Why Knowing Who to Call Matters: Sam Gandara on NACS 2026

When equipment goes down or a project hits a roadblock, knowing who to call can make all the difference. That's one reason Tanknology LDC Foreman Sam Gandara found so much value in attending this year's NACS Show.

"Those relationships are absolutely vital," Sam said.

From the Field to Nevada

Sam knows the field side of the business firsthand. He started his career in Southern California working in compliance testing and repairs before joining Tanknology in May 2025. He spent much of his first year supporting Circle K's ATG upgrade project across California, Washington and Oregon.

Today, his focus is on building Compliance Light Duty Construction (LDC) capabilities in Nevada, a market where there's a lot that has to happen before the work can begin. Sam has been working through licensing, permitting and regulatory requirements to build the foundation for a stronger local presence.

"My current goal is still the initial goal: to develop a crew here in Nevada that's capable of executing our work," Sam explained.

A Trade Show in His Backyard

When NACS came to Las Vegas, where Sam is based, his leader Joe suggested he join the team at the show. Sam had wanted to attend an industry trade show for years, and NACS didn't disappoint.

"I kind of hyped it up a little bit," Sam joked. "And because it was so great, it not only met my expectations, it definitely exceeded them."

Walking the show gave Sam the chance to meet manufacturers and suppliers whose products he works with in the field, learn about new equipment and build relationships that can help him do his job better.

Why It Matters for Customers

For customers, those connections matter. Knowing who to call when a part is needed or having a direct connection with a manufacturer or supplier can help solve problems faster and keep work moving.

NACS also connected Sam with leaders from across United Uptime Services who shared resources and firsthand experience he has already been able to use as he builds LDC in Nevada.

Sam believes there's value in giving more field technicians that same exposure. They work with the equipment and solve problems every day, giving them a unique perspective when talking directly with manufacturers, suppliers and customers.

Always Getting Better

For Sam, the experience comes back to something that has driven his career from the beginning.

"I always want to get better," he said. "I want to continue to improve myself as well as continue to contribute. I don't want to be stagnant."

As Sam continues building Compliance LDC in Nevada, the relationships and knowledge he gained at NACS are already helping him do exactly that.