Vegas strip.

Wi-fi will be available and cell phone service is excellent.

Hotels:

PLEASE BOOK EARLY! THE PRICES DOUBLE OR TRIPLE AS THINGS GET CLOSER TO THE EVENT.

The following hotels are all within about a 5 minute drive north to American Key Supply and are all within walking distance to the Silverton Casino Hotel, where you can enjoy lots of off-the-strip gambling and dining. The actual Las Vegas strip is about a 10-minute drive north from these hotels. We recommend the Silverton Casino Hotel because of price as well as food and entertainment, and this is where most other students and where the instructors will probably be staying.

Silverton Casino Hotel
Silverton Casino Hotel
(4.3 stars)
3333 Blue Diamond Rd
Las Vegas, NV 89139

(702) 263-7777
South Point Hotel & Casino
South Point Hotel & Casino
(4.4 stars)
9777 S Las Vegas Blvd
Las Vegas, NV 89183

(866) 791-7626

The Berkley, Las Vegas
(4.4 stars)
8280 Dean Martin Dr
Las Vegas, NV 89139
(702) 224-7400

The following hotels are a little closer to us, but have no gaming and may not have dining available within the building.


Siegel Select
- Las Vegas Blvd
(3.3 stars)
7260 S Las Vegas Blvd
Las Vegas, NV 89119
(702) 660-4823

Baymont by Wyndham
Las Vegas South Strip
(3.4 stars)
55 E Robindale Rd
Las Vegas, NV 89123
(702) 802-0440

Hampton Inn
Las Vegas Strip South
(4.7 stars)
7850 Giles St
Las Vegas, NV 89123
(702) 936-8290
Other Things
to Do in
Las Vegas:

SHOPPING

The Las Vegas South Premium Outlets are right down the street!

7400 Las Vegas Blvd S

GAMBLING

American Key Supply is only about 5 minutes away from the south end of the Las Vegas strip. Take an Uber or Lyft to your favorite strip casino.

If you really enjoy table games, we recommend heading 10 minutes SOUTH to South Point Hotel Casino where they have an amazing number of tables without the high minimums found on the strip.

EATING

Las Vegas has some of the finest food in the world! Here's a good article on the best places to dine out in Las Vegas:

An Eater's Guide to Dining in Las Vegas

 

Past Classes


Hands-On Automotive Locksmith Training

Dates: March 8-9 (Friday-Saturday)
Times: 9am-5pm
Location: American Key Supply
Las Vegas, NV
Food & Drink: Water, coffee, sodas and snacks will be provided throughout the class. Please notify us if you have any special dietary restrictions. And no, requiring Kopi Luwak doesn't count as a dietary restriction.
Class Size: 20-30 students
Instructors: Ikaika Pladera
American Key Supply
Las Vegas, Nevada
Tyler Anzalone
Lock Labs
Las Vegas, Nevada
   
Class Description:

Designed for individuals with or without prior locksmithing experience, especially residential and commercial locksmiths looking to expand their skills to car keys, this comprehensive course initiates from the fundamentals. The curriculum covers a diverse range of topics, including:

  1. Hands on key origination for a wide variety of vehicles
  2. Delving into the history of automotive security.
  3. Grasping the intricacies of car keys.
  4. Navigating the complexities of transponder systems.
  5. Mastering vehicle entry techniques.
  6. Unraveling the art of lock decoding.
  7. Perfecting key cutting skills.
  8. Acquiring proficiency in key programming.
  9. Exploring transponder chip cloning.
  10. Introduction to the use of Original Lishi tools.
  11. Accessing valuable automotive locksmithing resources.
  12. Gaining insights into key cutting machines.
  13. Understanding key programmers.
  14. Familiarization with advanced automotive lock mechanisms.
  15. Troubleshooting common issues in car key programming.
  16. Extensive Hands-on practice sessions for key cutting and programming.
  17. Overview of keyless entry systems in modern vehicles.
  18. Understanding electronic key fobs and remote programming.
  19. Best practices for handling emergency lockout situations.
  20. Exploring the business aspects of automotive locksmithing.
  21. Networking opportunities with industry professionals.

The second day will cover total key origination with many different vehicles. 

Tools to be covered: Triton key machine, Black widow key machine, Keyline messenger, Autel IM608, KM100, Smart Pro, AutoProPad, Obdstar keymaster, Nitro Scan tool, Xhorse Key tool Max, Lonsdor k518, Keyline software.

Ideal for novices contemplating a career in automotive locksmithing, this course is also indispensable for locksmith shop owners aiming to broaden their services into the automotive domain or gain a deeper understanding of their technicians' fieldwork.

 

*If you don’t have automotive lishi experience, please take the lishi class the on March 7th.

 

Cost: $450
Sign-Up:

Click here to reserve your spot

  • If, when attempting to add the class to your shopping cart, it says Out Of Stock, the class is full. You may still check out to be added to the waiting list and you will be contacted by a member of our staff.
  • The seats for this class are limited. If you cancel without enough notice, seats go unncessarily unfilled. If you need to cancel, we would appreciate if you do so at least 7 days before the event. Cancellations between 2 and 7 days before the class will be issued a 50% refund. Cancellations made in less than 2 days before the class will not receive a refund.

Advanced IM608, AutoProPAD & J2534

Dates: March 22-23 (Friday-Saturday)
Times: 9am-5pm
Location: American Key Supply
Las Vegas, NV
Food & Drink: A light breakfast & lunch will be provided as well as water, coffee, sodas and snacks throughout the class. Please notify us if you have any special dietary restrictions. And no, requiring Kopi Luwak doesn't count as a dietary restriction.
Class Size: 20-30 students
Instructors: Brandon Tucker
Expert Key Solutions
Alabama
Eric Lambert
The Locksmith Co
Tennessee & Kentucky
   
Class Description:

Learn advanced concepts and hands-on training using tools such as the AutoProPAD G2 and G2 Turbo by XTool, IM608 Pro by Autel, Code Cannibal by OBD Star, AVDI by Abrites, and VVDI Key Tool by Xhorse. Some of the subjects being covered include:

  • Who uses what tools for what
  • In-depth coverage of the various functions of the tools
  • Programming of important and problematic vehicles
  • Hands-on programming of on-site vehicles
  • Importance of use of the VVDI Key Tool Max or Mini
  • Importance of pre & post-scans
  • EEPROM adapters
  • Thorough Q&A with the instructors
Cost: $475 / 450 For Early Registration
Sign-Up:

Click here to reserve your spot

  • If, when attempting to add the class to your shopping cart, it says Out Of Stock, the class is full. You may still check out to be added to the waiting list and you will be contacted by a member of our staff.
  • The seats for this class are limited. If you cancel without enough notice, seats go unncessarily unfilled. If you need to cancel, we would appreciate if you do so at least 7 days before the event. Cancellations between 2 and 7 days before the class will be issued a 50% refund. Cancellations made in less than 2 days before the class will not receive a refund.

Advanced Motorcycle Keymaking

Instructors: Keith Capehart
LockTech
Biloxi, Mississippi
Leo Meres, CML
Knoxville, TN
 
Class Description:

Everything you need to know as an automotive locksmith to also become a motorcycle locksmith.

We will illustrate the similarities between motorcycle key generation and other more common locksmith work. We start with building up your keys & inventory, selecting tools & equipment, and covering methods to successfully remaking lost keys for various types of motorcycles. Students will have the opportunity to cut several types of motorcycle keys throughout the class.

Our main objective is to give locksmiths the knowledge and confidence needed to also work on motorcycles. Overcome the myth that motorcycle work is more difficult than cars through extensive hands-on training with examples of common locks seen in the field. We will be using the same and/or similar tools that the student will be using when they leave the class and begin to make these keys.

Taught by two instructors from different backgrounds, the class illustrates that there are always several ways to complete any job. While the outline below is an accurate reflection of the material presented, we remain flexible throughout so that we can cover additional material that may be brought up by the attendees.

Brands of motorcycles covered include:

  • Honda
  • Suzuki
  • Yamaha
  • Kawasaki
  • Harley Davidson
  • Buell
  • Kymco
  • Triumph
  • and MANY MORE!

Popular ATVs and UTVs will also be covered. This is a two-day class including lecture, discussion, and hands-on work.

Information on where to start when considering servicing Transponder and Proximity systems for various brands of motorcycle.

Prerequisites:

  • Familiar with cutting keys by code or bitting
  • Knowledge picking wafer style locks
  • Familiar with the use of hand tools
  • Basic knowledge of automotive key generation

Topics Covered:

  • Introduction
  • Resources
  • Harley Davidson Wafer Locks
  • Gas Tank Lock Disassembly
  • Lock Readers
  • ATV/UTV Locks
  • Asian-Style Ignition Disassembly
  • Wafer Scoping
  • Harley Davidson Tubular Locks
  • Transponder & Proximity Systems

Advanced BMW Key Programming

Instructors: Brandon Tucker
Expert Key Solutions
Alabama
Eric Lambert
The Locksmith Co
Tennesse & Kentucky
Eric Demers
Advanced Key Solutions
California
Class Description:

Everything you need to know about safely making keys to BMW vehicles with ACDP. Other tools will be discussed such as Abrites, VVDI2, Autohex, etc. Basic module EEPROMing, soldering and handling protocols will be discussed which is useful if other tools are used. There will be hands-on with BMW modules and probably a vehicle or two. The class covers all aspects of BMW key programming for CAS 1/2/3/4 and FEM/BDC platforms for E and F body BMW cars.

Advanced Mercedes Keymaking

Instructors: Brandon Tucker
Expert Key Solutions
Alabama
Eric Lambert
The Locksmith Co
Tennesse & Kentucky
Eric Demers
Advanced Key Solutions
California
Class Description:

A 2-day class covering advanced concepts for programming Mercedes Benz vehicles, including broad classroom training of strategies and troubleshooting key programming procedures, diagnostics and troubleshooting.

  • EIS Programming in and out of the car (in-vehicle & on the bench) using VVDI Prog, VVDI MB, IM608, and Abrites
  • Column removal & ESL (Electronic Steering Lock) emulator installation on the W204 chassis when ESL is in a locked or unlocked position
  • EEPROM soldering & solderless options for various vehicles
  • Use of the MB Remote Keymaker to program Mercedes that use the KR55 flip-style remotes
  • If time permits, discussion & demonstrations for removal and repair of keyed ignitions for older Mercedes
  • Tools presented will be IM608, AutoProPAD G2 Turbo, Abrites, VVDI MB, MB Remote Keymaker, and the VVDI Prog.

PLEASE NOTE: this class is designed for INTERMEDIATE TO EXPERIENCED automotive locksmiths. This is not a class for beginners.

PRODUCT INSTALLATION DEMONSTRATION FOR FRONTLINE DEFENSE FULL-DOOR INTERLOCKERS

Instructors: Noel Murdoch
Frontline Defense Systems Inc.
Alberta, Canada
Class Description:

Frontline Defense products are THE MOST EFFECTIVE way to protect retail and commercial businesses from forced entry. This HIGH-PROFIT product is a MUST-HAVE for any locksmith with potential retail customers.

FIRST TIME EVER CLASS FOR FRONTLINE DEFENSE!

Taking this class will drop your first-time installation down from 3 hours to less than 1. This is a very hands-on class with a HIGH DEGREE OF AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION.

Perfect for novices and experienced commercial locksmiths.

One FREE Milwaukee Rivet Tool will be given away to one lucky student.


As with all of our classes, there will be exclusive deals for students on most or all of the products we cover in the classes.

The Randy Main Method of SFIC Cores & Master Keying

Instructors: Randy Main
Main's Lock Supply
California
  Vaiola Fa'amausili
ICCores.com
Las Vegas, NV
  Garrett Ervin
ICCores.com
Las Vegas, NV
Class Description:

The ICCores.com story began over 30 years ago, inside of an old, repurposed barn in the city of Yucaipa, California. It was then that master locksmith Randy Main began tinkering with and perfecting the recipe for the mass production of interchangeable cores. What began as an endeavour to serve his local community of locksmiths with pre-pinned cores eventually blossomed into a national affair of reliable service and quality work. Randy soon found himself pinning cores full-time and expanded his operation to encompass the growing need for his services. By 2015, as the desire for his IC Core pinning services was beginning to outgrow the confines of his modestly sized barn, Randy began contemplating retirement. He was ready to fulfill his lifelong dream of curating and operating his very own ghost town in Goldfield, Nevada.

Now Randy is coming out of his retirement for one day just to help teach eager locksmiths how to pin Best/Falcon SFIC the right way. Most IC Core classes leave students a little dazed and not quite ready to hit the ground running. This class will not only introduce you to the concepts of Small Format Interchangeable Cores (SFIC), but we will make you create your own expandable master pinning system and pin up 10 cores to that system. You'll be manufacturing your own 10-core Master Pack to take home with you, along with the tools needed to continue working on cores on your own time.

THIS CLASS WILL MAKE YOU COMFORTABLE AND CONFIDENT CREATING SYSTEMS AND PINNING CORES ON YOUR OWN. We are not using computers and software to create the master key systems and we are not just conveying high-level concepts. Also, we provide telephone support for our students when you're getting yourself into trouble in the field.

Some of the subjects being covered include:

  • Why IC Cores are good for your business
  • Keyways and key control options
  • Dumping pins (recycling cores), pinning, and capping with the Pro-Lok LT340 and Lab IC Core Annex
  • Capping with the Lab and Best capping presses
  • Doing the math for SFIC pinning
  • Cutting keys on a Best Combinator, Pro-Lok Blue Punch, Triton, and Black Widow
  • Decoding a key and decoding a core
  • Tips, tricks, and pitfalls
  • Master keying concepts
  • Master keying naming, documentation, key codes and secure rotations
  • Creating your own master key system for your Master Pack
  • Pinning and cutting your own 10-core Master Pack

The following will be provided to each student at the end of the course:

  • Lab Mini DUR-X SFIC Pinning Kit
  • Pro-Lok LT340 or Lab Annex pinning tools
  • Key Gauge
  • 10 SFIC Cores
  • 10 SFIC Keys
  • AKS Ultimate Pinning Mat

 

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