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35
YEARS
VOL. 6 ISSUE 5 FEBRUARY 2017
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Search For Justice Continues in OH Body Shop Owner’s Death
Two Stories: MN Body Shops Busy with Winter and Snowy IN Conditions Make for Busy Winter
Jan 5. marked one year since someone walked into a North College Hill, OH, auto body shop, robbed the owner, and shot and killed him. “For it to end like this with him is just unimaginable,” said the victim’s daughter Carla Broshear. “I feel like dad’s still around us and pushing us to be the people he wanted us to be.” On Jan. 5, 2016, someone came into Joe Leach’s shop on W. Galbraith Road in North College Hill, pulled a gun and demanded money. The suspect shot Leach in the back as he ran and called for help. Leach died a few days
While many people may not favor this winter weather, it is creating a lot of business for local body shops. “This winter we’ve definitely been having our share of crashes and vehicles slipping and sliding off the
by Ben Katko, Fox19 NOW
Credit: FOX19 NOW/Mike Buckingham
later.
“I know without a shadow of a doubt that if the person would have just asked him for money, he would have helped him,” Broshear told FOX 19 NOW. The hunt continues for that person. Police said, at the time of the robbery, the suspect was a black man wearing a See Body Shop Murder, Page 10
MPCC in NE Breathes New Life Into Antique Cars It pairs the look of the old with the drivability of the new. That’s one of the reasons Classic Car Restoration at Mid-Plains Com-
munity College is so appealing. Another is its rarity - only a handful of such programs even exist. “I can’t think of any college in Nebraska that has a program like this, See MPCC in NE, Page 38
by Laura Kennedy, wishtv.com
The snow has already done its damage for a lot of Hoosiers in central Indiana. State Police responded to 68
Credit: wishtv.com
road,” said Sgt. Jesse Grabow with the Minnesota State Patrol. “I think we’ve just had a few more snow type incidents and things like that.” Those crashes are leading more See Body Shops Busy, Page 26
Shad Simpson, of Taylor, works in the paint booth at Mid-Plains Community College. Simpson is studying Classic Car Restoration
Change Service Requested
P.O. BOX 1516, CARLSBAD, CA 92018
Tyler Erickson, of North Platte, sprays pieces of a future Mid-Plains Community College raffle car. Proceeds from the car will be put toward scholarships for students in the Automotive Technology and Auto Body Technology programs
by Jackie Kelly, KVRR
crashes on December 13 alone. Snow piled up along the side of the road and wet pavement were the conditions for many roads across the entire region. Hundreds of plows and salt trucks worked to clear the roads all day. Many of them area headed out See IN Snows, Page 26
Eleventh Circuit Refuses to Reinstate Dismissed Auto Body Shop Antitrust Case on Procedural Grounds by James Burns and Baker Donelson
In early December, the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals issued a one sentence decision refusing to reinstate the plaintiff/appellants’ appeal in Parker Auto Body v. State Farm Automobile Insurance Company. The appeal had previously been dismissed by the Court based upon the appellants’ failure to file their case Appendix (the records from the district court that the appellate court reviews when considering an appeal) on a timely basis. As a result of the Court’s most recent ruling, barring a successful appeal to the Supreme Court—which would seem unlikely—the Eleventh Circuit’s refusal to reinstate the appeal brings an end to the case for the auto body shop plaintiffs in that case. Notably, however, the Parker case is only one of a series of class action
proceedings brought by auto body shops in several states against many of the largest auto insurers in the nation. In each case, the auto body shops contended that the insurers had conspired to limit the reimbursement rates provided by the insurers for insured repairs. The cases were ultimately all consolidated before Judge Gregory Presnell (Middle District of Florida) as the In re Auto Body Shop Antitrust Litigation, and Judge Presnell subsequently dismissed the antitrust claims in most of the cases, many on a case-bycase basis, for failure to state a claim. The plaintiffs in several of the dismissed cases filed appeals with the Eleventh Circuit, with the Parker case being the earliest appealed action. Because the dismissal in the Parker case was on procedural grounds, it does not impact the other appeals. However, See 11th Circuit Refuses, Page 24
Presorted Standard US Postage PAID San Bernardino, CA Permit #2244
2 FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
REGIONAL
Offering Auto Body Programs for Inmates. . 30
1Collision Network Enters Minnesota Market . . 27
Phillips - The Benefits of Plastic Repair Include
Alpena Community College in MI Examining
Yoswick - Industry History Includes Diminished
AASP-MN Supports Student Scholarships . . . . 6
Speed, Fewer Losses, and Shorter Rentals. 32
Future of Auto Body Program . . . . . . . . . . 24
Value, Rating Insurers, a New Direction
Cleaning Cars After Ice and Snow Storms . . 14
Yoswick - OEM Summit Includes Discussion of
Body Shop Catches Fire in Newport, KY . . . . 20
Body Shop in KS on A Rapid Growth Path. . . . 9
Coachwork Auto Body Under New Ownership
after more than 3 decades . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Countdown Beginnings for 2017 Midwest
Auto Body Trade Show . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Effective February 1, 2017, Farmers will be moving to a single parts supplier list for
for CARSTAR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Scan Tools, Collision Repair Training Costs . 44
NATIONAL
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Announces Executive Leadership Promotions and Appointment
of Chief Operating Officer . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
ASA Announces Dates, Location for 2017
Annual Business Meeting . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
alternative parts... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
ASA's “How’s Your Business?” Survey
Auto Body Shop Antitrust Case on Procedural
Attanasio - Are Green Shops Truly Green
Eleventh Circuit Refuses to Reinstate Dismissed
Grounds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Results Online . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
or are they Just Greenwashing? . . . . . . . . 48
Gateway’s Transportation Technology Center
Attanasio - How Will 3D Printing Affect the
GM to Start Autonomous Vehicle Manufacturing
Attanasio - Owner of PDR Company in
Officially Opens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
and Testing in Michigan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Gobel’s Collision in West Plains, MO, Gets
Assured Performance Certification . . . . . . 23
IA Body Shops Busy After Snowy Weekend. . 10
IL Auto Body Shop Says Former Employee
Failed to Exhaust Administrative Remedies
Collision Repair Industry?. . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Buffalo, NY, Says He Sees an Industry
in Trouble . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Axalta Announces its Automotive Color
of the Year 2017 – Gallant Gray . . . . . . . . 64
Axalta Donates Liquid Coatings to Haitian
Hurricane Relief Effort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
in Pregnancy Discrimination Suit . . . . . . . . 6
Chess - What To Expect from an OSHA
Director Tony Passwater Resigns . . . . . . . . . 15
I-CAR launches Seven New Vehicle and
Fast Track Award . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
IGONC’s Triangle Chapter Enjoyed Xmas
has New Collision Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Mitchell International Introduced as Newest
Dealership Approval . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Mopar Celebrates 80 Years. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Indiana Auto Body Association (IABA) Executive
MO’s Warrensburg Collision Gets 2016
Moran Chevrolet in Clinton Township, MI, New State Regulations Hold up IA Auto
Isocyanate and Lift Inspection . . . . . . . . . 58
Technology Specific Training Courses . . . . 55
Celebration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
SCRS Corporate Member . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Newell’s of Decatur Certified by Assured
MSO Symposium Announces Advisory Board
Penney’s Auto Body in OH Consolidates
National Auto Body Council Executive Director,
Phillips - Tracy’s Collision Center in NE Shares
National Auto Body Council Launches Search
Search For Justice Continues in OH
NHTSA Ends Probe of Fatal Tesla Florida Crash . 4
Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
at Ravenna Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Insight About Building a Brand . . . . . . . . . 28
for 2017. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Chuck Sulkala, Announces Retirement . . . 67
Campaign For New Executive Director. . . . 43
Body Shop Owner’s Death . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
NHTSA Opens Ford Fusion and Mercury
Make-A-Wish in O’Fallon, IL . . . . . . . . . . . 27
PartsTrader and Nexsyis Integration Simplifies
March 2-5 in Overland Park, KS . . . . . . . . . 6
Refinish Distributors Alliance Adds
Fish House . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Snapshot of The Collision Repair Industry—
Repair Contest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Solera Holdings Inc. To Acquire Autodata . . . 47
Steve’s Auto Body Partners with
VISION Hi-Tech Training & Expo to be Held Volunteers Help Family Restore Stolen
Winners Shine at Waubonsee Auto Body
COLUMNISTS
Phillips - Correctional Facilities Across U.S.
Milan Investigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
the Workflow for Collision Repair Users . . 38
New Member . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Executive Summary of the 2016 Survey . . 52
Video Shows 2016’s Worst Red-Light
Runners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
YANG Calls for Hosts for 2017 Meet-Ups . . . 64
tive staff. The survey also offers statements from participants indicating that, in general, business in the automotive service sector was up in 2016, but hiring and retaining qualified techs remains a challenging issue. “Keeping up with the changes in the automotive service and collision repair industries is a full-time job these days,” said Tony Molla, ASA’s vice president. “The latest survey results only confirm that we are in a dynamic, technology-driven cycle that is changing the way business models are evolving, while reinforcing the need for qualified talent to continue building on the success our member shops report.” The report is broken down by the Mechanical sector and Collision sector. For additional information about ASA, including past media releases, go to www.ASAshop.org or visit ASA’s legislative website at www.TakingThe Hill.com.
Publisher & Editor: Jeremy Hayhurst General Manager: Barbara Davies Online Editor and Copywriter: Deana Cacus Contributing Writers: Tom Franklin, John Yoswick, Janet Chaney, Toby Chess, David Brown, Rich Evans, Ed Attanasio, Chasidy Sisk, David Luehr, Stacey Phillips, Victoria Antonelli Advertising Sales: Joe Momber, Sean Hartman, Bill Doyle, Norman Morano (800) 699-8251 Office Manager: Louise Tedesco Sales Assistant: Jessica Day Content/Social Media Specialist: Cass Heckel Art Director: Rodolfo Garcia Graphic Designer: Michelle Lucas
Index of Advertisers
Auto Repairers Tell Consumers Importance of
The Automotive Service Association’s (ASA) “How’s Your Business?” survey for 2016 is now available online. Designed to provide a snapshot of the automotive service and collision repair industry, the survey data captures how repair facilities fared last year in terms of sales, profits and other key elements of their daily business operations. All ASA-member shop owners in good standing were given the opportunity to complete the survey about their business operations in the first six months of 2016, and the information participants provided offers some surprising new developments in the industry since the survey was last taken in 2014. In addition, ASA updated the survey with questions in new categories that offer data covering hybrid vehicle service, emission-inspection programs and hours and types of training shops offer, including the amount of live vs. online training for owners, managers, technicians and administra-
Aerosol Refinish Solutions, LLC . . . 29 Audi Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . 58 Axalta Coating Systems . . . . . . . . . . 5 Blue Springs Ford . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 BMW Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . 63 Bob Hook Chevrolet . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 CarcoonAmerica Airflow Systems . 27 Certified Automotive Parts Association (CAPA). . . . . . . . . . . 33 Charles Gabus Ford . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 ChemSpec USA, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Chief Automotive. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Classic Chevrolet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 Classifieds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Courtesy Subaru. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 DJS Fabrications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Dominion Sure Seal, Ltd. . . . . . . . . 14 Eco Repair Systems of North America, LLC . . . . . . . . . . 19 ECS Automotive Concepts . . . . . . . 20 Equalizer Industries, Inc. . . . . . . . . 30 Erhard BMW of Bloomfield Hills . . . 43 Erhard BMW of Farmington Hills . . 43 Eurovac, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Ganley Westside Hyundai . . . . . . . 44 Ganley Westside Subaru . . . . . . . . 49 GM Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . . 65 GYS Welding USA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Herkules Equipment Corporation. . 20 Honda-Acura Wholesale Parts Dealers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34-35 Hyundai Wholesale Parts Dealers. . 54 Infiniti of Naperville . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 Insta Finish Car Care . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Jack Phelan Chrysler-Dodge-JeepRam of Countryside . . . . . . . . . . 25 Jake Sweeney Chevrolet . . . . . . . . 36 Kelly BMW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Kia of Des Moines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Serving Illinois, Iowa, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Wisconsin and adjacent metro areas. Autobody News is a monthly publication for the autobody industry. Permission to reproduce in any form the material published in Autobody News must be obtained in writing from the publisher. ©2017 Adamantine Media LLC.
Midwest
Contents
ASA’s “How’s Your Business?” Survey Results Online
Autobody News Box 1516, Carlsbad, CA 92018; (800) 699-8251 (760) 603-3229 Fax www.autobodynews.com / news@autobodynews.com
Kia Wholesale Parts Dealers. . . . . . 61 Killer Tools & Equipment. . . . . . . . . 41 Laurel Auto Group of Westmont . . . 57 Livonia Chrysler-Jeep . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Luther Bloomington Acura-Subaru. 46 Luther Hopkins Honda . . . . . . . . . . 32 Maplewood Toyota-Scion . . . . . . . . 38 Mazda Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . 60 Midwest Parts Group . . . . . . . . . 16-17 MINI Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . 62 Miracle System/Equipment Gateway, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Mirka Abrasives, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Mitsubishi Wholesale Parts Dealers . 64 MOPAR Wholesale Parts Dealers . . 37 Morrison’s Auto Parts . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Nissan/Infiniti Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Polyvance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 PPG . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Prima Welds, Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Richfield-Bloomington Honda . . . . 28 Russ Darrow Automotive Group. . . 31 SATA Dan-Am Company . . . . . . . . 21 Spanesi Americas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Subaru Wholesale Parts Dealers . . 55 The Sharpe Collection of Automobiles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Toyota of Des Moines . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Toyota of Grand Rapids . . . . . . . . . 54 Toyota Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . 58 Valspar Automotive . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 VanDevere Kia-GM . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 Volkswagen Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Wizards Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Yellow Jacket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Zimmer Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep-Ram . 68
www.autobodynews.com | FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS 3
New State Regulations Hold up IA Auto Dealership Approval by Jamee A. Pierson, Newton Daily News
Morris Motors will have to wait a little longer to open up shop in north Newton, IA. On the third and final reading of an ordinance change to allow auto sales within the neighborhood commercial district, it was brought to the attention of the Newton City Council verbiage within the change potentially did not align with a new state regulation. Earlier this year, the Planning and Zoning Commission reviewed a proposal by Morris Motors to amend the zoning code to allow auto sales as a conditional use with the neighborhood commercial or C-N district. The C-N district is a mixed use district that has residential and light commercial uses within it. City of Newton Planning and Zoning director Erin Chambers said the commission sees the district functioning as a buffer between heavier commercial zoning into primarily residential neighborhoods. In recent weeks, city staff has found when reviewing state requirements there is a conflict with the item listed as “facility for reconditioning and repairing motor vehicles. A motor vehicle dealer’s principal place of business shall include a facility for reconditioning and repairing motor vehicles. The
facility shall be an area that: is within a building.” “In order to obtain a dealer’s license from the Iowa DOT to sell motor vehicles, a number of requirements must be met,” Chambers said. “One of those requirements, as shown in the State Code Section is to have a space to be able to repair and recondition at least one vehicle on-site.”
Credit: Jamee A. Pierson/Daily News
Chambers said while it could be possible for an auto dealership to meet the requirements of both the newly proposed local ordinance and the state code by providing a repair space that isn’t ever used, she recommended and council agreed it would be better to review the proposed new language and determine if adjustments can be made to have new language that aligns with state regulations while still protecting
MSO Symposium Announces Advisory Board for 2017 The MSO Symposium has announced its 2017 Advisory Board following a meeting of industry executives and ASA staff and board members. This year’s Advisory Board members include: ● Paul Gange, Fix Auto, President & COO, Chair of MSO Symposium ● Marcy Tieger, Symphony Advisors, LLC., Principal ● Vince Romans, The Romans Group, Managing Partner & CEO ● Mike LeVasseur, ABRA Auto Body & Glass, Director of Corporate Development ● Dave Roberts, FOCUS Investment Banking, LLC., Managing Director ● Russell Thrall III, CollisionWeek, Publisher & Editor-In-Chief ● Scott Benavidez, Mr B’s Paint & Body Shop Inc., Owner ● Mark Sanders, Caliber Collision Centers, President & COO ● Darrell Amberson, LaMettry’s Collision, President of Operations ● Larry Siembab, CARSTAR, Sr. Director of Insurance Relations ● Tim O’Day, Gerber Collision & Glass, President & COO ● John Walcher, Veritas Advisors, Inc., President ● Roy Schnepper, Butlers Collision, President
● Joe Amodei, The Collision Centers, President ● Mike Anderson, Collision Advice, President ● Jim Keller, 1 Collision Network, President ● Bruce Bares, Certified Collision, CEO The 2017 MSO Symposium will take place during NACE Automechanika on Wednesday, July 26, in Chicago at the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place. This year’s symposium will offer insight on the latest trends, as well as new information for vital industry topics. The MSO Symposium will open with a private lunch followed by presentations and panels. The event will end with a private reception for attendees and sponsors. Executives representing MSOs, along with multilocation and single location collision repair executives, are invited to attend this closed meeting. The event is also open to property and casualty insurance company executives. Paul Gange, chairman of the committee, the master of ceremony and Fix Auto president & COO, said, “Similar to years past, this program is being developed with the guidance See MSO Symposium, Page 18
4 FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
the neighborhoods. Additional city criteria the dealership must follow includes: • The property upon which the auto sales uses must be at least .25 acres in size. • No auto body, auto maintenance or auto repair will be conducted on-site. • The subject property upon which the auto sales use is to be located shall have a residential use abutting no more than two property lines. • Operation shall be no later than 6 p.m. and no earlier than 7 a.m., only on Monday through Friday. • Parking area shall be asphalt or concrete, no gravel. • All lighting for the business shall not constitute a nuisance to the neighborhood and shall be downcast. • A transitional yard or privacy fence may be required to provide a buffer and screening to adjacent properties.
The planning and zoning commission along with city staff will continue to review the requirements and work towards allowing the business to fill the long-time vacant building. We thank Newton Daily News for reprint permission.
www.autobodynews.com
NHTSA Ends Probe of Fatal Tesla Florida Crash
The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has released its full findings following the investigation into last year’s fatal crash involving a driver’s use of Tesla’s semi-autonomous Autopilot feature. The report clears Tesla’s Autopilot system of any fault in the incident, and in fact at multiple points within the report praises its design in terms of safety, and highlights its impact on lowering the number of traffic incidents involving Tesla vehicles overall. NHTSA notes that crash rates involving Tesla cars have dropped by almost 40 percent since the wide introduction of Autopilot. It also notes that its investigation did not find any defects in the design or implementation of Tesla’s automatic emergency braking systems (AEB) or its Autopilot cruise features. The report also states that Tesla properly anticipated the potential for driver misuse in the design of Autopilot, studied those potential effects and incorporated it into the product’s final design before broad rollout. It’s essentially as good as result as Tesla can have hoped for from the U.S. traffic safety agency’s investigation.
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www.autobodynews.com | FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS 5
VISION Hi-Tech Training & Expo to be Held March 2-5 in Overland Park, KS
VISION Hi-Tech Training & Expo provides you with the opportunity to learn and network with leading shop owners, managers and technicians. The event will be held March 2-5, 2017 at the Overland Park Convention Center in Overland Park, KS. In 2016, over 3,500 automotive service professionals from 41 U.S.
states and Canada attended. Choose from nearly 80 cutting-edge management and technical training courses, including live-car and hands-on training. VISION also features a 60,000 squarefoot exhibit hall showcasing the latest tools, equipment and technology for today’s automotive service professional. Management Training This year’s event features 21 management training sessions designed to meet the needs of office personnel, service advisors, managers and owners. The lineup includes topics on sales, market-
ing, succession planning, customer service and more. Learn and network among the industry’s leading shop owners from across the country. Sessions fill quickly, so register soon! Technical Training VISION’s unique line-up features hands-on and live-car training for technicians. We’re offering 50 different courses this year, with topics covering a widerange of basic to advanced needs including: labscopes, electrical, driveability, GDI, diesel, hybrids, import, module programming, TPMS, ignition systems, air conditioning, alignments and more.
Educator Think Tank Educator-specific training is conducted by leading industry experts and educators presenting today’s innovative teaching methods and cutting-edge technology. Join our panel discussion, where we will share ideas and practices that have made programs successful. Discuss shared challenges as we work together to strengthen the future of our industry. Register at www.visionkc.com.
IL Auto Body Shop Says Former Employee Failed to Exhaust Administrative Remedies in Pregnancy Discrimination Suit
by Heather Isringhausen Gvillo, Madison-St. Clair Record
An auto body shop alleges a former employee failed to exhaust her administrative remedies before filing a lawsuit alleging she was discriminated against due to her pregnancy. Ashley Klaus filed a lawsuit on September 7 against Cross Auto Body & Towing Inc., alleging violation of the Illinois Human Rights Act. According to the complaint, Klaus claims she was terminated from her job as a secretary and office worker in December 2014 while she was on maternity leave. Her baby was born November 15, 2014. She claims the defendant’s actions caused her to suffer damages, including lost wages and benefits, humiliation, embarrassment and emotional distress. Klaus alleges the defendant subjected her to sexual and pregnancy discrimination, retaliation and unlawful termination. Cross Auto Body filed a motion to dismiss the complaint on December 19 through attorneys Christopher Byron and Christopher Petri of Byron Carlson Petri & Kalb LLC in Edwardsville.
The defendant argues that the plaintiff failed to exhaust her administrative remedies prior to filing the lawsuit and that the defendant is not an employer as defined under the Illinois Human Rights Act. “Ultimately, prior to filing a complaint in circuit court, a complaint must receive a right to sue letter from the Illinois Human Rights Department,” the motion states. “Plaintiff’s failure to adhere to and exhaust her administrative remedies is fatal to her Complaint and as such it should be dismissed,” it continues. Cross Auto Body also explains that it is not an employer as defined under the act because “from 2009 until the present, Defendant did not have 15 employees for 20 weeks during any calendar year.” The defendant further argues that the case should be dismissed because the court lacks jurisdiction over the subject matter. Klaus seeks a judgment in her favor of more than $75,000, plus attorney’s fees, court costs and expenses. She is represented by Lee W. Barron of Alton. We thank Madison-St. Clair Record for reprint permission.
6 FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
AASP-MN Supports Student Scholarships
The Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of Minnesota (AASP-MN) recently raised over $9,000 during its 2017 fundraising campaign to support the AASP-MN Automotive Education Fund. The majority of that money was raised at the Association’s 15th annual Race for Automotive Education, held January 10th and 11th at ProKart Indoors, Burnsville, and will fund scholarships for automotive students enrolled in NATEF-certified mechanical and collision repair programs in Minnesota. During the course of the twonight event, 120 racers tore up the track in state-of-the-art European karts, reaching speeds of nearly 40 miles per hour. Many fans and spectators were also on hand to cheer their teams on. 24 teams of mechanical and collision repair shops and industry suppliers were represented and the competition was fierce. Trophies were awarded to the 1st place and runner-up teams. They were: Tuesday, January 10th 1st Place – St. Anthony Mobil, St. Anthony Runner-Up – Hopkins Auto Body Team #1, Hopkins Wednesday, January 11th
1st Place – LaMettry’s Collision Team #1, Richfield Runner-Up – aaa Auto Parts Team #1, Rosemount
“Members use this event as an opportunity for team-building, and at the same time raise money for a very worthy cause,” said Judell Anderson, AASP-MN executive director. “Everybody had a blast!” In addition to the 24 race teams, the event was supported by the following sponsors: • Autoshop Solutions • Auto Value Parts Stores/APH • CBIZ AiA • Finishmaster • P.P.G. Automotive Refinish • Peter’s Body Shop
The Automotive Education Fund was established in 2002 to provide financial resources to support automotive students, enhance automotive programs and raise awareness of career opportunities in the automotive service industry. Since its inception, nearly $190,000 has been distributed directly to students enrolled in automotive programs through the association’s scholarship program and Skills USA participation.
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www.autobodynews.com | FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS 7
Newell’s of Decatur Certified by Assured Performance by Herald & Review
Newell’s Auto Body has been certified by Assured Performance, a non-profit consumer advocacy organization, for maintaining the right tools, equipment, training and facility necessary to repair the participating automaker brand vehicles according to the manufacturer’s specifications. In achieving the certification, Newell’s Auto Body is now an integral part of the most advanced repair capable and efficient auto body repair network in the world. Newell’s Auto Body is officially recognized by Assured Performance, GM, FCA, Ford, and Hyundai. To become certified and officially recognized by the various automakers, Newell’s Auto Body passed the rigorous certification process essential to help ensure a proper and safe repair of the new generation of advanced vehicles. Less than 5 percent of body shops across the nation are able to meet the stringent requirements to become officially certified and recognized. The certified network is made up exclusively of best-in-class collision repair busi-
nesses that have met or exceeded the stringent requirements of the certification program. “We’ve worked hard to stay ahead of the curve in the collision repair industry,” said Todd Newell, owner of Newell’s Auto Body. “This official certification demonstrates that commitment to our customers. We take pride in our highly trained technicians who use the latest tools and equipment to deliver a top quality repair and the best customer service.” The certification criteria is based upon auto manufacturer requirements. These are critical to ensure the vehicle fit, finish, durability, value and safety following an accident. Scott Biggs, CEO of Assured Performance Collision Care stated, “They represent the standard by which all other body shops are measured.” Newell’s Auto Body is proud to serve Decatur and surrounding communities and remains committed to leading the collision industry and producing safe, quality repairs to all makes and models of vehicle. Stop by Newell’s Auto Body at 996 W. Harrison Ave. or go to www.newellsautobody.com. We thank Herald & Review for reprint permission.
8 FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
Countdown Beginnings for 2017 Midwest Auto Body Trade Show
“Focus On The Future II” is the commitment of the 2017 Midwest Auto Body Trade Show. Training and communication is paramount to the future of every collision repairer and the Midwest Auto Body Trade Show offers the opportunity for repairers to network with key decision makers, share business ideas with colleagues and gain an advantage moving forward. The annual event brings back popular venues and offers new programs:
Friday February 3rd Collision Repair Education Foundation Student Education Day. Meet the students – look for potential hires for your business. “Up To Date Manufacturer’s Recommendations, Repair Processes, Pre and Post Scan, Certification” Panel discussion with industry experts moderated by Lou Di’Lisio. “What is Right For Your Shop?”
Free
- Panel discussion with industry experts moderated by Lou Di’Lisio. “Comprehensive Cycle Time Reduction Strategy” - Lee Rush.
Saturday February 4th Education Break Out Sessions - ICAR, Social Media “It’s the Rage,” Adhesives and Plastic Welding Repair. “THERE IS NO FREE LUNCH” Midwest Auto Body Trade Show - Door Prizes, Product Demonstrations, Show Specials, Community College Refinish Contest, New Car Model. The Midwest Auto Body Trade Show will be held at the Prairie Meadows Racetrack & Casino on February 3 and 4. Register here. Sign ups start January 1, 2017. Click here for more information. The event is sponsored by the Iowa Collision Repair Association (ICRA). The Midwest Auto Body Trade Show is open to the public.
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Auto Body Shop in KS on A Rapid Growth Path by David Dinell/Informer
The sign at 910 N. Nelson Drive says “Auto Masters,” and while that’s the business’ working name, the venture has been owned since August by Oklahoma City-based Collision Works, a rapidly expanding auto body and service enterprise. Collision Works has bought Auto Masters’ operation east of Baltimore, which is centered on collision repair. No price was disclosed on the transaction, which also included two Wichita locations, 1636 E. First and 2222 N. Hoover. Auto Masters operations on the west side of Baltimore are still owned and operated by local businessman Larry Greider. Those operations deal with service and vehicle sales. The purchase is Collision Works’ initial one into the Kansas market. The acquisition also includes a service center, associated with the northwest location, as well an auto glass company and a towing service. But expect more, said Sherri Penka, the company’s community relations director, as officials are looking at adding a fourth location when demand warrants it.
That site will be in east Wichita. Collision Works was founded in 1996 in Oklahoma City and is owned by Jacob Nossaman. Until the Wichita-area move, all of his expansion was in Oklahoma.
Also in 2016, the business entered the Tulsa metro market with its Broken Arrow body shop, which opened in late spring, and it just recently expanded with another Tulsa outlet.
Customer service emphasis Collision Works also expanded its share of the Oklahoma City market with its purchase of Dyer’s Collision & Frame Repair. Penka said the growth is prudent and careful and lays the foundation for a solid business focused on customer service. Penka credits satisfied clients for much of the recent growth. The company places a lot of emTechnician Bob Notz works on a bumper in the Derby phasis on its customers, she said, Auto Masters body shop. Segments of Auto Masters and in that regard, is working to use have been purchased by Collision Works of Oklahoma, technology to update them on how which plans to expand its presence in the area their repair is going, including sendAfter a decade of business, a sec- ing text messages. ond store opened in Shawnee in 2006 “We’re here to make the process and in 2013, a third location opened in easier for the customer,” she said. Norman. The company also works to be Two more stores were added in part of its communities, she said. 2014 when Collision Works acquired “That’s something that we really Darrin’s in Newcastle and opened up a enjoy – being involved,” she said. new shop facility in Edmond. The fol- “We’re excited to be part of the Derby lowing year, it acquired Duvak’s Col- community.” lision Center in Ardmore, bringing the In that regard, shortly after the purnumber of business locations to six. chase closed, it took part in the Derby
Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Chili Cookoff and now is undertaking a toy drive. “We support a lot of local charities,” she said. Collision Works does some service and commercial work, but the bulk of its business is working with insurance companies and their clients on accident repairs. The operation has about 20 employees and all have been retained. That group includes longtime manager Tim Mark, who has been with Auto Masters for 20 years, along with numerous employees, such as technician Bob Notz, who has been with the business for 17 years. There may be additional jobs in the future. “We are always accepting applications for employment,” Penka said. “If anyone has any interest we’ll be glad to speak with them.” Penka said even with the expansion the company works to retain its family ownership heritage and local feel. “Many of our customers, especially in the Derby area, like to deal with independent people rather than the big chains,” she said. We thank Derby Informer for reprint permission.
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Winners Shine at Waubonsee Auto Body Repair Contest
Continued from Cover
Body Shop Murder
red sweatshirt with a covering over his face. He was seen on surveillance video going in and out of the business. “Times get tough for people, but I don’t have any good explanation to why anybody would want to take his life,” said Leach’s son Randy Leach, who now owns the auto shop. In the year since the robbery, a lot has changed at the shop. “We basically had to remodel. I had to repaint everything and hang all new pictures and just change the look because it was just very depressing in the very beginning to come in every day with everything the same,” Leach told FOX19 NOW. But one year later, what hasn’t changed is a hunger for answers, and a search for justice for the man known as “Papa” Joe Leach. “Justice is going to be served one way or the other. Whether it happens now or when they meet their maker, there’s going to be justice for what happened,” Leach said. There is a $5,000 reward available for information in the case. We thank www.fox19.com for permission to reprint their story.
With a host of auto body sponsors and repair shop owners serving as judges, the Waubonsee Community College Auto Body Repair program in Chicago, IL hosted its annual hood painting competition.
Record of Success Waubonsee Auto Body Repair Program instructor Andrew MacDonald has been highly successful in producing students with the highest skills in the industry. 23 of his students over the last decade have earned top three placements in statelevel SkillsUSA painting competitions. Three of his students have gone on to place in the top three at the national level, with one national champion. The judging was intense as each of the twenty-plus Winners of the Waubonsee Auto Body Repair Contest hoods prepared by WaubonEvery student in the class was see students was checked by profesgiven a section of auto hood to repair. sional judges for the merest flaws in The students took the surfaces from paint surface and shine. MacDonald reraw metal to full auto body sheen. As viewed the rules used by the judges for student Ricky Rossa described, “That the competition. “There can be no haze process involves multiple sessions of or frostiness. We’re looking for even wet sanding to remove grit and scrapes color. No mottling. All those factors in the metal. Then comes primer, sur- must be gone,” he explained. facer, 400-grit sandpaper, sealing, color The top three winners in 2016 all application and then clear coat.” got an early holiday gift of new mateEach step is crucial to the devel- rials and painting supplies provided opment of an auto body surface that is by sponsors such as Spanesi, a global free from defects such as mottled paint auto collision repair company whose or a condition called “orange peel” that managing director, Tim Morgan, was looks like the surface of that fruit in the present to judge and contribute to the paint finish. competition. “Waubonsee is where it
IA Body Shops Busy After Snowy Weekend
by Shirley Descorbeth, KWWL
After a snowy mid-December weekend, many drivers are going to auto body shops in hopes of repairing their cars.
Credit: KWWL
“We’ve had a zoo this morning because of the collisions over the weekend,” said Dan Steffens, owner of Toys Done Right Body Shop in Dubuque, IA. They’re taking care of several damaged cars. “Slid in the ditch, got
rear-ended, rear-ended someone, roads were slick, couldn’t get stopped....as one nurse told me, ‘We’re doing triage,’” said Steffens. The slick roads and drifting snow caused some authorities to issue travel advisories warning people not to drive. Some didn’t take heed of that precaution. One of the cars has front end damage. The owner is still waiting on an estimate, but it’ll probably set them back about $5,000. “Probably will be totaled. It doesn’t look like much damage but there’s a lot of structural integrity problems that have to be fixed properly,” Steffens said. The owner there tells me his number one advice for drivers during this weather is to get winter tires. We thank KWWL for reprint permission.
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starts for students,” he stated during the competition. “In fact, it’s where it really starts for the collision industry. There’s not enough technicians today to fill the needs of today’s body shops.”
Job networking Waubonsee students were able to network for jobs with local body shop representatives who were present to judge the competition. The winners were thrilled to have earned the distinction of best in class. First place was earned by a student from Aurora, Ronaldo Castanon, who stated before the competition, “I like to challenge myself,” as he had chosen a dark paint color that is much harder to paint perfectly on an auto body surface. Fellow winners were Ryan Sudduth and Daniel Warren in second and third place respectively. Waubonsee’s auto body repair program is approved by the Illinois Community College Board and certified by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF). It is taught in accordance with National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) standards and follows I-CAR guidelines.
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Coachwork Auto Body Under New Ownership After More Than 3 Decades Held said. “And we’ve kept in touch ever since many times through our After more than 35 years, Coachwork interest in racing at the Slinger Super Auto Body has new owners. Speedway.” In September, Mike Held and Held competes in the limited late Jason Lisko took over ownership of model division at Slinger while Pat the business at 5709 Highway 33 from McIntee races in the super late model Pat and Patricia McIntee. division. Held had owned Held Auto Body in Hartford and Lisko was still working in the auto body repair business, but they talked and decided to approach the McIntees about possibly purchasing the couple’s longtime Allenton business. “We heard they were considering retirement,” Lisko said. “We started talking with them and after a little less than two years we were able Owners Jason Lisko, left, and Mike Held stand in the garage to work it all out.” as vehicles are washed Tuesday morning at Coachwork Auto Pat McIntee, 66, Body in the town of Addison. Credit:John Ehlke/Daily News said he and his wife deHeld and Lisko have been friends cided it was time to sell the business since their Slinger High School days and take some time for themselves. and have a broad background in the “Then we had these two approach auto body repair business. us and we’re happy we could complete “I worked for a couple of years a deal,” Pat said. “We started the busifor Pat and Patricia early in my life,” ness in 1980 in the old brewery buildby Joe Vandelaarschot, Daily News
ing in downtown West Bend and about tell us they had great success and contwo or three years later we bought the fidence in working with the previous land for the business’s present location owners and we want to continue that and moved there in late 1982 or early relationship so customers will con1983.” tinue coming back,” Held said. Lisko and Held said the McIntees built a great and successful business, but now they want to take it another step. “We’re remodeling the building’s interior to help the process flow better and we are making upgrades in technology,” Held said. “We’re going to create a Facebook page and we’ll upgrade the website too. There are new processes and procedures as well as new Shawn Pritchard with Pritchard Home Improvement equipment that will help us.” works on remodeling the inside of Coachwork Auto Lisko said the McIntees’ Body on Tuesday morning in the town of Addison. business had gained a reputation Credit:John Ehlke/Daily News of doing quality work and backing up what they did and what they Pat said he wishes Held and Lisko sold. all the luck in the world. Meanwhile, “We’re going to continue that tra- he and his wife will savor their time in dition,” Lisko said. “I think Pat and retirement. Patricia felt good about selling to us. I “I sold my race car, but I have two think they are confident we’ll not let vintage race cars that I plan on restorthem down and will continue to oper- ing and possibly racing them,” Pat said. ate with their reputation in mind.” Held and Lisko have kept the We thank Daily News for reprint same employees and look to build upon permission. the accomplishments of the McIntees. “We’ve had customers come in
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GM to Start Autonomous Vehicle Manufacturing and Testing in Michigan On the heels of the signing of the SAVE Act legislation to support autonomous vehicle testing and deployment in Michigan, General Motors will immediately begin testing autonomous vehicles on public roads. GM also announced it will produce the next generation of its autonomous test vehicles at its Orion Township assembly plant beginning in early 2017. “Revolutionizing transportation for our customers while improving safety on roads is the goal of our autonomous vehicle technology, and today’s announcement gets us one step closer to making this vision a reality,” said General Motors Chairman and CEO Mary Barra. “Our autonomous technology will be reliable and safe, as customers have come to expect from any of our vehicles.” Testing is already underway on GM’s Technical Center campus in Warren, Michigan, and with the passage of the SAVE Act legislation will now expand to public roads on the facility’s outskirts. Within the next few months, testing will expand to metro Detroit, which will become GM’s main location for development of autonomous technology in winter climates. Workers at the Orion Township assembly plant will build test fleet
Bolt EVs equipped with fully autonomous technology. The plant currently manufactures the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Sonic. The new equipment will include LIDAR, cameras, sensors and other hardware designed to ensure system safety, leveraging GM’s proven manufacturing quality standards. The test fleet vehicles will be used by GM engineers for continued testing and validation of GM’s autonomous technology already underway on public roads in San Francisco and Scottsdale, Arizona, as well as part of the Michigan testing fleet. Since the beginning of 2016, GM has taken significant steps in its development of autonomous vehicle technology. In January, the company announced the formation of a dedicated autonomous vehicle engineering team and a $500 million investment in Lyft to develop an integrated network of on-demand autonomous vehicles in the U.S. In June, GM began testing autonomous Chevrolet Bolt EVs on the public roads in San Francisco and Scottsdale. The company has more than 40 autonomous vehicles testing in the two cities. For more information, visit www .gm.com.
14 FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
Auto Repairers Tell Consumers Importance of Cleaning Cars After Ice and Snow Storms by Jalyn Souchek, KWWL-TV
An Iowa City auto body shop owner says it’s important to clean cars immediately following storms that salt or brine are used on. If not, you run the risk of allowing that to corrode its metal. “You see that white powder after snowstorms that collects on the underside of the car can start corrosion on the exhaust system, break line,” said Chuck Smith, owner of Chuck Smith Body Shop in Iowa City. He says just by washing the car afterwards with water, taking special detail to the underneath portion where metal is more exposed, can prevent future rusting. Otherwise, bigger problems can happen.
“The biggest safety issue is having the salt sit on break lines because they are metal and they are corrosive so if you lose break fluids through break lines, that’s very dangerous,” he said. This is a problem he sees frequently, and that particulary affects drivers in the Midwest. “Rust is a real problem on cars,” Smith said. “We’re in the area of the United States called the rust belt and then when you add salt to that it becomes real acidic.” Once rust develops, there is no easy fix. He says what’s rusted must be replaced, which can be even more expensive. We thank KWWL-TV for reprint permission.
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Penney’s Auto Body in OH Consolidates at Ravenna Shop by Estelle R. Brown, weeklyvillager.com
A family business that has served Garrettsville for nearly 40 years is consolidating its talent and resources in Ravenna, effective January 1, 2017. Penney’s Auto & Truck Body Inc. has provided collision repair at 11878 Mills Rd. in Garrettsville since it was established in 1978. Now, according to co-owner Matt Penney — who operates the business with his brother Mark, sister Nancy Roharik, nephew Scott Ashburn and additional loyal employees — “New car technology requires more equipment and extensive technician training to ensure proper repairs for our customers. Our shops have been so busy and it’s hard to find qualified help. So moving our resources to a single location was the logical step to take.” Consequently, the Garrettsville operation will move to Penney’s 9,000square-foot Ravenna location, which has operated from 3486 OH-59 since 1989. Penney expressed appreciation for the trust Garrettsville customers have shown over the past 38 years for repairing their vehicles to pre-accident condition and OEM safety standards. He added that Garrettsville customers may
lose some convenience but will benefit from a better-equipped workshop at the Ravenna location, which translates to faster repair times. “Our philosophy always has been to do a quality repair,” Penney said. “That’s our utmost priority. We don’t just do a nice paint job everyone can see, but
Credit: weeklyvillager.com
we repair the stuff underneath that you can’t see, to make sure it’s safe when you get your car back from the shop.” Penney’s technicians are trained and certified by the ASE, I-Car, and PPG Industries to provide exceptional service. Penney’s also is active in the community, supporting various organizations, such as local fairs and fundraisers, children’s athletics, school dances and athletics, police and firefighters,
Center of Hope, Ravenna Salvation Army, Big Brothers & Sisters, and Special Olympics. Penney wanted to credit his parents, Robert and Nancy, who helped him get started in the family business. The strengths of the family-owned and-operated business are exemplified in the company’s high rate of customer satisfaction, excellent relationships with local insurance companies, and collision service to the fleet of Portage County vehicles as authorized by the Board of Commissioners. As the company website explains, “It is a direct result of the integrity and quality of service Penney’s has adhered to over the years.” In addition to collision repair (realignment, body work and paint finish), Penney’s offers general automotive repair (wheel alignment, exhaust system and glass repair and replacement). Penney’s Auto Body, Inc. is open for service in Ravenna on Monday through Friday, 8 am-5pm; and Saturdays, 9am-noon. It can be reached by phone at (330) 297-5791or online at penneysautobody.com. We thank weeklyvillager.com for reprint permission.
Indiana Auto Body Association (IABA) Executive Director Tony Passwater Resigns Tony Passwater has stepped down from his position as the director of the Indiana Auto Body Association (IABA). On January 5, Passwater let the board know that he was going to resign. According to the Association, Passwater was instrumental in getting the IABA afloat in 2005, starting in the Indianapolis area. For the past 12 years, he helped grow the IABA to spread across the state. The Board would like to thank him for all of his hard work and dedication to the collision repair industry and wish him the very best in his future endeavTony Passwater ors. Passwater file photo and the Board are working closely for a smooth transition. The Board of Directors would also like existing and perspective members to know that the IABA will continue to operate.
www.autobodynews.com | FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS 15
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16 FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
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www.autobodynews.com | FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS 17
Volunteers Help Family Restore Stolen Fish House For the Wiebe family it was no ordinary ice fishing house. ST. CLOUD, Minn. - When you think “This was very special fish house auto body shop, warm fuzzes are not that cannot be replaced,” said Chris’s what usually come to mind. wife Meghan. She explained it had Chris Wiebe, will now tell you been built by her dad, Dennis Arndt, otherwise. “It really is heartwarming,” before his death - a year before from a he said as he watched employees work brain tumor. inside Miller’s Auto Body in St. Cloud. “He built it with these guys in He added, “It starts to reassure you that mind. And taking them out fishing,” said Chris as he pointed at his three young sons. Meghan’s plea on Facebook for the fish house’s return got shared more than 8,000 times. One of those shares resulted in a tip to the Stearns County Sheriff’s Department. Deputies found the ice house on private property near Clearwater. The thief had already spray painted it blue and stripped the ice house of its conVolunteers from Miller’s Auto Body repainted a stolen tents. ice house At the time, the Wiebes there are a lot of good people that are told KARE 11 they were going to paint out there.” it red again, just like Dennis wanted it. Back in December, KARE 11 An employee at Miller’s auto shared the story of how a not so good body watched that report. person had stolen the Wiebe family’s “We heard the story about the red fish house. fish house, we thought there was a by AJ Lagoe, KARE 11
Hedahls Auto Parts Store Has Been Sold by Jessica Holdman, Bismarck Tribune
Longtime Bismarck, ND auto parts store Hedahls has been sold to Automotive Parts Headquarters Inc. “As we looked at the future for Hedahls, we recognized APH as a natural fit to continue our growth,” CEO Dick Hedahl said in a statement. “The APH team has a strong culture, and we
From left are Dick Hedahl, president and CEO of Hedahls; John Bartlett, executive chairman of APH; Corey Bartlett, president and CEO of APH; and Larry Lysengen, COO of Hedahls
share the same values and focus on taking care of customers and employees. Additionally, the APH team has the experience and resources available to provide great opportunities for our team and great solutions for our customers.” Hedahls, which opened in 1906, has 22 branch locations in four states — North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota and Montana. Those locations will be renamed Hedahls Auto Value. The sale includes NEMAC Warehouse and BENCO Equipment Co. APH is a family-owned auto
parts distributor based in St. Cloud, MN. This deal brings APH’s corporate store count to 121. The company already has seven locations in North Dakota, mostly on the eastern edge of the state. APH CEO Cory Bartlett said his company has had a working relationship with Hedahls for decades and, when Hedahls started “looking for a plan to transition,” APH was able to step in. Bartlett said the deal officially closes Friday, January 13. Services will be the same with additions of new product lines and technologies. Hedahls employees will keep their jobs under the new ownership and wages and benefits will remain similar. “We’re excited about it because Hedahls has built an impressive team over the years,” Bartlett said. Main Street Tire was not part of the deal, however, and the shop will be closed, leaving its three employees without work, manager Brandon Jensen said. Jensen, who has worked at Main Street Tire for five years, said it was upsetting to only get a two-day notice of the closing, leaving himself and his co-workers in difficult situations with little time to find new jobs. We thank Bismarck Tribune for reprint permission.
18 FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
way we could help out,” said Manger, Nick Sundby. Twelve body shop employees volunteered to come in on a Saturday and give of their time and talents to restore the Wiebe’s fish house. “Being a family heirloom, hand built by their grandfather, we have a lot of sportsmen and sportswomen at the shop,” said Sundby, “So we took to this story.” “We all jumped on board and here we are today doing it,” said Lance Kayser as he prepped the fish house. “I’ve never painted a fish house before,” Scott Denman told KARE 11 as he sprayed on what just might be the highest end finish to a grace a fish house on a Minnesota lake. “No more blue!” Exclaimed Meghan as the family watched the transformation. “It looks better than it did before doesn’t it,” she asked one her sons? “Yes,” he replied. “It’s back to the way grandpa wanted it,” she told him. We thank KARE 11 for reprint permission.
Continued from Page 4
MSO Symposium
and direction from the leadership in the industry. The Advisory Board is instrumental in ensuring that the content and speakers reflect the things attendees what and need to hear.” Marcy Tieger, principal, Symphony Advisors, will once again moderate the Insurer Panel. “The MSO Symposium is unique because of the environment it creates,” said Tieger. “Often times, insurers are reluctant to participate on panels and attend collision repair driven events. The Symposium allows insurers an opportunity to not only share insightful information, but interact with attendees in a professional environment where information and dialogue is welcomed and encouraged.” All insurers are welcome and encouraged to attend the MSO Symposium. The first Advisory Board meeting this year focused on content for the Symposium, and members discussed what topics are most relevant to the multi-shop owner today. Topics discussed include: collision industry economics and trends; advanced automotive technology (what repairers need to do today and in the future to See MSO Symposium, Page 23
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Auto Body Shop Catches Fire in Newport, KY
A fire broke out at Collins Auto Body at 200 Licking Pike in Newport, KY on the morning of January 5.
The fire was reportedly in the upper floor of the body shop. Firefighters were cautious due to structural integrity. No one should have been inside the building at the time according to the owner. The fire is under investigation. We thank WKRC for reprint permission.
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Gateway’s Transportation Technology Center Officially Opens The much-anticipated official grand opening of the Gateway Community & Technical College Transportation Technology Center in Florence, KY took place on December 7 with an open house and ribbon cutting ceremony. “This is much more than just a building. It is really an economic de-
Gateway Transportation Technologies Center
velopment tool,” said Ken Paul, chair of the Gateway Board of Directors. “Anybody can walk through that front door, unexperienced, with no skills and walk back out as an auto technician, a diesel technician, collision repair technician, truck driver, or even get hired by Ford.” Industry partners, city, county and
20 FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
state officials, Gateway leadership, students, faculty and staff celebrated the opening of the Transportation Technology Center at 1051 Dudley Road in Fort Wright. This location is part of Gateway’s Urban Metro Campus. “We are so pleased to offer our students this state-of-the-art, real-world classroom,” said Dr. Fernando Fi-
gueroa, Gateway president. “This facility offers one of many opportunities at Gateway to find your talents and express them while making a great living.” This 33,291 square foot facility is home to Gateway’s Automotive Technology, Ford Asset, Collision Repair, Diesel Technology and Commercial
Drivers Licensing (CDL) programs. “The students are working in the exact same environment here as they would out in the field,” said Sam Collier, Dean of Transportation Technologies. “We are giving them a true experience.” Students like Nicholas Sturgil are very excited to learn in classrooms set up much like the dealerships he hopes to work for some day. “Dealerships are always looking for good technicians with experience in the latest technology in today’s vehicles,” said Rick Elliott, Technical Support Operations Manager for Ford Motor Company. “There’s never been a better time to consider a career as an automotive service technician.” The impact of the programs housed in this new facility was best expressed by Shannon Hart, a Gateway graduate. “They taught me to be an employee that my company can’t do without,” Hart said. “I went from making $9 an hour to making $60,000 a year and that is all because of this program and Gateway’s instructors.” Gateway classes began Jan. 9. For more information about Gateway’s Transportation Technologies programs, contact sam.collier@kctcs.edu or call (859) 442-1146.
www.autobodynews.com | FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS 21
22 FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
Gobel’s Collision in West Plains, MO, Gets Assured Performance Certification by West Plains Daily Quill Staff
Gobel’s Collision Repair, Inc. of West Plains, MO has been officially certified by Assured Performance, a non-profit consumer advocacy organization for maintaining the right tools, equipment, training, and facility necessary to repair the participating Automaker brand vehicles according to the manufacturer’s specifications. In achieving their certification, Gobel’s Collision Repair, Inc. is now an integral part of the most advanced repair capable and efficient auto body repair network in the world. Adding to the their credentials, Gobel’s Collision Repair, Inc. is officially recognized by Assured Performance, FCA, GM, Nissan, and Hyundai. To become certified and officially recognized by the various automakers, Gobel’s Collision Repair, Inc. passed the rigorous certification process essential to help ensure a proper and safe repair of the new generation of advanced vehicles. Less than 5 percent of body shops across the nation are able to meet the stringent requirements to become officially certified and recognized. The certified network is made up exclusively of best-in-class collision repair
businesses that have met or exceeded the stringent requirements of the certification program. According to Gobel’s Collision Repair, Inc. Owner, Todd Gobel, “This certification supports our reputation for superior customer service serving our community. We are your neighbors and friends, so it is important to provide our customers with the peace of mind that their vehicles are being repaired correctly by highly trained professionals that care about them.” The certification criteria is based upon auto manufacturer requirements. These are critical to ensure the vehicle fit, finish, durability, value and safety following an accident. As new model vehicles are being introduced that use light weight high strength materials and advanced technology, a proper repair according to manufacturer specification is even more important than ever to ensure the passenger safety and proper performance of the vehicle. Auto manufacturers want to ensure that consumers have the option of certified collision repair wherever they live, work, or travel. “Consumers need the confidence and peace of mind to know their vehicle is repaired by a shop that has what
it takes to ensure the vehicle safety. Gobel’s Collision Repair, Inc. is officially a Collision Care Provider,” said Scott Biggs, CEO of Assured Performance Collision Care. About Assured Performance Network: Assured Performance Network™ is a non-profit consumer advocacy organization specializing in the automotive collision repair market segment. Assured Performance works with the top automakers to identify, audit and promote collision repair providers that meet best-inclass business standards and the manufacturer’s requirements. Consumers can go to: www.assuredperformance .net or www.autobodylocator.com to find a list of certified collision repair providers. We thank West Plains Daily Quill for reprint permission.
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Continued from Page 18
MSO Symposium
be prepared to repair vehicles); preand post-scanning specific to cost, staffing, tooling and operational best practices; training, retaining and hiring employees; industry consolidation; insurance panel; new political regime and the government’s potential effect on the industry and more. Dan Risley, ASA president and executive director, said, “This is the only event that is exclusive to MSOs and the strongest independent operators in the collision repair industry. The Advisory Board has made a huge impact in developing content relative to the needs of these leaders. Some businesses are preparing for expansion through growth or acquisition, while others are preparing for merger or divestiture. The symposium will provide insight on these top companies and their respective leadership through the sharing of knowledge, experience and information essential to understanding market conditions and preparing for the future.” Registration for the MSO Symposium will open soon at www .NACEAutomechanika.com along with all other events taking place during NACE Automechanika in Chicago, July 24-29, 2017.
www.autobodynews.com | FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS 23
Alpena Community College in MI Examining Future of Auto Body Program
Jordan Spence, The Alpena News
Alpena Community College officials continue to look into if, and how, they should reinstate the auto body repair program. “In the fall, we had one or two students. We had to suspend the program. We continue to investigate to see if the program is viable,” Vice President of Academic and Student Affairs Kathy Marsh said. She said she and instructor Chris Lubiato met with industry partners to discover their opinions about the program. “They were very insistent ACC needs to reinstate the program,” she said. “They suggested to break up the
program into individual courses. The second thing we did is looked at the job market for automobile body repair.” She said studies have suggested a 9.2 percent increase in jobs in the auto body field. “Next, I pulled the graduate follow-up to see how many (former students) are working,” she said. From 2011 to the present, there were six students in the program and only two or three have acquired jobs, she said. She said this may be because they weren’t in the program to have a career. She said she and Lubiato visited Washtenaw, Oakland and Lansing community colleges because they have similar programs.
“Washtenaw is considered the premier auto body program,” Marsh said. “But they’re on the verge of closing the program because they’re not training the technicians to what the auto industry wants.” She said Washtenaw’s focus is mainly on customization of cars. “Oakland and Lansing have fairly good programs. But they have afternoon and evening programs. That might be the direction we need to go,” Marsh said. She has asked Lubiato to revise the program. She suggested breaking the program into different courses such as painting 101, painting 102 and so on. If the courses are done in this way, it will
Moran Chevrolet in Clinton Township, MI, has New Collision Center cident repairs and body work to restoration and auto glass repair in the 27,000 Moran Chevrolet has a new state of the square foot facility, which opened on art collision center that strives to be a Dec. 19. comfortable place, not only for those The building was completely rewho need to have work done on their done to fit their needs, including state of the art paint booths which use PPG Waterborne Technology. This form of water based painting offers not only the chance to match paint perfectly down to the desired color or even the original factory paint job, but is also safer for the workers using it and the environment. Four dust free spray booths that are environmentally friendly “That’s what I was strivare located in the facility. Credit: Ray Skowronek, The ing for with the collision cenMacomb Daily ter, making it a better place, cars, but also for those employees doing not only for the people needing or wantthe work. Located at 43774 North Gra- ing to take advantage of the services we tiot in Clinton Township, the center can can provide, but also for the workers take care of anything ranging from ac- and even for the environment,” said Pat by Erica Stark, The Macomb Daily
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11th Circuit Refuses
there is reason to believe that at least one of the other appeals may also be in procedural jeopardy. Specifically, in the Alpine Straightening Systems v. State Farm, et al. appeal, appellants (represented by the same counsel as the Parker plaintiffs) failed to file their Appendix in that matter on a timely basis as well. To date, no action has been taken by the Court in that action. While the dismissal of the Parker case is certainly welcome news for insurers (as would be a dismissal of the Alpine Straightening case, should it occur), these developments do not yet
bring the In re Auto Body Antitrust Litigation to a close. As noted above, there are several other appeals also currently before the Eleventh Circuit, some of which do not appear to suffer from the same types of procedural defects identified by the Court in Parker. So, at least for now, at least some auto body shops may yet get their opportunity to have the Eleventh Circuit address Judge Presnell’s rulings on the merits. Stay tuned. See previous analysis by same authors at http://www.jdsupra.com/ legalnews/auto-body-shop-antitrustcase-crashes-74579/ We thank the authors, Baker Donelson, and JD Supra for reprint permission.
24 FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
Moran, president of Moran Chevrolet. “It’s great having a self contained collision center. Customers are comfortable finding all their work being done in one place and it’s more efficient.” Also present in the facility is a vacuum system that keeps the area clean, which is especially important with the sanding that happens surrounding paint-
free up the instructor’s time in order to recruit more students, she said. Lubiato has until the end of March to have the program revision completed, Marsh said. Currently, the college has 14 applicants in the auto body program. She also suggested officials look into a summer internship program. A few board members expressed their interest in an internship. “I think that’s a good idea,” Vice Chair Tom Townsend said. Chairman John Briggs said he likes the ideas proposed by Marsh and hopes the program continues to go in this direction. We thank The Alpena News for reprint permission.
ing and body work and also keeps a healthier environment for the workers. The collision shop is also climate controlled, offering both heat and air conditioning, making it one of the only air conditioned body shops in Michigan, according to Moran. We thank The Macomb Daily for reprint permission.
www.autobodynews.com | FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS 25
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Body Shops Busy
and more drivers to auto body shops. Advanced Auto Body and Glass in West Fargo says this winter has been busy. “We’ve had a busier year this year with the amount of ice we’ve seen,” said Neil Krueger, who is the manager of Advanced Auto Body & Glass in West Fargo. “The severity of
the hits are harder hits coming in. The earlier in the season we didn’t have the snow cover yet so some of the hits are real hard and a lot of suspension damage hitting curbs and so forth.” Krueger said the newer cars are more susceptible to damage. “The new cars that are out there now that are made and designed out of aluminum. A lot of plastics and so forth.
It doesn’t take a lot to create a lot of damage when you have a frontal collision on that. To replace a headlight on some of these are 12, 13, $1,400 just for the headlight. So sometimes a small collision can be a big collision price-wise.” Sargent Grabow says even though you may be a good driver, you have to be careful of others on the road. “Days like today you just have to allow more time for travel,” he said. “Pay attention to the road conditions, know what’s going on around you and just constantly scanning the roadway.” Grabow says most of the accidents have thankfully have not involved serious injuries. “By slowing down, it can make all of the difference in the world, and of course always wearing your seatbelt,” he said. “A number of people have found themselves slipping and sliding off of the road in crashes and rollovers but right in this area we really haven’t had any serious injuries because for the most part, it seems like people are wearing their seatbelts and wearing them properly.” We thank KVRR for reprint permission.
26 FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
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IN Snows
again overnight. But this weather is keeping more than just plow drivers busy. “I would imagine this week from this spell here, we’ll see 25 to 30 cars,” Donnie Moorehouse said.
Credit: wishtv.com
Donnie Moorehouse has owned Moorehouse Body Shop on the south side for more than two decades. He’s seen many, many first snowfalls. “With a day like today, it’s like people forgot how to drive in the snow,” he said. He has a car in the shop that slid off the side of a road and other cars that slid into each other. “Underneath damage, suspension
damage, body damage where they slid into the back of somebody else and didn’t get stopped in time,” he said. I-70 was closed for two hours on December 13 due to a number of crashes. On top of those, even more cars got stuck in the snow and were left disabled. Luckily, the forecast didn’t call for more snow the following morning. “Most of the roads that have been treated, so your major thoroughfares, they’re going to be fine overnight if they’ve got some treatment on it,” Storm Track 8 Meteorologist Marcus Bailey said. But he said it’s the roads less traveled that will be a concern. “There’s probably not been much treatment if any treatment, so if they’re just slushy and that’s all that’s been done through the day today, that slush is going to turn into ice,” he said. Over at Donnie’s, the mechanics are already busy with December 13’s batch. “It’ll be overtime over the holidays,” he said. To make sure your car remains on the road and out of the shop, Moorehouse has these tips.
“Stay off your cell phone, pay attention to the roads, slow down, give yourself plenty of time and room, and of course one thing’s for sure don’t be in a hurry,” he said. As temperatures drop in the com-
ing days, INDOT will use a slightly different chemical on the roads than typical salt, which starts to lose effectiveness in those super low temps. We thank wishtv.com for reprint permission.
1Collision Network Enters Minnesota Market
1Collision Network has announced its entrance into Minnesota with the addition of five locations in the Minneapolis–St Paul marketplace. New location principals include: Brian Anderson—Apple Valley Collision- Apple Valley, MN Tony Bonfe—Bonfe’s Auto- St Paul, MN Randy Miller—Collision Specialists- Austin, MN Jerald Stiele- Hopkin’s Collision— Hopkins, MN Dan Sjolseth—Superior Collision- Eagan, MN 1Collision Network president Jim Keller commented, “We are both honored and delighted to have some of
Minnesota’s finest collision repair operators affiliate with our Network.” With the addition of the Minnesota stores, 1Collision now operates in seven states. The 1Collision Network is an organization of independent and dealerowned and operated collision repair businesses committed to high quality collision repair services, peak performance, developing trusting insurance relationships, and ensuring a positive, predictable, and seamless repair experience for both the consumer and the insurer. For further information about the 1Collision Network, contact: info @1Collision .net.
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Steve’s Auto Body Partners with Make-A-Wish by Angela Simmons, O’Fallon Weekly
Steve’s Auto Body partnered with the Make A Wish Foundation to fulfill the wish of an O’Fallon teenager. The girl, named Krystal, wanted her 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt to be redone and made safe for her to get herself around town and to medical appointments. Owner Mike Beshears said the car was repainted from silver to blue, several damaged panels were repaired or replaced, power windows were added to one side of the
car as it had power windows on one side and crank windows on another, the interior was completely redone, and that was just the external work. Beshears was proud of his staff for being all hands on deck, saying “Everyone chipped in to help. They all wanted to do some part to help.” He continued, “When we got the call, we immediately told her ‘yes.’ I really wanted to help, so we jumped at the chance and we were very honored to be able to help her.” We thank O’Fallon Weekly for reprint permission.
Warrensburg Collision in MO’s 2016 Fast Track Award The annual honor recognizes Missouri’s fastest-growing businesses that show consistent revenue growth over the course of four years. Manager Casey Lund accepted the award at the Missouri Chamber’s annual meeting and awards banquet on Dec. 8, in Branson, MO. Through aggressive marketing and a lean, team-based approach to process improvement, Warrensburg Collision has been able to maintain a steady growth. The shop’s em-
ployees have made a concerted effort in recent years to streamline the repair process.
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Shop Secrets and Strategies
Stacey Phillips is a freelance writer and editor for the automotive industry. She has 20 years of experience writing for a variety of publications. She can be reached at sphillips.autobodynews@gmail.com.
Tracy’s Collision Center in NE Shares Insight About Building a Brand with Stacey Phillips
As a second-generation body shop owner, Tom Tracy of Tracy’s Collision Center said he always dreamed about being a businessman. Since taking over the family body shop in Lincoln, NE, during the 1980s, the business has grown to include two shops and now employs 50 people. His sister is a partowner in one of the shops and two of his four sons are also part of the successful company. Autobody News talked to Tracy about the benefits of marketing and building a brand as well connecting with the community and others in the industry.
How did your family get its Q: start in the auto body business? My parents started the shop in A: 1969 in Lincoln, Nebraska. They were from a small town about 25 miles
from here. My father was a bricklayer and he had a construction company. He decided to get involved in the body shop business. He thought it would be something that might supplement him during the winter because a lot of times in our locale usually the winter meant no work.
was during the recession and I was thinking about starting a different construction company, but the timing was wrong. I ended up telling him, “Well, let me see what I can do with it.”
ally awesome because they were way ahead of us. It kind of blew me away in some ways because I always thought that everything made in America was supposed to be the best. I found out they were creating paint that was so much better than what we were producing here. Early on, we started a relationship with the Sikkens paint company, AkzoNobel. We got involved with Acoat Selected, AkzoNobel’s business development program for the Sikkens brand. I had to The Lincoln, Nebraska business has grown to include two buy the paint from Kansas shops and now employs 50 people City because there was noThat’s how my career in this industry body around here I could purchase it started. from. What were some of the changes What was the experience like Q: Q: you made when you began with the 20 group you joined in working at the shop? the mid-1990s and how can shops
A:
First of all, I wanted to be a businessman. I always had the dream of doing that. When I started managing the shop and improving the business, I looked at the way we were doing things and a lot of it didn’t make sense. It reminds me of the Pink Floyd song, “Another brick in the wall.” I learned a lot about how to work by doing a repetitive type of job. One of the main things that I did was run the ground crew. The ground crew had to have all of the right things in place so that the bricklayers could actually do their jobs. If that didn’t Tom Tracy, owner of Tracy’s Collision Center, during a Recycled Rides event. The shop and its partners have work well, you didn’t go anydonated cars to deserving families in the Lincoln where so it made me think a community for many years through National Auto lot in those terms. Body Council’s (NABC) nationwide project My father was a very supI went to school thinking I was portive person. He would allow me to going to be a contractor. My education do whatever made sense so we started was a combination of going to a con- making some changes. For example, we struction-type of technical training got involved in wheel alignment. We and working in the business. I had a also began using the 3M Ambulatory lot of good mentors along the way. My Revenue Management Software father was a good businessman but (ARMS) and bought what I believe was didn’t have much to do with the body the first downdraft paint booth in Neshop other than owning it for several braska. years. Back in the 1980s, we were deI had some early encounters bating if we should sell it or keep it. It with the Europeans and that was re-
28 FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
maximize their participation?
I was involved with a 20 group A: that had some really successful shops in it. That was great about Akzonobel. Most of their shops were really good players. Randy Stabler was in our 20 Group as well as shops from St. Louis, Wichita, California and Texas. When we went to the 20 groups and the conference, I had some great experiences. I definitely have traveled as much as possible, especially the last 15 years. I learned a lot of things and met a lot of great people. We would meet twice a year and have open discussions about a variety of things. I was in a multiple store group, and we were non-competitors for the most part. It was good information and you could see how you were doing compared to other people. We would share financials as well as different ideas, such as marketing, equipment, new technology, HR conSee Tracy’s Collision Center, Page 40
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Industry Training
Stacey Phillips is a freelance writer and editor for the automotive industry. She has 20 years of experience writing for a variety of publications. She can be reached at sphillips.autobodynews@gmail.com.
Correctional Facilities Across U.S. Offering Auto Body Programs for Inmates with Stacey Phillips
With the growing need for skilled technicians across the nation, body shops are looking at new ways to find and hire employees. In addition to reaching out to trade schools and similar industries, there is another alternative. From California to Massachusetts, auto body programs are being offered for inmates
The students at St. Brides Correctional Center in Virginia are doing major restoration work on a 1966 Pontiac Catalina
at correctional facilities throughout the country. Autobody News spoke to five of these facilities to find out the benefits of the programs for both inmates and the collision repair industry.
The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, California More than 500 inmates are enrolled in the automotive programs offered through the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR). Eighteen of the adult institutions in the state offer automotive programs; 14 of them in auto body repair and 15 in auto mechanics, and the majority offer both. This includes an auto body program at the Central California Women’s Facility. Krissi Khokhobashvili, the public information officer II at CDCR, said there are multiple benefits to having these programs. “Students are learning valuable skills and certifications that will help them find good jobs once they parole,” said Khokhobashvili. “This is a trade every community needs, so offenders will hopefully be able to find work throughout the rest of their lives no matter where they live.”
30 FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
The program dates back to the 1960s when the California Correctional Center and Deuel Vocation Institution began offering automotive programs for inmates. Numerous classes have been available since the 1980s and 1990s.
cludes textbook learning, lectures, videos and hands-on training. Mechanic classes focus on diagnosing and solving engine problems whereas auto body students work on repairing panels, doors, hoods, fenders, etc. The cars used in the program are purchased by CDCR. Employees can also bring in vehicles for repair, but must supply their own parts. Local body shops often donate parts as well. The inmates are taught by CTE instructors who are credentialed by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing. St. Brides’ students are also working on a 1994 Chevrolet “Our automotive instructors 1500 4x4 are highly trained and take this work very seriously,” said KhoThe programs are offered through the Office of Correctional Education khobashvili. “Their mission is to train Career Technical Education (CTE) offenders to become excellent meprogram. Generally, inmates attend chanics and technicians, and they hold class six and a half hours a day, five their students to very high standards.” Not only can these type of jobs be days a week and the curriculum in-
held with a felony conviction, Khokhobashvili said those who know how to repair cars will also save money by being able to service their own vehicles. She pointed to a recent RAND study that showed for every dollar invested in education during incarceration, taxpayers save five dollars in recidivism costs, (the tendency of a convicted criminal to reoffend). Whether
The cars used in the Avenal State Prison program are either purchased by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation or brought in by employees for repair
inmates are involved with traditional classroom learning or vocational courses, it has been found that those who pursue education while incarcerated are less likely to return to prison. Although the department does not formally track where students eventually work, many have found jobs in the industry as painters, body workers and
mechanics. “It’s a public safety issue,” said Khokhobashvili. “Most inmates will parole and they will return to your communities and become your neighbors. They are far more likely to be good neighbors if they spent their time in prison productively.”
Southern Desert Correctional Center, Indian Springs, Nevada About 30 years ago, the Southern Desert Correctional Center in Nevada started a program for inmate workers to manufacturer limousines. It eventually evolved into an automotive restoration shop, where they do everything from minor repairs to complete “body-offframe” jobs. There are 27 inmates who currently work in the shop about six and a half to eight hours a day. They charge $55 an hour, compared to the going rate of $100 or more for similar work. Craig Korsgaard, the automotive restoration shop supervisor and the Southern Nevada marketing coordinator, said they charge customers a lower rate compared to other shops, but the work takes longer because the inmate workers are being trained. “It’s on the job training,” said Korsgaard. “The better-skilled people help
out the newer guys. I’m training everyone all the time.” There is a year and a half waiting list due to the high quality of work and time it takes to work on each vehicle. Very little advertising is done. Instead, most of their business is through word
workers marketable skillsets so it is easier for them to find employment, which is one of the most difficult barriers ex-offenders run into upon their release,” said Brian Connett, deputy director, industries for the Nevada Department of Corrections. “There are a
Inmates who are part of the auto body program at Avenal State Prison in California
of mouth or car shows. They are currently working on 43 cars, including a Chevrolet Camaro Z/28, a 1935 Ford, a 1952 Studebaker and one of the original Pontiac Firebirds from the popular television series “The Rockford Files” with James Garner. “Our mission is to provide inmate
lot of benefits to working and getting this training that the industry provides.” Korsgaard agreed. He said everyone benefits from the program. The inmate workers earn money they can send home to their families and 25 percent of their pay covers the cost for room and board. See Inmates, Page 36
www.autobodynews.com | FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS 31
Product and Process
Stacey Phillips is a freelance writer and editor for the automotive industry. She has 20 years of experience writing for a variety of publications. She can be reached at sphillips.autobodynews@gmail.com.
The Benefits of Plastic Repair Include Speed, Fewer Losses, and Shorter Rentals with Stacey Phillips
Faster cycle times, fewer total losses and shorter length of rentals. These are just some of the many benefits of plastic repair that Kurt Lammon, president of Polyvance, talked about during a recent Guild 21 webinar. He said there are advantages for all members of the collision repair ecosystem including consumers, body shops, insurers, OEMs, technicians, as well as the planet.
Kurt Lammon, president of Polyvance, outlined the many benefits of plastic repair
Polyvance, formerly Urethane Supply Company, was established in 1981 to provide plastic repair and refinishing products for the collision repair industry. During the 1980s, the business pioneered a repair method for polyurethane bumpers. Lammon and his brother Keith took over the company from its founder, Jim Sparks, in 1995. Some of the products they have created since then for bumper repair and refinishing include the FiberFlex universal welding rod, Bumper & Cladding Coat Adhesion Primer, and the Nitro Fuzer nitrogen welding system, introduced in 2006. Although most think people think of bumpers when it comes to plastic repairs, Lammon said there are many other non-structural plastic parts that can be fixed, such as washer and overflow bottles, headlight tabs and fenders. “As the OEMs try to get the cars to be lighter, we’re going to see more plastic panels I believe,” said Lammon. He cited a case study he found on LinkedIn about a body shop in Australia that began doing plastic repair after receiving the necessary training, equipment and materials. Over a oneyear period, the company repaired more than 1,500 vehicles using plastic repair methods; 71 percent of which were bumpers and 19 percent were headlights. The company found that the
replacement part costs went down by 45 percent. There were also reductions in vehicle repair costs, paint materials and cycle time. “There is some real impact that happens in the shops when they take plastic repair to heart,” said Lammon.
Benefits for the Collision Repair Ecosystem: Consumers When a body shop utilizes plastic repair on a vehicle, it not only allows for a faster cycle time, the customer is able to keep the original bumper, which helps protects the brand. Lammon said plastic repair lowers repair costs, which can lead to more affordable insurance premiums and lower costs in general if a consumer is paying to repair a vehicle out-of-pocket. All of these help with customer satisfaction. In addition, plastic repair reduces incidents of total loss. “When consumers experience a total loss, they are often dissatisfied and would like to keep that car on the road,” said Lammon. “If we can repair some plastic and keep it under the total-loss threshold, it would be a benefit to the consumer.”
Body Shops In terms of cycle time, it’s not only beneficial for the consumer but obviously for the body shop as well. Lammon said a faster cycle time means that vehicles spend less time in the shop, which expands a business’s capacity to do other work. Because plastic repair can decrease the number of total losses, shops can minimize paying the costs of storage, estimations, and labor that is not reimbursed. It also helps reduce severity and time, as well as looks favorable on a body shop’s DRP scorecard. Lammon pointed out that body shops make their money on labor, rather than parts. Typically, a shop can make 20 to 25 percent on parts, whereas in terms of labor, they can make 50 or even 60 percent on their time. “It’s definitely better to repair parts to make a higher profit margin,” he said. Keeping the original part on the vehicle is beneficial for fit issues as well as the labor hours involved. “A big thing now is being able to maintain control,” said Lammon. He
32 FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
Insurers Two of the main benefits for insurers include reduction of severity due to the ability to blend the paint in the panel, and faster cycle time, which benefits all parties because it’s a shorter length of rental for the insurer. “I would think because the consumer is having a better experience with a shorter cycle time, that would also benefit the CSI score,” said Lammon. He said if consumers have a negative experience with a repair, they may switch insurance companies. “The happier the consumer, the more likely they are going to stay with that insurer after the repair is done,” said Lammon. Another benefit he pointed out is reduced diminished value. Some bumpers now have VIN codes and he said that keeping that intact is also something of value.
used the example of bumpers, which cannot always be repaired, especially over blind spot monitors. If the technician knows that the blind spot monitor is on the rear quarter behind the bumper, he or she is going to avoid doing any repairs over that area, whereas he said if they bought a recycled bumper, they
In addition to repairing bumpers, plastic repair methods can be used on other non-structural car parts
would have no idea where the repairs were. “That gives the body shop control and I think that’s a really big factor nowadays,” said Lammon.
OEMs Lammon said that a faster cycle time See Polyvance, Page 39
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Continued from Page 31
Inmates
The facility has set up some percentage funds that they contribute to, including a victims of crime fund that is given back to the community. There is also a fund that helps replace some of the broken tools. When inmate workers are released from the institution, Connett said they are able to help with job placement if they go into transitional housing in the community.
Massachusetts Department of Correction, Massachusetts Over the last six and a half years, the Massachusetts Department of Correction has offered a nine-month auto body program for inmates. The 10 students enrolled per class attend six hours a day, five times a week. “The benefit of having this type of program is to lower the rate of recidivism by preparing inmates for being productive members of society,” Jan Hanratty, the vocational instructor from the Division of Inmate Training and Education. “It gives them the skills to be successful in the workplace and provides a sustainable wage.” Hanratty received a bachelor of science and technology degree in industrial arts as well as vocational certifications in automotive and auto body technology. In addition to hands-on experience, Hanratty said the students also spend time learning in a classroom setting. The cars used in the program
There are currently 43 vehicles being repaired or restored at the Southern Desert Correctional Center
are obtained from the city, state and municipal government as well as nonprofit organizations. State-approved vendors provide the parts. Some of the primary areas Hanratty has the students focus on include panel replacement, fabrication, painting, collision repair, frame pulling and measurement, computerized wheel alignment technology and antique
restoration. After completing the class, students receive a vocational certification with the number of hours completed. Those who qualify have the option to continue for an additional nine-months of advanced training. “The program was designed to develop and prepare entry-level technicians to enter into the collision industry,” said Hanratty. She said they often place students in body shops, dealerships and independent chain shops. One was hired full-time at a major automobile manufacturer after being released. In addition to the auto body program, the Massachusetts Department of Correction also offers an automotive program for inmates. After previously being held in Plymouth, a new automotive shop was opened in Milford on August 15, 2016. There are 12 inmates in each 10-month class. The vocational instructor, Julio Perez, along with industrial instructors Dana Johnson and Dave Ferrier, help the students prepare for ASE G1 certification, mobile air conditioning license and OSHA 10.
St. Brides Correctional Center, Chesapeake, Virginia In Chesapeake, Virginia, Joseph McDougald has instructed the auto body program at St. Brides Correctional Center for the past two years. Currently there are two classes, one in the morning with 12 students and another in the evening with an additional 12. “They range in experience, with some who don’t know what a wrench is,” said McDougald, who manages both the classroom and body shop. “Then I have some who are very talented and I use them to help the other ones with body work.” In addition, he has four workers—also offenders—who spend six hours a day as aides. During the 16-month course, McDougald uses a textbook to teach and covers auto body repair technology. He said it is similar to what is taught at a vocational school. “They really look forward to coming to class,” he said. “We push hard and try to teach them what we can.” Prior to working at St. Brides, McDougald was employed at Ford Motor Company for 17 years in the body shop at the F-150 plant in Virginia. After the plant closed, he was hired at the United States Coast Guard for seven years. With a love and passion for the automotive industry, he decided to join St. Bridges as an auto
36 FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
body instructor when he found out the correctional center was hiring. “We all learn something new every day,” said McDougald. “We’re trying to teach these offenders a skilled trade and hope that when they are released from prison they have a trade that they can fall back on and get a new start in life and try not to end up back in a place like this.”
Students from Southern Desert Correctional Center in Indian Springs, Nevada, are working on a 1952 Studebaker
After graduating from the program, students receive a certificate from the correctional facility. McDougald regularly contacts body shops to see if he can help place students in jobs when they are released. In the meantime, they are restoring a variety of vehicles for state employees who are able have them worked on
for a fee. These include a 1966 Pontiac Catalina convertible, a 1966 Mustang coupe and a 1994 Chevrolet 1500 4x4 truck. McDougald is always looking for ways to strengthen the program. He hopes to add virtual reality simulators to the classroom so he can demonstrate different techniques to students. Another goal is to find a way to get the students certified through I-CAR so when they are released from prison, they leave as a pro level one I-CAR mechanic. “That would help them even more get a job.” He said he enjoys teaching the students, especially when they are first getting started. “I like to see them get a second chance and start fresh,” said McDougald. There are always jobs in the auto body field.”
MacDougall Correctional Institution, South Carolina In 1969, a body shop opened at MacDougall Correctional Institution, which is one of the 22 institutions that are part of South Carolina Department of Corrections (SCDCI). Classes are held at MacDougall Correctional Institution through the week. Approximately 30 inmate stuSee Inmates, Page 39
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Continued from Cover
MPCC in NE
and there are just a few nationwide,” said Don Wilson, Auto Body instructor. “That makes us pretty unique.” The two-year program consists of two semesters of Automotive Technology and two semesters of Auto Body training. Students learn through hands-on projects - the most notable of which is the college raffle car. Every year, students reduce a classic car down to a bare metal shell. They sandblast it, then begin the long and challenging process of transforming the vehicle into a work of art. By the time they finish, they have built and installed all basic systems of an automobile and performed all the tasks required to customize and restore a vintage car. “They learn about everything from chassis, electrical systems, drivetrains, engines, plastic, fiberglass, upholstery and replacement and refinishing of sheet metal,” said Wilson. “Most of what we build is fuel injected.” Students have to understand both traditional and modern engineering
and technology before merging the two. For example, last year’s raffle car was a 1968 Ford Mustang Coupe. The drivetrain consisted of a stock 302 CID, 220-horsepower rated engine with a two-barrel naturally aspirated fuel system coupled to a C4 automatic transmission. The students who worked on it added modifications such as a tilt wheel, new interior, an aftermarket sound system and a vinyl top. The finish, “Impact Blue,” was selected from a 2014 Mustang color palette using PPG’s base coat paint system. The Mustang, like 11 classic cars before it, was taken on a tour of the state before being raffled to raise scholarship money for students in the Automotive Technology and Auto Body Technology programs. Those who successfully completed the project received an Automotive Technology certificate in Customization and Restoration. “There isn’t a better restoration program anywhere,” said Wilson. “I’d recommend it to anybody interested in working on classic cars and street rods. If you want to learn from the best, this is the place to get it done.”
PartsTrader and Nexsyis Integration Simplifies the Workflow for Collision Repair Users
Nexsyis and PartsTrader have released an integration between the two platforms that significantly streamlines the workflow for collision repair facilities using both applications. Nexsyis users should contact Nexsyis Support (NexSupport@nexsyis.com or 888-222-7008) to enable the PartsTrader integration. “Consolidating the PartsTrader parts procurement activities within Nexsyis Collision is a major time saver for us, and has helped us to accomplish more in a shorter amount of time,” said Wade Snook, shop manager at Car Craft in Bethany, OK. “The integration has made managing the administrative aspect of day-today business so much easier.” The integration between the Nexsyis and PartsTrader platforms provide several significant benefits to collision repair facilities, including: Streamlined workflow saves time with fewer emails to manage – Because the integration synchronizes both platforms in real-time, users of both systems can get job status updates quickly and easily in the Nexsyis Collision platform. Notifications from PartsTrader can be turned off, leading
to fewer emails to manage each day. Improved accuracy with fewer keystrokes – Data synchronization between the two platforms eliminates the need to re-key data. Users will have increased accuracy and reduce the risk of error and fewer returned parts. Increased estimator productivity – The purchase order is automatically generated based on the parts ordered through the PartsTrader platform and sent to the supplier via the Nexsyis system. The reduction of administrative work allows estimators to manage more jobs in the same amount of time. Simplified order verification – Validating part pricing on an invoice is made significantly easier for a repair shop. The prices quoted by a supplier in the PartsTrader platform are automatically pushed to Nexsyis system in the purchase order via the integration. A simple check of the invoice to the purchase order is all that is needed to verify pricing when the parts are received. Additional information regarding the PartsTrader/Nexsyis integration can be found at the integration microsite (http://bit.ly/NexsyisIntegration).
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Continued from Page 36
Inmates
dents attend the three-hour classes, half in the morning and the remainder in the evening. There are three levels of certification. Level 1 requires completion of 200 hours; level 2 requires 500; and Level 3 is for those who reach 1,000 plus hours. “Our main focus is teaching students to repair small dents and paint vehicles,” said Bob Hill, who has been Continued from Page 32
Polyvance
as a result of plastic repair benefits everybody. When consumers have had a good experience, the more likely they are going to be satisfied with the OEM as well. “More often than not, in a total loss situation, consumers will switch brands of vehicles so that’s a stream of future cashflows that the OEMs are going to lose on repairs and maintenance,” he said. Polyvance has been approached by Tesla about using plastic repair on its vehicles. Lammon said that the au-
the facility’s auto body instructor since 1993. He recently retired on January 2, 2017. He said most of the vehicles the students work on are from SCDC employees, as well as their friends and family members. “The benefit of this program is to teach inmates a skill to carry with them upon their release to better increase their opportunities for employment,” said Hill. Although inmate students are not placed in body shops, many have gone on to work in collision re-
pair and others have opened their own facilities. In a letter written to the vocational director of Palmetto Unified School District, one of the participants of the program, Shawn Janowczyk, shared his thoughts on the auto body classes. “I think it is important to share that outside of my relationship with Jesus Christ, being afforded the opportunity to take the auto body class has been a watershed of my life,” Janowczyk, who has been involved with the program for 10 years and is currently a
Technicians When it comes to technicians, Lammon said he has found plastic repair has helped with job satisfaction and pride in workmanship. “Right now, the body shops are in such a dire need for new talent coming in,” he said. Since the parts repaired are non-structural, he said it provides a good first step to becoming a
Planet One of the main benefits for the planet is reducing landfill waste. By keeping the original part on the vehicle, it reduces recycling volume. Although polyurethane bumpers are not very
tomotive manufacturer is informing its approved body shops to repair some of the plastic parts on the vehicles because parts availability is such a problem. “Even a temporary repair gets the cars back on the road faster and improves customer satisfaction,” he said.
skilled repairer and can put them on a path to increase their skills. In addition, it gives them an opportunity for increased pay, which leads to a better standard of living. “It also allows the shop owner to evaluate the performance of the technician in a low-risk environment and if a person exceeds or excels, the shop owner can progress that person along to being a structural technician.”
teacher’s assistant. “For the first time ever, I have the confidence and skill to go out into society and not only make it (not come back to prison), but also be a productive member of society.” After thanking his instructor, Mr. Hill, he added, “In closing, with Mr. Hill retiring, I would be remiss if I didn’t say that I think it would be a shame if the body shop was allowed to be shut down,” said Janowczyk. “I know what it has done for me and can only imagine what it could do for others.”
common, Lammon said those types of plastics cannot be recycled. Instead, they have to be discarded. He estimated that approximately 70 percent of damaged polypropylene bumpers are not being repaired. Due to the ability to blend the paint to the panel, it reduces VOC emissions, which is good for the planet. Finally, he said it also helps create skilled labor jobs and employ a younger workforce. This information was based on a presentation by Kurt Lammon during a recent Guild 21 webinar. For more information about plastic repair, visit www.polyvance.com or contact Polyvance at 800-633-3047.
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Continued from Page 28
Tracy’s Collision Center
cerns, how to deal with people and insurance relationships. You just feed your mind and go through the equation and become a better strategist and a better thinker. We left that group a few years back. Later, I became interested in what PPG was doing with their Green Belt training, which was more instructional, and I ended up moving to that group. I also sent about 15-18 of my employees.
What approach do you take Q: when it comes to customer service?
A:
Our customer focus for the most part is: be friendly, be kind, be good. We try to make sure that our customers are going to come back. A few years ago, we were introduced to Steve Schoolcraft from Phoenix Solutions Group at an AkzoNobel conference. I gave it a lot of thought, and we started a relationship with him. That really helped how we delivered cars and engaged customers. He would come twice a year to Lincoln and would have dinner with our office personnel to talk about our results. We were already doing well, and I think we started to do a better job. It’s one of many things that ended up helping us in our marketplace. What practices have you emQ: ployed at your shop that have helped you stand out from the compe-
tition?
I think what makes us unique is A: we work really hard to market our business. I’ve been mainly engaged
in marketing for the company since I started working as the CEO and had a lot of good mentors, whether they were from radio or television. I went to several marketing events that were put on by either the television or radio industries. During one of the most effective events I attended, they said you have to advertise like CocaCola. The whole nature of that statement is to break it down and say, “If I follow these basic advertising theories, something good is going to happen.” I agreed with that and we established a different campaign. Then we came up with a slogan, “Thanks Lincoln.” Part of that came
from an idea that hatched from Steve Schoolcraft about how you should be thanking your customers. It became a huge success. What it did was it brought to life repeat customers and all of the good will we had going for us. It was just phe-
coln Lancaster Community Action. They manage Head Start and a lot of other government programs. That has been a great relationship. We started a Head Start classroom with our name on it last year, which has been kind of fun. Community involvement does a lot of good for your employees because it gives them a chance to give of themselves and their talents. We’ve done it for a long time so it’s something they look forward to. Our goal with the car giveaway is to change somebody’s life and I think we’ve been able to do that. For more information, visit ttracy @tracysbodyshop.com. Read more about Tom Tracy’s story in regards to building a brand and connecting with the community and industry in The Secrets of America’s Greatest Body Shops, written by Dave Luehr with Stacey Phillips, scheduled to be released in early 2017. For more information, visit www .bodyshopsecrets.com or email dluehr @bodyshopsecrets.com/sphillips @bodyshopsecrets.com.
ment your shop has initiated?
Through our AkzoNobel 20 A: group, we challenged each other to donate a car. This was before Recycled Rides started, which we were part of later. This last December, we gave away our 21st and 22nd cars at an event. Five years ago, we started a relationship with the Lincoln Children’s Museum and built what we refer to as our third location. In an area of the museum called Tiny Town, they have Tracy’s Collision Center where kids can practice tuning up a car and applying paint.
Employees from Tracy’s Collision Center demonstrate the shop’s estimating process
nomenal what came from that. We’ve been busy pretty much for as long as I can remember.
What advice can you share Q: with others in regards to marketing?
I think that one thing that a lot of shops haven’t focused on A: enough in the past is marketing and
building a brand. When you have to write a check to build a brand, sometimes it’s not that easy to do but you have to pound the drum. Sometimes major media, whether it be television or radio, is about the only way you can enough attention to build that brand. You need to figure out how to do that efficiently and you have to stay engaged in it long enough to make it work for you. Once you do that, you have a lot of marketing po-wer. It’s like snowball rolling down a hill. Once you get it big enough, and you’ve been doing it long enough, your brand is established. I think it’s important to drive people to your website too. We’ve done more of that in the last couple of years. It’s where people can learn more about what you are doing. It makes a difference. People might spend five or six minutes on your site and then they will have an idea about what they are getting. In marketing, if you think about what we are selling as a body shop, it’s about trust. When you can build that kind of trust, I think people really care about that.
What are some of the unique Q: types of community involve-
40 FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
We made some television commercials to support the museum and bring awareness to the exhibit. I had two different customers tell me that they came to the shop because they took their grandkids to the Children’s Museum and they were so impressed we would support the museum with an exhibit they decided this is where they wanted to get their car fixed. We also became involved in a community action group called Lin-
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Shop and Product Showcase How Will 3D Printing Affect the Collision Repair Industry? with Ed Attanasio
We all know that 3D printing has arrived, with more and more companies jumping onboard and developing this burgeoning technology. Almost every day, there is news about something that has been created using this amazing technology. Recently, a Chinese company 3D-printed an entire two-story house and another one is making huge parts for the new Boeing 777 using 3D printing. 3D printing has been a hot topic for over a decade or more, but its origins actually go back to the late 1980s. At first, the technology was designed for manufacturing companies to save time and money while making prototypes, but they soon realized that they could make anything. Indeed, 3D printing is going to be huge, and especially in the automotive sector. A recent report entitled “Executive Analysis of 3D Printing in the Automotive Industry” from Frost & Sullivan stated that 3D printing will generate $4.3 billion in the automotive
Ed Attanasio is an automotive journalist based in San Francisco, California. He can be reached at era39@aol.com.
industry by 2025, which includes the aftermarket. So here comes the Divergent Blade, a 3D-printed car that was unveiled recently at the LA Auto Show. The prototype, made by San Francisco– based startup Divergent Microfactories, is constructed on a chassis using a combination of 61 pounds of 3D-printed
weigh 1,388 lbs, as 3D printing will reduce its overall weight by as much as 90%. As carmakers doggedly try to get their vehicles lighter to meet CAFE standards, 3D printing is making a major impression on companies such as Tesla, Mercedes-Benz, Audi and Porsche, among others. The Divergent Blade is a sensa-
aluminum “nodes” connecting to 41 lbs. of carbon-fiber tubing that are not 3D-printed. Purportedly, the Divergent’s chassis will weigh 100 pounds, compared to a regular chassis weighing roughly 1,000 pounds. It can be completely assembled in 30-40 minutes, according to Divergent Microfactories. When the Divergent Blade’s is fully assembled, the entire vehicle will
tion and indeed a game changer. Many car experts and Silicon Valley types say that a deluge of highly-innovative 3D-printed vehicles will be flooding the market within 2-3 years. So the big question is this—how will this new, exciting technology affect the collision repair industry? Will it help body shops, or will it eliminate jobs, as more machines start to replace techni-
“3D printing, if you haven’t heard, is here, and it is getting more mainstream and affordable day by day.” — Taylor Moss
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cians? How will the OEs react, and maybe even more importantly, how will the insurance companies respond when shops start printing out parts? Taylor Moss, the CPO at Estify, Inc., published an article online a while back in which he described his take on how 3D printing will impact the collision repair industry, and he has some intriguing ideas to share. “3D printing, if you haven’t heard, is here,” Moss wrote. “And it is getting more mainstream and affordable day by day. And this tech innovation can pay big dividends to collision shops willing to jump on this new technology. This will enable technicians to print the fasteners, rivets, bolts, screws, clips, retainers, and any other small parts that hold up jobs. But that is just the beginning.” 3D printing would be ideal in situations where OEM specification rivets, screws, clips and retainers aren’t immediately on-hand and could delay the
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completion of a repair, Moss claimed. “Typically, repairs get held up by the smallest and seemingly most insignificant parts, and the ability to 3D print those parts on site would work wonders. It would allow delays in deliver-
body panels and structural pieces too? There most likely will be a day when you can print all the parts you need for a repair right onsite. And what will that do for efficiency and cost when shipping is eliminated, the need to carry inventory for parts dealers is unnecessary, and the parts can be printed for use when the vehicle is ready for the parts?” Moss also outlined several ways that 3D printing will enhance shop workflows, including reducing cycle time, cutting average rental days, reducing downtime, saving money on cheaper parts, eliminating incorrect parts orders that cause returns and delays The Divergent Blade, made by San Francisco–based startup Divergent Microfactories, is a 3D-printed car and ensuring OEM standard that has gained national attention after appearing at fit and form on parts used in the LA Auto Show recently repairs. ing vehicles to shrivel and diminish, The Divergent Blade has us imagquicken the cycle times, cut rental days ining a world where cars are 3D-printed and make employees more efficient in microfactories all over the planet and during their workday—all great fruits instead of ordering a part for one, you of 3D printing.” simply print it out. Embrace it, because In the very near future, Moss en3D printing is going to be a reality in visions companies using 3D printing to body shops soon—right alongside selfmanufacture larger parts for body driving cars, paint booths that talk and shops. “If we can print the small stuff other incredible innovations that will that’s needed, why can’t we print the improve the industry.
National Auto Body Council Launches Search Campaign For New Executive Director
The National Auto Body Council (NABC) is launching a search campaign for a new Executive Director, following the recent announcement by NABC founder and current Executive Director Chuck Sulkala of his intention to retire by the end of 2017.
“Our Board of Directors is looking for a candidate who shares our passion and commitment to collectively leverage our industry resources to make a positive impact in local communities across the country,” said Domenic Brusco, NABC Chairman. “Over the past two decades under Chuck Sulkala’s leadership, our membership has grown exponentially. We look to our new executive director to capitalize on this momentum, provide the leadership and support to our growing network of members as they implement NABC
initiatives that help change and saves lives for thousands of individuals nationwide.” According to Brusco, the executive director position reports to the NABC Board of Directors and works collaboratively with the Board to implement NABC’s strategic annual goals. Responsibilities include oversight over NABC’s daily operations, membership, fundraising, marketing, finance and revenue growth. A detailed Executive Director Position Description is available on the NABC website. Deadline for submissions is March 31, 2017. Interested candidates should email resumes to Mike McManus at NABC office, (m.mcmanus @autobodycouncil.org) with copies to Nick Notte (Nick.Notte@i-car.com) and Renee Ricciotti (rcricciotti@ mmm.com), co-chairs of NABC Personnel Committee.
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Industry Insight
—John Yoswick is a freelance writer based in Portland, Oregon, who has a body shop in the family and has been writing about the automotive industry since 1988. He is the editor of the weekly CRASH Network (for a free 4-week trial subscription, visit www.CrashNetwork.com). Contact him by email at jyoswick@SpiritOne.com.
OEM Summit Includes Discussion of Scan Tools, Collision Repair Training Costs with John Yoswick
The “OEM Collision Repair Technology Summit,” hosted in November by the Society of Collision Repair Specialists, gave representatives of the automakers an opportunity to weigh in on a variety of topics raised by collision repairers. A panel of OEM trainers, for example, was asked what shops should look for in the technicians they choose to send to OEM training. Some of their answers were surprising. “The main thing that I notice is technicians who come to training who don’t have basic computer skills,” Mike Kukavica of Porsche said. “They really need to be able to get to the workshop manuals. It’s not a paper book any more. They have to be able to use a computer. They need to be able to look things up.” Shawn Hart, a trainer with Audi of America, said some students show up with little understanding of why they are even there. “They’ll say, ‘My manager just said here’s your ticket, you’re going to training,’” Hart said. “That happens quite often.” He said shops should make sure technicians are really interested in the particular training being offered; he recalled one student who was told by his employer he was going to training to become the shop’s aluminum technician even though that wasn’t the type of work the technician wanted to do. “If they’re passionate about something, they’ll learn it,” agreed Rick Miller of Jaguar Land Rover. “They’ll really get engaged.” The panel was also asked what the automakers are doing to curb the expense of OEM training for shops. “It depends what your definition of ‘high cost of training’ is,” Kukavica said, noting that Porsche training is included in the company’s shop certification fee. “You just have to bring the people to us, and we have two different training locations where you can do that. So we really try to keep the burden both for equipment and training as low as we can. We’ve been charging the same fee for the nine years the program has been going on. We haven’t raised it. I don’t know if that’s going to change, but we’re re-
ally trying to do the best we can.” Miller pointed out that Jaguar Land Rover has I-CAR conduct its training in the United States, and that the cost for that “went down, not up, after 13 years, which is very unusual.” James Meyer, senior collision repair trainer for Toyota Motor Sales USA, said anyone who has been to one of his company’s training facilities has to recognize the automaker isn’t even recouping its investment in those centers from training fees. He said he thinks the real expense of training for shops is not class fees, but the lost productivity while technicians are away. “That’s an expense of any training, OEM or otherwise, unless you’re training in your shop, and we’ve found that not to be a very good atmosphere for training,” Meyer said. In-shop training, he said, can be hampered by limited equipment or by technicians interrupted for production-related issues. Perhaps not surprisingly, the panelists raised some concerns about shops relying solely on third-party sources of OEM repair procedures and not checking OEM information directly. Miller said a shop once called him trying to find rivets using an outdated part number from a third-party information source. “It’s not up-to-date and sends them down rabbit-holes they might not need to go down, and wastes time,” Miller said. Audi’s Hart agreed that “a lot of times there’s information, fairly important information, that may be missing,” in such third-party sources. Kukavica said other sources of OEM information “are a god-send if you have no other access” to repair information. “But at the same time, they’re trying to recreate a database that is updated continuously,” he said. “There’s always some time lag. It’s really important to have the latest information if you can.” Meyer raised similar concerns. He said a collision repairer back in August was talking to him about some wording in a Toyota procedure that was helping the shop negotiate better. “I said, ‘I don’t think we would
44 FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
have ever written that,’” Meyer said. “But he sent me the bulletin, from another information provider, and it was a bulletin of ours that was changed or edited, and [he had] the original one, not the revised version. So the information might not be up-to-date or accurate.” Another panel of during the summit offered their views on the pros and cons of collision shops buying OEM versus aftermarket scan tools. John Hughes of Fiat Chrysler argued that OEM tools tend to be updated more frequently. “We update it every week,” Hughes said of his company’s scan tool, noting that it could be months before such changes are incorporated into aftermarket tools, and that some minor changes that may only affect a few hundred vehicles might never be incorporated into those tools. Jason Gabrenas, national diagnostics trainer for Snap-on, acknowl-
edged his company does regular updates to its vehicle communication software app two times per year. But he and Bob Pattengale of Bosch both said that although an OEM tool may make sense for a brand of vehicle a shop is specializing in, a quality aftermarket tool is generally sufficient. “Let’s say you get a particular late-model car and you just don’t have the feature [needed] in your [aftermarket] scan tool,” Pattengale said. “If you have a J-2534 (compatible) device, you go to a website, you download the diagnostic software that you need, paying for a 2-day or 3-day subscription for under $100, you solve the problem, you put your J-box away and move on. You don’t have to buy the whole [OEM] scan tool and own it for life.” Gabrenas said the likely lifespan of any tool should also be a factor in a shop’s purchase decision; he said See OEM Summit, Page 47
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Owner of PDR Company in Buffalo, NY, Says He Sees an Industry in Trouble by Ed Attanasio
Glenn Kumm, 61, has been working in the collision industry for more than 40 years and by adapting to changes in the market and reinventing himself more than once, he has survived both good and bad times. As a result, he has been able to make it in a highly competitive environment, but not without many trials and tribulations along the way. The owner of Scratch Busters in Buffalo, NY, Kumm is troubled by things such as under-the-radar shops, underpaid body techs, rampant steering, a lack of qualified personnel and that talented people are gravitating away from the collision repair industry, he said. Hiring good employees is probably his #1 concern. Kumm has had his share of bad technicians who simply don’t want to work, he said. “The bottom line is if you don’t have pride in your work, it’s evident and the finished product will be substandard,” Kumm said. The problem is compounded because the insurance companies won’t pay body shops sufficiently on repairs, Kumm says. “The insurers don’t give us enough time to fix these vehicles, so
we’re constantly struggling with that. They tell me it will take 2.5 hours to prep, tape, paint and re-assemble a panel and I know that it’s going to take more like four hours and I’m fairly confident that they know that, too. That panel could be in bad shape and it may take more time, but will the insurance company adjust for that and give us some additional time? No.” A shop that wants to do top-tier, high-quality work is at a disadvantage from day one, Kumm explained. “One of the main issues is that the insurance companies don’t consider us skilled workers, and in the end, they have us by the short hairs. Our labor rate has been stuck at $46 per hour for many years and that’s where they want it to stay. These big insurers spend millions and millions on advertising, yet they want to cut corners when their customers get into accidents. There is one word to describe it: greed.” 16 years ago, Kumm changed his business model and started doing Paintless Dent Repair (PDR) after finding a new way to fix scratches easily and quickly. “I worked with a chemist to find a better solution and we developed
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a system that requires minimal sanding and zero buffing. There is so little clear coat on these cars now that if you sand too much, you’re done. With my system, we are experts at blending clear and doing touch-ups that are dead-on.” With four decades under his belt, Kumm realized a few years ago that his days of hard, physical labor were no longer a reality. “Once I turned 50, my body started to feel the wear and tear of this business,” he said. “I had to get one of my shoulders replaced and it’s now all made of steel. I have a herniated disk in my back and arthritis in all of my joints, left shoulder and hip. All of these things are related to all of those years of working on cars.” What would Kumm tell people interested in a career in collision repair? “I get calls all the time from young people asking me how to get into the business and I tell them this is not a great career to get into, honestly. In a body shop, you will never make a fair wage, because there are too many forces preventing it from happening. They’re now raising the minimum wage, which will not help us, because we can’t afford to pay these entry-level people more than
what they’re making now. If someone wants to work in automotive repair, I tell them to get into the mechanical side, because those people are paid better than body techs.” With an average wage for collision technicians starting at $15 and maxing out at around $20 in the Buffalo area, more and more young candidates are looking elsewhere, Kumm said. “To be honest, the really good ones are starting their own shops, because they want the control and they can’t find good people either. In this market now, it makes more sense for these people to start their own shops, if they have the right attitude and are willing to work long hours.” After painting a dire picture of the future of the collision repair industry, does Kumm know where it’s headed? “We need more people in this industry who are proud of their work, like ourselves, and can take on the insurance companies,” he said. “And we need highly-trained techs to work on these cars, so that we can demand more money and get it. If we can achieve those two things, everyone can win— consumers, insurance companies and body shops.”
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Solera Holdings Inc. To Acquire Autodata Solera Holdings Inc., a global leader in data and software for the automotive, home ownership and digital identity management ecosystems, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Autodata, a leading provider of technical information and knowledge solutions for the automotive service, maintenance and repair (“SMR”) industry.
“Throughout a car’s life, there are over 54 transactions that occur between motorists and automotive businesses,” said Tony Aquila, Solera’s founder, chairman and CEO. “One of Solera’s missions is to digitize the vehicle ownership ecosystem by developing cognitive applications that not only power connectivity and engagement, but also proliferate awareness and transparency across the entire automotive lifecycle.” Founded in 1975, U.K.-based Autodata has evolved from publishing iconic DIY manuals for car enthusi-
asts and garages, to delivering fully digital cloud-based diagnostics and repair intelligence for professional mechanics. Powered by data from 136 vehicle manufacturers covering more than 40,000 models worldwide, Autodata’s solutions today are deployed by more than 90,000 repair shops in more than 40 countries for best-in-class coverage, accuracy, reliability and efficiency, according to the company. Autodata has been owned by Bowmark Capital and Rothschild & Co’s Five Arrows Principal Investments since 2014. “Solera’s proprietary ‘Invent & Acquire’ strategy drives both the innovation and proliferation of our data and software platforms,” said Aquila. “The acquisition of Autodata will not only complement our expanding/existing suite of digital SMR solutions, such as Identifix and Inpart, but will also accelerate the expansion of Solera’s asset protection and risk management solutions in emerging and maturing markets across the globe.” As technology continues to rapidly drive complex automotive designs, vehicle repair shops increasingly demand sophisticated digital
Continued from Page 44
solutions that can enable and sustain efficient aftermarket operations with the highest levels of customer satisfaction. “Today’s motorists expect automotive service professionals not only to understand every vehicle make and model, but also to provide a faster and more accurate service at highly competitive prices,” said Rod Williams, CEO of Autodata. “Joining the Solera family will not only amplify Autodata’s ability to meet the growing needs of the industry, but will also provide our customers and partners with access to Solera’s highly innovative mindset and forward-thinking solutions.” “Vehicles are not only being driven longer than ever before, but are becoming more technologically advanced and digitally sophisticated,” said Aquila. “The SMR industry must be prepared to manage this evolution in mobility with the right mindset, equipment and training. Solera’s integration of Autodata will accelerate delivery of the data and software that the global SMR marketplace needs today, as well as the innovative technologies and solutions that the industry will need tomorrow.”
OEM Summit
Snap-on generally supports its tools long after it stops selling any particular model. Doug Kelly, CEO of Collision Diagnostic Services, agreed that “OEM tools change a lot more often,” and thus may have a shorter useful life than aftermarket tools. But “to keep up with the 2016 and 2017 vehicles with all this new technology, I honestly don’t know how a repair shop would start if they aren’t using factory tools,” he said. He said his company’s remote scanning service via its “asTech” tool, however, prevents a shop from having to invest in either OEM tools that more quickly become outdated or in aftermarket tools that are not as comprehensive nor as frequently updated. “By delivering the [scanning] service as opposed to the technology, we eliminate the need to have to worry about what version [of scan tool is needed],” Kelly said. “We sell a device that [remotely] connects [the vehicle in your shop] to our OEM scan tool and…our trained technicians.”
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Media and Publicity for Shops Are Green Shops Truly Green or are they Just Greenwashing? with Ed Attanasio
I have often seen signs at body shops consumers are now opting to buy prodtouting that they are a “100% Certified ucts and services from green companies, Green” and proudly exclaiming things because they believe in making our like “We Use Only Waterborne Paint” planet a better place to live. Customer or “We Save Energy” or “We Recycle” reviews show that indeed that people and in most cases, I don’t doubt these will gravitate toward shops that recycle claims. But within the last few years, I or use waterborne paint, for example.” have heard more and more about shops If too many shops start greenthat aren’t truly as green as they claim, washing, it could adversely impact the yet they aren’t afraid to tell the world collision repair industry nationwide, that they are. Schillinger said. “Some shops are sinGreenwashing, also known as cere in their efforts and want to make “green sheen,” is a form of deception a positive impact by becoming enviwhere companies falsely promote the ronmentally friendly. But there are perception that an organization’s prod- shops out there that have figured out ucts, claims or policies are that making the public think planet-friendly. It’s greenthey’re green can be just as washing when a company or beneficial. The most harmful organization spends more reeffect of greenwashing is that sources claiming to be “green” it takes away from those through advertising and marshops investing in true energy keting than actually impleefficient and eco-friendly immenting business practices that provements. The automotive Steven E. diminish environmental impact. services industry is risking the Schillinger is the president of GRCFalsely claiming or impossibility of all shops being Pirk Management plying that a shop is helping placed in the same category and has witnessed the environment has become and the public confidence in more and more widespread in the automotive green being diminished. shops that falsely service industry. Using lowIf you’re truly a green shop claim that they’re green, which is emission products such as and your competitors are waterborne paints does not called greenwashing greenwashing, fear not, benecessarily save energy – the real cause there is good news on the way. source of environmental pollution. ReThe U.S. Environmental Protection alize that while there are few, if any, Agency is now getting involved, with a perfectly green shops in the world, mandate to manage carbon as a polluthere are shades of green. Figuring out tant. And the U.S. Federal Trade Comwhere a shop falls in the range of enmission is taking a close look at the vironmental positives or negatives is standards for “green labeling.” the trick to identifying a true green In simple terms, if you’re telling the shop from a greenwashed one. world that you’re green, you better prove Steven E. Schillinger is the pres- it and back it up or risk your reputation, ident of GRC-Pirk Management, an not to mention fines and penalties for accredited independent auditor for getting caught. “Whether you are a manU.S. Energy Policy Act Performance ufacturer, supplier or service provider in Rating Method (PRM) for green certithe automotive industry, be savvy about fication and monitoring and he often what you say and do,” Schillinger said. speaks to industry groups about green- “Ask yourself these questions when you washing. He helps body shops to save advertise ‘going green.’ You owe it to substantial amounts of money through yourself, your customers and the envienergy rebates and also works with ronment for that matter; make sure that shops that have been caught violating green claims can be backed up with certheir local environmental regulations. tification and facts about efficacy.” Schillinger has seen greenwashing J.R. Hubbard is the owner of Sein many forms, but the bottom line is lecta Auto Body in San Francisco, CA. that it’s fraud. “Body shops all over the His shop has won several sustainabilcountry have realized that there is real ity awards and is a B Corp company, value in being a green business,” the only collision repairer in the counSchillinger said. “A growing number of try that has met the rigorous standards
48 FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
Ed Attanasio is an automotive journalist based in San Francisco, California. He can be reached at era39@aol.com.
of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency to attain this designation. As a truly green shop, Hubbard gets a little irritated when he sees other shops greenwashing. “I see it a lot, actually,” he said. “I won’t name them, but there are a few that actively advertise claiming that they are a green business when they are not. These shops know that being green will bring them more business, especially in the Bay Area, where people respect it and will flock to that.” In some cases, it’s too easy for shops to greenwash, Hubbard said. “Shop owners or managers will take a sustainability class offered by one of the paint companies, for example, and then all of a sudden they’re a green shop. They get a certificate and they put it on the wall and then advertise it on their web site, but that’s as far as they go.” Marie Kuykendall, the owner of Kuykendall’s Collision Repair in Sunnyvale, CA does not tout the fact that her
shops are all-in when it comes to being green, because she feels it is her responsibility to her family and her community. “I live two blocks from the shop and my family works here, so it’s important for us to be a green operation,” she said. “We don’t have any plaques on the wall and we don’t advertise it because we don’t think it’s anything special. We have been here for 35 years and we started recycling back then. We don’t wash our cars here, we take them to a car wash and we do everything possible to be environmentally responsible in every way we can.” Kuykendall hopes that collision repairers who are deceiving their customers should stop the practice or pay the price. “If shops are saying they’re green and they are not following through, they should be cited for that. There is a lot of competition here in Silicon Valley, so I guess everyone is looking for an advantage. But to mislead the public, that’s just wrong.”
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—John Yoswick is a freelance writer based in Portland, Oregon, who has a body shop in the family and has been writing about the automotive industry since 1988. He is the editor of the weekly CRASH Network (for a free 4-week trial subscription, visit www.CrashNetwork.com). Contact him by email at jyoswick@SpiritOne.com.
Historical Snapshot
Industry History Includes Diminished Value, Rating Insurers, a New Direction for CARSTAR with John Yoswick
20 years ago in the collision repair industry (February 1997) “This isn’t a club; it’s a business,” CARSTAR President Lirel Holt said of new directions the collision repair franchisor is pursuing. Those new directions include an increased emphasis on companyowned operations as opposed to the conversion type the 8-year-old corporation has been pursuing. Conversion franchising, meaning the signing up of existing shops, has brought the group to more than 300 shops since Holt founded CARSTAR in 1989. That figure includes some 30 shops in Canada. “Acquisition of shops by CARSTAR has been in the mix from day one,” Holt said. “But we’re now just beginning to buy company stores to fill areas where we can’t get a suitable conversion. We need the coverage to bring brand awareness up, and we’re gaining the capital and the experience to do it.”
decreased after it has been wrecked and repaired – was not a topic that would benefit from dissection and discussion at the conferences. But at CIC’s annual planning, just days after State Farm announced a $250 million settlement of a class action DV lawsuit it lost in Georgia, DV was being assigned to several CIC committees. “We did bury it a couple years back, but the discussion has been to put it into several committees so we can get In 1997, Lirel Holt several perspectives,” CIC was the president Chairman Lou DiLisio said. of CARSTAR, the “I think the fire has died down collision repair franchise company a little bit from where it was a he founded in 1989; couple years ago, so now we he left CARSTAR in wouldn’t just be adding fuel the late 1990s and today is co-founder to that fire but addressing a very real issue.” and CEO of MotionU, an online A significant portion of calendar of the next CIC meeting in automotive events Nashville, TN, has been set
– As reported in Parts & People. Just a few years later, CARSTAR abandoned its emphasis on corporateowned shops, selling many of those shops back to franchisees and returning to primarily a conversion-franchise model. It took CARSTAR almost 20 years, until 2016, to reach the 500-shop mark, with much of that growth coming in Canada, where the company now has about 250 shops.
15 years ago in the collision repair industry (February 2002) Diminished value is back on CIC’s radar screen. Collision Industry Conference (CIC) leaders and participants several years ago decided that diminished value (DV) – the issue of whether a vehicle’s value is
aside for discussion of DV, from which a CIC task force on the issue may be established. “I think collision repairers think it’s an insurance issue,” Georgia shop owner Gene Hamilton said at CIC. “I pro- mise you, it’s coming right straight at us just like a freight train. Everything you read says [the State Farm settlement of the Georgia lawsuit] will cost $250 million. Well, $50 million of that is going right to the lawyers who will propagate it right back into other lawsuits in all kinds of different areas of the repair process.” – As reported in Autobody News.
10 years ago in the collision repair industry (February 2007) State Farm and several smaller Northwest-based auto insurers remain among the best at taking care of their customers after an accident. And some of the companies best-known for their television commercials – including Pro-
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gressive and GEICO – are among the worst. That was the finding of a new survey of businesses that interact with auto insurers on behalf of vehicle-owners every day: Oregon collision repair shops. “Collision repair shops on a daily basis see how various insurance companies take care of Oregon drivers after an accident, so we felt it was worthwhile to ask how they rate the various insurers,” said Barbara Crest, executive director for the Northwest Automotive Trades Association (NATA), which conducted the survey of Oregon shops. “We believe their views will be helpful to insurance companies and consumers.” The survey asked shops to grade the Top 21 auto insurers in the state in terms of as to how well that company’s “policies, attitude and payment practices ensure quality repairs and customer service for Oregon motorists.” The association conducted a similar survey in 2004, allowing for some comparisons of how shops’ views of insurers have changed. Crest pointed to a number of items of interest in the findings of the latest survey:
● Although State Farm remains the only insurer to receive an overall grade of A-, three Northwest insurers – North Pacific, Oregon Mutual and Mutual of Enumclaw – were once again the only three to receive grades of B or B-. ● Four companies received below-average overall grades of D+ or lower. These companies were Farmers, GEICO, Progressive and Safeco. ● Allstate showed the most improvement from the 2004 survey in which it was ranked 19th with a grade of D+. This year, Allstate received a grade of C and moved up to be tied for 14th. ● Progressive became the first insurer in the survey to receive a D-, replacing Farmers Insurance at the bottom of the ranking. ● In most cases, the grades given a particular insurer from shops involved in that insurer’s direct repair program (DRP) were higher than those given by shops that are not part of that DRP. This was particularly true with GEICO, USAA, Unitrin and California Casualty, whose DRP shops gave them grades of B or better while non-DRP shops gave these same insurers grades of C+ or lower. But even
Farmers’ “Circle of Dependability” shops gave the insurer relatively low scores, and Nationwide’s “Blue Ribbon” shops actually gave the company lower grades than shops not on the program. – As reported in Parts & People. When NATA conducted a similar survey in 2015, Oregon Mutual and Mutual of Enumclaw earned the top spots, while State Farm slipped into a tie with USAA for the No. 3 slot. Progressive continued to improve, getting a C+ in 2015, while Farmers and Geico remained in the bottom three among the insurers. More than 1,200 shops participated in a recent similar survey conducted nationally by CRASH Network; results from that survey are expected soon.
5 years ago in the collision repair industry (February 2012) Speaking at a recent conference, David Strickland of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said his agency will decide next year whether to mandate vehicle-to-vehicle communication technologies in new cars to improve crash avoidance. “We have been working on this notion for over a decade,” Strickland
said, according to the Detroit Free Press. “We really do feel very bullish on the prospect of getting it on the ground.” Strickland said such technology could address up to 80 percent of crash scenarios. But even with such mandates, it can take decades before new safety features are in 95 percent of vehicles on the road, according to a recent report from the Highway Data Loss Institute. It won’t be until 2016 that 95 percent of vehicles have front airbags, for example, and until 2028 for side airbags. – As reported in CRASH Network (www.CrashNetwork.com), February 13, 2012. It wasn’t until this past December that federal regulators announced a proposed regulation that would require that automakers begin phasing in the vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication technology within two years; four years after the regulation is finalized (expected in 2019), every new car sold would have to have a V2V system.
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Snapshot of The Collision Repair Industry—Executive Summary of the 2016 Survey by Collision Repair Education Foundation and I-CAR
Background Previous surveys, conducted every three years, confirmed the need for a continual supply of qualified entrylevel technicians, while also showing changes concerning business operations and the collision repair technician workforce. A similar survey was completed in 2016 to continue monitoring trends and provide data to support effective strategies and decision-making on the structure and scope of collision repair school programs at all levels.
Sample An online survey was set up to collect
number of technicians increased significantly. The percentage of small shops (with annual sales under $300,000 ) has declined significantly since 1995, while the share of large shops (over $1 million) continues to increase. The overall average for square feet of production space has again grown, along with a higher average number of technicians and support employees reported. In 1995, one in five shops reported more than six technicians. In 2016, it is more than one out of every two shops (52%). Those in business five years or less has decreased from 1995 (14.2%) to 2016 (4.3%), resulting in an increase of the overall average of number of years in business.
Above the entire adult population, ninety-four percent of technicians are high school graduates. Businesses responding to the survey report that sixtyeight percent of technicians participated in I-CAR training in the last two years. Thirty-six percent reported some OEM training.
Compensation Compensation plans have remained consistent, with just under half (48%) based on flat rate (commission) plans. Although there is a wide distribution, annual income tends to increase
with shop sales volume. Income figures shown below are for production
technicians over 20 years old. According to survey respondents, average income for production technicians rose from $52,997 in 2013 to $53,857 in 2016, competitive with similar skilled trades and higher than most. Twenty-eight percent reported earnings of $70,000 or higher, showing an attractive earning potential as a collision repair technician.
Benefits Benefit packages offered to today’s collision repair technician workforce show little change from previous survey data, except for a significant decrease
This survey was conducted by the Collision Repair Education Foundation
information about both the business environment and the technician workforce. Announcements were made in leading publications, on appropriate websites, and to repair associations inviting collision repair businesses to complete the survey. Over 630 collision repair businesses responded, representing over 4,500 technicians and a wealth of data. The same electronic survey system was used for direct analysis with the 2013 Survey and a few interesting comparisions to prior year surveys. Complete data history is available in the full report.
Business Statistics While the total number of collision repair businesses increased slightly, the
Current Technicians Average technician age has increased to almost 41 years old, rising about 13% since 1995. A particular concern for this industry is the growth in the percentage of technicians over 50 years old. Hiring from another shop is still the largest source of technician hiring (49%) and is down from sixty-one percent in 2013. Just over twenty-five percent were hired from a non-automotive industry or as their first job, higher than in 2013 (20%). Over eleven percent were hired from a related automotive industry. Respondents indicated that 36 percent of their technicians had some level of pre-employment technical education.
52 FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
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IGONC’s Triangle Chapter Enjoyed Xmas Celebration by Chasidy Rae Sisk
On Tuesday, December 13, the Triangle Chapter of the Independent Garage Owners of North Carolina (IGONC) held its annual Christmas party in a private room at the Peddler’s Steak House, a favorite dining spot for many in Raleigh, NC. According to IGONC Executive Director Bob Pulverenti, “This
December gathering is just an opportunity to enjoy old friends and a great meal. Our attendance increased this year, allowing us to use the entire back room area, giving guests more space to mingle and socialize.” Pulverenti continued, “This year’s dinner was very nice. It’s always good to get to check in with everyone on a more personal level, meeting their family and sharing stories outside of the shop environment. This event, in particular, is a great way for like-minded business owners to spend some time together relaxing and to swap ideas, industry events and industry news.”
Mopar Celebrates 80 Years The Mopar brand, born on August 1, 1937 as a contraction of the words “Motor Parts,” celebrates 80 years in 2017, marking an amazing evolution over eight decades. First introduced as the name of a line of antifreeze products, the Mopar brand has since transformed to encompass total service, parts and customer care for FCA vehicle owners around the globe. “The Mopar brand holds an unparalleled place in the automotive world, possessing name recognition, scope of service and passionate enthusiasts unmatched by any other service and parts organization in the industry,” said Pietro Gorlier, Head of Parts and Service (Mopar), FCA – Global. “From humble beginnings as a simple name for antifreeze products, now the Mopar brand reaches customers in over 150 markets offering parts, service and innovative care throughout the whole customer journey.” After its introduction in 1937, the Mopar brand quickly began to stand for more than just antifreeze. The brand made a name for itself in the muscle-car era of the 1960s, cementing a legacy on the streets and at the dragstrip that by decade’s end would have owners referring to their vehicles as “Mopar” cars.
Over the last decade, Mopar has pegged the needle in its push to transform into a global service, parts and customer-care brand for all FCA vehicle owners. In 2008, Mopar Express Lane service, offering fast oil changes and more, was introduced at dealerships, with more than 1,000 operational today in the United States, and more than 1,750 open in more than 20 countries around the world. Construction is in progress on two new Mopar Parts Distribution Centers (PDCs) in the United States, adding to the brand’s current network of more than 50 PDCs established to service the more than 500,000 products in the Mopar portfolio. In the last decade, Mopar has blazed a trail with a number of industry firsts, including the first smartphone vehicle-information apps, in-vehicle wireless charging and factory-connected tablet technology in the service lane via Mopar wiADVISOR. The Mopar brand also introduced a series of limited-edition Mopar vehicles built at the factory, beginning with the Mopar ‘10 Challenger. A new special-edition Mopar vehicle has been introduced each year since, the most recent being the Mopar ‘16 Ram Rebel, with 3,650 limitedrun Mopar vehicles sold since that first
in 2010. On the product side, in conjunction with the Jeep® brand, Mopar created a new Jeep Performance Parts line to deliver trail-ready parts to offroaders. In late 2016, new Mopar Crate HEMI® Engine Kits were brought to market, enabling enthusiasts to drop modern HEMI power into classic, 1975 or earlier rides.
Celebrating 80 Years of Mopar Throughout 2017, the Mopar brand will mark its 80th year with a large slate of initiatives, including limitededition anniversary vehicles, 80th anniversary-themed service, parts and customer-care offers for customers, special merchandise, events, celebrations and much more. The year-long celebration will kick off at the 2017 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, January 8-22. Befitting the brand’s global expansion, media and industry leaders from around the world will have the opportunity to experience the start of the Mopar brand’s year-long birthday party and view the 80th anniversarythemed Mopar Garage NAIAS display. For more information, visit www.mopar .com.
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I-CAR Launches Seven New Vehicle and Technology Specific Training Courses
I-CAR® has released seven new onehour online courses as part of its new Vehicle and Technology Specific Training curriculum portfolio. The courses include three that are Nissan/INFINITI specific, a Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) Collision Repair Overview, a course on calibration of front facing cameras and front radar, an introduction to diagnostics and scan
tools, and a new one-hour online version of the 2017 edition of I-CAR’s popular vehicle technology and trends course. All seven courses are offered online and have been specifically designed to provide collision repair technicians with cutting-edge knowledge that targets today’s innovative vehicles. The three Nissan/INFINTI courses are:
Safety Shield Technologies (NI001E01) – Nissan’s Safety Shield Technologies are a suite of advanced safety features that are designed to
provide an extra set of eyes for the driver and help reduce response time in braking situations. This course provides detailed explanations of how to identify if a vehicle is equipped with Safety Shield Technologies, how the systems function, what parts are associated with each system, what kind of damage is typical when the systems are involved in a collision and what procedures are required when parts are removed or replaced.
Nissan Repair Considerations (NI002E01) – This course familiarizes the technician with the vehicles that make up the Nissan model lineup. Additionally, it looks at how to access the repair procedures required for quality repairs. Students will become familiar with the unique repair considerations that are required by Nissan.
INFINITI Repair Considerations (NI003E01) – This offering is designed to provide technicians with specific details on vehicles in the INFINITI model lineup. Students will learn about required repair considerations that are unique to INFINITI, as well as how to access specific repair procedures. Other new courses include:
Calibration of Front Facing Cameras and Front Radars (VT200E01) – Systems that require either a front facing camera or front millimeter wave radar are intricate and procedures for repairing them are complex. Students will learn what is involved with calibrating these two advanced electronic systems.
Introduction to Diagnostics and Scan Tools (VT210E01) – Students will gain knowledge on the differences between certain electrical troubleshooting tools, when OEM scan tools are required, and how they can most effectively handle their diagnostic needs.
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) Collision Repair Overview (VT205E01) – The course provides an overview covering everything from FCA’s rich repair history to their position on modern repair issues including their position on cold straightening, partial replacements, types of specified joints for repair, and pre- and post-scans for collision repair.
Vehicle Technology and Trends (VT017E01) – This course covers new features and collision repair procedures for 2017 Model Year vehicles, both foreign and domestic. Technology high-
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“Vehicle manufacturers are continuing to innovate with regards to the technologies and materials that are going into their new models,” said Josh McFarlin, I-CAR director of curriculum and product development. “The need for, and the value of, I-CAR training to the industry continues to increase. We are committed to working with the OEMs so that we are able to deliver the most relevant courses possible, and help repair facilities and technicians by providing the information and knowledge they need to perform complete, safe, and quality repairs. As repairs become more vehicle specific, the industry will find that our new Vehicle and Technology Specific Training curriculum offering is both relevant and complementary to I-CAR’s core training programs.” All of the new courses are currently available. For more information, visit www.i-car.com.
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industry and, while disruptive to an individual shop, does not increase or decrease the pool of available technicians. Industry turnout decreases the in health care coverage. number of working technicians avail1n 1995, nineteen percent of busi- able. In the last 12 months, approxinesses reported no benefits offered mately one in sixteen collision from this list. Those offering no bene- technicians (6.2%) left the trade, similar to the 2013 Survey. Some technicians (1.9%) left their job for a different position, but are still working in an automotive business. Other technicians (2.6%) left the collision repair industry completely. In addition, 1.6% of technicians retired from the workforce. The survey asked about how many open technician positions the shop has cur(Other trades source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) rently. Unfilled entry-level needs averaged 0.9 technicians per shop, while unfilled experienced technician needs averaged 1.7 per shop. Continued from Page 52
Snapshot
fits have declined in every year the survey was done, showing less than three percent offering no benefits in 2016.
Technician Turnover Approximately one of every seven technicians (14.5%) left their jobs within the last year, similar to the results found in 2013 (13.9%). Half of all reported technicians have been with their current employer for 5 years or less, similar to previous surveys. Those staying on the job for over 20 years has increased each year to over ten percent in 2016.
Similar to 2013, of those who left their jobs, over half (57%) left for another shop. This is turnover within the
Entry-Level Technicians Three out of five shops reported hiring at least one entry-level technician during the previous 12 months. The most effective recruitment method reported was asking vendors, followed closely with contacting a technical school directly and
Over one in three (37%) reported at least one employee was on a school advisory committee, significantly higher than twenty-nine percent in 2013.
Training Programs Survey respondents indicated which tasks they would expect a technical
school program graduate to be able to perform with very little supervision. Respondents chose an average of 9.2 tasks, higher than in 2013 (8.3 tasks). The top four requested tasks remained the same, as they have since See Snapshot, Page 62
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posting jobs online. General career fairs showed low effectiveness as ranked by respondents. Collision repair specific careers fairs were launched by the Education Foundation in 2016 to further increase success rates. Almost three out of four respondents (72%) identified one collision repair school in their area and almost one of every two (48%) identified a second one. Sixty-nine percent rated their schools as Good or above. Of those who have hired from these schools, almost all (93%) would hire more.
56 FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
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Toby Chess is an I-CAR program instructor, Training specialist, and former salvage yard operator. Toby is universally known in the collision industry for his work with first responders and advocacy for body shops and consumers. He can be reached at tcspeedster@gmail.com
Hey Toby!
What To Expect from an OSHA Isocyanate and Lift Inspection with Toby Chess
You are sitting at your desk and an OSHA inspector walks in and wants to discuss your isocyanate protection program and inspect your lift. The first request by the inspector will be to see your respirator fit test for all your required employees along with their medical questionnaire. By the way, it is September 2016. You tell him that you have not done the fit test this year (needs to be done yearly), but you will get to it when you have a chance. You will be issued a citation for $7500 and that is just the start of it. There are examples where OSHA fined a facility over $10,000.00 for not furnishing the proper respirators and not having done a fit test. Starting in June of 2013, OSHA was given a mandate to determine isocyanate protection in the collision industry and part of the mandate, an OSHA inspection could inspect for isocyanate protection without a complaint. They could also inspect to see
that any lifts/hoists in a body shop have been inspected. Again inspection without a complaint. So what are isocyanates, where are they found in the body shop and what PPE is necessary for isocyanate protection? Isocyanates are powerful irritants to the mucous membranes of the eyes and gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts. Direct skin contact can also cause marked inflammation. Isocyanates can also sensitize workers, making them subject to severe asthma attacks if they are exposed again. There is evidence that both respiratory and dermal exposures can lead to sensitization. Death from severe asthma in some sensitized subjects has been reported. Workers potentially exposed to isocyanates that experience persistent or recurring eye irritation, nasal congestion, dry or sore throat, cold-like symptoms, cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, or chest tightness should see a physician knowl-
edgeable in work-related health problems. Isocyanate exposure generally occurs through inhalation and/or dermal routes. Depending on the isocyanate type and the application method, there may be significant exposure potential from either, or both, of these routes and this should be considered in the risk management approach. Inhalation exposure can occur when isocyanates are present in the workplace air, either as a vapor or an aerosol. In some instances, airborne isocyanates can be present in both of these forms simultaneously. Aerosols can be generated by deliberate means, such as spraying, or inadvertently when isocyanates are mechanically agitated or vigorously disturbed. For example, fine aerosol particles will be generated when liquids are brush applied or poured from one vessel to another. However, the amount of aerosol generated in this
way will usually be much lower than from spraying processes. Where solid isocyanates are handled, there is potential for airborne dust to be generated. Dermal (skin) exposure can occur wherever there is potential for workers’ skin to come into contact with isocyanates. The main mechanisms by which dermal exposure to isocyanates occur are: ■ Direct contact with workers’ skin
■ Deposition of aerosol from the air onto workers’ skin
■ Splashing, during pouring or mixing activities for example.
■ Handling contaminated items such as tools or used personal protective equipment (PPE) ■ Contact with contaminated surfaces,
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616-942-4658 Fax M, W 7:30am-8pm; Tu, Th, F 7:30am-6pm; Sat 8am-12pm www.toyotaofgrandrapids.com
58 FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
Illinois
South Dakota
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Ohio Byers Audi Columbus 888.804.7895 614.863.1770 Fax M-F 8am-6pm; Sat 8am-2pm wholesaleparts@byersauto.com www.byersimports.com
vapors as they pass thru the filter. These filters have a black ring to distinguish it as a vapor cartridge.
such as control panels or process plant, during maintenance Isocyanates are found in virtually any two part products, such as bondo, seam sealers, plastic two repair and primers and clear coats. What are the necessary Personal Protection Equipment items for isocyanate protection? Gloves, Goggles, paint suits and respirators. Let’s look at respirators. There are two types: particulate and vapor. Particulate respirators have fine mesh screens that trap various size particles that pass thru the microscopic holes. Some examples of particulates would be weld thru primer, aerosols products, and welding fumes to name a few. These filters are pink in color.
There is a third cartridge that is both a particulate and vapor all rolled into one filter. These are pink and black.
Vapor respirators have charcoal inside the cartridge that absorbs the
All of the above filters have an hour limit and should be changed on a regular basis. I perform annual respirator fit test and give my shops a
book that contains the medical exams, respirator fit test and a page for each employee log that dates when the cartridges have been changed (a game changer when and OSHA inspector walks into shop and wants to see your records). It should also be noted that it is a large OSHA fine if a respirators is not stored in a protective container when not in use.
Another area that OSHA is actively looking at is repairable crystalline silica. Crystalline silica is found in sand blasting and rubbing compound.
3M states in Section 8 for their SDS sheet for Ultra finishing Rubbing Compound you should avoid breathing of vapors, mists or sprays. Avoid breathing of dust created by cutting, sanding, grinding or machining. Select one of the following NIOSH approved respirators based on airborne concentration of contaminants and in accordance with half face piece or full-face air-purifying respirator with organic vapor cartridges and P100 particulate prefilters. OSHA states that the final rule takes effect June 23, 2016 after which industries have two years to comply. In other words, your person who polishes the vehicles with cutting comSee Next Page
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www.autobodynews.com | FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS 59
pound needs to was a proper respirator and also has a medical questionnaire filled out along with a respirator fit test. I would recommend that you make sure that your tech is in compliancy now and not wait. Another new rule took place last year is the GHS rules (the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals or GHS) on labeling effective June 1, 2016. Employers need to update all work place labels. The label pictured is courtesy of Kent Automotive. The above pictured label is now needed on all products that need a work place label.
Body Shop Transfers Chemical from larger container to a smaller one, a work place label is required* Here is what OSHA has stated about the new work place labels and SDS sheets. “Labels: All labels will be
required to contain four elements: a pictogram that conveys the specific hazard a chemical may present, signal words that specify the level of severity of hazard, a hazard statement that assigns a class and category to the chemical, and a precautionary statement that advises how the chemical
should be handled to reduce the risk of injury. Safety Data Sheets: SDS sheets will all need to follow the standardized 16-section format.” Here is a partial list of the top 5 OSHA Violations in 2015: #2 Violation. Hazard Communication (1910.1200) - 5,192 Citations About The Standard: Hazard Communication standards address chemical hazards produced or used in the workplace, and governs how those hazards are communicated to workers through things like labels, safety data sheets and classification standards. Recent updates in Hazard Communication standards aligned OSHA’s standards with the Globally Harmonized System (GHS) standards already used internationally. When the new updates began going into effect in 2013, many businesses did not properly implement revisions or train employees on the new standards. Most violations, though, were due to employers not having a written hazard communication program at all, or not providing training and information on hazardous chemicals to workers. #4 Violation. Respiratory Protection (1910.134) - 3,305 Citations About The Standard: Employees who work around harmful dusts, fogs, fumes, mists, gases, smokes, sprays and vapors are at risk of very dangerous occupational diseases if precautions are not taken to protect their respiratory systems. OSHA’s Respiratory Protection standards set expectations for control measures, respirator use, cleaning and repair, written programs and worker medical evaluations, and these citations are most frequently issued for medical evaluation requirements, implementation of a written respiratory protection program and fit testing. What does this mean collision shop employer? An unlabeled container falls into the Serious Violation—Each Unlabeled material is subject to a $1500 fine beginning 8/1/2016. Furthermore, Other-ThanSerious Violation, a violation that has a direct relationship to job safety and health, but probably would not cause death or serious physical harm. OSHA may assess a penalty from $0 to $1,000 for each violation. The agency may adjust a penalty for an Other-
60 FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
Than-Serious violation downward by as much as 95 percent, depending on the employer’s good faith (demonstrated efforts to comply with the Act), history of previous violations, and size of business. Serious Violation — A violation where there is a substantial probability that death or serious physical harm could result. OSHA assesses the penalty for a serious violation from $1,500 to $7,000 depending on the gravity of the violation. OSHA may adjust a penalty for a serious violation downward based on the employer’s good faith, history of previous violations, and size of business. Last topic I would like to discuss is MSDA to SDS. June 1, 2016 – By this date employers should be fully compliant with HazCom 2012. That includes making
any necessary updates to their HazCom program, training employees on any newly identified chemical hazards (identification of new hazards is likely during the reclassification process chemical manufacturers undertake), and updating safety data sheets libraries and secondary labels. I have included a SDS Check List for Compliance. The following checklist will help to ensure you comply with the rule: ● Obtained a copy of the rule. ● Read and understood the requirements. ● Assigned responsibility for tasks. ● Prepared an inventory of chemicals. ● Ensured containers are labeled. ● Obtained SDS for each chemical. ● Prepared written program. ● Made SDSs available to workers. ● Conducted training of workers. ● Established procedures to maintain current program. ● Established procedures to evaluate effectiveness.
I realize that our days in the body shop business are filled with many major concerns (where do I find new techs for instance), and a work place label is not at the top of the list, but large OSHA fine can be devastating.
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www.autobodynews.com | FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS 61
Mitchell International Introduced as Newest SCRS Corporate Member The Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) is pleased to announce that Mitchell International has pledged their support as the newest Corporate Member. “Our goal is to make our customers successful, and when we do, we become successful,” shared Mitchell VP of Sales & Service Jack Rozint. “Our customers in the collision repair business are experiencing change at a rate that is unprecedented, and we want to work hand in hand with the groups that are best positioned to help those businesses adapt and succeed. The mission and vision of SCRS says it all—SCRS educates, informs, and recognizes best in class performers— all of which serves to improve the industry.” Mitchell International has over 70 years of history in the repair industry. Glenn Mitchell first founded the company to use his technical knowledge, repair expertise and ability to connect pieces of information to simplify complex processes. The initial product was designed to meet the practical demands of the automotive industry, delivering the industry’s first functioning car parts replacement resource for collision-damaged vehicles. The focus on simplification, efficiency
Continued from Page 56
Snapshot
1995. Electrical Repairs is still the least expected skill. New tasks added for 2016 were Perform Diagnostic Scan, Repair Aluminum Dents, and Aluminum Welding. All are in the bottom half of expected task proficiencies.
Conclusions ● The collision repair industry is predominantly independent businesses that have increased slightly in number while also increasing in average size, number of employees, and sales volume.
● One of every two shops reported six or more technicians and the industry total number of production technicians has increased overall.
● The average age of technicians has again risen and is now almost 41 years old.
● Average technician income has again increased, is still higher than most comparable trades, and has almost one of
and access to accurate information drove Mitchell’s entry into the collision repair market and then into auto physical damage claims. “There is actually a great deal of history of involvement from Mitchell,” explains SCRS Chairman Andy Dingman. “At the onset of the Corporate Membership program in the 1980s,
Mitchell was one of the first companies to offer their support, recognizing the positive impact that was possible from a repair market that was led by an effective association. With a focus on the future, and the demands presented by modern-day automotive technology, Mitchell has expressed a keen interest on being an active participant in market solutions.”
“We support the industry achieving better outcomes that include quality/safe repairs and improved customer service in an environment where the parties work together cooperatively,” added Rozint. “We at Mitchell are proud to support SCRS, and its principles of working together and inspiring positive advancement in the collision repair industry.” Mitchell’s growth and expansion into new markets has been driven by the company’s practice of proactively seeking opportunities to provide additional value to its customers. The company marked its 70th year with notable acquisitions and several new key customers. SCRS appreciates the support of Mitchell International. “We’re pleased to have the continued involvement that reflects the early days of the association, while looking forward to the future of the industry,” says SCRS Executive Director, Aaron Schulenburg. “Membership often leads to ways of collaboratively addressing the needs of the industry to provide solutions, and we look forward to those opportunities.” For more information, visit www .mitchell.com.
Video Shows 2016’s Worst Red-Light Runners
American Traffic Solutions (ATS), a manufacturer of road safety cameras, wants drivers to see their compilation of the worst red-light running crash videos of 2016 and realize they are too dangerous to ignore. “Seeing is believing, and ATS urges drivers to watch this public service video and recognize the danger red-light running presents,” said Liz Caracciolo, ATS Safety General Manager. “Every day in the United States, drivers running red lights cause an average of two fatalities and more than 340 injuries. When drivers ignore a red light, they put themselves and innocent pedestrians, motorcyclists, bicyclists, other drivers and passengers at great risk. ATS urges all drivers to choose safety over recklessness and stop on red.” The video, compiled from ATS red-light safety cameras in operation in communities throughout the country, is available for viewing at https://www .atsol.com/2016-worst-red-lightrunners. “The collisions captured by our road safety cameras can be avoided. For your own safety, ATS encourages all drivers to abide by traffic laws and stop on red,” Caracciolo said.
every four earning $70,000 or more.
● Collision repair businesses have decreased healthcare benefits since the last survey.
● Technician turnover (within the industry) has increased slightly while technician turnout (leaving the industry) has decreased slightly. Retirements have increased.
● Three out of five shops reported hiring at least one entry-level technician in the past year.
● Of those businesses that have hired from a collision repair school program in their area, almost all would hire again.
● Participation on technical school advisory committees has again increased (from 29% to 37%) over the past three years. ● Expectations for collision repair skills of technical school program graduates have remained steady over the years with Prep for Paint, R&R Bolted Parts, Repair Steel Metal Dents, and Detailing still the top four tasks.
62 FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
Choose Original MINI Parts. illinois Patrick MINI Schaumburg 847-605-4055 (847) 619-4511 Fax Hours: M-Sat 8am-5pm
The Dealers Above Are Original MINI Parts Distributors ©2016 MINI, a division of BMW of North America, LLC. The MINI name, model names and logo are registered trademarks.
Axalta Donates Liquid Coatings to Haitian Hurricane Relief Effort Axalta Coating Systems donated a 20ton container of liquid coatings to help rebuild homes in Haitian villages devastated by Hurricane Matthew. The shipment, which is equivalent to 3,602 gallons of paint and valued at $33,000, arrived in Haiti the week of January 9 and was received by Maxima S.A., a Haiti-based woodworking company. The donation will cover more than 1.4 million square feet of surface area. “Haiti is one of the most vulnerable nations in the world in the face of natural disasters, including most recently Hurricane Matthew, which has left families and whole communities devastated,” said Michael Cash, Axalta senior vice president and president of the company’s industrial coatings business. “We are very fortunate that the products we make every day can, in some small way, help the families and communities in Haiti recover. We are thankful that our donation will help the country continue to rebuild, and we are grateful that FAMIS, one of our longest standing customers, shares this same energy to help our neighbors in Haiti.” Maxima S.A. delivers starter homes to rural Haitian families suffering from natural disasters including the 2010 earthquake and now those affected by the recent damage from Hur-
ricane Matthew. A single housing kit covers 250 square feet, is hurricanecertified to withstand 108 mph winds, and has been tested and approved in Haiti. The coatings donation from Axalta will be used to cover the exterior of 5,600 Maxima starter homes. “We’re so grateful for the donation from Axalta of liquid coatings for our starter homes,” said Stefan Vervloet,
president of Maxima S.A. “Haitians are eager to rebuild, and we’re happy to partner with an organization that can help bring healing to a community recovering from Hurricane Matthew.” The 20-foot container of coatings was coordinated and shipped from Miami, FL by FAMIS, Inc., the foremost industrial finishing supply distributor throughout the southeast. “There was no question about helping with this project. We said ‘yes’ before we even had all of the details; that’s
how much we believe in Axalta and the philanthropic work they do,” said Mario R. Hernandez, vice president of FAMIS, Inc. “Our family-owned company was happy to help Axalta, Maxima, and the Haitian people,” he said. Various colors of solvent-based anti-corrosive and decorative coatings, water-based decorative paint, water-based sealer and fast dry alkyd paint were shipped to help the reconstruction of Haitian villages. Axalta is committed to helping sustain communities through partnerships and initiatives that connect to the nature of its business as a technologybased manufacturing company. In addition to three key areas of support (education with a science, technology, engineering, and mathematics or STEM focus, sustainability initiatives, and community service where employees and customers live and work), Axalta also partners with companies and institutions that share an interest in safety and health, environmental stewardship, and quality products and services. For more information about Maxima S.A.’s Haiti Housing Fund, visit www.maximahaiti.com. For more information about Axalta, visit www.axaltacoatingsystems .com
ASA Announces Dates, Location for 2017 Annual Business Meeting
The Automotive Service Association (ASA) will hold its next annual business meeting April 24-26 at the Magnolia Hotel in Denver. The event will kick off with a Welcome Reception on Monday evening, April 24 at 6 p.m. All ASA members are invited to attend an open board meeting Tuesday, April 25, from 1-5 p.m., where there will be a swearing-in ceremony of the board of directors for 20172018. Prior to the open board meeting, there will be a luncheon for all attendees. Following the open board meeting, there will be a by-invitation-only recognition dinner. On Wednesday morning, April 26, the Mechanical and Collision Operations Committees, as well as the Automotive Management Institute’s (AMi) board of directors, will conduct their meetings. A group event will be planned for the afternoon of April 26. The attendee registration fee for the ASA Annual Business Meeting is $99.95, which includes the Monday night reception and Tuesday luncheon. Housing and transportation arrangements are the responsibility of each attendee. More details, including online registration, will be coming soon. Visit www .ASAshop.org/annualmeeting for general information on the event.
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www.autobodynews.com | FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS 63
Axalta Announces its Automotive Color of the Year 2017 – Gallant Gray
Axalta Coating Systems has announced its Automotive Color of the Year 2017: Gallant Gray. According to a statement from the company, “This luxurious color is enhanced by blue and silver flakes that produce a unique sparkle effect and dark undertones that enrich the finish, adding sophistication.” A year-long Color of the Year celebration will commence with a variety of events during the 2017 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) Preview Days in Detroit, including a video reveal at the EyesOn Design awards program on January 10, 2017. The color will also be prominently featured at the Axalta-sponsored Charity Preview on January 13, 2017, which raises funds to support services for children. Daily inspirations, coupled with extensive research, helped Axalta color designers and product experts select Gallant Gray as the Automotive Color of the Year. A high percentage of the market is interested in a neutral palette and adding slight hints of hues can add life to these colors. “At Axalta, we monitor automotive trends and forecast how color tastes are changing in the automotive market,” said Nancy Lock-
hart – Axalta Global Color Marketing Manager. “We are pleased to partner with automakers by using our coatings to give their vehicles beauty and character, and we’re confident customers will appreciate Gallant Gray. With hints of blue and green, it exemplifies modernity and elegance. Taking everything into account, we think Gallant Gray is the new silver.” Axalta’s recently released 2016 Global Automotive Color Popularity Report, which documents vehicle color trends by geography, showed a rise in the popularity of gray shades around the world. Neutral colors have dominated the market over the last ten years. Although white and black maintained the top positions worldwide, gray is now tied with silver for third place at eleven percent. Gray leads silver in popularity in Europe (by six percent), North America (five percent), and South Korea (seven percent). Gray is most popular in Europe (17 percent), North America (16 percent), South Korea (19 percent), and India (12 percent). Axalta’s Global Automotive Color Popularity report is in its 64th consecutive edition. For more information, visit www.axalta.com/color.
YANG Calls for Hosts for 2017 Meet-Ups
The Young Auto Care Network Group (YANG) of the Auto Care Association is currently taking applications for companies to host a Regional Meet-Up in 2017. Since
YANG started the Regional MeetUp program, there have been more than 20 meet-ups across the United States, designed specifically for young professionals in the auto care industry. These local events were launched in June 2015. All young professionals, both members and nonmembers, under the age of 40 in the industry are encouraged to attend these events for in-person networking without having to travel far from home. There is no fee to attend. The next YANG Regional Meet-Up is scheduled for Feb. 10,
2017 from 5 p.m.-8 p.m. in Grand Rapids, MI. This event is hosted by Auto-Wares and is being held in conjunction with the Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper Tech Expo. YANG members will receive complimentary access passes to the show floor on Friday night. The three-hour event includes a welcome address from Todd Leimenstoll, president, Auto-Wares; networking; opportunity drawings and more. Interested attendees should RSVP to a particular meetup location at www.autocare.org/ yangevents. Dates are limited, so companies interested in hosting a meet-up are encouraged to sign up early. For information on what it takes to be a host, visit http://autocare.org/WhatWe-Do/Professional-Development /YANG/host-a-regional-meet-up/.
For more information on the YANG Regional Meet-Up program, visit www.autocare.org/yang or contact Katy McQuiston at katy.mcquiston @autocare.org.
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64 FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
NHTSA Opens Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan Investigation The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opened an investigation on December 20 after
the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) received 141 reports of sudden, unexpected increases in stopping distance in model year 2007 through 2009 Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan vehicles. The cause of the problem is believed to be the Antilock Braking System (ABS) Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU). Some of the complainants report that after an ABS type braking event—caused by braking on slippery surface, a rough or uneven surface, a manhole cover or similar irregularity in the roadway—the brake pedal goes soft, frequently described as “going to the floor,” and the amount of force required by the driver to stop the car in-
creases significantly. In some cases, the driver is unable to stop within their desired stopping distance. Complainants have also reported going past the expected stopping points for stop signs or red lights, and some have reported being out into the flow of traffic before being able to bring the vehicle to a stop. It is believed that the ABS HCU experiences an internal malfunction which causes an inability to maintain required braking pressure. Reports allege that the condition can continue for some time until it corrects itself, but will then reoccur if another ABS type braking event happens while other reports indicate that the replacement of the ABS HCU corrects the problem. ODI has associated three crashes with this condition. A Preliminary Evaluation has been opened to assess the scope, frequency, and safety-related consequence of the alleged defect.
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www.autobodynews.com | FEBRUARY 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS 65
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National Auto Body Council Executive Director, Chuck Sulkala, Announces Retirement Chuck Sulkala, founder, first president, and executive director of the National Auto Body Council (NABC) announced his retirement on January 3, effective the end of 2017. According to a statement from the NABC, during Sulkala’s tenure over the past 22 years, the National Auto Body Council has become the leading voice to highlight the professionalism and integrity of the collision repair industry through community service involvement.
“I am humbled to have been a part of the National Auto Body Council history,” said Sulkala. “It is incredible to think that this started out as a conversation with Tim Rooney, formerly with I-CAR, and Scott Biggs, with Body Shop Video at the time. It is amazing to see how it has now become a powerful force in improving the image of the collision repair industry. I will miss working with my colleagues and the NABC board to continuously improve the state of the entire collision repair industry.
“After 50 years in this industry, I gency Extrication (FREE™) which am also hoping to enjoy what life has provides invaluable opportunities for to offer. I’m looking forward to spend- first responders to practice life-saving ing some more quality time with my skills on complex late model vehicles. wife Linda—although she will still be involved with the Recycled Rides pro- • Partnering as a business advocate with gram—but with 6 children and 9 AT&T’s It Can Wait campaign to focus grandchildren, frankly, I would like to awareness of the dangers of texting also try and make up for all while driving through the the many nights and hours Distracted Driving Initiative. away from all of them as well. Of course, I am also • Exponential membership looking for more time to growth, with more than 2,000 enjoy our second home in shop locations, numerous inMaine with both family and surers and vendors representindustry friends as well,” Suling all facets of the collision kala said. industry. Chuck Sulkala Under Sulkala’s leadership, NA-BC’s member network of Other accomplishments since the collision industry companies and pro- NABC was founded in 1994 include: fessionals have united to collaborate on community service programs that • Fundraising support for Ronald Mchelp change and save thousands of Donald Foundation and Ronald Mclives across the country. These include: Donald Houses across the country. • Introduction of NABC’s Recycled Rides™ program in 2007, which has resulted in nearly 1300 vehicles valued at $17 million donated to individuals and service organizations in need of reliable transportation. • The unique First Responder Emer-
Refinish Distributors Alliance Adds New Member The Refinish Distributors Alliance (RDA) has added a new member, HiLine Distributors, with headquarters in Honolulu, Hawaii. With this addition, RDA continues to grow their membership across 27 states.
Hi-Line has been in business since 1985 and is based out of Honolulu. Gregg Schneider is the owner and manages the daily operations. The company provides PBE services and products to Oahu and all of the surrounding Hawaiian Islands as well as Guam, American Samoa, and Saipan. They operate a central warehouse in Honolulu and carry the Axalta line of automotive finishes (solvent and water based). “Schneider is no stranger to the PBE industry and knows many of the RDA members,” a statement from the company read. “He is supported by what is arguably the best sales, marketing, technical and operational
staff on the islands. He is looking forward to networking and exchanging best practices with the members which are the best and most innovative, forward-thinking independent distributors in the industry.” “We are excited to have HiLine Distributors [as] part of the RDA/IMPACT organization,” said Robert McKenzie Jr., executive director of RDA. “Hi-Line exemplifies what our group is all about: Premier PBE Distributors providing exclusive networking, products and services.” RDA/IMPACT is the largest national group of refinish jobbers dedicated to providing quality services and products to their collision shops. RDA has 20 members, representing over 200 locations. Members currently service over 4,000 collision centers throughout the United States. Those interested in joining RDA/ IMPACT should contact Robert McKenzie, Jr. directly at (731) 2179081 or robertemckenzie@me.com.
For more information, visit www .rda-impact.com.
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• A “Leave Behind Program” where the Collision Industry at every CIC meeting would take a collection and give the funds to a local Children’s hospital. • Raising over $60,000, along with manpower from the Collision Industry during a CIC week in Kansas City to
build a house for Habitat for Humanity.
• Raising over $625,000 for Camp Mak-a-Dream in Montana, which provides a cost-free, medically supervised camping experience for children with cancer. Funds were used to build a Health Center named after the Collision Industry and to purchase a new, handicap-accessible bus.
“We will certainly miss Chuck at the National Auto Body Council, but his legacy will live on through the solid foundation he built for this wonderful organization,” said Domenic Brusco, Senior Manager for Industry Involvement at PPG Automotive Refinish and NABC Chairman. “Chuck’s upcoming retirement marks the end of a dynasty,” added Nick Notte, immediate past chairman of the NABC. “All of us who have been fortunate enough to work with and get to know Chuck over his five decades in the industry recognize him as the iconic figure that is tough on the outside, but with a warm heart that will melt those snowy Boston winters. I don’t know anyone who has done more for our industry.” For more information, visit www .NationalAutoBodyCouncil.org.
ABRA Auto Body & Glass Announces Executive Leadership Promotions and Appointment of Chief Operating Officer
ABRA Auto Body & Glass recently announced that it has added three key executive leadership roles to help execute its national growth strategy. James Kessler has been appointed to the newly created position of chief operating officer. Kessler joins ABRA with substantial experience in the automotive space, spend-
ing 17 years in several senior leadership roles at Pep Boys. Most recently, Kessler served as president & COO for various private equity backed growth companies where he lead operations through remarkable revenue and market share gains. Scott Krohn has been promoted to the newly created position of chief process & quality officer. His responsibilities will be to ensure ABRA remains an industry leader in customer satisfaction, innovation,
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process improvement, and implementing best-in-class practices to address growing vehicle complexities. He previously held the role of ABRA’s executive vice president of operations. Toan Nguyen has been promoted to the newly created position of chief information & strategy officer. He will continue to lead ABRA’s critical technology area in addition to building the company’s analytical growth roadmap and corporate strategy. He previously served as ABRA’s chief information officer. ABRA’s president and chief executive officer, Ann Fandozzi, commented by saying, “I am thrilled to announce the appointment of these three talented leaders to their new roles. Each of them have outstanding performance records and an unwavering passion for the industry. Their knowledge and clear vision for ABRA’s future will be instrumental in our long-term growth.” ABRA’s current portfolio includes 335 locations in 25 states with more than 5,000 employees.
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