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American Honda Releases Consumer-Oriented Video Describing Hazards with Substandard Repairs American Honda Motor Company Inc. has launched on a consumer-oriented educational video titled “ProFirst—Quality Collision Repair.” The

See the video at http://collision.honda.com/ profirst-collision#.VztXZuSrF6I

video can be seen at American Honda’s consumer web site, collision.honda .com. The 4:14 minute video compares two Acura MDX vehicles and stresses reducing the uncertainty of collision repair. One is a normal production vehicle while the other is a vehicle that was previously damaged and repaired incorrectly. The two vehicles were crashed according to IIHS protocols, and the video explores the differences between the two collisions as well as the deliberately substandard repairs. The difference between how each veSee American Honda, Page 17

Results of Refinish-Related “Who Pays For What?” Survey Available Online For Free Nearly 7 out of 10 shops say they need to ‘denib’ or ‘finish sand and buff’ at least three-quarters of the vehicles they paint, yet nearly one-third of shops believe that the top eight in-

surers “never” pay for the extra time it takes to do it. “Not true,” says Mike Anderson of Collision Advice. “Other shops report being paid by the top eight insurers for these operations, according to the results of our ‘Who Pays for What?’ survey series.” Each of the four different “Who Pays for What?” surveys, conduced by Collision Advice and CRASH Network, explores a different area of shop operations, including “Who Pays for What?” in terms of aluminum repair and “not-included” body labor operations, refinish operations, and strucSee Who Pays for What, Page 47

VOL. 7 ISSUE 4 JUNE 2016

Homeland Security’s Bruce Foucart Talks to ABN about Counterfeit OEM Parts by Stacey Phillips, Assistant Editor

With the number of OEM counterfeit parts cases on the rise, Autobody News talked to Bruce Foucart to learn more about where these parts are coming from and what collision repair shops should be aware of. Foucart is the director of the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center for Homeland Security Investigations in Arlington, VA. He has 30 years of experience as a leader and manager at both the headquarters and field activities of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and its predecessor agency, U.S. Customs Service.

What types of counterfeit parts have you seen during your inQ: vestigations?

Bruce Foucart,director of the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center for Homeland Security Investigations

What we have found is that A: every part that goes into a car, whether it is interior or exterior, it’s all being counterfeited now—smart keys, air bags, fuel filters, window shields See Counterfeit Parts, Page 30

CIC Finds More Questions Than Answers as it Begins Look at the “alt-OE” Parts Category

livering those brand new parts to the body shops as ‘alt-OE’ or in some Preliminary discussion at the recent cases as used parts,” Stabler said. Collision Industry Confer“They are brand new in a ence (CIC) held in Seattle, box from the dealer. I think Wash., seemed to indicate that is a worthy item to have there are more questions than as a discussion point. I know answers when it comes to the I get confused when an aftertopic of “alt-OE” or opt-OE” market part supplier deliver parts. a brand new OEM part in an “Have we reached a OEM box to our shop.” Chris Northup point where we need an imStabler said he believes proved definition of what these parts some dealers who sell some of those are?” Chris Northup, chairman of the parts are then applying for the priceCIC Parts Committee, said, in asking matching rebates some automakers CIC participants if it was a topic woroffer to help dealers compete with althy of more work by the committee. ternative part suppliers. For his part, CIC Chairman and “Quite frankly, as an OEM, I’d California shop owner Randy Stabler be feeling a little violated, because supported the committee digging into I’m basically helping an aftermarket the topic. parts supplier or used parts supplier to “There are aftermarket and used make margin,” Stabler said. parts providers purchasing brand new Representatives of a number of See alt-OE Parts Debate, Page 16 OEM parts from the dealer then deby John Yoswick

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Contents

NATIONAL 3M Kicks-Starts CREF Drive for Donations . 13 ABRA Auto Body & Glass Announces Succession Plan, Commences CEO Search . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Aftermarket Parts Disclosure Legislation Passes NH Legislature, Bill is Before Governor for Signature. . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 American Honda Releases ConsumerOriented Video Describing Hazards with Substandard Repairs . . . . . . . . . . . 1 ARA Members Discuss Legislative Issues at State Legislative Summit & Hill . . . . 42 ASA Board of Directors Announced . . . . . 12 ASA Collision Leaders Hold Meetings on Capitol Hill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57 Audatex and Driven Brands Announce Strategic Relationship . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Auto Care Association Focuses on Telematics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 AutoBodyguard Obtains Exclusive Rights to Zavada Odor Elimination Technology . . 57 Autonomous Trucks Conference in Las Vegas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Axalta Announces 2016 “Paint Outside the Can” Contest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 BASF Names Employee & Salesperson of the Year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 BASF New National Strategic Accounts Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 BASF’s Automotive Color Trends 2016/17 . 40

raft of deals between car manufacturers and tech companies. There is a rising demand from consumers for smartphone features such as making and receiving calls, music on demand, voice messages and infotainment in vehicles. The value of this market is estimated to reach 95.75 billion by 2020. Uber and Lyft said they are keen to get involved in the ride-hailing market by introducing semi and fully autonomous vehicles. The radio taxi services market in the US is forecast to grow 6.6% in value over the next five years, with e-hailing and ride-sharing apps transforming the taxi industry. In 2014, NHTSA says about 94 percent of all traffic crashes were caused by human error and this is leading to them seriously considering autonomous technology. For nformation, visit the Telematics and Vehicle Electronics section at http://www.researchandmarkets .com/rm/OHNJ.

Publisher & Editor: Jeremy Hayhurst General Manager: Barbara Davies Assistant Editor: Stacey Phillips Online Editor: Victoria Antonelli Contributing Writers: Tom Franklin, John Yoswick, Janet Chaney, Toby Chess, David Brown, Rich Evans, Ed Attanasio, Chasidy Sisk, David Luehr Advertising Sales: Joe Momber, Sean Hartman, Bill Doyle, Norman Morano (800) 699-8251 Office Manager: Louise Tedesco Content/Social Media Specialist: Cass Heckel Art Director: Rodolfo Garcia

Serving Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina 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. ©2016 Adamantine Media LLC.

Audi Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . 60 Axalta Coating Services . . . . . . . . . . 2 BMW Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . 57 Car-Part.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 CarcoonAmerica Airflow Systems . 38 Certified Automotive Parts Association (CAPA). . . . . . . . . . . 41 ChemSpec USA, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Chief Automotive. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Classifieds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Coggin Deland Honda . . . . . . . . . . 18 Dent Magic Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Eco Repair Systems of North America, LLC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 ECS Automotive Concepts . . . . . . . . 4 Equalizer Industries, Inc . . . . . . . . . 25 Everett Chevrolet-Buick-GMCadillac . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 FBS Distribution Co., Inc. . . . . . . . . 34 Ford Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . 55 GM Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . . 53 Gus Machado Ford . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Hendrick Automotive Group . . . . . . 19 Hendrick Automotive Group of Charleston. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Hendrick BMW/MINI . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Hendrick Dodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Herkules Equipment Corporation. . 14 Honda-Acura Wholesale Parts Dealers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31, 32-33 Hyundai Wholesale Parts Dealers. . 59 Jon Hall Chevrolet . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Kernersville Chrysler-DodgeJeep-Ram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Kia Motors Wholesale Parts Dealers. 49

Lexus Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . 63 Mazda Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . 58 Mercedes-Benz Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 MINI Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . 56 Miracle System / Equipment Gateway, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 MOPAR Wholesale Parts Dealers . . 37 NACE / CARS Trade Show . . . . . . . 23 Nissan of Richmond . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 O’Brien Hyundai-Subaru-Mazda . . 42 O’Reilly Auto Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Orio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Polyvance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Porsche Wholesale Parts Dealers . 54 Priority Automotive Group . . . . . . . . 9 Radley Chevrolet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Rick Hendrick Chevrolet Naples. . . 50 Rick Hendrick Dodge-ChryslerJeep-Ram. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Riverside Ford-Lincoln . . . . . . . . . . 46 SATA Spray Equipment . . . . . . . . . . 5 Southside Kia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 Spartanburg Chrysler-DodgeJeep-Ram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Stateline Chrysler-Jeep-DodgeRam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Subaru of Gwinnett . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 Subaru Wholesale Parts Dealers . . 45 Tameron Hyundai . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 U-POL US . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Unicure Spraybooths . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Volkswagen Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Southeast

COLUMNISTS Attanasio - Do Vehicle Wraps Make Sense for Your Shop?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Attanasio - Mixing Paints During the Day and Cocktails at Night . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Attanasio - New CAA State President Ted Stein Discusses Industry and its Future. . . . . 18 Luehr - Quality Control in 6 Easy Steps . . 44 Phillips - CA Body Shop Owners Recognized for Achievements After Risking Everything. . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Phillips - CO Shop Manager Shares Thoughts on Aluminum Repair, OEM Certifications & DRPs . . . . . . . . . 40 Phillips - Wisconsin Auto Body Shop Creates USO Mobile Canteen for Troops . . . . . . 36

Blackburn OEM Wheel Solutions New Employee. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 CAPA to Form Foundation of Chinese Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 CIC Finds More Questions Than Answers as it Begins Look at the “alt-OE” Parts Category . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 CIF Raises Funds to Help Dreppard Family in MO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Collision Repair Industry Mourns Loss of James Moy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Conner Brothers Receives Gold Class Designation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 ECS Cautions Collision Repair Shops About Use of Non-Licensed VIN Certification Labels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Environmental Initiatives at CA Body Shop Lead to Cost Savings & Recognition. . . 48 Equalizer Hires Market Development Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 ETI Congratulates New Officers and Board Members for 2016-2017 . . . . . . 58 Europe Plans Autonomous License Tests for Cars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 FinishMaster’s Michelle Sullivan Honored Ias WIN’s 2016 Most Influential Woman . 61 Ford Approves Two U-POL Aerosols for Shops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 GFS’s REVO Systems Included in Ford Program. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Google, Uber & Others Form Coalition for Self-Driving Cars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Homeland Security’s Bruce Foucart Talks to ABN About Counterfeit OEM Parts . . . 1 House of Kolor Announces New Products for Spring 2016 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 Hyundai & Cisco Connected Car Project. . 56 Jeff Peevy Recounts History of Training in the Industry at WIN Conference . . . . 20 June 3 Deadline for CREF & AkzoNobel Grants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Mike’s Auto Body in CA Participates in Every 15 Minutes Program . . . . . . . . 14 Mitchell Appoints Debbie Day as General Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Most Decorated Olympic Gymnast Presents Keynote ‘Gold Medal Mindset’ at 2016 WIN Conference. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Motor Guard Introduces Aluminum Spot Repair Tool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 MSO Symposium Reveals Latest Industry Insights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 New PartsTrader/CollisionLink Integration . . 38 New SATA Dry Jet 2 Introduced . . . . . . . . 59 OEM Certified Collision Care Provider Conference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 OSHA’s Final Rule to ‘Nudge’ Employers to Prevent Workplace Injuries, Illnesses . . 39 Police Officer Found Guilty of Accepting Kickbacks from Local Repair Shop in MD. 60 Poor Road Maintenance Baffles Driverless Cars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Power of the Past, Force of the Future: WIN’s 2016 Educational Conference . . 50 Results of Refinish-Related “Who Pays For What?” Survey Available Online For Free. . 1 Steck Manufacturing’s Antenna Wrench II. . 57 Training Class Updates from Chief University, Website & Product Announcements by Chief . . . . . . . . . . 52 Ultravent: INDASA’s New Multi-Hole System. 57 Vehicle Repair Installment Plans For Sales Growth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 WIN© Honors 2016 Scholarship Recipients at Gala Awards Ceremony . . . . . . . . . . 55 World’s Largest Maaco Holds Grand Opening. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 YANG Hosting Three Regional Meet-Ups in June . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Young Consumers Much More Trusting in Automotive Technology, Driverless Vehicles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Google has joined forces with Ford, Uber, Lyft and Volvo to help speed autonomous cars to the market. The companies announced the new coalition in April, which will be known as the Self-Driving Coalition for Safer Streets. David Strickland, formerly of the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), will be the coalition’s spokesman. The group will work with regulators and the public to realize the safety and societal benefits of autonomous vehicles, according to a statement released. The market acceptance of semi-autonomous vehicles has been growing in recent years, and this is causing a surge in demand for related products like automotive sensors. These sensors will aid the autonomous vehicles in making appropriate driving decisions, and the market for sensors is expected to grow at a rate of 6.92% by 2020. The connected car market is also growing significantly, with a

Indexof Advertisers

REGIONAL 2016 SkillsUSA NC State Championships for Collision Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Atlanta I-CAR Committee Awards $5,000 Scholarships . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Auto Body Class in VA Restores Luster to Family Car . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 BASF Names Wholesale Automotive Suppliers of Columbus (WASCO) Distributor of the Year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 CARSTAR to Hold MSO Network Event in New Orleans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Collision Repairers Provide Recycled Rides™ Vehicles for First Responders and K9 Partners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 David Luehr Presents Twice at WIN Conference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Dimmitt Chevrolet Named Dealership of the Year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Fatal Fall Through Roof of VA Auto Repair Shop. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Florida Judge Dismisses “Price Fixing Claims” in MDL Case. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Gerber Opens Location in Rocky Mount, NC. 29 Leckner Ford Grand Opening in King George, VA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 New Polyvance Sales Rep for AK, OK, LA & TX. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 TCAT’s Hartigan First Female to Graduate from HEV Program in Tennessee . . . . . 24 Team Penske’s Simon Pagenaud Races PPGPainted Chevy to Victory in Alabama . . 26 Technical Students Compete at SkillsUSA Championships in VA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Google, Uber & Others Form Coalition for Self-Driving Cars

Autobody News Box 1516, Carlsbad, CA 92018; (800) 699-8251 (760) 603-3229 Fax www.autobodynews.com Email: news@autobodynews.com

www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 3

Poor Road Maintenance Baffles Driverless Cars

Volvo’s North American CEO Lex Kerssemakers reportedly lost his cool as the automaker’s semi-autonomous prototype occasionally refused to drive itself during a press event at the Los Angeles Auto Show writes Alexandria Sage for Claims Journal. “It can’t find the lane markings!” Kerssemakers complained to Mayor Eric Garcetti, who was at the wheel. “You need to paint the bloody roads here!” Decaying infrastructure has become a roadblock to the development of self-driving cars, vexing engineers and adding time and cost. Poor markings and uneven signage on the 3 million miles of paved roads in the United States are forcing automakers to develop more sophisticated sensors and maps to compensate, industry executives say. Tesla CEO Elon Musk recently called the mundane issue of faded lane markings “crazy,” complaining they confused his semi-autonomous cars. An estimated 65 percent of U.S. roads are in poor condition, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation, with the transportation infrastructure system rated 12th in the World Economic Forum’s 20142015 global competitiveness report. Tesla, Volvo, Mercedes, Audi and others are fielding vehicles that can drive on highways, change lanes and park without human help. But they are easily flummoxed by faded lane markers, damaged or

noncompliant signs or lights, and the many quirks of a roadway infrastructure managed by thousands of state and local bureaucracies. In other developed countries, greater standardization of road signs and markings makes it easier for robot cars to navigate. In the U.S., however, traffic lights can be aligned vertically, horizontally or “doghouse” style in two columns. Pavement markings use paint with different degrees of reflectivity—or don’t exist at all. “If the lane fades, all hell breaks loose,” said Christoph Mertz, a research scientist at Carnegie Mellon University. “But cars have to handle these weird circumstances and have three different ways of doing things in case one fails.” To make up for roadway aberrations, carmakers and their suppliers are incorporating multiple sensors, maps and data into their cars, all of which adds cost. Mercedes says its “drive pilot” system works even with no lane markings. The system—which incorporates 23 sensors— takes into account guard rails, barriers, and other cars to keep cars in their lanes up to 84 miles (135km) per hour, under “suitable circumstances.” Estimates are that initial semi-autonomous features add $4,000 to a car’s price and that carmakers will have to spend more than $1 billion over the next decade in research investment for even more sophisticated autonomous features.

The European Transport Safety Council (ETSC) has used a new report to urge for an upgrade of the European Union’s safety homologation standards for new cars to include a driver’s license test for autonomous vehicles. While automated and fully autonomous cars are increasingly headline news, the ETSC has argued that EU legislation is a long way from where it needs to be to allow them to be widely used. “Automated vehicles are already starting to appear on Europe’s roads, but regulators are still stuck in the slow lane,” the ETSC’s Executive Director, Antonio Avenoso, said. “It is crucial that we get a much greater understanding of what the realworld safety benefits would be and what new risks would be introduced before these vehicles are put on sale,” he concluded. The report, “Prioritising the Safety Potential of Automated Driving in Europe,” admits the theoretical benefits of autonomous cars are huge, but cautions. “Other road users, such as cyclists and pedestrians, will not become automated – how will they manage in a world where they can no longer establish eye contact with drivers before crossing the road?”

An autonomous trucks conference was held in Las Vegas, NV May 16-18. Attendees had the opportunity to learn about the upcoming regulations, technologies and hear from states that have fully adopted the idea. With the potential cost-saving opportunities with autonomous technology, commercial trucks are now looking into advancing their systems to autonomous driving or semi-automated technology. Commercial trucks include fleets, OEMs, and Tier 1/2 companies researching and developing the technology to completely take the driver out of the car or at least provide an alternative to a human driver in the vehicle. This is done through a number of technologies installed in the truck using: sensors, cameras, “platooning,” LiDAR, RADAR, connectivity, hardware, software, and of course, security. For more information, visit www.autonomoustrucksevent.com.

Europe Plans Autonomous License Tests for Cars

Autonomous Trucks Conference in Las Vegas

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4 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com

Celphy Deals with Bad Road Maintenance

www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 5

BASF Names Wholesale Automotive Suppliers of Columbus (WASCO) Distributor of the Year

BASF’s Automotive Refinish business awarded its 2015 ColorSource™ Distributor of the Year award to Wholesale

have delivered double digit growth,” said Paul Whittleston, BASF VP, Automotive Refinish North America. “This clearly demonstrates that with great partnership and focus comes great rewards.” WASCO has been in business since 1962 and a ColorSource distributor for the last 14 years. The Automotive Suppliers of Columbus company is owned by the auto deal(WASCO) at its recent annual Color- erships in Franklin County, Ohio. “ColorSource is the best of the Source conference held in Clearwater, best,” said Tom Payne, WASCO FL. “WASCO had a very strong year General Manager. “It was a team efin 2015 and for the last three years fort. All of our hard work and the vision we’ve had for WASCO has paid off. I was honored and humbled to receive this award from BASF.” To learn more about becoming a ColorSource premier distributor, contact Paul Barnes at paul.barnes @basf.com or 508-272-8474. For more information Tom Payne, WASCO general manager (third from right) receives his trophy from (left to right) Denise Kingstrom, about BASF, visit http:// www.basfrefinish.com or BASF distribution director; Paul Whittleston, BASF VP, contact Mary Ann Short, Automotive Refinish; Chris Toomey, BASF senior VP, phone (248) 948-2253 / ECoatings Solutions North America; Paul Barnes, BASF mail: maryann.short@basf ColorSource program manager and Nick Maloof, BASF .com zone manager

Dimmitt Chevrolet Named Dealership of the Year

Dimmitt Chevrolet in Clearwater, Florida received the 2015 Chevrolet Dealer of the Year award April 20. It is reserved for a select few Chevrolet dealerships each year. Dealerships selected for the award display exceptional performance in delivering superior customer service while consistently growing sales, according to the company. Out of more than 3,000 Chevrolet dealerships, only 50 dealers qualified to receive this prestigious award according to General Motors Co. “This award is truly the pinnacle of success within the Chevrolet family and we are thrilled to be named Chevrolet Dealer of the Year,” said Lawrence Dimmitt IV, owner of Dimmitt Chevrolet. “While we are thankful for the recognition, we could not have done this without the amazing team of people who work so hard to make sure our customers are exceedingly satisfied.” Since founding the dealership, the Dimmitt family has continued to play an important role in its dayto-day operations. For information on General Motors, visit www.gm.com.

Conner Brothers Receives Gold Class Designation

Conner Brothers Body Shop Midlothian Virginia has achieved the Gold Class designation—one of the highest designations that an auto body shop can obtain. It is estimated that only 10 percent of repair shops currently meet the rigorous Gold Class standards. The requirements for Gold Class designation are to maintain ongoing training and testing to keep repair technicians up-to-date on the latest vehicle models, technologies and repair methods. Gold Class is a designation indicating that a shop undergoes ongoing, up-to-date training every year. The educational programs required to meet Gold Class certification include the I-CAR Professional Development Program. “We take training very serious,” said Kevin Conner, owner of Conner Brothers. “We ensure our technicians use the proper techniques through theory instruction, hands-on practice and coaching. The objective is to improve production and maintain the highest quality repair.” For information, contact Kevin Conner (804) 378-0874 or visit www .connerbrothers.com.

6 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com

OEM Certified Collision Care Provider Conference Assured Performance held an OEM Certified Collision Care Provider Conference in Nashville, TN in April. Nissan, Ford, FCA and Assured Performance joined together to host the conference to a sold-out crowd of certified repairers representing over 620 repair locations and nearly $3 billion in annual revenue. The theme was “You’ve Changed the World!” Attendees saw an extensive compilation of the collaborative tools and OEM consumer-focused efforts that are changing the collision repair world. Special presentations were also given by J.D. Power, I-CAR, Enterprise, TenPoint Complete, and CPrax Marketing. The attendees were also given a private tour of the Nissan production plant where they could see the 24-hour complete production cycle of vehicles built during the conference. “This was unlike any other program. It was filled with valuable content and great fun networking,” said Tom Tracy, MSO owner from Nebraska. “I have been to dozens of conferences in my career and this conference was the most impactful to our business,” stated Anthony Lofrano, president & CEO of F. Lofrano and Son.

Attendees gained insights into the automakers’ strategies from why and how they started their certified networks to their visions for the future. Attendees were also exposed to numerous existing, real and tangible marketing, promotion, quality assurance, KPI/data management, and shop management tools exclusive to the joint-effort OEM certification program. “This conference was an opportunity for the participating automakers to demonstrate to our certified shops our collective commitment to continuing communication to our customers, and continuing to enhance the tools we are building for our certified shop network,” stated Mark Zoba, manager, Certified Network Growth for Nissan. To continue what was started in Nashville and open it to their entire network, Assured Performance announced it will be putting together a special event on August 10 in conjunction with NACE in Anaheim, CA. For information, visit: www.AssuredPerformance.net or call 949-221-0010.

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www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 7

2016 SkillsUSA NC State Championships for Collision Repair The SkillsUSA North Carolina Championships, held in Greensboro, NC, took place April 19–21 at the Greensboro Coliseum and Koury Convention Center. The conference was the largest showcase of career and technical education in North Carolina with more than 1,900 career and technical edu-

test competencies that are set by industry. In addition, leadership contestants demonstrated their skills, which included extemporaneous speaking and conducting meetings with parliamentary procedure. Over 100 industry partners help support the competitive events.

petitors from across the country in more than 100 contests. This is the first year that the “Automotive Refinishing Technology” contest was held at the Greensboro coliseum, along with all the other contests, due to issues associated with painting. The collision contest was

The conference was the largest showcase of career and technical education in North Carolina

All contests were run with the help of industry, trade associations, and technical experts and test competencies that are set by industry

Judges for the SkillsUSA North Carolina Championships

cation students competing in 120 hands-on trade, technical and leadership contests. During the state competition, students worked against the clock and each other, proving their expertise in their chosen occupations. All contests are run with the help of industry, trade associations, and technical experts and

The SkillsUSA North Carolina Championships are for high school and college-level students who are members of SkillsUSA. First-place winners earn the right to compete in the National SkillsUSA Championships in Louisville, KY alongside more than 6,500 other com-

8 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com

split into two separate contests, “Collision Repair” and “Collision Refinish.” Thirty contestants registered to compete with 12 students entered in the collision repair contest, and 18 students entered in the refinish contest. Students competed in several handson areas that included: welding, structural damage analysis, metal working, plastics repair, painting, masking,

color matching, and a written exam. Four students from two schools will travel to Kentucky to represent North Carolina at the Skills USA Nationals. First place in the “Collision Repair” contest went to Joseph Young from the Weaver Academy in the secondary division and Matthias Rappe from Fayetteville Technical Community College in the post-secondary division. First place in the “Collision Refinish” contest went to Jacques Bene from the Weaver Academy for secondary division and Damien Moore from Fayetteville Technical Community College in the post-secondary division. Sponsors and judges incuded: GTCC Collision Repair, BASF, 3-M Corporation, SEM, Carolina Collision Equipment, Color’s Edge, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Keystone Automotive, Finish Master, Snap-On Tools, NAPA Auto Parts, Martin Senior, Norton Abrasives, Rice Toyota, Cloninger Ford, Southeastern Booth, Rice Toyota, Bill Black Cadillac, Crown Automotive, Mid-Town Body Repair, Walker B.S. and Grainger. Carcoon America. For information, visit www.SkillsUSAnc.org or www.SkillsUSA.org. The original press release was written by Jimmy Brown, GTCC.

Collision Repairers Provide Recycled Rides™ Vehicles for First Responders and K9 Partners

With wildfire season approaching, collision repairers in several states teamed up through the National Auto Body Council’s Recycled Rides™ and the State Farm® Arson Dog Program to provide critical and reliable transportation for first responders and their K9 partners as part of 2016 Arson Awareness Week. Participating collision repairers include Caliber Collision locations in Raleigh, North Carolina and Fresno, California: Gerber Collision & Glass in Elkhart, Indiana: Jenkins Collision in Ocala, Florida, and Scotsman’s Collision in Mt. Sinai, New York. According to the National Interagency Fire Center, 86 percent of the 10 million acres of wildfires last year were caused by people, whether intentional or as a result of human negligence. With limited resources, most fire departments, especially those in rural areas, do not have a dedicated vehicle for the arson dog team that would allow them to more effectively and efficiently respond to the scene of a fire. To raise awareness about the impact of arson and to improve the ability of police and fire departments to investigate fires, State Farm and National Auto Body Council members have already or will be donating Re-

Moreland and K9 “Gracie”. Vehicle repairs and modifications were made by Jenkins Collision Center in Ocala, FL. Maine Specialty Dogs for use by trainer Nicole Dyer to transport arson dogs to training. Vehicle repairs and modifications were made by Gerber Collision & Glass in Elkhart, IN. Beaver Falls Fire Department in Pennsylvania will receive a vehicle later this summer for use by Fire Investigator David Seidl and K9 “Patty”. Vehicle repairs and modifications are being made by Scotsman’s Collision in Mt. Sinai, NY. The vehicles were donated by State Farm and repaired Fire Investigator Roseanne Moreland and K9 “Gracie” and modified by technicians of the Ocala Fire Department in Florida receives keys to at the participating collision a Recycled Rides from State Farm and Jenkins Collision repair centers who volunCenter in Ocala, FL teered their personal time as Eastern Sierra Arson Task Force for a community service. Parts, materials use by Fire Investigator Jeff Schwing and services to refurbish the vehicles and K9 “Remington” throughout south- were donatey other collision industry east California. Vehicle repairs and businesses. Since the inception of Remodifications were made by Caliber cycled Rides in 2007, the collision inCollision in Fresno, CA. dustry has collaborated to donate over Ocala Fire Department in Florida 1,000 vehicles valued at more than for use by Fire Investigator Roseanne $12 million to individuals and service

cycled Rides vehicles to the following fire departments: New Bern Fire and Rescue in North Carolina for use by Fire Marshal Danny Hill and K9 Darby. Vehicle repairs and modifications were made by Caliber Collision in Raleigh, NC.

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organizations in need. “Lack of reliable transportation can be challenging, whether you are a first responder investigating a possible crime scene or an individual struggling daily to take care of your family,” said Chuck Sulkala, Executive Director of the National Auto Body Council. “We are proud to team up with State Farm, Caliber Collision, Gerber Collision, Jenkins Collision and Scotsman’s Collision through Recycled Rides to help make a difference in local communities and to showcase the professionalism and integrity of the collision industry.” Each year billions of dollars in property and hundreds of lives are lost as a result of intentionally set fires, according to Heather Paul, Public Affairs Specialist for State Farm® Safety & Innovation. “State Farm is committed to helping provide the necessary resources to combat the severity and impact of arson on businesses and public safety,” said Paul. For more information, contact the National Auto Body Council at 1-888667-7433 or at www.NationalAuto BodyCouncil.org. Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/National AutoBodyCouncil. The NABC’s Twitter feed is @AutoBodyCouncil.

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www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 9

10 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com

Technical Students Compete at SkillsUSA Championships in VA by Pittsylvania Career and Technical Center

On March 4 and 14, 42 students from Pittsylvania Career and Technical Center competed in the District III SkillsUSA Competitions held at the Pittsylvania Career and Technical Center and at Danville Community College. There were a total of 28 competitions held at the district level where students could demonstrate the skills and knowledge they have learned within their Career and Technical Programs. The following students won their District III Competitions and thus advanced to state competition:

• Taylor Jones, Dan River High School, action skills • Matt Gibson, Gretna High School, auto body refinishing • Quin Motley, Chatham High School, CNC technician • Josh Koger, Dan River High School, CNC milling specialist • Jacob Wray, Tunstall High School, CNC milling specialist • Cole Worley, Gretna High School, precision machining technology • Lindsey Alderson, Chatham High School, commercial baking

• Devin Weaver, Tunstall High School, criminal justice • Tony Buzzetta, Chatham High School, culinary arts • Amani Dunn, Tunstall High School, first aid/CPR

School, industrial motor controls • Heath Doss, Gretna High School, industrial motor controls • Zaria Davis, Dan River High School, job interview • Amaia Jones, Dan River High School, job skill demo A • Traniece StephensBroadnax, Dan River High School, job skill demo open • Zowie Ramsey-Hancock, Gretna High School, promotional bulletin board. On April 16 Pittsylvania Career and Technical Center students, teachers and Pictured (front row, from left) are: Toni Morris (criminal administrators traveled to justice instructor), Traniece Stephens-Broadnax, Angie Fredericksburg to compete Varnadore, Jessica Petty, McKenzie Mattox, Zaria for the Virginia ChampiDavis, Lindsey Alderson, Zowie Ramsey-Hancock; onships and potentially (back row) Jeff Reynolds (EMT instructor), Jim Pollard qualify for National Com(industrial maintenance-electricity instructor), Ryland petition in their respective Bagbey, Chris Shomali, Taylor Jones, Heath Doss, competitions. Amani Dunn, Devin Weaver, Amaia Jones, Matt Out of the 19 competing Gibson, Donna Hutson (culinary arts instructor), at the state level, 12 earned Eric Mustain (auto body instructor) honors in their competition • McKenzie Mattox, Gretna High areas. Of those 12 students medaling, School, first aid/CPR six students won their state competi• Angie Varnadore, Gretna High tion and will be competing at National School, first aid/CPR Competition in June 2016. • Jessica Petty, Gretna High School, Winning gold and advancing to nafood prep assistant tional competition: Ryland Bagbey, • Ryland Bagbey, Tunstall High Tunstall High School, industrial motor

YANG Hosting Three Regional Meet-Ups in June

The Young Auto Care Network Group (YANG) of the Auto Care Association is hosting three free regional meet-ups for young auto care professionals under the age of 40 in California, Florida and Washington, D.C. in June. Friday, June 10, 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort 9300 Emerald Coast Pkwy. Destin, FL. 32541 Bahia Penthouse, Host: AAAS

Monday, June 13, 6 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. Villain & Saint 7141 Wisconsin Ave. Bethesda, MD. 20814 Host: Auto Care Association

Thursday, June 23, 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. AllTrade Tools, LLC 1431 W. Via Plata Long Beach, CA 90810 Host: AllTrade Tools and CAWA RSVP at www.autocare.org/yang events. YANG is taking applications to host a meet-up in 2016-2017. Visit http://autocare.org/What-We-Do/ Professional-Development/YANG /regional-meet-up/. For info, visit www .autocare.org/yang or contact Courtney Hammer at courtney.hammer @autocare.org.

controls; Amaia Jones, Dan River High School, job skill demo A; Traniece Stephens-Broadnax, Dan River High School, job skill demo open; Quin Motley, Chatham High School, CNC technician; Collen Whitney, Chatham High School, CNC turning specialist; Jacob Wray, Tunstall High School, CNC Milling specialist. These students will compete at the National Competition in June in Louisville, Kentucky. Winning silver at the Virginia SkillsUSA Championships: Zaria Davis, Dan River High School, job interview; Taylor Jones, Dan River High School, action skills; McKenzie Mattox, Gretna High School, first aid/CPR; Jessica Petty, Gretna High School, food prep assistant; Cole Worley, Gretna High School, precision machining technology. Winning bronze at the Virginia SkillsUSA Championships: Zowie Ramsey-Hancock, Gretna High School, promotional bulletin board. We would like to thank Pittsylvania Career and Technical Center for reprint permission.

Fatal Fall Through Roof of VA Auto Repair Shop

Charlottesville police are investigating a man’s death at an auto repair shop in the city. Police were called to Bob’s Wheel Alignment on East Market Street just before 11 a.m. on the morning of April 23 for the report of a man trapped under a piece of equipment.

Scene at Bob’s Wheel Alignment. Credit: NBC29.com

When they got to the scene, officers discovered the man had actually fallen through the roof of the building. He died from the fall. The shop was not open at the time of the accident. Police are not releasing the victim’s name at this time. We would like to thank NBC29 .com for reprint permission.

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Leckner Ford Grand Opening in King George, VA

May 14 from 10 am to 3 pm, Leckner Ford Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram (CDJR) is inviting the public to celebrate the grand opening of their new location at 16057 James Madison Pkwy. The free opening will include food, entertainment, on-site parking and more. Some of the event partners include Country Station 93.3 WFLS, NASCAR sensation David Polenz #33, country singer Tommy Wood, Ann’s Wings and Thing, and Moon-bounce providing pony-rides and activities with prizes. Leckner recently purchased the Ford and CDJR franchice and has since doubled the number of employees. For additional event information please contact Kevin Scrimgeour, Director of Marketing, KScrimgeour @lecknerAuto.com or 301-346-1962.

Atlanta I-CAR Committee Awards $5,000 Scholarships

The Atlanta I-CAR Volunteer Committee awarded two $5,000 scholarships through the Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF) this spring. The scholarships will be used to assist students with educational expenses such as tuition, books, tools and equipment. Funding for this scholarship was made possible through the committee hosting annual golf and car show fundraiser events. The 2016 scholarship winners are: Shaan Patel (Maxwell High School of Technology: Lawrenceville, GA) and Mceachern Rolling II (Atlanta Technical College: Atlanta, GA). I-CAR Georgia State Chairman and Atlanta Committee Chairman Gerry Poirier stated, “The ability of our committee to provide these much needed scholarships is a testament to the focus of the committee and supporters of our yearly events. The need for technicians in our industry is at a critical stage and these two scholarships will help invest in our future generation.” For information, contact Brandon Eckenrode at Brandon.Eckenrode @edfoundation.org or 847-463-5244.

12 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com

ASA Board of Directors Announced

The Automotive Service Association (ASA) held its 2016 annual meeting at the Westin Crystal City Hotel in Arlington, VA, April 25-27. The meeting was held in conjunction with ASA’s Lobby Day on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., April 27, during which association leaders and members visited with elected officials and senior staff members about legislative and economic issues impacting the industry. The three-day annual meeting opened with a welcome party for attendees sponsored by Federated Insurance, an ASA-sponsored benefit provider, as well as open and closed board meetings, affiliate directors’ meetings, luncheon and networking events. Following the board meeting, the chairman and board members were sworn in for the 20162017 year. ASA’s new board of directors began their terms at the close of the annual business meeting. Serving the second year of their two-year terms on the board are Donny Seyfer, AAM, chairman, Seyfer Automotive, Wheat Ridge, CO; Roy Schnepper, AAM, chairman-elect, Butler’s Collision, Roseville, MI; Darrell Amberson, AAM, immediate past chairman, LaMettry’s Collision, Minneapolis, MN; Ed Cushman, AAM, general director, C&H Foreign Auto Repair, Spokane, WA; and Scott Benavidez, AAM, collision

division director, Mr. B’s Paint & Body Shop, Albuquerque, NM. In addition, Bill Moss, AAM, EuroService Automotive, Warrenton, VA, was reappointed to the board for a one-year term as secretary/treasurer; Bob Wills, AAM, Wills Auto Service, Battle Creek, MI,

ASA 2016-2017 board of directors: Back row, l-r: Roy Schnepper, Donny Seyfer, Bill Moss and Darrell Amberson. Front row, l-r: Ed Cushman, Bob Wills and John Cochrane. Not pictured: Scott Benavidez

was re-elected as mechanical division director for a two-year term; and John Cochrane, Cochrane Automotive, Etobicoke, ON, was elected to a two-year term as a general director. Dan Risley, ASA president/executive director, also serves on the ASA board of directors in an ex-officio capacity. For additional information about ASA, visit www.ASA shop.org or call (817) 514-2931. You can also visit ASA’s legislative website at www.TakingTheHill.com.

CIF Raises Funds to Help Dreppard Family in MO Imagine receiving a letter from your mortgage company informing you that your home is no longer considered to be in a flood plain. That is the letter the Dreppard family received, and while they were glad to be saving some money after paying extra for flood insurance, they could not have imagined what was to occur. Little did they know that as the new year ap-

St. Louis experienced historic flood levels that left the Dreppard’s home damaged beyond repair

proached St. Louis would experience historic flood levels that would leave their home damaged beyond repair. Charlie Dreppard, a nine-year technician at Schaefer Autobody Cen-

ters in St. Louis, MO, and a 20-year collision industry veteran, soon had friends and family helping to move his furniture and belongings to higher ground. Dreppard’s wife and four young children all went to the in-law’s house to stay while they contemplated their next steps. “We are very fortunate to have friends and family that helped us out during this flood event. We were hopeful to get back into our home but when that wasn’t possible, we knew we needed to get our lives and especially the kids to a more normal,” said Dreppard. Having spent three months in the basement of his in-laws, Dreppard and his wife found a new home. Knowing he had to replace daily living items and come up with a down payment, Dreppard, with prodding from co-workers, reached out to the Collision Industry Foundation (CIF) for assistance. “CIF exists to help those within the collision industry that have experienced a catastrophic life event,” said CIF Board President Bill Shaw. “When we received Charlie’s request through our website, www.collisionindustry foundation.com, we immediately went to work to see what we could do. Through our sponsors and fundraising gala in Palm Springs we were able to

donate $5,000 to the Dreppard family for assistance with closing costs.” The Dreppard family is now in their new home with their children each having a bedroom to sleep in. Dreppard continues his work at Schaefer Autobody and said he is thankful for the collision industry’s support. “It is overwhelming to see the support my

Schaefer Autobody Centers is based in St. Louis, MO

family and I received during this time. Thank you to CIF and all of the supporters that contributed to help get our lives back on track. This truly is an amazing industry with fantastic people working in it.” More information is available at http://www.collisionindustryfoundation .org.

3M Kicks-Starts CREF Drive for Donations

3M began the Collision Repair Education Foundation’s (CREF) “summer drive” for product donations of tools, equipment, and supplies through a $1.1 million donation of color match film products to 300 collision schools programs. The CREF is seeking industry members’ support in providing in-kind donations to assist high school and college collision repair school instructors who face limited program budgets. These tax-deductible donations will be distributed to collision school programs at the beginning of their fall semester. “We know that collision program budgets can be limited, and it is important that our future technicians can learn using the latest technology available to better prepare them for entering the workplace” said Jim Falteisek, US sales & marketing director for 3M Automotive Aftermarket Division. Donations can be made by contacting Director of Development, Brandon Eckenrode at 847-4635244 or Brandon.Eckenrode@edfoundation.org.

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Mike’s Auto Body in CA Participates in Every 15 Minutes Program drunk driving related accident in which two Monte Vista students were Earlier this year, Mike’s Auto Body, killed. The memorial car was on diswith 13 locations in northern Califorplay at the front of the school for stunia, participated in the Every 15 Min- dents to walk by and view as a utes Program on the campus of reminder to what can happen when Monte Vista High School in Danville, you drink and drive. CA. Marketing Coordinator, Sal Contreras, was Mike’s Auto Body’s representative at the Every 15 Minutes program and saw the event’s impact on students and teachers alike. “When the program began, you could hear loud noises from the 2,500 students while they were walking and running to the football field to settle into The Every 15 Minutes Program offers real-life experience the bleachers,” Contreras without the real-life risks, by staging a realistic reenactment said. “But once we removed of a serious accident the giant tarp revealing the By working with one of their in- accident scene of the two wrecked surance partners to acquire a totaled cars and the frantic 911 phone call car for this event, Mike’s Auto Body was blasted over the sound system, played an integral role for this there was dead silence from the studemonstration that is held every two dents. Their expressions of disbelief years at different Bay Area high schools and throughout the rest of the country as well. The Every 15 Minutes Program offers real-life experience without the real-life risks. This emotionally charged program is an event designed to show teenagers the potentially dangerous consequences of drinking alcohol or texting while driving. The program challenges students to think about drinking and texting behind the More than a dozen local organizations wheel by stressing the personal safety participated to make the scene look real and responsibility associated with making mature decisions when lives and sadness that something like this are involved. could happen to their friends was In conjunction with Mike’s Auto shocking and highly emotional.” A tragic accident that took the Body, CSAA Insurance Group donated a total loss car to represent the lives of two Monte Vista High School vehicle that was involved in a tragic students earlier this year added a new level to the reality behind the reenactment. “One student died on impact by going through the windshield and another student was air lifted by helicopter to the hospital, but died later,” Conteras said. “It is a tragic story in more ways, because one brother was driving from a party and hit a truck head-on with his non-drinking brother’s friends in the vehicle. The In conjunction with Mike’s Auto Body, CSAA other brother who was not drunk was Insurance Group donated a total loss car to sitting in the passenger seat and represent the vehicle that was involved in a ended up going through the windtragic drunk-driving related accident in which two Monte Vista students were killed shield, killing him on impact. The by Ed Attanasio

14 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com

parents were obviously torn with grief and disbelief. The desks of the students who died in the accident were left empty for the whole week and the funeral was held the next day. “ The event included the participation of the local Police and Fire Departments, High School staff, the local Hospital, a video production crew, community officials, the District Attorney’s Office, funeral homes and a wide cross-section of the community at-large. The ultimate goal of the Every 15 Minutes Program is to utilize the strength, talent and resources of business and industry to prevent drunk driving and texting while driving. The day’s activities were chronicled in a short video. “To watch the video of the Monte Vista High School’s 2016 event, go to You Tube and search under Every 15 Minutes, Monte Vista HS 2016,” Contreras said. “If you don’t get chills and goose bumps when you watch this, you better get your pulse checked, because it is powerful to say the least.”

The memorial car was on display at the front of the school for students to walk by and view as a reminder to what can happen when you drink and drive

With young lives being taken every day nationwide due to drunk driving, distracted driving and reckless speeding, Contreras sees the value of presentations such as Every 15 Minutes. “Mike’s Auto Body is proud and prepared to serve the communities in which we do business, because saving these teenagers is not just a goal—it’s a priority,” he said. “We all have kids here at Mike’s, so this cause is very close to our hearts.”

www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 15

he said. “We can’t get involved in what the dealer does, how he sells, what discount he offers to the marketplace, nor how he has created a [parts] category automakers at CIC seemed to have with the information providers and just as many questions about “alt-OE” who he’s trying to sell to.” parts as other CIC attendees. But Eck did say GM has “I can tell you that I’ve “outlet shop parts” sold by been trying to find out what some dealers. opt-OE is myself,” Ben Cid “Those parts are non-installed of Mercedes-Benz said. “That excess inventory from our designation didn’t come from plants,” he said. “They might the OEs. We don’t know what be scratched, slightly blemthat is. We’re trying to find ished, missing some trim Bill Eveland the same thing out.” work. Any of our dealers can Gary Ledoux of American Honda participate in that if they choose.” concurred. “Honda doesn’t have ‘optWhether those parts are being sold as OE parts’, we don’t have ‘blem-parts’, “alt-OE” or “opt-OE” seemed unclear. we don’t have ‘second’ parts,” he said. Eck said he “believes” they are in the es“I’ve heard there are ‘opt-OE’ Honda timating systems as “OE surplus” and parts out there, but I don’t know where have different part numbers to identify the heck they are coming from or how them as surplus. they are getting out there. I’m in the dark Knowing What To Expect about that.” But this kind of confusion and inconJohn Eck of General Motors sistency led Brett Bailey of A&B agreed that the “alt-OE” or “opt-OE” CARSTAR in Missouri to point out categories have not been established that one of the biggest challenges for by the automakers, but he also doesshops is not knowing what to expect n’t think “conquest” parts-matching in terms of the different types of parts rebates are involved. listed in the estimating databases as “The distribution network has “alt-OE” or “opt-OE.” created this category, not the OEMs,” Continued from Cover

alt-OE Parts Debate

16 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com

“If I get an estimate from an insurpackaged part just like an OEM would,” ance company that says ‘alt-OE,’ it can Bryan Mandell of B&R Auto Wreckmean a plethora of different things,” ing said. “But the vetting process is reBailey said. “I don’t have the option for ally up to the suppliers because we have ‘OEM-blem’ or ‘OEM-overrun’; they to provide that information to the estiall get lumped into one catemating systems. There’s a gory. But that scratch or nick very big difference…in the or whatever the case is has to types of parts that seem to fall be repaired, which is addiinto this category. And that’s a tional labor that we struggle to big problem. We need to do a get compensated for. These strong job of classifying those parts are not being categorized parts at our end and selling in the right manner and placed them transparently, as what Kye Yeung on the estimate in the right they actually are.” manner. This problem needs to be fixed, The discussion in Seattle made it and needs to be fixed quickly.” clear that it’s a topic the CIC Parts Bill Eveland of Eveland Bros. Committee will be addressing at future Collision Repair Center agreed. meeting. “The database times are predicated Need to Measure Every Vehicle on a new, undamaged panel, a part that Also at CIC in Seattle, California shop out of the box can be scuffed and owner Kye Yeung used slow-motion painted and put on the car” he pointed video of vehicle crash-testing to show out. “I’ve yet to get [an opt-OE part] that how vehicle design is increasingly meets that qualification The insurance transferring the energy forces from a company may win price-wise; we lose crash over, around or under the occuon our end. And it disrupts the workflow pant compartment of the vehicle. That and increases cycle time.” transfer can result in collision damage One supplier of “opt-OE” parts at at the opposite end of the vehicle from CIC agreed with Bailey and Eveland. where it was hit. “If we’ve going to be advertising “Estimators have a tendency just an opt-OE part, we are selling that as a to look at the point of impact, and not brand-new OEM quality, unblemished

follow that load path of energy that continues along the vehicle,” Yeung said. “You basically need to check the whole vehicle.” Yeung said insurers need to understand this requires additional labor. He shared a page from I-CAR’s new “Vehicle Technology and Trends 2016” course that addresses this topic. It explains that the automakers, for example, are adding new structures to engage the barrier in small overlap crash-testing, “creating an additional load path for the crash forces.” “These extra parts, added to protect the occupants from a small offset collision, can result in the vehicle moving in a different direction than expected,” the I-CAR document states. “A collision in the front left, for example, may result in unexpected damage to the right rear. This makes it even more important to do three-dimensional measuring on every collision scenario.”

INSTAGRAM :

@autobodynews

Continued from Cover

American Honda

hicle fared is dramatic and accentuates the need for proper repair using the correct tools, equipment and procedures. The video also highlights American Honda’s network of ProFirst certified collision shops and the fact that they have the right skills, training, equipment, and information to make proper vehicle repairs. “The use of high strength steel, ultra-high strength steel, aluminum, and other exotic and innovative weight-saving materials will only increase as we moved towards everincreasing CAFE standards” said Leigh Guarnieri, American Honda’s manager of the Collision Marketing group. “Making proper repairs on these vehicles is crucial to the safety of our Honda and Acura customers. This will continue to be the driving force behind our ProFirst program.” The video highlights American Honda’s ProFirst collision repair network and the difference it can make in repairing a vehicle.

World’s Largest Maaco Holds Grand Opening

Some say that everything is bigger in Texas. At more than 20,000 square feet, Maaco McKinney is not just the biggest in Texas, it is the largest Maaco facility in the world based on square footage. The shop held a grand opening celebration Friday, May 13. The event featured the No. 88 Axalta Chevrolet SS racecar, driven by NASCAR driver, Dale Earnhardt Jr. Denisonbased 97.5 KLAK was on-site with giveaways during the entire event. Maaco McKinney also used the grand opening as a way to support several local charities. With a small donation to the McKinney-Boyd High School Engineering Club’s Living Roof project, customers could enter to win a free paint service. In addition, the Community Lifeline Center was on site to raise awareness about the programs they provide and collect toiletries and canned goods. The shop is located at 190 Industrial Blvd., McKinney, TX 75069. For more information, contact 972-833-2039.

New Polyvance Sales Rep for AK, OK, LA & TX

Polyvance announced the recent hiring of a new full-time company sales representative in the southwest, Jeremy LeMire. LeMire will represent the company in Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. LeMire has six years of sales experience in the automotive collision repair industry. Most recently, he was a regional representative for a major paint company and prior to that was in national sales for a manufacturer of polishes. He began his career with his own construction company in Minnesota and also had a brief stint in retail sales. “Jeremy’s well-rounded background and handson experience will be a benefit to Polyvance’s customers and distributors all over his territory,” said Kurt Lammon, president of Polyvance. LeMire recently received factory training on Polyvance’s I-CAR Industry Training Alliance course. Warehouse distributors, jobbers, and body shops are invited to call Polyvance to request his assistance. Questions? Contact Kurt Lammon at 800-633-3047.

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Western Associations

Ed Attanasio is an automotive journalist based in San Francisco, California. He can be reached at era39@aol.com.

New CAA State President Ted Stein Discusses Industry and its Future with Ed Attanasio

Ted Stein, 52, has been an officer for the California Autobody Association (CAA) for many years, and for 201617, he is the organization’s State President for the second time. Stein is the Fixed Operations Director at Penske

The new State President for CAA Ted Stein (left) is pictured here with Alan Mulally, the former CEO of Ford Motor Co.

Ford in La Mesa, CA and has a total of 38 years in the industry. Autobody News sat down recently with Stein to discuss the state of the collision repair industry in California and nationwide.

What are some of the obstacles Q: that body shops are encountering now?

So the struggles today are the same as they were 20 years ago. Getting paid for everything you need to do in order to return these cars to their pre-accident physical condition is still the main issue. Today’s cars are so sophisticated and training is ongoing and continuous if you want to stay upto-date. The expenses keep going up and yet our rates are the same after twenty years, so we’re being held back that way when all we want to do is a good job. People say there are not enough trained technicians, but I don’t believe there is a shortage. I think there is an over abundance of repairers. There’s too much capacity, so if 30 percent of the shops in the country closed tomorrow, we’d have an ample supply of available technicians.

So have you had any problems with anybody trying to take your employees?

Somebody once said that the A: reason body men have wheels

on their tool boxes is because they jump ship so much, but we’ve been blessed with a lot of longevity. We haven’t had that problem. I’m told it seems like if you have one slow pay period, technicians are looking to move on. It’s tough and other shops often tell me that the loyalty just isn’t there. That’s one of the strange things about this dealership, we’ve had so many employees with 2530 years of service here and everybody that comes to visit says that’s just unheard of. You can take care of your people and weather the storms and sometimes it’s not all about the paycheck. My son wanted to go into body and paint and I just wasn’t going to hear of it. It’s not the same business it was when I got into it. His argument was that I’ve had a great life and it provided well for all of us. And then I told him that’s why you’re going to college and you better stick with it.

What do you think about the Q: “Rush to Aluminum” that has been a big deal for the past 2-3 years

are safer today and they just don’t wreck as frequently. There’s crash avoidance technology like crazy and it’s only going to increase at a high rate. And I see consolidation, but I actually believe that it’s going to peak at some point. I don’t think that’s a viable book of business for any insurer to have all their eggs in two or three consolidators’ baskets. That’s just my personal opinion.

but not as many once self-drivers become prevalent.

What would you tell somebody Q: considering entering this industry now – either as an owner, technician or estimator?

To someone who wants to own A: a shop, I would tell them that there is still opportunity for the stand-

People say that prior to 1990 Q: was the Golden Age of collision repair, but now many shops say they’re

alone collision repairer to make it and be successful, but they’re going to have to know their numbers. I would strongly urge them to be involved in a trade association. They need to be an active participant in their facility and work on the business as much as they work in the business. For someone entering the industry as a tech or estimator, I think it’s a great business. It has its ups and downs—it’s a retail business and there are all those challenges in the retail world but there’s always somebody coming up with a niche. The cars

chronically underpaid by the insurance companies. Do you agree with that?

Yes, that’s the case because it’s back to the capacity issue. A: There’s always the guy down the street

that’s willing to do it for less to get the volume because he can’t get the volume otherwise. In many ways, it feels like a See Ted Stein Discusses, Page 35

while shops gear up for these new vehicles?

There’s a race to make the car A: stronger and lighter. And if there’s somebody with that technology

that can bring it to an auto manufacturer – that’s your next billionaire. That race continues. What the auto manufacturers are spending to save ounces on a vehicle and still make it safe – it’s jaw dropping. So I think you’ll continue to see material changes, and I believe many of them haven’t even been invented yet.

Do you think self-driving cars Q: will hurt the collision repair industry?

I have to admit that I’m a little nervous about these autonomous vehicles. A friend of mine, George Avery from State Farm, said that in a world where it’s all autonomous vehicles--do they still need me and you? And it was a great question because these vehicles don’t get into accidents. So, I told him that there will always be shopping carts that run into cars and trees and hailstorms that fall on vehicles. There will always be body shops,

18 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com

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Jeff Peevy Recounts History of Training in the Industry

AMI’s Jeff Peevy presented “The History and Evolution of Training in the Collision Repair Industry.” at the recent WIN Conference in Tampa. Peevy reminded WIN attendees that training was achieved through ap-

AMI’s Jeff Peevy presented “The History and Evolution of Training in the Collision Repair Industry.”

prenticeships in the early years, going back to the early 1900s when the internal combustion engine was developed. “As the number of vehicles increased during World War I and World War II, there became a need to separate mechanical repairs from paint and body work, and though formal training started to take hold, it was mostly driven by sales initiatives with DuPont, for example, opening

training facilities in the 1960s. Formalized training grew throughout the 1970s, changing focus to technical knowledge near the end of the decade leading to the establishment of ICAR in 1979. Training developed throughout the 1980s but, during the 1990s, the collision repair industry began seeing training as a business requirement, rather than a way to meet the need to learn. Modern training trends reveal that over 50% of training is achieved online or via virtual classrooms. Peevy predicts that this number could increase as much as 70% by 2020. He believes the future of training will become more learner-centered and results-focused as it moves from being seen as a way to meet external requirements to a way of maintaining a sustainable competitive advantage. Peevy said that the training of the future will cater to individual learning styles which will help measure the effectiveness of the training. He stated, “Learning is the key. How we get it is less important than getting it. What you learn makes a difference in performance, not how many courses you’ve taken.”

20 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com

Young Consumers Much More Trusting in Automotive Technology, Driverless Vehicles

Trust in automation technology is very much age dependent, as younger consumers have a notably higher level of confidence in the technology than their older counterparts, according to the J.D. Power 2016 U.S. Tech Choice Study, released in April. Trust in automation technology is a critical step toward the future of automated vehicles. The study finds that customers are most interested in a number of automotive technology features that make use of the underpinnings of fully automated vehicles, such as radar, sensors, light detection and ranging (LIDAR) and cameras. Features with high consumer interest include smart headlights, night vision, lane change assist, traffic jam assist, medical emergency stop, smart intersection and predictive vehicle control. However, when it comes to making the leap to fully automated cars, trust in the technology is directly linked to the age of the consumer. More than half of Gen Y (56%) and Gen Z (55%) vehicle owners say they trust self-driving technology, compared with 41% of Gen X, 23% of Baby Boomers and 18% of Pre-Boomers. Further, only 27% of Gen X, 18% of Gen Y and 11% of Gen Z consumers say they “defi-

nitely would not” trust the technology, while 39% of Baby Boomers and 40% of Pre-Boomers say the same. The one view all generations share is a concern for technology security, specifically surrounding privacy and the potential for systems to be hacked, hijacked or to crash (either the vehicle or the system itself). “The level of trust is directly linked to the level of interest in a new technology among automobile buyers,” said Kristin Kolodge, executive director of driver interaction & HMI research at J.D. Power. “Acceptance can be increased with exposure over time and experience with automated technologies. But trust is fragile and can be broken if there is an excessive number of incidents with automated vehicles.” Gen Y and Gen Z vehicle owners are twice as likely as Gen X and five times as likely as Boomers and PreBoomers to show interest in certain alternative mobility types, such as mobility sharing/co-ownership, journey-based ownership and mobility on demand. For more information about the J.D. Power 2016 U.S. Tech Choice Study,SM visit www.jdpower.com/resource/us-tech-choice-study

Florida Judge Dismisses “Price Fixing Claims” in MDL Case by Stacey Phillips, Assistant Editor

A Florida judge ruled in May that the price fixing claims brought forward in the multi-district lawsuit were not enough to reconsider the antitrust claims, which were dismissed earlier this year. The new evidence was presented to Judge Gregory Presnell in March by Eaves Law Firm of Jackson, Mississippi on behalf of five states: Indiana, Mississippi, Louisiana, Tennessee and Utah. Earlier this year, Presnell dismissed the plaintiff’s antitrust claims with prejudice (meaning that the claims cannot be refiled). Following this decision, Eaves Law firm submitted new evidence to the Florida courts asking Judge Presnell to reconsider the dismissal of the antitrust complaints. Allison Fry, of Eaves Law Firm, said there are limited grounds in which a court can reconsider an order, including the availability of new evidence. According to Judge Presnell, the plaintiffs made no such showing that the evidence was previously unavailable.

“Where a party attempts to introduce previously unsubmitted evidence in support of a motion to reconsider, the party must make some showing that the evidence previously was unavailable,” Presnell wrote in court documents. “The closest they come is a statement that the new evidence was unavailable at the time their Second Amended Complaint was filed. However, the Second Amended Complaint was filed on March 21, 2015, while the Order was not entered until nearly a year later—on February 22, 2016. The Plaintiffs offer no explanation for their failure to bring this information before the Court during that time.” He continued that, “Even if they had provided a legitimate justification for their delay in raising it, the Plaintiffs’ ‘direct evidence of price fixing’ would not suffice to save their antitrust claims, which were dismissed due to a failure to properly allege the existence of a collusive agreement to fix prices.” Presnell said that the statements provided did not identify any defendants that allegedly participated in the agreement to fix prices and said, “These vague assertations do not add

any weight to the Plaintiffs’ existing allegations.” The following statements he was referring to were submitted to the courts by Eaves Law Firm: “Plaintiffs obtained a statement from a Progressive employee who stated unequivocally that body shops have no say in the setting of their own labor rates, that the insurance companies ‘get together at big meetings’ to set body shop labor rates, and that the insurance companies uniformly apply the labor rates agreed upon at these meetings. This representative even identified when the next such meeting was going to occur. “Plaintiffs additionally obtained a statement from a State Farm representative who stated State Farm intentionally suppresses and fixes body shop labor rates, and that State Farm’s labor rate survey is a sham to justify its intentional fixing of labor rates.” The anti-trust lawsuit was first filed in Mississippi by 20 auto repair shops in February 2014 against 39 insurance companies. Eaves Law Firm subsequently filed more than 20 others. The lawsuits were eventually consolidated for pretrial purposes and the

law firm now represents 500 shops across the country. In the lawsuits that have been filed, the plaintiffs allege that the defendants, “engaged in an ongoing, concerted and combined intentional course of action and conduct to improperly and illegally control and depress automobile damage repair costs to the detriment of the plaintiffs and the substantial profit of the Defendants.” The plaintiffs also claim that the defendants engaged in price fixing, compulsory use of substandard parts and boycotting shops that refuse to comply. Autobody News will continue to keep readers informed about this lawsuit.

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www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 21

Shop Strategies

Stacey Phillips is the assistant editor at Autobody News magazine. She has more than 20 years of experience writing for a variety of publications. She can be reached at sphillips@autobodynews.com.

CA Body Shop Owners Recognized for Achievements After Risking Everything with Stacey Phillips - ASSISTANT EDITOR

With only a toolbox and $800 to cover his first month’s rent, Francisco Mayoral opened JC Collision Center in Bakersfield, CA in 2007. After many years of hard work and dedication, his body shop was named Family Owned Business of the Year as part of the 2016 Kern County Small Business Success Awards. The award was presented on May 5 during National Small Business Week.

Elizabeth and Franciso Mayoral, owners of JC Collision in Bakersfield, CA, received a certificate of recognition in May

Francisco and his wife Elizabeth operate the body shop, which expanded last year into a 58,000-squarefoot facility that sits on a 2.5 acre lot with the capacity to repair 100 vehicles. Autobody News reached out to the Mayorals to find out more about JC Collision (JC stands for Jesus Christ) and what makes their business so successful.

Congratulations on receiving Q: the award. What was your reaction when you found out you were

going to be honored and what does the recognition mean to you and your shop?

We were shocked. My husband A: and I couldn’t close our mouths. Then I noticed tears were coming from Francisco, the founder. Suddenly, we started calling our friends and family. Hearing that news meant so much for us. After so much effort and sacrifice, we realized it was worth it.

us about the dream helping a CEO buy a new Ferrari for Q: toCanopenyouJCtellCollision? his wife. Growing up in a destroyed How have you built a successA: Q: family and in a bad neighborful business through reinvesthood, at the age of 18 I immigrated to ment and not borrowing?

the United States in search for a better future. I started working in a body shop cleaning the bathrooms, then I became a painter’s helper and later an auto body technician. It was then when I knew what I wanted for my future—to one day have my own shop. I had a vision to help many children to reach their dreams. So I started working on my project by spending most of my paychecks buying all of the necessary tools to fix the cars. In 2007, I decided to take the risk and opened my own auto body shop. My wife was really scared because even though she had being a business- and financiallydriven woman, at this time the country was going through the worst economic time ever. But my vision and faith was stronger than anything else. (Francisco) I clearly remember his first customer. It was an insurance job of about $3,500. Suddenly, more cars started coming. It was then when I decided to leave the real estate business and joined him to help him make his dream come true. Francisco wanted to show the community what he was able to do, by offering “The Best Job at the Best Price.” A year later, we moved into a better location with more traffic and seven years later we opened our new and bigger facility. (Elizabeth) What do you tell your customers about the importance of supporting small, local businesses and the ability to choose the shop of their choice?

What I love most about my job A: is not just repairing the vehicles, but educating our community about their rights as consumers. I dislike the power insurance companies have when they try to steer customers away from their shop of choice and take it to their DRP shops. I clearly let them know that by supporting small local businesses, they are helping a kid go to soccer camp and putting food on a family’s table, rather than

22 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com

It hasn’t being easy, especially A: having no working capital or saving in a reserve account. Every

dime that we would generate has being reinvested back into the shop to buy equipment such as two frame ma-

chines, two spray booths and one welder machine as well as continuing to educate ourselves and our employees to help manage our shop more efficiently. For at least five years we showed no profit at the end of the year. I remember Fridays after paying everyone else, we’ll keep just enough to cover our household expenses. During all these years, we have learned to live under a budget, having the vision that one day we’ll have enough to take a nice vacation and to send our kids to college without having to ask for any government loan.

Is there anything else you Q: would like to add about your business or the industry in general?

The collision repair shop expanded last year and now has the capacity to repair 100 vehicles

I believe success is not a desA: tiny; it is a journey along with many challenges, but the key to sucSee Risking Everything, Page 42

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TCAT’s Hartigan First Female to Graduate from HEV Program in Tennessee by Missy Wattenbarger, TCAT

A few years ago, Lisa Hartigan relocated to Crossville to care for her parents after three years of living in Brazil. She had no idea what direction life would take her and never imagined it would involve the auto industry. On April 21, however, she found herself becoming the first female graduate of a Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) program in the state of Tennessee. “After about a month in, I was just hooked, very hooked and I’m very passionate about it,” she said. “I always wanted to do something that mattered in my lifetime and getting into this class and being able to work with sustainable energy, in a sustainable energy field, it kind of fits that MO, that passion I was looking for.” The HEV program, offered at the Tennessee College of Applied Technology in Crossville, is the only one of its kind in the state. It is designed to provide training in hybrid and electric vehicle fundamentals as well as other systems in which a technician may be challenged. It also gives stu-

dents the opportunity to troubleshoot and repair actual vehicles in the shop. Training consists of classroom instruction, computer-aided instruction and experiments, as well as hands-on projects on actual hybrid and electric vehicles. Hartigan was drawn to the program after discussing it on several occasions with electronics instructor Stacy Johnson, who happens to be a family friend. He mentioned how he and the automotive technology instructor, Terry McKinney, were planning on coming together to teach a hybrid electric program. As the program was being developed, it was decided that only one instructor was needed. “We still work together even though this a stand-alone program,” said Johnson. “He helps me with mechanical stuff and I help him with the electrical stuff.” The course teaches everything there is to know about high voltage technology, electric drives, motors and other components unique to hybrid and electric vehicles. The students also handle some mechanical pieces found in both hybrids and regular cars such as brakes and suspensions.

24 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com

“They also cover diagnostics heavily because of how expensive parts are and battery reconditioning, which is something no other place around here does,” said Johnson. “After eight years, batteries start to deplete a little bit and don’t do as

Lisa Hartigan, second from left, became the first female graduate of the Hybrid Electric Vehicle program at the Tennessee College of Applied Technology, Crossville. She is pictured with her classmates, from left, James Sparling, Anthony Johnson and Vestle Phipps, next to an all-electic Nissan Leaf used for the class. “I would hire any of the four,” said instructor Stacey Johnson

good of a job to hold the energy. We run it through a process..., [which] brings the battery pack to around 90 percent of what it was when it was new. This, of course, saves the owners

a lot of money.” The first class of TCAT’s HEV program started in January 2015 and consisted of Hartigan and five others, one of which later left the course. Hartigan’s fellow graduates during the spring ceremony were James Sparling, Anthony Johnson and Vestle Phipps. Johnson pointed out that they were a diverse group, with one previously graduating from auto mechanics, two with electronics backgrounds and Hartigan with a degree in economics from the University of Illinois. “They worked really well together and I’ve found the dynamics of this class have been like that all the way through,” said Johnson. “Everybody, even though they’re completely different, from different walks of life, they work really well together when they’re trying to learn this. Instead of competing against each other, they kind of complemented each other and helped each other.” According to Hartigan, the hardest part of the course was going back to the basics. “When you start out in this class, you start at literally square one in basic

electronics—Ohm’s law, solving for resistance or current or voltage, down to the basic protons, neutrons. [It had been] a lot of years since I learned this fifth-grade science,” she said. “So getting the wheels turning the first month in, thinking ‘Can I do this? Can I really do this? Can I sit here and spend six to seven hours a day learning?’ It comes back to you, like riding a bike.” Unlike her previous education experience, this course didn’t require four years to get her up to speed and it offered her hands-on opportunities to learn what she needed. “You’re actually doing what you’re learning. It’s not just theory, but is practical experience as well and that just expedited things,” she said. Hartigan was able to complete the HEV course in just 16 months, which was important to her as she recently turned 49. “A second career, or turning over a new leaf or taking the chance on trying something new is a lot easier to do this way,” she said, “and putting 12 to 16 months into something to see if it’s going to work out for you or not compared to four years and $100,000...[is] definitely a benefit.” Since graduating from TCAT,

Hartigan is optimistic about her future, stating, “It’s wipe open.” “The field is so new and changing rapidly so there are many different options,” she explained. “Just take the two different internships I just finished...” Hartigan is a member of the Southern Automotive Women’s Forum (SAWF), which helped her arrange the two internships and potential new ones after graduation. Her most recent one was at Luscious Garage, a womanowned business in San Francisco, CA, that is considered one of the premier independently-owned hybrid electric vehicle garages in the U.S. There, Hartigan spent two and a half weeks working mostly on Toyota Priuses and witnessed a non-electric Mazda Miata being converted into an all-electric vehicle. “It is one of two of what is called a ‘B’ certified corporation shop in the U.S. and to meet this criteria you have to meet a certain level of sustainability (eco-friendly) and business model has to meet certain criteria,” she explained. “Everyone participates equally in profit sharing and work-time and things of that nature. So it’s kind of an egalitarian setup instead of a trickle-down type of thing.”

A few weeks prior to this internship, Hartigan spent some time with the Japanese company Calsonic Kansei, which is based in Tennessee and manufactures mostly for Nissan. She spent a week with them, traveling to five different plants in Tennessee: one in Smyrna, two in Shelbyville and two in Lewisburg. “So manufacturing is an option,” said Hartigan about her future plans, “whether it be sales or actually on a plant basis and with a shop, getting in on a tech level, opening my own shop is also a possibility.” Open enrollment is available yearround for the HEV program, with new students starting each month as openings come available. For more information, call 484-7502 or visit www .tcatcrossville.edu.

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Auto Care Association Focuses on Telematics

Plans for the creation of an education campaign on telematics and the connected car for consumers, policymakers and the industry were unveiled on May 4 at the Auto Care Association’s (ACA) board of directors meeting in Bonita Springs, FL. Representatives of the Powell Tate public relations agency, hired by the association, presented details of the strategic planning process they will undertake in creating the “playbook” to raise the awareness of the implications of access to vehicle diagnostic data to vehicle owners and the auto care industry. Key deliverables will include consumer, industry and policymaker research, creative development, messaging, audience targeting strategies, advocacy strategy and measurement. “Our association has identified telematics as its number one priority, and the leadership has authorized the resources necessary for us to step up to the plate and create a strategic communications and advocacy campaign playbook,” said Bill Hanvey, president and CEO, ACA. For information, visit www.auto care.org/Default.aspx?gmssopc=1.

www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 25

Auto Body Class in VA Restores Luster to Family Car by Rob Huffman, Fredericksburg.com

Our trusty, but honestly less than beautiful, 1999 VW Passat was in dire need of a makeover. My wife and I have always driven used cars, some less visually appealing than others, and to be honest, that’s generally OK with us. Saturday mornings do not find us vigorously vacuuming out our vehicles and painstakingly detailing their in- and exteriors. We prefer going places, seeing things; cars are just a means of conveyance, a kind of gas-powered mule. However, as vacation home-swappers—an Icelandic family will be staying in our home a few weeks this coming summer and using our car—the faded charms of our automobile became more problematic. We wanted to be able to provide our Reykjavik guests with a car they wouldn’t be ashamed to drive. Besides flaking paint on its hood, our loyal hatchback had suffered the further indignity of being sideswiped at the bottom of Trench Hill as the family sledded above. Some wrinkles would need to be ironed out, too. How often do you contract work to be done and get more than you asked for? Not many fingers needed to tally that up, right? Well, Alvin Staples and his North Stafford High School team (and he does foster a teamwork atmosphere in his

shop, with himself as a kind of player– manager) not only fixed everything we agreed to—some bodywork on two fenders, painting the hood—but also took care of a few other dings we hadn’t talked about. He even figured out some way to restore the Passat’s headlights to their former brightness. She—the Passat—looks lovely now, a lady fresh from the Saturday morning beauty parlor. Alvin runs his shop with humor and warmth. He says he seldom has trouble with his students; they enjoy learning this valuable trade from an experienced master and appreciate their hands-on training. Discipline problems are typically the bane of teachers facing roomfuls of bored kids. Alvin’s body shop kids aren’t bored. Alvin says a good body man can feel imperfections—it’s a braille-like skill—just by running his (or her: he teaches girls, too) hands along a car’s flat surfaces. He attests you are either born with this touch or you’re not. But all can improve. Isn’t it time we lose those ancient and no longer applicable collar hang-ups anyhow? White, blue, does any of this really matter? We live in time anyhow where waitresses and taxi drivers might have a master’s degree and where some managerial types can barely compose a coherent sentence. The old job cate-

Team Penske’s Simon Pagenaud Races PPG-Painted Chevy to Victory in Alabama

Driving his PPG-painted car, the No. 22 PPG Team Penske Dallara/Chevrolet, Simon Pagenaud took the checkered flag in the Honda Indy Grand Prix of Alabama on April 24 at Barber Motorsports Park in Birmingham.

Simon Pagenaud, driving his PPG-painted car

It was Pagenaud’s second consecutive Verizon IndyCar Series win. The previous week, Pagenaud, a native of France, raced to victory in the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach, also while carrying the PPG colors. Pagenaud’s car is the latest of Team Penske’s cars to wear a PPG coat. PPG has been a longtime major sponsor of Team Penske with an

overall business relationship extending more than 30 years. The race car features a blue and white PPG water-based finish, and, like other PPG-sponsored Team Penske cars, it prominently displays the PPG logo. “It’s exciting for us to see Team Penske and Simon Pagenaud do so well on the race course,” said John Outcalt, vice president, global automotive refinish. “We’ve had a strong relationship with Penske Racing for several decades and that’s based on a mutual commitment to deliver exceptional performance and exceptional products. Neither Penske nor PPG will settle for anything less.” PPG has become Penske Corporation’s exclusive supplier of refinish coatings for its racing, truck leasing and automotive collision repair subsidiaries and facilities. To learn about PPG products, call (800) 647-6050 or visit www .ppg refinish.com. For info about Team Penske, visit www.teampenske.com. For additional information, contact Cynthia Schauer, schauer@ppg.com (440) 572-2800.

26 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com

gories, that is, don’t necessarily apply any more. Alvin’s shop at North Stafford High is a fascinating place. The diversity of jobs done there is wide. For many years, Alvin has been involved with Fredericksburg Soap Box Derby racing and competitors still bring him their cars to paint. He’s doing some restoration on a vintage 1950s recreational vehicle. Mini Corvettes—they had been used as showroom promotional models in the early days of this singular automobile— were in various stages of refurbishment. Although Alvin comes from the world of high-end auto painting, the fact that he chose to offer his expertise to the next generation seems magnanimous, a kind of torch-passing that should leave our community grateful. One of my best friends learned masonry at Gar-Field High School in Woodbridge back in the 1970s. And he had made a nice career for himself in construction, too, and has provided a good living for himself and his family. I’m sure his wallet is more generously padded than my own. But then again, whose isn’t? My point is: Most trades pay pretty well.

Isn’t there something a little hollow and unsupportable about America’s “higher education” obsession anyhow? Stafford County may be afflicted with a particularly virulent strain of this obsession, chock full as this county is of folks attempting to claw and elbow their ways up a kind of social and economic ladder that few of them seem to question. What is wrong with learning an honest trade? Particularly one that can be practiced in one’s own community, thereby avoiding the nightmare of Interstate 95? Alvin’s shop is an up-to-date manifestation of an Old World system of learning and professional preparation. The apprentice–journeyman path. The master teaches his apprentices. These now-proficient workers “journey” elsewhere to ply their new trade. A profession continues to operate. Anyhow, our car looks nice, her surface lovely—probably better than her 200,000-plus miles deserves. We’ll now drive her with pride. Our summer Icelanders, too. Thanks Alvin. You and your students done good. Thank you to Fredericksburg.com for permission to reprint this story.

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Flow General Motors

Ph: 800-GM-Built Direct: 336.760.7038 Fax: 336.245.1423

Flow Lotus

Direct: 336.760.7038 Ph: 800-GM-Built Fax: 336.245 .1423

Flow SAAB

Direct: 336.760.7038 Ph: 800-GM-Built Fax: 336.245.1423

Flow Toyota

997 Folger Dr., Statesville, NC 28625 Direct: 704.978.4650 Fax: 704.873.4236

Keffer Kia

271 W. Plaza Dr., Mooresville, NC 28117 Ph: 888.411.5599 Direct: 704.360.1560 Fax: 704.658.9382 kiaparts@kefferauto.com

Kernersville Chrsyler Dodge Jeep Ram

Ph: 888.314.7278 Direct: 336.564.0259 Fax: 336.996.0742 www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 27

ECS Cautions Collision Repair Shops About Use of Non-Licensed VIN Certification Labels by Stacey Phillips, Assistant Editor

Nearly 18 years ago, Dave Walden, an engineer and car enthusiast, used to spend his free time creating decals for his collector cars. Word soon spread and he was asked to make a VIN sticker for a 1970 Chrysler. Working out of his basement with less than $100, he began producing all types of decals, from emissions stickers to wiring labels. Walden now estimates he has manufactured close to 20,000 different decals since he launched his

company in 1999, ECS Automotive Concepts. Based in Chesterfield, MO, Walden said the company is the only licensed provider of factory exact VIN certification decals, tire pressure labels and emissions decals. “These federal safety labels contain important vehicle safety information,” said Walden. “A licensed VIN product protects the body shops, the insurance companies and the automobile manufacturers from potential lawsuits. A non-licensed product places those venues in an unwanted

liability situation if safety information is incorrectly listed.” Walden said he pioneered and developed the replacement VIN program in September of 1998. The following year was a big turning point for him. On December 13, 1999, Ford licensed Walden to manufacturer their labels. This was later followed by Chrysler and other car manufacturers such as Toyota, Ferrari and Fiat. Walden said it was then that he realized he had started a business. Next, he needed to decide

what to call his new entity. The names of his children came to mind. The initials of his company – ECS – are the three first letters of their names, Erin, Conner and Sarah. Watching his three children ride their electric cars and bikes around his large unfinished basement gave Walden an idea on how to test the durability of the labels. “I would stick the decals on their handle bars and on the seat of their bikes because they use them so much,” said Walden. “I thought ‘what a perfect way to check to see the

Executive Director of IABA Conducts Blind Test of Certified & Non-Certified Labels

Tony Passwater, executive director of the Indiana Autobody Association, has had a lengthy association partnership with ECS for a number of years. Passwater stated, “As an association, we are always looking at products and services that will benefit our members, and this is how I ran across ECS. At a NACE several years ago, I stopped by a booth that caught my eye about label replacements, and met Dave Walden. During the short discussion, many interesting points were made

about the difference between certified verses non-certified labels. Having seen the other two providers and listening to how they were ‘just as good,’ I decided to do a completely blind test of all three offerings. I heard the sales pitches from all three, and all three said they were the best. It sounded like what customers hear when they go to a body shop! So I decided to test this.” Passwater used multiple clients across the United States to order spe-

28 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com

cific VIN Certification Labels, one each from Ford, Chrysler and General Motors. Part of the test was to determine if the provider did any due diligence on the information provided for reproduction. “I was worried about someone photoshopping a label to do something illegal,” said Passwater. Only one provider caught the issues, ECS. The other two provided labels that could not represent a valid vehicle. Then he tested the appearance of the label compared to the

original. He said that only ECS produced labels exactly like the original ones … the other two had wrong sizes, no logos when present, and not the same paper. This was so evident with the Ford labels, said Passwater. And finally he tested the bar codes. He said ECS was the only one that actually scanned as designed. The other two did not. The test results were released to the industry, and even though it was very clear labels produced by other than ECS were inferior in every

durability of how they work.’” He said the company’s products use the same tamper-resistant materials utilized by the original equipment manufacturers. The company guarantees that every VIN decal purchased will look exactly like the one that originally came on the vehicle. “You will never receive a ‘one decal fits all’ style that is being offered by the ‘pretenders’ in the industry,” said Walden. He cautions body shops about companies that use manufactured disclaimers on their non-litest area, some industry representatives discounted the results. “I was at a loss, as if I was in cahoots with ECS in some way,” said Passwater. “I attend a great number of national events including CIC, and when we get into a discussion about aftermarket parts and how they do not fit or replicate the OEM parts, I see no difference with this as well … cheap labels are just knock-offs of the originals and nowhere close to what I have seen with what ECS produces.”

censed products. In addition to complying with the original federal VIN regulations, ECS labels are approved and commissioned by the original equipment manufacturer. “This eliminates the possibility of impropriety that is

Canada.

In addition, Walden said that ECS is a preferred vendor for several MSOs. The company has been working with Avis and Budget over the last couple of years for their label replacements.

ECS Automotive Concepts is based in Chesterfield, MO

perpetuated by generic decals that have no approval from the OE manufacturer,” said Walden. He said it has been a big undertaking to get every decal on every car manufactured since 1970. The company is also licensed in

“My mandate is: if you do it right the first time and cover everything 100 percent, you never have to look in the rearview mirror,” said Walden. For more information, visit http://www.ecsvin.com/.

Gerber Opens Location in Rocky Mount, NC

The Boyd Group Inc. announced the April 29 acquisition and opening of a collision repair center in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, previously operated as Faith Autobody. “Our new location in Rocky Mount is a welcome addition to our centers in the Raleigh area and will help us serve our customers and insurance partners in the coastal plain region of the state,” said Tim O’Day, president and COO of the Boyd Group’s U.S. operations. “We look forward to becoming part of the community and introducing the Gerber brand of highquality and friendly service.” Collision repair center owners interested in joining this network are asked to contact Kim Allen, sirector of business sevelopment, at (847) 410-6003, kim.allen@gerber collision.com. For further information, visit www.boydgroup.com.

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www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 29

Continued from Cover

Counterfeit Parts

and tires for example. Anything that they can counterfeit for profit, they will.

Are you finding this is a growing trend and what is being done to combat these crimes?

The breadth of the problem was brought to our attention by the automobile industry. Individual auto makers came to us and said, “It’s a problem, they are counterfeiting our products.” They asked if we would shepherd them along to develop a coalition. I’m happy to say that since then we assisted with organizing a coalition. They call themselves the Automobile Anti-Counterfeiting Coalition —the A2C2. It’s made up of almost every automobile manufacturer and they meet four times a year. We generally attend those meetings as well. They regularly provide intelligence and lead information to us. They’ve been very good partners. Last year alone based on our work with that coalition we opened up 35 cases. We had 12 criminal arrests, 16 indictments and 15 convictions. The 130 seizure incidents were worth an estimated $5.59 million MSRP.

Q: What we have found is that 85A: 95 percent of all counterfeit goods are coming from China. They Where are the counterfeiters based?

are either coming from China or transshiped to Hong Kong or to other countries. Just under 50 percent of counterfeit goods seized last year came directly from China. Just under 35 percent came from Hong Kong and five percent came from Singapore. We believe that all those goods are originating from China because Hong Kong and Singapore don’t have the manufacturing capabilities that China does, but the goods are transshipped through Hong Kong and Singapore where the manifest is being changed in order to trick U.S. customs. I happened to be in China last September visiting with the Chamber of Commerce, various companies, embassies and Chinese law enforcement. There was a case where the Chinese Ministry of Public Security took

down an operation involving counterfeiters in China who were selling counterfeit Ford brake pads and air bags. Counterfeiting is a global issue. It’s very easy for the counterfeiters to start up websites and sell things online. The operators of some of these websites are to deceive the public. Sometimes the intent is to just sell to people who know they are going to get a counterfeit part, hoping that they believe the consumer feels the counterfeit part is doing their job. It varies who they target. Potentially, criminals could be doing this until the automobile manufacturer serves a cease and desist order or civilly take these websites down. It’s a trademark violation to represent a counterfeit good as authentic on copyright-infringing websites. It’s so easy these days to start websites. They have very good webmasters who put these things together; they are very advanced. Sometimes a site is up for a month, and then it gets shut down and they are ready to go with another illicit website.

What should collision repair shops be aware of in regards to counterfeit parts?

What we try to tell the conA: sumer is to make sure they are buying OEM parts. If not, it should be

from a reputable distributor that can be confirmed with the manufacturer. If there is a doubt, there should be a legitimate phone number to call. Go that extra mile when purchasing these parts for customers to ensure these are legitimate parts. A lot of it comes down to buyer beware. If it’s too good to be true, it usually is.

What is the biggest concern in Q: regards to counterfeit parts? Certainly the consumers’ health A: and safety is at risk anytime they get into a car with a counterfeit

part. We’ve seen counterfeit safety belts that weren’t secure and air bags that have exploded so dramatically they probably would have done harm had they gone off. Some of them even failed to deploy. We actually investigated someone who was illegally smuggling counterfeit airbags into the United States. Along with the National Highway Transportation Safety board, we seized 10 of them. Eight failed to deploy and

30 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com

two would have deployed in a manner that would have harmed the consumer. Those are the kinds of things that keep me up at night. It’s the consumer’s health and safety, especially when you have family members and kids and everyone else getting into a vehicle with counterfeit brake pads. It’s maddening.

Q: Two summers ago a couple of A: Canadian citizens were purchasing air bags from China and Do any specific cases come to mind that you can share?

smuggling them into the United States. They thought they were being cute by driving them down from Canada into Northern WA; then they would mail them via US mail to repair shops. They did that because they thought they could disguise that they were coming from the United States versus coming from overseas. We arrested one as he was smuggling a batch coming in. It led to his brother being indicted. We shared the information with the Chinese Ministry of Public Security in Beijing and they shut down a manufacturing facility and made four or five arrests. They

also seized the counterfeit air bags, and US and Chinese currency. It was an extremely successful operation.

How should shops get in touch Q: with you if they suspect they have accidentally purchased any coun-

terfeit goods and want to report it?

They are absolutely welcome A: to contact us. We’ve heard from them in the past. We’re always open to sharing information with anyone about counterfeiting. We can certainly help them with supply chain issues when they are procuring items. We have a general procurement product that we can share as well as awareness training. It is called Acquisition Professional Training: Counterfeit Awareness, Mitigation, Identification and Reporting from the National Intellectual Property Rights Coordination Center. For further information about this topic, visit www.iprcenter.gov or email iprcenter@dhs.gov.

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Please contact these dealers for your Honda or Acura Genuine parts needs. HO ND A AL AB A M A

FL O RIDA

FLOR ID A

GEO RG I A

Holman Honda of Ft. Lauderdale

Gwinnett Place Honda

F T. L A UDERDAL E

800-277-8836 678-957-5151

Freeway Honda

Classic Honda

B ir m in g h a m

O r l an do

800-987-0819 205-949-5460

888-893-4984 407-521-1115

Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-5 greg_thomas@freewayhondaal.com

Dept. Hours: M-F 7-7; Sat 8-4 parts@classichonda.com

Jerry Damson Honda

Coggin Deland Honda

Hu n ts vi lle

D e l an d

800-264-1739 256-382-3759

800-758-0007 386-626-1811

Dept. Hours: M-F 7-5:30; Sat 8-4 Rkeel@damson.com

Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 8-5 gbennett@cogginauto.com

Dept. Hours: M-F 7-7; Sat 7:30-4 robbutton@rickcase.com

Ed Morse Honda

South Motors Honda

FL O RI D A

AutoNation Honda Clearwater Cle a rwa t er

R i v i e ra Be a ch

800-232-1098 561-844-8089

888-792-7189 954-763-7157 Dept. Hours: M-F 8-5:30 rguido@holmanauto.com

Rick Case Honda Davie

877-544-2249

M ia mi

888-418-3513 305-256-2240 Dept. Hours: M-F 8-7 mfranceschi@southhonda.com

888-205-2564 727-530-1173

Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 7:30-5 tonyrocha@edmorse.com

Dept. Hours: M-F 7-7; Sat 8-5; Sun 10-3 santosr1@autonation.com

Headquarter Honda C l e r mo nt

Carey Paul Honda

AutoNation Honda Hollywood

800-497-2294 407-395-7374

770-985-1444

Ho lly wo o d

800-542-8121 954-964-8300 Dept. Hours: M-F 7-7; Sat 7-5; Sun 9-5 hernandeze@autonation.com

Braman Honda of Palm Beach

S ne ll vi ll e Dept. Hours: M-F 7-7; Sat 7-6 gperkins@careypaul.com

Hendrick Honda Bradenton

Ed Voyles Honda

877-706-2021 941-752-2123

M ar i e tta

800-334-3719 770-933-5870 Direct

Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-7; Sat 8-4 Kris.kitzman@hendrickauto.com

Dept. Hours: M-F 7-7; Sat 7-6 hondaparts@edvoyles.com

888-479-0695 561-966-5185

Hendrick Honda Daytona

Gerald Jones Honda

Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 8-4:30 parts@bramanhondapb.com

800-953-4402 386-252-2301

G re en a c re s

D a y to n a Be ach

Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 8-4 Hondadaytonaparts@hendrickauto.com

Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 8-5 gphwholesaleparts@hendrickauto.com

Honda Mall of Georgia Bu f ord /G win net t

678-318-3155 Dept. Hours: M-F 7-7; Sat 7-5 cdunlap@penskeautomotive.com

Milton Martin Honda Gain esv ille

770-534-0086 678-989-5473 Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-6 robertthomas@mmhonda.com

Nalley Honda

GEOR GIA

Dept. Hours: M-F 8-7; Sat 8-5 pepe.guevara@headquarterhonda.com

B ra de n to n

Du lu t h

A ugus ta

800-733-2210 706-228-7040 Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 8-5 tdunn@geraldjoneshonda.com

Un ion City

866-362-8034 770-306-4646 Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-7; Sat 8-5 hondawp@nalleycars.com

Southern Motors Honda Savann ah

888-785-8387 912-925-1444 Dept. Hours: M-F 8-6; Sat 8-5 angela@southern-motors.com MI SS IS SI P P I

Patty Peck Honda Rid g elan d

800-748-8676 601-957-3400 Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 8-5 pmartin@pattypeckhonda.com

AC U R A AL AB A M A

FL O RIDA

GEOR GIA

GE OR G I A

Jerry Damson Acura

Duval Acura

Jackson Acura

Hu n t svil le

Ja ck s o nvi ll e

Ro swe l l

Savann ah

800-264-1739 256-533-1345

800-352-2872 904-725-1149

877-622-2871 678-259-9500

800-347-0596 912-232-3222

Dept. Hours: M-F 7-5:30; Sat 8-4 Rkeel@damson.com

Dept. Hours: M-F 7-7; Sat 8-5 Cecil.adams@duvalacura.com

Dept. Hours: M-F 7-6; Sat 7:30-6 kmcmillan@jacksonacura.com

Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 8-2 Tim.johnson@acuraofsavannah.com

Rick Case Acura

Nalley Acura

F o rt La u de rda l e

M ar i e tta

800-876-1150 954-377-7688

800-899-7278 770-422-3138

Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 8-5 rubenramos@rickcase.com

Dept. Hours: M-F 7-7; Sat 7-5 byoung@nalleycars.com

FL O RI D A

Acura of Orange Park J ack so n vi ll e

888-941-7278 904-777-1008 Dept. Hours: M-F 7-8; Sat 7-5; Sun 9-3 msweeney@acuraoforangepark.com

32 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com

Southern Motors Acura

N O . CA RO L IN A

Flow Acura Win st on -Salem

800-489-3534 336-761-3682 Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 8-1 www.flowacura.com

NO . C AR O LI N A

NO . CAR OL INA

TEN NE SS EE

V IR GIN I A

Apple Tree Honda

Vann York Automall

Bill Gatton Honda

Hall Honda

As he v ille

High Point

Br is to l

V irg in ia B each

800-476-9411 828-684-4400

336-841-6200 Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 8-3

800-868-4118 423-652-9545

800-482-9606 757-431-4329

Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-5:30; Sat 8-1 hondaparts@billgattonhonda.com

Dept. Hours: M-F 8-7; Sat 8-5 fox@hallauto.com

Wolfchase Honda

Hendrick Honda Woodbridge

Dept. Hours: M-F 8-5; Sat 8-4 appletreeparts@hotmail.com

Crown Honda Southpoint Du r ha m

855-893-8866 919-425-4711 Dept. Hours: M-Thu 7-11; Fri 7-6 Sat 7-5; Sun 11-5 www.southpointhonda.com

Hendrick Honda Ch a r lo t t e

800-277-7271 704-552-1149 Dept. Hours: M-F 7-7; Sat 8-5 rob.thomas@hendrickauto.com

Leith Honda Ra le ig h

800-868-6970 919-790-8228 Dept. Hours: M-F 7-7; Sat 7:30-5 parts@leithhonda.com

McKenney-Salinas Honda G as t on ia

888-703-7109 704-824-8844 x 624 Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-5:30 parts@mshonda.com

Metro Honda I nd ian Trail

866-882-9542 704-220-1522 Dept. Hours: M-F 6:30-6:30; Sat 7-4 www.copytk.com

N O . CAR OL IN A

Hendrick Acura

SO . CAR OL INA

Breakaway Honda G re e n vi l l e

800-849-5056 864-234-6481 Dept. Hours: M-F 8-6; Sat 8-5 fmarshall@breakawayhonda.com

Midlands Honda C o l u m bi a

877-273-4442 803-691-8585

Ba r tle t t

800-982-7290 901-255-3780 Dept. Hours: M-F 7-7 ekerr@wolfchasehonda.com VIRGINIA

Valley Honda Stau n ton

No r fo l k

800-277-0598 540-213-9016

800-277-2122 757-687-3453

Piedmont Honda

Dept. Hours: M-Sat 7:30-6 honda.checkeredflag.com

TE NNES SEE

Airport Honda Alcoa

800-264-4721 865-970-7792 Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-6:30; Sat 7:30-5 parts@airporthonda.com

AutoNation Honda West Knoxville

Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-5:30; Sat 9-5 bwimer@myvalleyhonda.com

West Broad Honda

A n de r so n

Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 8-5 swhite@piedmontcars.com

Dept. Hours: M-Fri 7-6 Sat 8-5; Sun 10-4

Checkered Flag Honda

Dept. Hours: M-F 7-7; Sat 7-4 www.copytk.com

800-849-5057 864-375-2082

Woodb rid g e

703-690-7777

Colonial Honda

Rich m on d

C he ste r

800-446-0160 804-672-8811

800-564-9836 804-414-1960 Dept. Hours: M-F 8-7; Sat 8-4 rreese@i95honda.com

Dept. Hours: M-Thu 7:30-6:30; Fri 7:30-6; Sat 8-3; Sun 11-3 wbhonda@aol.com

Duncanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hokie Honda C hr is tia n burg

800-979-9110 540-381-3200 Dept. Hours: Mon-Fri 7:30-5:30 Sat 8:00-5:00 rthompson@duncanauto.net

K n ox v i l l e

800-824-1301 865-218-5461 Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-6 rossd1@autonation.com

VI RG INIA

Karen Radley Acura

Ch a r lo t t e

Woo d br i dg e

800-768-6824 704-566-2288

800-355-2818 703-550-0205

Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 8-5 justin.taylor@hendrickauto.com

Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-5:30; Sat 8-3 coreythompson@radleyautogroup.com

Leith Acura

Radley Acura

Ca r y

F a l l s C hu rch

800-868-0082 919-657-0460

800-550-5035 703-824-5785

Dept. Hours: M-F 8-6; Sat 8-4:30 parts@leithacura.com

Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-6:00; Sat 8-6; Sun 10-5 jimgraf@radleyauto.com www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 33

Day Job/Night Job Mixing Paints During the Day and Cocktails at Night with Ed Attanasio

Sean Fitzgerald, 33, has a busy work schedule as he balances two jobs—as a body shop owner and a bartender— but he makes it all work because he

is off to work as a bartender to help him pay the bills. Fitzgerald started working initially in the printing industry, but he always had his sights on painting cars and making them look spectacular. “I was working as a printer during the day when I was 18 and 19 and then in the evenings and on the weekends I was building street race cars,” he said. “We would install turbo kits and do everything we could to make them as fast as we could. All of my friends had their own cars, so we had Sean Fitzgerald is only 33, but he’s already owned Phantom this group that would work on Autobody in Jeffersonville, IN for three years now each other’s vehicles.” stresses quality in everything he does. With bigger plans and a drive to get there, Fitzgerald decided to go back to While running the show at Phantom Autobody in Jeffersonville, IN, he is a school to get a degree in collision repair. hands-on owner who still paints most “I went through UTI’s one year program of the vehicles that come into his at their school in Houston, TX,” he said. shop. And after his 10-12 hour days “It was intense with more than 9-10 fixing cars and doing custom paint, he hours of instruction and lab work every

34 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com

Ed Attanasio is an automotive journalist based in San Francisco, California. He can be reached at era39@aol.com.

day, but when I graduated from there, I was ready to get a job at a shop.” Returning to the Louisville, KY area where he grew up, Fitzgerald started working at a local shop to learn more about the trade. “I worked as a prepper for four years and they never let me paint an entire car, mostly door jambs and things like that,” he said. “It

Known for his custom paint jobs on motorcycles, Phantom Autobody gets rave reviews on choppers, hogs and even a few newer foreignmade bikes

was a very competitive environment there, so all of the painters were fighting for work.” Because Fitzgerald was crosstrained as both a painter and a metal technician, he decided to start working at another shop in Louisville as a body tech, he explained. “I did that for 2-3 years, but it never really became full-time, so that’s when I started bartending. It helped to pay the bills and it also allowed me to sock away some money, because I started thinking about possibly opening my own shop around that time.” At first, he didn’t have a permanent location and that’s why people began calling it Phantom Autobody. “I started by doing side work in the evenings and on the weekends,” Fitzgerald said. “We would do it at the shop I was working at or anywhere we could. We really didn’t have a real location, so I named it Phantom Autobody and it became an inside joke.”

their own collision center a few years back,” Fitzgerald said. “Now that we have a permanent location, things are really picking up.” At first, things were a little rocky, so the bartending became a way to keep the bills paid. “I was working at the shop all day long and then bartending at least three nights a week to make ends meet,” he said. “I still work on the weekends as a bartender, because it’s easy money. Occasionally, one of my customers at the bar By bartending at night and on the weekends, Fitzgerald will become a customer at the was able to get some of the seed money he needed to shop-either for collision repair open his shop or a car restoration or even cility and an address in 2013, he said. some custom paint.” “I put together almost $25,000, with Although Fitzgerald is a skilled some savings from the bartending painter and does a lot of motorcycle thrown in there too. We started on a builds featuring his custom paint, he very small scale first and now we still feels like he wants to get better have four employees and operate out and grow as a painter. “Some people of a 10,000 square foot facility. We do say I am an artist, but I don’t think of full collision repair, but we don’t have it that way. I just enjoy doing custom any DRPs, so it is pretty much word work and that’s where my interests reof mouth.” ally lie. We fit it in, but we make sure By knocking on doors and stressthat it does not interfere with the coling excellence, Phantom Autobody has lision repair or overwhelm our progrown steadily. “We do a lot of work duction by doing it.” for a local car dealership that closed Does Fitzgerald have a five-year After borrowing some money from his friends and selling three of his beloved cars, Fitzgerald got his fa-

plan for himself and his growing business? “We want to grow and fix more cars,” he said. “There is a lot of competition in this area, with shops that have been around for 15-20 years. So, I am still the new kid on the block.” Will he ever be able to step away from the bartending and be able to enjoy his weekends every once in a while? “I don’t know, I like doing it

Continued from Page 18

Ted Stein Discusses

race to the bottom. It simply cost more to repair today’s vehicles compared to yesterdays’. But there are some insurers that are more concerned with CSI and quality repairs and retention – right? Retain that insured so he renews his policy. Now of course they all have to be cognizant of claim costs – right? But I think at some point retention becomes more important than claim cost.

What would you say to shops Q: that are thinking of getting involved in the CAA?

Well, you wouldn’t be a doctor A: and not be a member of the AMA, right? I don’t know if people

Thrasher gets tired during motorcycle builds, but he is a valued member of the crew at Phantom Autobody

and I’m good at it, so no—I will still be working at that bar mainly on the weekends until I decide it’s enough. The bartending helped to get me here, so I’m not ready to retire just yet.”

understand the value that the CAA brings to their facility. This is my second time as State President, because I believe that this industry can exist where shops can be profitable. There’s a triangle here (insurers, vendors and repairers) and I believe we can achieve a triple win and everyone can succeed. Some folks tell me I’m crazy, but I believe it can happen.

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Body Shops Giving Back

Stacey Phillips is the assistant editor at Autobody News magazine. She has more than 20 years of experience writing for a variety of publications. She can be reached at sphillips@autobodynews.com.

Wisconsin Auto Body Shop Creates USO Mobile Canteen for Troops with Stacey Phillips - ASSISTANT EDITOR

A Wisconsin body shop has transformed an old bread truck into a USO mobile canteen that will serve troops at Fort McCoy Total Force Training Center. Richard Kalashian, a service writer at S/S Research Body Shop & Auto Repair Center in Genesee, Wisconsin, oversaw the unique project. Earlier this year, Kalashian received an email from Dan Toomey, president of the USO of Wisconsin, seeking his help. He asked Kalashian to spruce up a worn out, damaged truck and turn it into a gathering place for service men and women. The goal was to create an information center that would provide snacks and drinks as well as entertainment. “Fort McCoy does not really have a terminal to assist our troops,” said Kalashian. “The canteen truck would be able to travel around the airport.” Kalashian, a Vietnam veteran, is no stranger to working on these types of projects. In 2014, he built a military casket cart for fallen soldiers, which is being used at the Southwest Airlines’ airport in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. “I asked Dan, ‘Why me?’” said Kalashian. “He replied that they were very impressed with the building and design of the military casket cart that was transformed from an airport baggage cart at not cost to Southwest Airlines.”

The USO of Wisconsin wanted to transform an old bread truck into an information center for servicemen and women

Kalashian decided to take on the challenge and do something similar for the USO of Wisconsin. The USO (United Service Organizations) is a nonprofit, charitable corporation chartered by Congress that offers a variety of programs and services designed to support service members and their families. Every president has been an honorary chairman of the

USO since it was established in 1941. The project took approximately three months to complete with the assistance of the local community. Robert Williams at S/S Research Body Shop &

They also manufacturered a removable hitch for the front of the vehicle so a power source could be added. Retired marines put in LED lighting. “I truly believe that the veterans

S/S Research Body Shop & Auto Repair Center spent about three months working on the project with the assistance of the local community

Auto Repair Center was responsible for the major body work and painting, and Ron Scheel at Modern Ink Signs & Graphics applied the graphics on the truck. Others involved included Wildon Woods at Woody’s Lock & Safe; Chuck Gosh at C&M Auto Parts; Bill Lemke at Lemke Photography; Local 494 Electrical Union; and VFW Post 5158 Hartland, Wisconsin. “By fundraising in the community and participating in their events and giving back, it bonds us all as one happy family,” said Kalashian. “There’s no limit of what we can do.” In addition to the help from the local community, Kalashian said that he is very grateful for the support of his boss, Robert Williams, owner of S/S Research Body Shop & Auto Repair. May 1 marks the Wisconsin shop’s 40th year in business. In addition to collision repair, Williams also runs a fullservice department. “Rich seems to find the projects and then we follow up and put them into the shop and make sure they get done,” said Williams. “We’re very proud of what we do.” Williams said three of his employees were involved in repainting the green truck white, doing some minor body work and adding chrome wheels.

36 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com

don’t get enough acknowledgements,” said Williams, who served two years in the Air Force and six years in the Wisconsin National Guard 128th Air Refueling Wing for the Air Force. “I feel it’s my part to try to do as much as I can to help them.” Kalashian agreed. He served in Vietnam as a platoon sergeant with the 9th infantry division, 3rd battalion 47th infantry from 1968 to 1969 as combat infantry and tunnel rat. “Some came home and some died in Vietnam—I was one of the lucky ones to survive and carry the memories and share the stories of a war that was unpopular and returning veterans were not welcomed home,” said Kalashian. “I was very bitter for many years, but as the years went by I decided to take my anger and turn it into a positive force by working with the community so that together we can support our troops and veterans and make America great.”

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Collision Repair Industry Mourns Loss of James Moy

Technician Training Program and began focusing on structural repair, reOn Sunday, April 24, tragedy struck the finishing and damage analysis. Moy collision repair industry with the pass- achieved I-CAR Individual Platinum staing of James Moy, beloved consultant, tus and became an ASE-certified master mentor and friend to hundreds of indus- collision repair/refinish technician and try professionals around the country. damage estimator. In addition to being a Within hours of his untimely death, so- licensed and bonded adjuster in over ten cial media outlets were filled with an states, Moy spent part of his career as an outpouring of love and symI-CAR instructor. Moy’s expepathy which identified Moy rience in the industry eventuas “knowledgeable and pasally led him to become a coach sionate” and “one of the most for VeriFacts Automotive, and influential people I have enhe also lent his expertise as a countered.” At 8:28 pm on Senior Consultant for PreciApril 24, 44-year-old Moy sion Auto Group, aiding other was thrown from his motorcycompanies as well, including cle in Lakeview, NY as he assisting Larry Montanez with James Moy rode alongside longtime friend training courses and shop evalLarry Montanez of P & L Consultants. uations for P & L Consultants. An avid Moy was pronounced dead at the scene. motorcyclist, Moy also belonged to the Everyone who met James Moy consid- IDONTKNOW MC (Motorcycle Club) ered him to be a mentor and a friend, and where his brothers knew him as Chopthis was evident during his viewing in sticks. Everyone who knew James Moy Brooklyn on Thursday, April 28 as fam- will never forget his friendly personality ily, friends and business associates and his eagerness to offer advice on flooded the funeral home and streets out- proper repair procedures. In his short side to say their final farewells. There time on Earth, he made countless contriwere 750 people in attendance, includ- butions to the collision repair industry ing collision repair professionals, shop and positively influenced a multitude of owners, industry leaders, motorcycle industry professionals. He will be greatly clubs and skin care sales people. Moy missed, and his loss will be deeply felt began his automotive career in the for years to come. A memorial scholarearly 1990s, working as a tow truck op- ship has been established to honor erator for a collision repair facility. He James Moy, and donations can be made soon attended the New York State Auto at www.gofundme.com/JamesMoy. by Chasidy Rae Sisk

New PartsTrader/ CollisionLink Integration

Original equipment (OE) parts dealers and their collision shop customers can now use a single streamlined workflow for electronic parts ordering with the software integration of PartsTrader® and CollisionLink®. Over 1,700 dealers are currently using this integration. “With the integration enabled, our parts team is able to match parts numbers quickly and efficiently. Incorrect parts numbers are quickly identified and corrected, saving us considerable time, especially on larger jobs,” said Steve Richardson, parts manager with David McDavid Honda of Irving, TX. “The increase in accuracy has also helped lower our return rate as well.” Collision repairers submitting their quote requests in the PartsTrader application will receive quotes back from participating dealers in PartsTrader with approved OEM pricing programs applied. Similarly, dealers will use the CollisionLink system to apply available OEM pricing programs to PartsTrader quotes and orders without leaving the CollisionLink solution. The integration is being rolled out across the US.

BASF Names Employee & Salesperson of the Year

BASF’s Automotive Refinish Business named Richard Oster the 2015 North America Employee of the Year and Robert Alvarado as 2015 North America Salesperson of the Year. The awards were presented at the Coatings Impact Awards presentation in Whitehouse, OH.

Richard Oster (left) and Robert Alvarado (right) receive their awards from Paul Whittleston

“In order for our business to exceed we need to perform on the highest level in every function,” said Paul Whittleston, BASF VP, Automotive Refinish in North America. “Both Rich and Robert are the epitome of high performing employees.” For information, contact Mary Ann Short (248) 948-2253 or maryann .short@ basf.com.

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OSHA’s Final Rule to ‘Nudge’ Employers to Prevent Workplace Injuries, Illnesses The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued a final rule in May to modernize injury data collection to better inform workers, employers, the public and OSHA about workplace hazards. With this new rule, OSHA is applying the insights of behavioral economics to improve workplace safety and prevent injuries and illnesses. OSHA requires many employers to keep a record* of injuries and illnesses to help these employers and their employees identify hazards, fix problems and prevent additional injuries and illnesses. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports more than three million workers suffer a workplace injury or illness every year. Currently, little or no information about worker injuries and illnesses at individual employers is made public or available to OSHA. Under the new rule, employers in high-hazard industries will send OSHA injury and illness data that the employers are already required to collect, for posting on the agency’s website. Just as public disclosure of their kitchens’ sanitary conditions encourages restaurant owners to improve food safety, OSHA expects that public disclosure of work injury data will en-

courage employers to increase their efforts to prevent work-related injuries and illnesses. “Since high injury rates are a sign of poor management, no employer wants to be seen publicly as operating a dangerous workplace,” said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health Dr. David Michaels. “Our new reporting requirements will ‘nudge’ employers to prevent worker

competing to hire the best workers will make injury prevention a higher priority. Access to these data will also enable employers to benchmark their safety and health performance against industry leaders, to improve their own safety programs. To ensure that the injury data on OSHA logs are accurate and complete, the final rule also promotes an employee’s right to report injuries and ill-

injuries and illnesses to demonstrate to investors, job seekers, customers and the public that they operate safe and well-managed facilities. Access to injury data will also help OSHA better target our compliance assistance and enforcement resources at establishments where workers are at greatest risk, and enable ‘big data’ researchers to apply their skills to making workplaces safer.” The availability of these data will enable prospective employees to identify workplaces where their risk of injury is lowest; as a result, employers

nesses without fear of retaliation, and clarifies that an employer must have a reasonable procedure for reporting work-related injuries that does not discourage employees from reporting. This aspect of the rule targets employer programs and policies that, while nominally promoting safety, have the effect of discouraging workers from reporting injuries and, in turn leading to incomplete or inaccurate records of workplace hazards. Using data collected under the new rule, OSHA will create the largest publicly-available data set on work injuries

“Since high injury rates are a sign of poor management, no employer wants to be seen publicly as operating a dangerous workplace” — Dr. David Michaels

and illnesses, enabling researchers to better study injury causation, identify new workplace safety hazards before they become widespread and evaluate the effectiveness of injury and illness prevention activities. OSHA will remove all personally identifiable information associated with the data before it is publicly accessible. Under the new rule, all establishments with 250 or more employees in industries covered by the record-keeping regulation must electronically submit to OSHA injury and illness information from OSHA Forms 300, 300A, and 301. Establishments with 20249 employees in certain industries must electronically submit information from OSHA Form 300A only. The new requirements take effect Aug. 10, 2016, with phased-in data submissions beginning in 2017. These requirements do not add to or change an employer’s obligation to complete and retain injury and illness records under the Recording and Reporting Occupational Injuries and Illnesses regulation. The final rule is available on Federal Register at: https://s3.amazonaws .com/public-inspection.federalregister .gov/2016-10443.pdf For more information, visit www .osha.gov.

www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 39

Shop Strategies CO Shop Manager Shares Thoughts on Aluminum Repair, OEM Certifications & DRPs with Stacey Phillips - ASSISTANT EDITOR

Autobody News spoke to Jeffery Thompson, the production manager at Phil Long Collision Center in Colorado Springs, CO. He shared his thoughts about aluminum repair, OEM certifica-

Phil Long dealerships throughout Colorado and New Mexico.)

How long have you been certiQ: fied by Mercedes and Audi, what did it entail and what is the ben-

hicle to the customer quicker, thus reducing cycle time and creating a happier customer in what is a very trying time to some people. It returns the

efit to your shop?

We have been certified for sevA: eral years by Mercedes Benz and Audi in the repair of these vehi-

The front of the Phil Long Collision Center building in Colorado Springs, CO

tions and being part of a DRP. Established in 1945, the dealership shop has 37 employees. Although they repair all makes and models of domestic/imported cars, trucks, vans and SUVs, Phil Long primarily focuses on Mercedes Benz, Audi and Ford aluminum trucks.

cles. We were certified through our dealer partners and through Mercedes Benz USA and Audi. In 2014, when Ford introduced the Aluminum F-150s we knew that we needed to be onboard and took the opportunity to get the necessary training to allow us to be the only certified Ford aluminum repair shop in the area. The process of being certified ensures that you follow the manufacturers’ tolerances and specific equipment that is needed in order to make the proper repair.

What prompted the decision to Q: get certified in Ford aluminum What are some of the advantages you have found being a repair and what did it entail? Q: DRP shop as well as some of the issues We are aligned through a net- you deal with? A: work of dealerships, both new As a DRP for our insurance and used vehicles. Two of these locaA: partners, you have the ability tions are Ford dealers, and who better and the trust to move forward with the to repair your vehicle than the techni-

cians who are trained by the factory in proper procedures. It also really helps to service what you sell. (There are 13

A view of the waiting area for Phil Long Collision Center

customer to a sense of normalcy. Another benefit of being a DRP is a marketing relationship. The insurance partners help market your business in order to satisfy theirs.

What are some of the compoQ: nents of your shop that contribute to its success?

By having certified and knowlA: edgeable technicians, you can achieve the ultimate goal of providing

world-class service for the customer, your insurance partners and the dealer networks. We strive to ensure that each customer is happy to the best of our ability, whether that is from the waiting room in the office to the guys that wash up a vehicle to return to the customer. We want them to be pleased with our service.

From your experience over the Q: years, what advice can you share with readers? Listen to your technicians, for A: they are the ones who work on the vehicles on a daily basis and know the brands inside and out. This is how you provide world-class service. Jeffery Thompson, production manager at Phil Long Collision Center, can be reached at 719-667-2900.

repair without needing to wait for an adjuster to arrive to look at the vehicle. This allows you to return the ve-

BASF’s Automotive Color Trends 2016/17 Predicting the up-and-coming colors of automotive design is a challenge designers from BASF’s Coatings division tackle every year. The overarching theme for this year’s collection of 65

Raingarden, a metallic silver with green and blue elements, is one of BASF’s featured colors in North America and is shown in juxtaposition with Paul Czornij, BASF’s head of design in North America

colors is “Parallax,” a concept that objects appear shifted or changed when viewed from different angles. “My inspiration behind this year’s colors was the continuous change in society and the importance of finding new perspectives and looking at things differently,” said Paul Czornij, head of design for BASF’s Color Excellence Group. “Raingarden also exemplifies our coatings capabilities at BASF. In order to achieve a silver color that looks subtly different depending on the viewer’s vantage point, we relied on our design expertise, but it also showcases our technical finesse with innovative pigments to achieve a beautiful coating that could be used in a real-world setting.” For information, contact Mary Ann Short, (248) 948-2253, maryann .short@basf.com or visit www.refinish .basf.us

40 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com

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ARA Members Discuss Issues at State Legislative Summit & Hill Day On April 18 and 19, the Automotive Recyclers Association (ARA) headed to Washington DC for its 9th Annual ARA State Legislative Summit and Hill Day. ARA members from over two dozen states gathered in the nation’s Capitol to discuss the state of the professional automotive recycling industry and to represent the interests of ARA member businesses. Michael Wilson, CEO of ARA, says, “Those ARA members who take time away from their businesses to participate in these important annual Association events came for a variety of reasons: for the greater good of the profession, to be part of the Association’s presence on the Hill, to represent the industry as a whole, as well as to communicate issues important to their own businesses.” Wilson continues, “The events are an important opportunity during the year to meet face-to-face to share information and resources, such as legislative language, past experiences and issue strategies. The group’s ultimate goal is to make the voice of the professional automotive recycling industry heard on Capitol Hill and to enhance ARA’s grassroots advocacy structure.” The 9th Annual State Legislative Summit on April 18 began with an overview of active legislation impact-

ing automotive recyclers on the state level. Representatives from ARA’s affiliate chapters discussed their specific legislative successes and challenges, as well as active legislation and state association goals. The day concluded with an in-depth briefing for the following day’s Congressional appointments, and that evening, ARA members enjoyed a Welcome Reception at the W Hotel in downtown DC. Association members visited lawmakers and engaged in over 60 meetings with members of Congress and other lawmakers. On Capitol Hill, ARA representatives built on last year’s legislative successes regarding a provision signed into law as part of the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act. The first Federal law to provide long-term funding certainty for surface transportation in over a decade, the FAST Act also requires automotive manufacturers to provide OEM parts data for recalled parts. According to Wilson, “Access to OEM parts data has never been more important than today. Now that Congress has passed a law requiring automakers to make this information available for recalled parts, the professional automotive recycling industry and others in the parts supply chain

Continued from Page 22

need the ability to receive parts data for all vehicles.” The association also presented its Congressional Champion Awards. In the House, the award went to Rep. Adam Kinzinger (R-IL) who last year introduced the provision requiring auto manufacturers to provide OEM part information for recalled parts and worked to get it adopted in the Highway bill and accepted by the Senate. These awards were presented on April 19 and the Congressman received a standing ovation when he arrived. In the Senate, ARA member Shannon Nordstrom of Nordstrom’s Automotive in South Dakota, along with ARA CEO Michael Wilson and Director of Policy Delanne Bernier, presented Senator John Thune (RSD) with the first ever ARA Senate Congressional Champion Award. Senator Thune is Chairman of the Senate Commerce Committee. ARA President Mike Swift commissioned the fabrication of that award which was made out of a piston. ARA’s 73rd Annual Convention and Expo will be held October 26-29 in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, attracting automotive recycling professionals from around the world. Registration is now open at www.araexpo.org.

Risking Everything

ceed is having faith in God, and truly believe in what your vision is. Stay focused on your goals because during the journey you’ll find many obstacles, but as long as you maintain your focus, you will get there. Don’t be ashamed to ask for help. Find a mentor or consultant. There are many companies out there that are willing to teach shops how to manage and be successful. (Elizabeth) I believe that every child of the world deserves an opportunity to have a better life. Some come from good families but many come from destroyed families like me. This is the main reason for wanting to own a business, to be able to support any child of the world in reaching their goals by sharing the blessings God has given me. (Francisco) To contact JC Collision, email info@ jccollisioncenter.com or call 661-3981819.

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MSO Symposium Reveals Latest Industry Insights Now in its 6th year, this popular, exclusive event during NACE draws SOLD OUT attendance from dynamic and fast-growth multi-shop operators throughout the collision repair industry. The MSO Symposium is custom built by an industry leading advisory board to ensure the sessions are a direct fit for the audience.

Thursday, August 11th | Anaheim Convention Center | Anaheim, CA Noon: Private Networking Lunch 1:00 PM: MSO Symposium Program 6:00 PM: Private Reception

The closed and exclusive program is limited to: ● Qualified multi-shop owners/operators/management ● Large independent shops planning for growth or divestiture ● Insurance professionals

If You Qualify, Register TODAY to Save Your Seat at the MSO event of the YEAR. Featured Vital Topics: Industry Update | Insurer Panel | A Capital Markets View of Collision Around the World |

MSO Panel | OE Panel You’ll Hear the Latest from these Industry Experts: ● Vincent Romans, The Romans Group ● Marcy Tieger, Symphony Advisors, LLC ● Russ Hoffbauer, State Farm ● Clint Marlow, Allstate ● Chris Andreoli, Progressive

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3. OE Panel Discussion on the Newest Technology & the Repairability of their Vehicles, topics include: ■ Driving certified repair programs, training, and equipment requirements ■ Sustainability of these programs to the collision repair industry 4. International Outlook bringing the Worldwide Trends to the US, topics include: ■ 3 mega trends impacting the industry globally, and, specifically, trends that could have an impact in the U.S. marketplace ■ Discussion on how these global panelists found opportunities and solutions to these major shifts in regulatory and economic trends

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Lean Operations

Quality Control in 6 Easy Steps with David Luehr

With increased pressure for improved quality from both the consumer and insurance partners, systems must be put in place to ensure a higher quality standard. Complexity of the modern vehicle is radically different than it was even a few short years ago and new considerations for verifying proper electrical and mechanical operations is critical. Both insurance partners and OEM Certification programs are also demanding that better quality control practices are abided by. Insurance company DRP inspectors are quick to “write you up” for discrepancies on the estimates (work bid, not performed) and can have dramatic consequences to your relationship of trust, and your placement on the referral list. I want to start out by helping redefine what quality control really means. To many, it is simply an inspection done after a vehicle repair is complete to ensure everything looks good before giving the vehicle back to the customer. The problem with this simplistic approach is that because the vehicle is already assembled, it is impossible to inspect hidden repairs and it becomes difficult to re-repair defects. A system that inspects repair quality during the repair process is much more desirable.

David Luehr is the owner of Elite Body Shop Solutions, LLC, a collision business consulting firm based in Nashville, Tennessee. He is a 30 year veteran of the collision repair industry. David is an expert in Body Shop Operations and specializes in Lean, and Theory of Constraints methods. Email him at dluehr@msn.com

Secondly, quality control is not only about the physical qualities of the repair, there are several other factors to meet if we are attempting to maintain the standards. For example, consider inspecting a vehicle for work bid, not performed (WBNP) at certain stages of repair. Check for parts and sublet status. Check also for diagnostic trouble codes at this stage. Addressing these considerations are quality control too.

QUALITY CONTROL

qual·i·ty con·trol noun: quality control 1. a system of maintaining standards in manufactured products by testing a sample of the output against the specification.

Based on this definition of quality control there two things I want to point out. First, in order to be successful with any quality assurance program it is imperative that first everyone knows what the quality standard is. The shop must make the time to properly define what is expected as a quality standard if it is to be met. Is the repaired panel straight? Has corrosion protection been applied? What is our standard for finishing out filler work? 80 grit, 180 grit?

The 6 Steps: The 6 step program I am sharing with you is used by many of my Elite clients and has proven to be highly effective.

Step 1. Vehicle Check-in Quality also involves discovering what happened during the accident, what damage is related to the loss and which is prior. Another part of quality involves finding out how to best to communicate with the customer during the repair process and even how you expect to get paid when it’s finished. At this stage you are building quality into the customer experience and gaining valuable information to build quality into the actual repairs.

Step 2. Blueprint Building a blueprint is where you begin building the quality into the repair itself. Using the information obtained during the check-in process you build your repair plan and then you QC it! Everyone agrees that the blueprint largely dictates how well the repair job will travel through the workflow, so why not make sure it’s right? My favorite way to perform this is by loading the parts cart with the items I am checking off my printed estimate. If you have checked everything off your estimate and there are still items not loaded on the parts cart, what does that tell you? I feel it is also important to mention that with the complexity of today’s vehicles, it is important that most vehicles be scanned for diagnostic trouble codes at this stage even if a lamp is NOT present on the instrument panel.

44 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com

Step 3. Prior to Paint Inspect vehicles prior to paint every time. Major expense is incurred by those that have to re-do something after it is already painted. These re-dos must be avoided at all costs. At the step 3 QC point, you will want to look at everything very carefully using a checklist. Again, you are not only inspecting for the physical quality of the repair but for the procedural quality too. This stage is where you make sure that everything on the estimate has been performed and everything performed is on the estimate. This stage is also a great place for the inspector to verify that all the parts needed for paint are on hand and the parts needed for reassembly will be available in time.

Step 4. Prior to Assembly A quick inspection should always take place to inspect paint quality and color match prior to assembling the vehicle. Verify that everything on the estimate has been painted as planned. For example, ask was the radiator support repair fully painted like it was estimated, or did the painter just touch it up? This is usually a very quick inspection, but a very necessary one.

Step 5. Prior to detail After a vehicle is assembled and prior to getting the detailing done, it is important to take the vehicle on a test drive, recheck for diagnostic trouble codes

(DTCs) and then perform a comprehensive quality control inspection using a checklist. A growing concern in the industry is the number of trouble codes being discovered after repair completion caused by trim panels and other components being removed while the vehicle is being driven from department to department. Many of these trouble codes do not trigger an indicator lamp on the dash and can only be discovered by using a scan tool. This is the QC step where you will want to also recheck all of the electrical and mechanical components, panel fit and operation, fluid levels, and so on. Make sure that all promises made to the customer have been completed. Once everything checks out, it is time to get the car cleaned up.

Step 6. Final QC Final QC is usually performed by the person that was handling the customer file and will be going over the repairs with the customer during delivery. It is simply a quick re-check using a checklist and verifying everything was done as promised and the car is cleaned properly and ready to go. Also some shops may consider file management, final bills, etc. as part of the final QC too. For a free copy of the QC inspection sheet used by Dave’s Elite shops, contact him at david.luehr@elitebodyshop solutions.com.

David Luehr Presents Twice at WIN Conference

by Chasidy Rae Sisk

David Luehr of Elite Body Shop Solutions took the stage to discuss “Mastering Implementation.” Performing at world class levels requires implementation skills which take leadership skills to the next level, but it all begins by changing how you think about leadership. Quoting Zig Ziglar, Luehr told attendees, “Anything worth doing is worth doing poorly until you learn how to do it well.” Luehr identified three things he’s learning the hard way: the use of authority is not a reliable way to influence lasting change, manipulation is different than influence, and using fear as a motivator does not work long-term. Before making a decision, Luehr encour-

aged the audience to ask if it is worth it and if they are able to do it. He then identified three key steps to success. The first step is to determine what needs to be achieved and how to measure it, and Luehr warned, “If you don’t measure it, you can’t improve it.” Next, it is necessary to find vital behaviors which are high leverage acts that happen at crucial moments and have a big impact on the desired result. In covering the final step, determining how to motivate and enable change, Luehr identified six sources of influence: personal motivation, personal ability, social motivation, social ability, structural motivation, and structural ability. Luehr said, “People want the same outcome but sometimes disSee Luehr at WIN, Page 47

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Media and Publicity for Shops Do Vehicle Wraps Make Sense for Your Shop? with Ed Attanasio

You’ve seen them everywhere and the graphics are pretty spectacular. Food trucks, large 16-wheelers, vans of all sizes and cars of every type now have advertising messages that entice viewers. Some people have allowed companies to put their logos on their daily

Body Shop” is the shop’s slogan emblazoned on the car. And in Bluffton, SC the Carriage Shoppe has a wrap on a van that is a real attention-getter, because from a distance the vehicle looks badly damaged. But, when you get a little closer, you can see that it’s just a very deceptive (and creative) wrap. Creative Colors Studio in Burnsville, MN has been creating award-winning vehicle wraps that drive business since 1998, according to the company’s founder Jeff Volino. “We sit down with every client The King of Wraps in San Jose, CA did this wrap that tells and create the image that they a story and uses humor to promote the Waffle Roost in want,” he said. “The graphics northern California and the message have to go drivers and paying them handsomely hand-in-hand or they won’t work. We for doing so and this movement is want to tell a story, instead of just stickgrowing fast. ing your logo on the side of a van.” Body shops all over the country After the staff at Creative Colors have invested in car wraps to push Studio comes up with a design everytheir brands and gain valuable expo- one is happy with and a price they can sure. They’re like moving billboards, all afford, the installation process is fast except you don’t have to rent them and drama-free, Volino said. “Without once you’ve put them on your vehi- damage to the car, we simply adhere cles. So, the real cost is only the initial the wrap to the vehicle quickly. We can investment, but the big question is— even safely cover the glass and windo vehicle wraps pay for themselves dows, allowing individuals inside the over time and do they actually attract customers? It’s all about ongoing branding and continually getting your name out there to the community. If you get vehicle wraps put on your delivery vans, will people see them and flock to your shop? Not likely, but the advertising message on your vans, in conjunction with your other marketing efforts, will eventually Simple, understated vehicle wraps are ideal for businesses make your shop’s name a that want to spread the word without them being too household word. So, when elaborate someone gets into an accident, they will think of you instead of vehicle to see out while those outside are shown your logo or company’s your competitor down the road. Interesting and fun vehicle wraps message. Vehicle wraps can pretty seem to garner the most attention. much meet any budget and we’ve gotten very good at doing effective partial Collision Specialists in McAllen, TX has a car wrap that features its logo vehicle wraps to cut down the cost.” breaking through a wall of concrete. The King of Wraps in San Jose, Offutt Collision Repair in Bellevue, CA is well-known for its high impact NE has a wrap featuring a cute little advertising car wraps. Owner Magno green alien with a spaceship that’s Lopez started creating and installing damaged. “An Out of This World wraps for a wide range of Silicon Val-

46 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com

Ed Attanasio is an automotive journalist based in San Francisco, California. He can be reached at era39@aol.com.

ley companies 13 years ago. “Our motto is maximum impact with tremendous results, Lopez said. “A full wrap commands attention and turns your vehicle into a powerful moving billboard. It doesn’t matter what angle it is viewed from, because peoples’ eyes will always be drawn to it.” If you’re intrigued by the idea of putting vehicle advertising wraps on your delivery fleet or your companies cars, consider the pros and cons first. For $500-$5,000 a car wrap can be as simple and direct or as intricate and involved as you desire, but make sure it’s within your budget and keep your expectations realistic. If you think the wrap will have the phone ringing off the hook within a few weeks, think twice. With any sign or message on your vehicles, there also comes a level of transparency and accountability. Since wraps are a moving advertisement for your business, a bad driver can bring you unwanted attention. And if one of

your vehicles possibly gets into an accident—get ready for some more adverse feedback. The positive aspects of using car wraps for your marketing and advertising are numerous. A vehicle wrap is a far more effective tool than a basic magnetic sign. In fact, most magnetic signs

Some wraps include window wraps, like with this one for Auto Body World in Erie, PA

look cheap, to be honest. In addition, a wrap can convert any vehicle into a billboard. You wouldn’t be allowed to put a sign in front of a restaurant or a store, but if you’re stopped in their parking lot you don’t need a permit or permission to wave your company’s flag.

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And finally, wraps are removable, so if you change your name for whatever reason, you won’t have to get the vehicle re-painted. Wraps offer flexibility and some shops will change them every 2-3 years, in order to stay fresh while conveying a new message. You can design a wrap to target a specific demographic—such as women, millennials, senior drivers and even young drivers. Some shops use their wraps to convey a safety or community-related message. One shop used their vehicle wraps to communicate anti-texting and other distracted driving warnings to the public and another shop promoted the local schools and Little Leagues through their wraps. But, the bottom line is this—do vehicle wraps ever lead to new customers? The answer from Offutt Collision Repair in Bellevue, NE is an emphatic maybe. “I don’t think anyone has ever come in here and said that a car wrap brought them here,” Carissa Williams explained. “They all work together in a marketing and branding plan, so to track the results is a little difficult to do. But, it’s all about getting the shop’s name out there and for that purpose they do a very good job.”

Continued from Cover

Who Pays for What

tural/frame and mechanical operations. Anderson is making the 60-page results of the “refinish-related” survey, completed by more than 870 shops back in February, available to shops at no charge. “The survey results are always free to the shops who participate, but I’m making the refinish-related ‘Who Pays’ survey results available for free to all shops because I believe when more shops see the kind of information the surveys offer, they will participate in our future surveys,” Anderson said. The survey results, for example, show that a third of shops are routinely paid for ‘denib’ or ‘finish sand and buff.’ On a national basis, across all insurers, 39 percent of shops that bill for ‘denib’ are paid “always” or “most of the time,” while 31 percent are paid “always” or “most of the time” for ‘finish sand and buff.’ Perhaps equally as valuable, the survey results also reveal just how often these operations are required. “In fact, over a quarter of all shops surveyed (28.5 percent) say they

perform these procedures on 100 percent of the cars they paint,” Anderson pointed out. “And another 41 percent say that at least three-quarters of the cars they paint require at least one of these procedures.” Results of the previous surveys are available at https://www.crashnet work .com/collisionadvice. The 60-page report breaks the survey findings down by region, by insurer and by DRP vs. non-DRP, and includes analysis and resources to help shops better understand and use the information presented. “Participating in the surveys can be a good reminder to shops of ‘not-included’ operations that they are doing so they can decide whether to include them as line items on their estimates,” Anderson said. Collision Advice (www.Collision Advice.com) is an independent training and consulting firm featuring some of the most respected and experienced experts in the collision repair industry. Mike Anderson and his team offer real-world, cutting edge training and guidance both in the classroom and one-on-one in the shop.

www.autobodynews.com

Continued from Page 44

Luehr at WIN

agree on the steps to get there. If you keep score, it makes everything more interesting. The important thing to remember is you’ve always got to keep learning. The best way you can predict your future is to create it. You have the power to set your own destiny.” In his presentation titled “Dealing with Fear: A Secret to Success,” Luehr defined success as an affirmative answer to the following: Did I live? Did I love? Did I matter and make a difference in the world? He explained that everything an individual wants is on the other side of fear; each person needs to learn to get out of his or her own way. He stressed, “Fear is not a bad thing if you frame it right in your mind. Get comfortable being uncomfortable!” Luehr advised attendees to deal with fear with practicing awareness, visualizing the desired outcome, associating without a higher quality of people and embracing the opportunity to learn new things. He ended with “Quit letting your mind control you automatically. The more you do it, the less you’ll fear it!”

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Environmental Initiatives at CA Body Shop Lead to Cost Savings & Recognition by Stacey Phillips, Assistant Editor

A California body shop was recognized for its commitment to a climatefriendly environment and its efforts to reduce its carbon footprint. Luxury Auto Body was presented with the CoolCalifornia Small Business of the Year Award by California Air Resources Board in March. “When we found out that we won the award, we were thrilled and honored as we are the only San Diego business to have ever received the CoolCalifornia Small Business of the Year Award, let alone an auto body repair facility,” said Ron Melanson, general manager at Luxury Auto Body, which was established in 1999 and has two facilities. Judy A. Nottoli, Air Resources Engineer at the California Air Resources Board, said the CoolCalifornia Small Business Awards program was initiated in 2009 and honors small businesses that take voluntary actions to reduce their carbon footprint. “Luxury Auto Body was selected as a Business of the Year because they have taken a proactive approach in the areas of compliance and conservation and were able to demonstrate their cost savings and reductions for the actions they implemented to reduce their carbon footprint,” said Nottoli. She said there are over 3.6 million small businesses in California, and they can have a tremendous impact in helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions, save water, improve energy efficiency, and reduce/recycle/repurpose water. “Sustainability improves business profitability and is good for the environment,” said Nottoli. “Luxury Auto Body serves as an example of a sustainable business for others to follow.” Some of the environmental im-

provements Luxury Auto has implemented include:

■ installation of a wash mat wastewater collection and recycling system to prevent run off and ground contamination;

■ skylights in the body shop to reduce

■ a rain barrel was added for watering drought-tolerant plants and vehicle paint preparation.

The total investment of the shop’s water conservation equipment was approximately $4,000, which Nottoli said resulted in a 30 percent decrease

Luxury Auto Body was presented with the CoolCalifornia Small Business of the Year Award by California Air Resources Board. (l to r) Lydia Vargas, Carlos Vargas, County Supervisor Ron Roberts, Ron Melanson and Stephanie Melanson

the use of overhead lighting during daylight operations;

■ turf irrigation was shut off and hardscape installed with drought-tolerant plants; and

in water usage, saving the company $1,050 per year. The additions of skylight windows saved the company more than $900 a year. “Regardless of what side of the argument you are on with respect to climate change, it is important that our industry recognize what we do every day does have an impact on the environment,” said Melanson. “We can all do more to reduce our carbon footprint; being a clean operator doesn’t happen without added costs and effort, but just being compliant isn’t enough.” Several years ago, the Air Pollution Control District (APCD) set up a small business assistance program to educate the auto body industry and offer guidance in regards to compliance and record keeping. “As most shops do in our industry, we relied on the annual inspection

strategic planning, management and technical education sessions, panel discussions, vendor partner networking events, motivational speakers and an insurance industry forum. “Over the past year, CARSTAR has expanded its presence as the most dynamic company in the collision industry. Our conference will reflect this with an event where store owners, business leaders, vendor partners and insurance companies come together to

help build the collective industry for the future,” said Michael Macaluso, President, CARSTAR North America. “This is the largest MSO network event of the year, with an incredible lineup of speakers, education events and networking opportunities exclusively for the CARSTAR store owners. This is just one of the many resources we provide store owners in the CARSTAR family, and a powerful tool for them to help them gain the edge, grow their

■ an energy-efficient rotary air compressor system;

■ a new energy-efficient spray booth equipped for the waterborne paint process, which reduces the use of materials and energy;

■ additional recycling for waste items such as aerosol containers, paint lids and liners;

■ a dedicated recycling container for all vehicle debris and contracted with a hauler for proper disposal;

CARSTAR to Hold MSO Network Event in New Orleans

CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts is celebrating a milestone year in its more than 25-year history this July with the collision repair industry’s largest MSO network event. Themed the “Power of One,” this year’s CARSTAR Conference will be held July 9 to 11, 2016, at the Roosevelt Hotel in the French Quarter. It will open with its annual awards presentation Saturday night to recognize the top-performing franchisees, then shift gears to focus on

48 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com

process to learn of the latest compliance issues and whether we met the standards,” said Melanson. “We wanted to be proactive and go above and beyond just being compliant.” Early in 2011, Melanson decided to take initiative and ask Eric Luther, the small business liaison, to inspect and review the processes conducted at Luxury Auto. “We found that we were not only doing a great job but also identified areas of improvement to put ourselves in better standing without respective governmental agencies,” he said. Partnering with APCD, Luxury Auto created compliance training videos during the summer of 2011 for San Diego County repair facilities. They are also utilized by APCD for classroom training. The company received the Blue Sky Leadership Award that same year to honor its efforts in maintaining a clean environment and utilizing resources to ensure a sustainable future. Over the years, Luxury Auto Body has continued to implement changes to its business to reduce energy; conserve water; re-use ink and toner cartridges, lids and liners in the paint department as well as sand paper; and recycle. “It’s not often that our industry is looked at in a positive way with respect to the environment,” said Melanson. “We have had a great response from our customers regarding the award; it just shows if you care about the environment, then you care about the consumer.” To apply for a CoolCalifornia Small Business Award, visit www.Cool California.org (under the small business tab). To become a certified green business in California, visit www.green businessca.org.

business and improve their operations.” Automotive celebrity Chip Foose, founder of Foose Designs and founder of TLC’s “Overhaulin”, will headline the event. The keynote speaker will be Mark Scharenbroich, motivational speaker and author of “Nice Bike,” who will join Mike Anderson, founder of Collision Advice.com, for several sessions. For more information on the MSO, visit www.carstar.com.

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Power of the Past, Force of the Future: WIN’s 2016 Educational Conference by Chasidy Rae Sisk

Excitement and positive energy filled the room as 188 attendees gathered at the Women Industry Network’s (WIN®) 2016 Educational Conference themed Power of the Past, Force of the Future. On the ten year anniversary of WIN’s inception, association members from around the country met in Tampa, FL to honor the

Petra Schroeder, Incoming WIN Chair welcomes members to the conference

past that has led to the present and learn how to best prepare for the challenges on the horizon. WIN’s 2016 Educational Conference was held on May 2-4 at the Hilton Tampa Downtown which contributed an air of elegance to the proceedings. During registration and orientation, attendees had a chance to get to know each other, and additional networking opportunities were offered between sessions throughout the conference. For new members, WIN offered a chance to attend a Member Orientation session, hosted by Michelle Sullivan, WIN’s 2016 Most Influential Woman (MIW) recipient, and Petra Schroeder, Incoming Chair of WIN, who encouraged members to get engaged by joining a committee. After introducing WIN’s 2016 scholarship winners, Sullivan encouraged the industry professionals to mentor young people. Marcy Tieger and Frederica Carter took the stage to go over the agenda and recognize WIN’s founders, past chairs, scholarship recipients, Board of Directors and sponsors. In between educational seminars, attendees also heard updates from WIN’s Committees. Throughout the conference, Tieger and Carter provided tidbits from WIN’s decade-long history, Carter noted the good energy present from WIN’s first meeting as women gathered without feeling the need to prove themselves in

a male-dominated industry. Tieger recalls WIN issuing the challenge for women to “be bold.” From the beginning, WIN strove “to make sure members felt invited, warm and safe,” Carter noted. Tieger encouraged attendees to reconnect and establish new relationships. The first presentation of the event was “Guess Who’s One of the Most Strategic Links in the Automobile Value Chain?” by Susan Lombardo, Senior Vice President of Acquisitions for Enterprise, who shared information on the rental car industry and her own career, and she noted that collision repair operators are a strategic link in the automotive value chain. To attendees hoping to be successful in their careers, Lombardo advised, “Don’t take things for granted, and always ask about opportunities. You are the driving force of the future.” In “Getting Personal with Social Media,” Kristen Felder, Owner and CEO of Collision Hub and Engage Target Media, addressed using social media in marketing campaigns. Today’s consumers are often less interested in the product than the people behind that product, so Felder provided advice on the best ways to use social media to advantage. She also cautioned attendees about the dangers inherent in social media posts, but her overall messages reiterated: “Companies don’t do business with companies; people do business with people.” Monday evening concluded with a Welcome Reception on the Hilton’s patio which allowed attendees to enjoy the beautiful weather, appetizers and beverages while engaging in the scheduled networking opportunity. Tuesday began early for the 116 WINners who joined the annual Schol-

Kathy Mello and Trish Serratore. From there, the panel of WIN founders explained that they strove to create a safe harbour for collision repair industry professionals from all facets and levels of the industry. Mello explained, “These were people who go through the same things as us every day—it makes us better personally and professionally.” When Caspersen asked the foun-ders about their proudest WIN moments, Kottschade said, “Being a part of this WIN’s founders met for a “Power of the Past” panel group has been one of the best discussion experiences in my life. People a positive outlook and being commitstep up where there’s a need, and there ted to excellence every single day, should be no fear to get involved. I’m Miller advised attendees to develop a proud to be a part of this organization.” “Gold Medal Mindset” which is simThe ladies continued to discuss ply an attitude of going out and wintheir efforts to plan WIN’s first Eduning the day, no matter what life throws cational Conference with an all-volunteer group as well as how belonging at you.” See related article this issue. After lunch on Tuesday, Chair to WIN has benefitted each of them. Denise Caspersen introduced WIN’s The founders praised the camaraderie of founders for the “Power of the Past” WIN members and stressed the imporpanel discussion. The founders in attance of strategic planning as the associtendance included Frederica Carter, ation grew before Caspersen introduced Marcy Tieger, Geralynn Kottschade, Incoming Chair Petra Schroeder and Jadress entitled “The Gold Medal Mindset” which was presented by Olympic Champion Shannon Miller. Reminiscing on her career as a gymnast, Miller recounted her successes as well as her failures. Emphasizing the importance of setting goals, maintaining

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clyn Byers from WIN’s Technology Task Force. After Schroeder explained WIN’s past initiatives, she noted their current initiatives are to grow WIN’s network and to build organizational capacity to better serve that growing network, which begins with a focus on technology which is an internal component of WIN’s Force of the Future goals as Byers attempts to make the association’s website easier to use and to increase WIN’s online presence. Next, Jennifer Solcz from and on behalf of AkzoNobel awarded WIN a Technology Initiative Founders Scholarship of $12,500. The afternoon ended with three breakout sessions. Colette Bruce of Team Safety presented a seminar on OSHA regulations and safety requirements. AMI’s Jeff Peevy led “The History and Evolution of Training in the Collision Repair Industry,” stressing that training focuses on specific tasks while education is more general knowledge. See related article this issue. Following the educational portion of Tuesday’s proceedings, WIN members gathered that evening for the MIW and Scholarship Awards Gala

where WIN’s 2016 scholarship recipients were recognized and WIN members honored Michelle Sullivan, WIN’s 2016 MIW honoree. During the General Session on Wednesday morning, Caspersen be-

tory about WIN’s early years with Tieger noting, “We’ve come a really long way, and we’re extremely proud of how far we’ve gotten.” Next, Karen Fierst, owner of KerenOr Consulting, presented “Lessons Learned on My Journey to and Through the Collision Repair Industry: Next Stop: China.” Fierst began with a personal biography, sharing information about her youth and her education. She advised attendees, “You need to have a vision, identify your core values, go for it, exude confidence, seek growth opportunities, find mentors, Throughout the conference, numerous networking opporstart networking, and evalutunities allowed members to make new friends ate. Have a vision to find stowed WIN’s Cornerstone Award your path.” upon Shelly Andrews and Katie Fierst identified how to approach Henwood. The award honors a Board each of these steps. She also explained of Directors member who exemplifies the importance of the four domains that extraordinary service, and Caspersen define an individual: self, home/family, also recognized new Board of Direc- community and work. She encouraged tors members Denise Kingstrom, everyone, “You have got to be yourself. April Lausch, Debbie Menz, and Somehow, you have to figure out how Jenny Anderson before discussing to operate in your own personal sphere the association’s recent accomplish- of comfort and according to your core ments and upcoming initiatives. values.” Event emcees provided some hisLaurie Altman from 3M then

presented “What’s Next? From the Eyes of an Industry Leader” which she began by sharing information about 3M’s vision and strategy as well as her own career. She discussed the rapid changes currently impacting the collision repair industry, such as MSOs, autonomous vehicles, OEM-certified parts, and a variety of other issues related to technology. Altman advised attendees to “make change your best friend, but stay true to what you believe. Don’t let others tell you what you can or should do—you’re probably capable of more than even you believe!” During the last educational session, Mark Claypool, President and CEO of Optima Automotive, presented “Lions and Tigers and Millennials... Oh My!” Claypool defined the millenials as those born after 1980, and he listed some of the stereotypes associated with this group of young adults. Claypool’s presentation focused on millennials as customers and the best ways to market to them. He outlined some of the challenges employers may experience with this generation who puts less focus on work and more on having a personal life. As a WIN founder, Claypool also See WIN Conference Page 56

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www.mbwinstonsalem.com www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 51

Training Class Updates from Chief University, Website & Product Announcements by Chief To stay current with the ever-changing collision repair world, Chief University has improved and updated its curriculum for 2016. To make collision repair training as accessible as possible, Chief University will offer over 60 updated training classes for technicians, estimators and insurance appraisers across North America this year. For a complete schedule and to register, visit www.chiefautomotive.com/Chief -University “Due to the whirlwind changes in vehicle design, technology and materials, we have found that training is the most asked for aspect of collision repair in shops around the world,” said Ken Boylan, global training manager. “Before price and delivery, customers want to know all about how their technicians can be trained. Updating the curriculum at Chief University is a

course features instruction on the proper metal identification and subsequent repair methods required due to the advanced high-strength steels and structural aluminum introduced by the manufacturers. Both courses have been updated to cover the advanced metals and construction methods currently used by OEMs. Significant upgrades have been made to Chief University’s Computerized Measuring Training class to make it more user-friendly for technicians, according to a company press release. In this class, technicians learn how to properly use Chief’s LaserLock lasermapping and Vector computerized measuring systems to identify structural misalignment and maximize both repair quality and profitability. Chief training has been certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) for compli-

The Globaljig® Presented by Chief® line of benches and frame measuring equipment is featured in a new section of the Chief website at www.chiefautomotive.com/Global-Jig/. The user-friendly site uses visual images to help guide visitors through the Globaljig product lineup

continuous process, and we’ve really concentrated on improving the handson training that collision repair technicians and insurance professionals need to keep up with the vehicle structural and material changes taking place so rapidly.” Chief University’s newest course, Aluminum Damage Analysis and Repair Technology, covers aluminum forming methods and metal characteristics, as well as damage analysis, repair decisions and techniques for working with aluminum. Chief University’s popular Design Based Repair

ance with the Continuing Automotive Service Education (CASE) Standards. Most Chief University classes are approved for I-CAR credit hours through the I-CAR Industry Training Alliance® program. The Globaljig® Presented by Chief® line of benches and frame measuring equipment is featured in a new section of the Chief website at www.chiefautomotive.com/GlobalJig/. The Globaljig Presented by Chief website area offers a range of customer resources, including: product

52 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com

descriptions and specifications, downloadable product manuals and comprehensive literature, collision bench photos submitted by customers, OEM approval information and frame measuring accessories. Visitors can request information or support via convenient online forms in addition to finding their local Chief distributors. “Customers who are familiar with the Chief website will feel right at home in the new Globaljig Presented by Chief area of the site,” said Jared Miller, Chief web design specialist. “The new section carries the Globaljig green color throughout, while retaining the look, feel and navigation of the host Chief website. The entire Chief website is compliant across all Internet browsers and offers streamlined searching and intuitive navigation to give visitors a clear, concise path to the products and information they seek.” Chief has introduced the MI200T, an all-new squeeze-type resistance inverter spot welder with lightweight transformer pliers for repairing highstrength steel. “The new MI200T has all the features shops need to efficiently and properly repair vehicles made with high-strength steel and adhesives,” says Mickey Swartz, director of global product management for Chief parent company Vehicle Service Group (VSG). “It’s smart: Our TrueAutoMode technology reduces the chances of human error by automatically setting the weld parameters for every weld. It’s strong and efficient: The MI200T can produce up to 14,500 amps of welding current while drawing less power. It’s flexible: The MI200T has the industry’s longest welding cable at nearly 20 feet and many optional C arms to choose from so technicians can reach even the toughest spots. And it’s affordable. This top-of-the-line smart welder with trans-gun is priced even lower than many competitors’ basic cable models.” The MI200T’s transformer pliers draw up to 40 percent less power than other standard cable pliers. Also, the amperage service required for the MI200T typically requires only a 40A service. In addition, the MI200T’s duty cycle is so high that the technician can operate the welder continuously without having to slow down to let the welder cool off, according to a company press release. Liquid cooling

to the tips is standard. The MI200T also offers the TrueAutoMode automatic welding system. TrueAutoMode detects the metal type and thickness, as well as the presence of adhesives and insulation, and then automatically adjusts and sets the welding parameters accordingly. It provides instant feedback to the technician about the weld result, while simultaneously logging the results into memory. At the end of a job, with the use of a common SD card, the technician can print out a report that includes information on the settings, messages andl weld parameters.

The new Chief MI200T squeeze-type resistance spot welder with lightweight transformer pliers is more powerful, efficient and maneuverable than other spot welders — and it costs less, too

Technicians interface with the MI200T through a compact control panel featuring an LCD screen and easy-to-follow graphical controls. To change arms, pop off the cooling line, flip a lever and remove the arm. Reverse the steps to install the new arm. To learn more, visit www.chiefauto motive.com/welding/spot-welders/ MULTISPOT-MI200T/. For more information about Chief, visit www.chiefautomotive.com or call (800) 445-9262. Chief is also active on Twitter, www.twitter.com/ ChiefAutomotive, and Facebook, www .facebook.com/ChiefAutomotive.

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www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 53

Most Decorated Olympic Gymnast Presents Keynote ‘Gold Medal Mindset’ at 2016 WIN Conference On the second day of WIN®’s 2016 Educational Conference in Tampa, Shannon Miller, Olympic Gymnastics Champion, delivered the event’s Keynote Address: “The Gold Medal Mindset.” Miller is the most decorated gymnast in American history, having won seven Olympic gold medals and been inducted into the U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame twice. After beating cancer in 2011, Miller became a motivational speaker, and on May 3, she brought her brand of optimism and inspiration to WIN members who learned about her winning mindset. Reminiscing about her gymnastics career, Miller observed that it is easy to remember the good times, but it is just as important to recall the chal-

are today and where you want to be tomorrow. Very few successes just happen, and while dreams are necessary and fantastic, achieving them requires a specific plan involving SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-based) goals. Dreams serve as motivation, while goals establish the steps necessary to reach the dream. Miller stressed that goals being specific is imperative to define what needs to be accomplished. She said, “Wrap your mind around exactly what you want to achieve and then figure out what you need to do to make it happen. If you don’t take the steps to make your dream a reality, it’ll always be just a dream.” When Miller suffered a knee injury in 1992, she had to decide whether to give up or to fight, and she

lenges. “Remember those troubles because it is those mistakes, those obstacles, which have taught us how important it is to keep trying and to get back up when we do fall. I learned that I could not succeed if I wasn’t willing to do the work and able to believe in myself that I could reach my goals. We can’t give up every time we reach a rough patch, not if we went to truly succeed. I learned that I have to analyze my mistakes so I can learn from them and move forward.” During her Olympic career, Miller often heard that she was too young, too old, too short or too weak, but she believes in using the power of past lessons to become more knowledgeable as she forges into the future. She says, “If you listen to everyone else, you’ll never win. You have to possess the will to succeed against all odds.” These lessons, which help in all aspects of life, make up what Miller calls “The Gold Medal Mindset” which she describes as “an attitude of going out and winning the day, no matter what life throws at you. What you do today matters. You must remain positive and commit yourself to excellence.” Setting goals is critical for successfully achieving your dreams as it helps close the gap between where you

is glad she chose to fight. She worked hard at practice each day so she could enjoy the competition. “I just wanted to live in that moment; I didn’t know about the scores or the medals. When you’re prepared, you have to just go for it, enjoy the moment, and have some fun.” Miller is grateful to her team, including her parents, coaches, doctors, teachers and fellow athletes, who was there to rally her during the bad days; however, she also stressed the need to contribute to the team. “You need to rely on your team to achieve your dreams. Utilize the amazing resources around you. Find out how to make more of a difference and work together to achieve your dreams.” Admitting that she lost the concept of teamwork after retiring from gymnastics, Miller stated that she rediscovered its importance when she was diagnosed with cancer. At first, she was overwhelmed by the fear of the unknown and the loss of control, she established knowledge of the steps needed to recover after her surgery, allowing her to move from a victim mentality back to her competitive nature. Miller’s belief that she could defeat cancer faltered after her first week of chemo, but her team of doctors, nurses, family and friends rallied

by Chasidy Rae Sisk

If you think you can’t, you won’t; if you can’t even see yourself achieving your goals in your own mind, you never will. — Shannon Miller

54 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com

believing. If you think you can’t, you won’t; if you can’t even see yourself achieving your goals in your own mind, you never will. A negative attitude will prevent you from reaching your dreams, so you have to combat negative thoughts with positive ones, especially when you have a bad day.” Noting that a negative attitude will bring you down quicker than anything else, Miller finds power in seeing barriers as opportunities and focusing on solutions instead of problems. “Having a posiSeven-time Olympic Gold Champion Shannon Miller tive attitude is a choice you shared her secrets to “The Gold Medal Mindset.” have to make each day, and when you need it because that’s why though it can be a challenge, it makes they are there. This summer is the you an asset, helping you develop bettwentieth anniversary of my Olympic ter relationships and inspiring those wins and the five year anniversary of around you. Life is only as good as being cancer free. If I can help just you make it—choose to be positive!” one woman focus on her health, that Although Miller was not the means I’ve turned my experience with most talented gymnast, she believed cancer into something positive.” in hard work, always going above and According to Miller, “Many sucbeyond her coach’s requirements. cessful people rely on positive mental “Work ethic is an essential ingredient images to reach their goals. Seeing is See Most Decorated, Page 56 around. She says, “I was inspired by their positive attitude and wanted to learn from their example. Your team matters; don’t be afraid to ask for help

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On Tuesday, May 3, during the 2016 Educational Conference, WIN members took a break from the informative sessions to honor the 2016 Most Influential Woman (MIW) honoree as well as this year’s scholarship win-

WIN presented their 2016 post-secondary scholarship recipients. (from left to right: Beverly Rook-Twibel, Krystyna Zak, Chelsea Bonds, Tristen Berlin, Jasmine Storey, Petra Schroeder; scholarship winner Nancy McInerney could not attend the conference)

ners. The MIW Reception was held outside and attendees were dressed to the nines as they sampled hors d’oeuvres while networking with their collision repair industry peers. Cheryl Boswell welcomed attendees and introduced Beverly RookTwibell and Petra Schroeder, co-Chairs

of the Scholarship Committee. Recipients of the scholarships are required to possess a 3.0 GPA, provide school involvement, engage in community service, bring a recommendation from their instructor, and submit an essay describing their goals and reasons for joining the collision repair industry and to try to ensure that they plan to stay in the industry. In 2016, WIN awarded ten scholarships: five to high school students and five to post-secondary students. Winners of post-secondary scholarships were Nancy McInerney, Tristen Berlin, Chelsea Bonds, Jasmine Storey and Krystyna Zak. Each of the young women were introduced and their goals shared before their mentors were announced. Berlin plans to work in a body shop or be an adjuster, and RookTwibell will mentor her for next year. Storey plans to own a collision repair shop and will be mentored by Debbie Menz. Bonds hopes to work for Service King and will be mentored by Petra Schroeder. Zak, who wants to be a body technician or estimator, was assigned Michelle Sullivan as her men-

tor. Although McInerney could not be present, her goal is to paint cars for a living; Yen Hoang was assigned as her mentor. Speaking on behalf of the scholarship recipients, Zak admitted that they didn’t know what to expect before attending the Educational Con-

Cheryl Boswell welcomed attendees to the MIW and Scholarship Awards Gala.

ference, but they were all pleasantly surprised by how warm and welcoming WIN members treated them. “We’re used to being alone or among few women, and we are relieved to find a network of women in this industry. We are grateful for this experience and the scholarships which provide so many opportunities. We are all elated to be part of something as

great as WIN. Thank you for your time, energy, leadership and support.” Boswell introduced Trish Serratore, one of WIN’s founding members and a 2000 MIW Honoree, who emphasized the importance of being involved with local schools and the future generation. Looking at the term “Most Influential Woman,” she noted that each word is significant and represents someone truly incredible “whose actions and leadership provide a strong influence.” Since the inception of the MIW Award by AkzoNobel, the program has honored 88 women in celebration of their leadership, mentorship and inspiration. Serratore believes, “It is essential for women in our industry to support other women. We can change the world by speaking out.” Serratore went on to recognize all women who contribute to the success of the collision repair industry, stating that making a difference, staying true to their values, and using their actions to create a positive influence makes each one of them “most influential.” She then introduced MIW Awardee Michelle Sullivan. See story this issue.

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www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 55

Aftermarket Parts Disclosure Legislation Passes NH Legislature, Bill is Before Governor for Signature

New Hampshire Senate Bill 436, introduced by State Senator Nancy Stiles, R-24, passed the New Hampshire House of Representatives on May 11th. It had passed the Senate on March 3, 2016. This bill prohibits an insurer from requiring or specifying the use of after market parts on certain leased vehicles or vehicles less than 5 years old or with fewer than 50,000 miles. S.B. 436 requires an insurer to disclose whether or not an estimate has been prepared based on the use of aftermarket parts. Any insurer that fails to provide the disclosure would be prohibited from requesting or requiring the use of aftermarket parts. Specifically, the bill states: No insurer shall require or specify the use of after market parts on: I. A leased motor vehicle if the lease provides that such parts will cause a diminution of the residual value of such vehicle; or II. A motor vehicle that has been placed in service within the immediately preceding 5 years or has fewer than 50,000 miles recorded on the odometer. Continued from Page 54

Most Decorated

in the recipe for success. Each little effort adds up and makes a difference, and you never have to second guess the outcome when you’re committed to excellence because you’ve done everything possible to succeed. When you look at winners, what separates them is follow through, not talent or effort—they focus on winning every single day,” Miller emphasizes. Before exiting the stage to a standing ovation, Shannon Miller stated, “It’s important to keep moving in a positive direction every day. When you’re repairing a vehicle, it’s not just a car—it’s that person’s livelihood, where they spend time with family, and how they protect their loved ones... Or maybe it’s a dad taking his little girl to the gym so she can pursue her dream of winning an Olympic gold medal. Each time you commit yourself to excellence, you are creating a winning aspect for everyone.”

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2 Effective Date. This act shall take effect January 1, 2017. The Automotive Service Association (ASA) has been a proponent of S.B. 436 since its introduction and has sent letters of support to the New Hampshire legislature. Robert L. Redding Jr., ASA Washington, D.C., representative, wrote in a March 2016 letter to New Hampshire policymakers: “ASA supports requiring insurers and auto collision facilities to provide disclosure of part type, description and warranty information to the consumer for all part types. Consumers will be best served if written consent is required for the use of these parts. ASA believes a competitive parts marketplace of tested and verified quality parts is in the best interest of the motoring public. ASA opposes parts policies that focus solely on cost efficiency without regard to certification, verifiable quality and safety.” S.B. 436 is currently before the New Hampshire governor for final approval. To view the text of the legislation, visit the ASA website at www .TakingTheHill.com.

Hyundai & Cisco Connected Car Project

Hyundai Motor Company is accelerating developments in connected car technology by collaborating with Cisco. The cooperation is part of Hyundai Motor’s wider strategy to establish an industry-leading connected car platform through collaboration with leading technology partners. Hyundai Motor will initially focus on the next generation of in-vehicle networks at the core of connected car technology, optimizing the transmission and reception of data within the vehicle. The technology will not only transmit and receive data faster, but also allow each subsystem inside the vehicle to communicate more effectively; this is essential to enabling future connected cars to incorporate the increasingly complex features that transfer evergrowing amounts of data in real time. Hyundai Motor and Cisco will collaborate to create a testing environment for vehicle simulation. The companies will cooperate on basic research to thoroughly analyze the flow of data and verify new technologies for connected cars. Moreover, Hyundai Motor will invest in cloud, big data analytics and connected car security technologies, with huge investment in research and development.

56 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com

BASF New National Strategic Accounts Manager

BASF Automotive Refinish hired Christopher Kugler as the new national strategic accounts manager. Most recently, Kugler was the director of Automotive Aftermarket at ILJIN USA, a producer of wheel bearings and other automotive components. Prior, he was the North American national accounts manager for Saint-Gobain (Norton) Abrasives in the collision repair industry. “Chris is a strong team player and has excellent experience with national account management,” said Tim Dawe, BASF sales director. “Over the years he has developed and exChristopher Kugler, ecuted winning BASF’s new strategies within national strategic the Multi-Shopaccounts manager Operator (MSO) segment.” Kugler’s main responsibilities in his new position are growing and building relationships in the MSO segment. For information, visit www.basf refinish.com

Continued from Page 51

WIN Conference

praised WINners: “What you’ve accomplished in the last ten years is nothing short of miraculous, but there’s still a lot of work to be done. If it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you; let’s see what your best can do over the next ten years for WIN, your business and the collision repair industry. You are the force of the future.” As the conference ended, Debbie Clark announced that WIN’s 2017 Educational Conference will be held on May 8-10, 2017 in Denver, CO. WIN’s 2016 Educational Conference sponsored included AkzoNobel, Axalta, BASF, DCR Systems, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, PPG, ASE Certified, 3M, Allstate, Caliber Collision, Insurance Auto Auctions, Service King, State Farm, Valspar Automotive, ABRA Auto Body and Glass, AudaExplore, CAPA, CARSTAR, CCC Information Services, Copart, FinishMaster, Fix Auto, GEICO, Gerber Collision & Glass, Hertz, MetLife, Mitchell International, OEM, The Romans Group, The Villacorta Law Firm PC, and Safelite Solutions.

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ASA Collision Leaders Hold Meetings on Capitol Hill

ASA’s collision leaders met with key members of Congress and staff to discuss the impact of Most Favored Nation (MFN) clauses included in some direct repair agreements (DRP). Under an MFN clause, an insurer is guaranteed that it will receive prices that are at least as favorable as those provided to other carriers doing business with the collision repair facility for the same products or services. ASA members gave real life examples of the effects of the MFN clause on collision repair shops, consumers and nonMFN insurance providers. ASA President Dan Risley said, “We were encouraged by the receptive response on Capitol Hill. MFN clauses have been adversely impacting the collision repair industry for many years, and I feel confident that we are getting closer to a solution. Resolving issues of this scale requires time and persistence. As the voice of the industry in our nation’s capitol, ASA is committed to seeing them removed from all direct repair agreements.” For additional information about ASA, including past media releases, go to www.ASAshop.org , or visit ASA’s legislative website at www.Taking TheHill.com

AutoBodyguard Obtains Exclusive Rights to Zavada Odor Elimination Technology AutoBodyguard, Inc., a division of Dent Zone Companies, Inc., announced on April 26 a newly formed partnership with Zavada Scientific for exclusive rights to Zavada’s organic odor elimination technology for the automotive, recreational vehicle and marine, as well as power sports, markets worldwide.

AutoBodyguard Organic Odor Eliminator is safe for children and pets Credit: Business Wire

“The addition of Zavada’s odor eliminator is aligned with our vision for the AutoBodyguard portfolio,” said John Martin, President of AutoBodyguard, Inc. “This proprietary technology, governed under US Trade Secret Laws, distinguishes us as the only provider in the vehicle protection marketplace capable of eliminating organic odors through an environ-

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mentally safe and eco-friendly solution.” Zavada’s Noble Ion™ Technology removes odors by breaking down the chemical bonds and the compounds that cause them, eliminating organic odors at the source. Common competitor products use enzymes, which react to bacteria, or use odor neutralizers or fragrances, which mask the odor for a limited period of time. Over time, as enzymes die out or neutralizers dissipate, the odor returns. Zavada’s technology disrupts the production of the bacteria, which is typically the source of the organic odor, and prevents it from returning, according to a company press release. AutoBodyguard’s Organic Odor Eliminator with Noble Ion™ Technology has been integrated into the line’s Interior Protection program that provides coverage for the carpet, fabric, leather and vinyl surfaces of vehicles. The product is free from harsh chemicals and does not contain toxic ammonia components frequently found in anti-bacterial products. It is ecofriendly as well as safe for children and pets. “We are pleased to partner with AutoBodyguard to offer dealers greater profits through innovative F&I solu-

Steck Manufacturing’s Antenna Wrench II

Removal of antennas on vehicles can become difficult, especially with the raised hood design that prevents many tools from allowing access to the bezel nut. Steck Manufacturing Company said the Antenna Wrench II works in conjunction with or independently with its original Antenna Wrench (21600). Made in the United States, the Antenna Wrench II is laser cut from rugged steel then grit blasted and plated to give it a

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strong and polished finish. It measures 4 ½ inches x 1 ½ inches x .4 inches. The company said it can expand coverage to more vehicles, such as the removal of difficult Dodge pickup antenna due to the raised hood design. The Antenna Wrench II works as a two, three- and four-notch bezel nut wrench of any diameter. Steck Manufacturing said it replaces the need for an antenna nut socket wrench set with one tool, saving space, money and time searching for the right socket.

tions,” said John Veenstra, Chief Innovation Officer for Zavada Scientific. “We selected AutoBodyguard because of the history, reputation and relationships that Dent Zone Companies, its parent company, has created in the automotive F&I industry over the past twenty-five years.”

AutoBodyguard Organic Odor Eliminator removes unpleasant organic odors on contact

“This exciting addition to the AutoBodyguard product line addresses an everyday problem that all drivers experience,” said John Martin. “Our Organic Odor Eliminator provides a tangible, new benefit for dealers to provide to their customers that has never been offered before.” For more information, contact Susan Neuhalfen by phone 832-4654762 or by email susanneuhalfen@ gmail.com

Ultravent: INDASA’s New Multi-Hole System

Building on 36 years of experience in the development of highly advance coated abrasives, INDASA presented a new multi-hole technology to the market—the Ultravent system. The company said the Ultravent system aims at establishing new standards in the industry and at boosting productivity in body shops. Ultravent is more than just a multi-hole system applied to INDASA Rhynogrip discs. The Ultravent system combines abrasive discs with interface pad and an innovative backing pad that utilizes patented vent channels that maximize air flow. Together, these three elements make the most powerful integrated vacuum sanding system, according to the company. With a 57-hole configuration in finer grits (P220 to P2000) and 21 holes in coarser grit (P80 to P180), Ultravent abrasive discs are available in the Film Line, HT Line and Plus Line, always with a 150mm (6 inch) diameter grip system. The Ultravent system can still be completed with the INDASA’s Dust Extraction Unit and Orbital sander.

www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 57

Axalta Announces 2016 “Paint Outside the Can” Contest Axalta Coating Systems announced that its 2016 Paint Outside the Can contest is now open. The contest, now in its second year, is an invitation to auto body customers to unleash their creativity using any Axalta-brand coating system to paint and decorate an unused, standard one-gallon paint can. Submissions will be recognized and displayed via social media channels throughout the contest period. When the contest closes on September 16, 2016, six industry celebrities will choose six “Celebrity Picks” based on creativity, execution and degree of difficulty. In addition, six “Fan Favorites” will be chosen based on the number of “likes” the photos receive on Axalta’s Instagram page. Finally, one “Best-inShow” grand prize winner will be selected from the six “Celebrity Picks”. Axalta will display the winning submissions at custom car shows and automotive events throughout the United States in 2016. Axalta’s celebrity judges are: Ron Coan, one of the leading painters in the automotive industry known for his show-stopping creations with Mobsteel at SEMA and his groundbreaking OEM concept cars Rachel De Barros, chief marketing officer, host and executive producer

of Gearhead Diva, a DIY car-building community and network that produces edutainment style videos for today’s social media generation

Ray Evernham, three-time NASCARv champion crew chief and host of Velocity’s hit series AmeriCarna Danny “Danny D” Galvez, a well-known custom automotive painter and pinstriper Dave Lane, one of the top traditional-style car builders in the United States Paul Quinn, a respected airbrush and pinstriping artist and custom paint instructor The six winners of the “Celebrity Picks” and the six “Fan Favorites” will each receive a $250 gift card; a complimentary pass to the 2016 SEMA Show; an opportunity to be interviewed at the 2016 SEMA Show by Rev’n

ETI Congratulates New Officers and Board Members for 2016-2017 Officers (one year term)

President – Bob Holland (Chief Automotive Technologies) Vice President, Programs – Brian Herron (Drew Technologies)

Vice President, Marketing – Jim Fish (Bosch Automotive Service Solutions)

Secretary/Treasurer – Kevin FitzPatrick

Immediate Past President – Tim Morgan (Spanesi Americas Inc.)

Directors Re-elected for a three year term on the Board of Directors

Peter Richardson (Car-O-Liner)

Craig Kirkpatrick (Verizon)

News on Rev’N, a broadcast television network dedicated to all things revving; a complimentary pass to Axalta’s VIP area at the 2016 SEMA Show that includes lunch; and prominent display of their submissions at the 2016 SEMA Show, subject to the official rules of the contest. The “Best-in-Show” grand prize winner will receive a $500 gift card; hotel accommodations for two in Las Vegas, Nevada on November 1, 2016 through November 5, 2016; two complimentary passes to the 2016 SEMA Show; an opportunity to be interviewed by Rev’n News at the 2016 SEMA Show; two complimentary passes to Axalta’s VIP area at the 2016 SEMA Show that includes lunch; and prominent display of the winning submission at the 2016 SEMA Show, subject to the official rules of the contest. To learn how to enter the contest, visit Axalta’s website or follow the company on their North America Refinish social media channels: www.Facebook.com/AxaltaNArefinish www.Twitter.com/AxaltaNAref www.Instagram.com/axaltarefinish www.Pinterest.com/AxaltaNAref www.YouTube.com/AxaltaUS www.axalta.ca www.axalta.us

Mitchell Appoints Debbie Day as General Manager

Mitchell International announced in May that Debbie Day has joined the company’s Auto Physical Damage (APD) business unit as its general manager. Day joins the company with over 19 years of technology strategy and operations experience, Debbie Day most recently as chief operating officer and senior vice president at ClosingCorp, in addition to holding executive positions at ACTIVE Network and CCC Information Services. Day will spearhead Mitchell’s APD initiatives. “At Mitchell, we’re constantly looking to find new opportunities to drive value to our customers, and in order to successfully do this, hiring like-minded people who share in our company’s vision is critical,” said Alex Sun, CEO and president of Mitchell. “With Debbie’s extensive and proven product management, engineering and sales background, coupled with her passion and values, she truly embodies all of the qualities that we seek in a Mitchell leader.”

The Right Parts. A Perfect Fit.

Tom Kotenko (Snap-on) Elected for a two year term on the Board of Directors

Neil Davis (Snap-on) Elected for a one year term on the Board of Directors Tom Bertosa (Bosch Automotive Service Solutions)

Remaining Board Members (not up for election)

Term Expiring in 2018-2019 David Rich (Innova) Tim Lael (Hunter Engineering)

Term Expiring in 2017-2018 Robert Vogt (IOSIX) John Heist (STAR EnviroTech)

For more details about ETI programs and activities, contact Jessie Korosec, Marketing and Events Manager, Equipment and Tool Institute, 37899 12 Mile Rd, Suite 220, Farmington Hills, Michigan 48331. Phone: 248-656-5085; e-mail: jessiek @etools.org.

58 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com

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House of Kolor Announces New Products for Spring 2016 House of Kolor by Valspar announced the spring launch of eight new products, including four limited-edition colors that debuted at SEMA Show 2015 in Las Vegas. The limited-edition colors — Black Forest, Blue By-You, Blood Orange and Righteous Rojo — are available as a factory pack for a limited time. They are also available to be mixed in the Shimrin2 Intermix System.

The Spring Launch includes factory pack colors, clears and sprayable primer

“What’s fun about these colors is that you can easily get the look and depth of a kandy with the ease of applying a basecoat clearcoat,” said Jon Kosmoski, founder of House of Kolor. “These four uniquely crafted limited edition colors will provide you with the look of a custom color in no time.” House of Kolor has also released a new urethane flat clear (FC21.001), a low-VOC, flat finish clearcoat that

can be used over all solvent-based basecoats. The clear sprays easily, dries quickly and is mixed with the new KUF21.HP1 catalyst. The new Urethane Rocket Klear. (URC01.Q01) is ideal for those small pieces that need to look show ready in quick time. URC01 does not require any flash time between coats. House of Kolor introduces a new sprayable primer (SP1600.G01), a premium, low-VOC, high-build polyester primer surfacer that provides excellent adhesion to fiberglass and primed surfaces such as aluminum and steel. “From the trend-setting limitededition kolors to the incredible clears, these products have something for everyone,” said Gina Mahan, House of Kolor brand manager. “We take pride in offering products to better serve our customers through advancements in color and technology, and the products in the spring 2016 launch are no exception.” The products are available immediately and comply with the U.S. National Volatile Organic Compound Emission Standard for Automobile Refinish Coatings. For more information or to order, please contact your House of Kolor representative, or customer service at 1-800-4442399.

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GFS’s REVO Systems Included in Ford Program

Vehicle Repair Installment Plans For Sales Growth

Global Finishing Solutions (GFS) announced its inclusion in the Ford Rotunda Dealer Equipment Program with its REVO Accelerated Curing Systems. The REVO Systems, which use short wave electric infrared technology, can improve paint shop throughput up to 80 percent, according to a company press release. “Global Finishing Solutions is excited to work with the Ford Rotunda program to provide customers with products that can be game changers for the industry,” said Brandon Lowder, vice president of auto refinish sales at GFS. “With the REVO Systems, GFS is proud to be the sole provider of infrared curing equipment to the program.” Introduced in 2014, GFS’ REVO Accelerated Curing Systems leverage electric IR technology to significantly reduce curing times for both prep and paint phases of repairs. Available in multiple models ranging from a handheld unit to larger systems that integrate into paint booths and prep areas, the REVO Systems are designed to fit a variety of needs while working within a shop’s current footprint.

Collision Financial Services, a company that specializes in creating flexible installment vehicle repair payment plans, announced that its clients are finding additional sales by using, “InHouse Loans.” Collision Financial Services said that smart companies realize that being payment-flexible can lead to major sales growth. “In-House Loan implies ‘special’ to the customer and could be a benefit when CSI surveying is done. Who does not appreciate special treatment? Can you say ‘referral customers,’” said Jeff Steigerwald, Collision Financial Services chief financial manager. He said within many collision repair businesses, a rule of 75/25 applies. This means 75% of a shop’s customers arrive from insurance contacts shops commonly work with. The other 25% are from small and unfamiliar insurance companies or customer pay opportunities. These often will provide the smaller portion of a shop’s sales volume. The company said a willingness to offer flexible vehicle repair installment plans can often be key to bringing these customers on board. Visit www.collision financialservices.com or email info@ collisionfinancialservices.com.

Ford Approves Two UPOL Aerosols for Shops

New SATA Dry Jet 2 Introduced

Ford Motor Company’s Toxicology and Environmental Quality Office has approved the use of U-POL ACID#8™ and GRIP#4™ aerosols in any of their facilities—manufacturing, design and body shops. The official identity of U-POL in the Ford GSDB (Global Supplier Data Base) is AJR6A. ACID#8 Acid Etch Primer promotes paint adhesion and corrosion protection to difficult substrates, like galvanized steel and aluminium. The company said ACID#8 offers superior adhesion and fast drying properties, making it ideal for bare metal areas prior to application of primers and top coats. (U-POL Part UP0741V, Ford Part 196377. GRIP#4 Universal Adhesion Promoter is an all-in-one adhesion promoter for paints, adhesives and sealants. The company said it promotes proper adhesion on all automotive surfaces, from plastics to aluminum to painted surfaces. (UPOL Part UP0799, Ford Part 19642. “We are very proud to hear that Ford confirmed what we already knew. UPOL products are made to the highest quality standards and designed to save the professional time and money,” said Mike Sanders, VP, U-POL, North America.

To ensure a fast drying process following the application of waterborne paint, it is vital to apply as much air as possible within a short period of time onto the painted object. To achieve this objective, the new SATA dry jet 2 also relies on the Venturi principle like its predecessor: In addition to the compressed air feeding

(l to r) SATA dry jet 2 w/flat fan nozzle and SATA dry jet

the system, a multiple of ambient air is drawn in that serves directly to accelerate the drying process. The new design incorporates a flat fan nozzle. The SATA dry jet 2 has an extra large air footprint, which the company said further increases the drying efficiency, helping reduce the flash-off time and enhance the quality of the drying process at the same time. The recommended inlet pressure is 29 to 35 psi and uses 8.2 to 9.35 CFM; with the Venturi principle design the CFM is magnified x10 to give a 92.35 CFM output.

www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 59

June 3 Deadline for CREF & AkzoNobel Grants

The Collision Repair Education Foundation’s (CREF) annual Ultimate Collision Education Makeover school grant application and the AkzoNobel Sustainably Challenge Grant application are both due on June 3. All high school and college collision school programs are encouraged to apply, and the winning schools for both awards will be announced during SEMA 2016. There is one application for both opportunities. The makeover grant program is in its eighth year. Multiple cash awards totaling more than $100,000 will be given out. This year, the application will also tie each school to the Foundation’s new designation program, “Collision School Career Readiness Benchmark.” Applicant schools will be classified into three tiers: Tier 1: Advanced, Tier 2: Proficient, or Tier 3: Developing. The designation will be determined by the Foundation based upon information provided by schools about the capabilities of their collision training program on the Collision Repair Education Makeover grant application. The criteria for each level will focus on the number of hours of instruction, curriculum in place, along with what tools, equipment, and sup-

Motor Guard Introduces Aluminum Spot Repair Tool

After pioneering the use of soft abrasive technology for conventional steel auto body repair, Motor Guard has turned to the challenge of aluminum body repair. The new Magna-Stripper ALTM System (Model E-6100S) is a soft, abrasive wheel that has been spe-

The Magna-Stripper ALTM

cially formulated to strip aluminum without heat, distortion or damage. The company said the E-6100S quickly strips clear coats, base coats, primer coats, or all three, leaving the base metal clean, bright and ready for repair and refinishing. A company representative said, “Technicians report that the Magna-Stripper ALTM feathers like no other method. It has also proven to be an extremely valuable tool for spot repair of alloy wheels.”

plies a school uses to prepare their students for employment in the collision industry. If there is something that is missing, the grant application will allow a school to request that particular item. The goal is to help every school acquire the resources to eventually achieve a Tier 1: Advanced school designation. In keeping with the goals of the Ultimate Collision Education Makeover Grant, the CREF and AkzoNobel are collaborating for the third year to offer the Sustainability Challenge Grant. Schools are invited to submit proposals for applying continuous improvement and sustainability principles that improve the processes in the school’s body shop or improve the way the shop interacts and impacts the community. Projects are to be driven by teams of students with the instructor serving as a mentor. Winning schools will receive funding to implement their proposed ideas and report on the success of their projects. The application for both opportunities is available online www .CollisionEducationFoundation.org. For information, contact Brandon Eckenrode at 847-463-5244 or Brandon.Eckenrode@ed-foundation .org.

Police Officer Found Guilty of Accepting Kickbacks from Local Repair Shop in MD

Former Baltimore, Maryland police officer, Samuel Ocasio, was found guilty of extortion on May 2. In Supreme Court case (US 14-361), federal authorities charged Ocasio for accepting kickbacks from a Maryland auto body and repair shop. Between 2009 and 2011, the officer directed damaged ve-

pairs. The Mejia brothers would in exchange pay Corona between $150 and $300 per referral. As many as 60 additional officers allegedly joined in on the deal with Majestic. It was in 2009 that Ocasio made a similar arrangement with Majestic, which court documents said was the source of 90 percent of Majestic’s business in 2011.

hicles from accident scenes to Majestic Auto Repair Shop (Majestic) in exchange for payment from the shop owners, according to court documents. Testifying in the case were Majestic shop owners and brothers, Hernan Alexis Moreno Mejia and Edwin Javier Mejia. According to court reports, “In 2008, Majestic was struggling to attract customers, so Moreno and Mejia made a deal with a Baltimore police officer, Jhonn Corona.” The documents further stated that Officer Corona would send motorists who had been in accidents to Majestic for towing and re-

Ocasio, as well as the Mejia brothers and nine other Baltimore officers, were indicted by the District of Maryland in 2011. The Mejias and many of the other officers accepted plea bargains and pleaded guilty, while Ocasio did not. Ocasio was found guilty of one conspiracy count and three extortion counts. He attempted to appeal the District Court’s decision to the Supreme Court but was rejected. The Supreme Court has sentenced him to 18 months in prison. For additional information, see Supreme Court case Ocasio v. U.S., 14-361.

by Cass Heckel

As many as 60 additional officers allegedly joined in on the deal with Majestic

Blackburn OEM Wheel Solutions New Employee

Blackburn OEM Wheel Solutions hired a new member to complement the sales and marketing team. Her name is Samantha Maloy and she will serve as the sales and marketing coordinator effective immediately. Maloy comes to Blackburn’s after spending two years in the printing industry where she completed a two-year leadership development program implemented by RR Donnelley. Prior to her employment at RRD, she attended Bowling Green State University where she graduated with a degree in business administration, specializing in marketing. She will assist Blackburn OEM Wheel solutions with the short-term and long-term sales strategy and goals of the company. She will also assist the outside sales representatives, marketing and advertising efforts of the company. Founded in 1983, Blackburn’s is a privately-held OE wheel (steel and alloy), wheel cover, and center cap distributor. For more information, visit www.blackburnwheels.com.

60 JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com

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FinishMaster’s Michelle Sullivan Honored as WIN’s 2016 Most Influential Woman by Chasidy Rae Sisk

As part of its goal to “enhance the role of women in the collision repair industry,” the Women’s Industry Network (WIN®) honors at least one woman each year for enriching the industry through their leadership, vision and commitment to excellence through their Most Influential Women (MIW) program. This year, WIN chose to honor Michelle Sullivan, Regional Vice President of FinishMaster, as the 2016 MIW.

When asked how it feels to be honored as WIN’s 2016 MIW, Sullivan responded, “I am excited, grateful and humbled. I have held leadership positions throughout my career that have allowed me to identify, advance and retain talent in the collision repair industry.

Great mentors inspired me, and I have a strong desire to do that for others. Winning the MIW award means that I have a responsibility to continue that advocacy and ‘leave it better than I found it.’” Sullivan began her career in the collision repair industry in 1994 as a Human Resources Manager for a Baltimore distributor. She explained, “I was working for a large corporation and was attracted to a smaller company where I could make a great impact.” The next eight years of Sullivan’s career were spent working in marketing, operations, sales and management in order to learn every aspect of the business, before she became President of that company in 2002. She continued there for another ten years. The company went on to win the 2007 Distributor of the Year award under her leadership. Sullivan then worked for paint manufacturer for several years, winning their Leadership Award in 2015. Sullivan joined FinishMaster as Regional Vice President in January 2016. Sullivan stated, “Most of my career has been spent championing change,

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developing talent, and driving results. I dent, join an industry organization and have been elected to various councils connect to the industry. Explore, queswhich have provided many opportunition, engage! The more that you can get ties, particularly to be part of shaping involved early on, the more opportunithe direction of the organization.” ties will appear. Stay positive and adaptDenise Caspersen, WIN’s Chair, able, and find a mentor. Women who are said, “Being selected as an MIW not part of industry organizations make only reflects on Michelle’s past ac- great mentors; they typically had sometions but also sets the future stage for one who promoted their development her as a mentor to others in the colli- and were important to their journey, and sion repair industry and as a continued most are looking to pay it forward.” industry leader. WIN is honored to The MIW program was estabrecognize Michelle and looks forward lished in 1999 by AkzoNobel and has to a future where every woman in the recognized nearly 85 women whose collision industry finds and fulfills her leadership, vision and commitment to place of influence.” excellence has enriched the industry. Sullivan attended the first WIN Since acquiring stewardship of the conference in 2007 and has been in- MIW program in 2013, WIN continvolved ever since. ues to evolve the program to align “I was attracted to WIN because with the organization’s mission to “enthis is an organization that is dedicated hance the role of women in the collito encouraging, developing and culti- sion repair industry.” vating opportunities to attract women The leadership of women who reto collision repair,” she said. “They ceived the MIW Award focuses on also recognize excellence, promote four areas: industry influence, profesleadership, and foster a network of sional accomplishments, mentoring women who are shaping the industry. and supporting others in the collision I wanted to be part of that!” repair industry, and going beyond the In 2013, Sullivan was elected to requirements of their professional lives WIN’s Board of Directors. She also to give back to their communities. participates as the co-chair for the Amidst resounding applause, SulMembership and Industry Outreach livan said, “It is with great excitement, committees. Sullivan is involved in gratitude and humility that I accept this other organizations, representing the award. I want to thank WIN and its collision repair industry at founders. Ten years ago, they national events. She enjoys had a vision, and they and speaking to various segments many others along the way of the industry and raising have worked tirelessly to enawareness of the opportunigage women in the collision ties within collision repair. repair industry. They have When asked about why provided a platform for me it’s important for women to be and many others to do what Michelle Sullivan involved in the collision repair we love in an industry that we industry, Sullivan responded, “The colare so passionate about and to ensure lision repair industry continues to face a that women have a seat at the table.” shortage of people to fill critical posiSullivan continued, “I want to tions, such as technicians, managers thank FinishMaster and the many and executives. Recruiting and retainother organizations that sponsor and ing talent becomes essential for the support WIN. I want to thank my parlong-term sustainability of our industry. ents for giving me a solid foundation, We are seeing more of that talent in and to the many friends, colleagues women that are entering our industry or and mentors who have helped me who are embracing leadership roles. It along in my journey. Most of those is important for women to be involved mentors are in this room tonight, and I to bring additional talent and diversity want to thank you; they have inspired to work environments.” me and coached me along the way.” Sullivan offers some advice for Denise Caspersen, Outgoing Chair young women interested in pursuing a for WIN and 2008 MIW Honoree, led a career in the automotive industry: toast to Sullivan, the scholarship recipi“Don’t let preconceived notions ents and all WINners, noting, “We are limit your thinking. Most people don’t all MIWs. Maybe we haven’t been realize the various career paths within given the title, but by being a leader in the automotive field. If you are a stuthe industry, we are all most influential!”

www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 61

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Equalizer Hires Market Development Manager

Equalizer® announced the addition of Dale Malcolm as market development manager. Malcolm will be responsible for Equalizer’s marketing solutions and special projects. “Dale’s vast experience and industry specific knowledge will assist Equalizer’s sales and marketing teams to strengthen Equalizer’s position as the industry leader. As a long time industry expert in all related areas of glass and adhesives, Dale brings a unique perspective to Equalizer’s ongoing programs designed to expand into the automotive market,” said Shauna Davis, global sales director. As one of the first 50 certified master auto glass technicians in the country, Malcom was a member of the NGA Auto Glass Certification Committee for 10 years and was chairman from 1999-2006. “From early in Dale’s career at Portland Glass to his tenure at Dow Automotive Systems, Dale has always strived to acquire and retain the important information that the auto glass industry has relied upon for my 28 years in the industry,” said Eric Asbery, president of Equalizer. For information, visit www .equalizer.com

CAPA to Form Foundation of Chinese Standards

The Certified Automotive Parts Association (CAPA) announced that it is making its standards available to the China Automobile Maintenance Industry Association (CAMRA), the organization at the forefront of the aftermarket part certification initiative in China. As the technical partner of CAPA, Intertek is actively working with CAMRA as a member of its technical committee, to draft standards for the China domestic market. Intertek is providing assistance with the CAPA Standards, and combining them with applicable Chinese specifications, standards regulations. “CAPA is looking forward to sharing its expertise in part certification with Chinese agencies and organizations looking to improve and validate the quality of auto parts for both the Chinese domestic and export markets,” said Jack Gillis, CAPA’s executive director. “Because of the worldwide acceptance of the CAPA program, CAPA certification for Chinese parts will greatly expand their international marketability,” said Debbie Klouser, CAPA’s director of operations. For information, visit www .CAPAcertified.org or contact Debbie Klouser, 202-737-2212 or debbie@ CAPAcertified.org.

Audatex and Driven Brands Announce Strategic Relationship

Audatex, a Solera company, announced on April 25 its strategic relationship with Driven Brands. Audatex’s technology solutions simplify the claims process by enabling collision repair companies like

Driven Brands and insurance carriers to communicate on one platform with little variability. This new relationship will enable every franchise location to have the Audatex solution with integrated estimating support and a branded customer app for estimate appointments. Driven Brands’ CARSTAR

North America group currently has more than 475 locations across the US and Canada. “We are delighted to move forward with our strategic relationship with Audatex,” said Michael Macaluso, president of CARSTAR North America. “Our close collaboration will strengthen our brand and also provide us with future opportunities for technological advancements.” “We are excited by our relationship with Driven Brands,” said Don Mikrut, vice president of Collision Repair Solutions, Audatex. “By providing a system that’s highly accurate and connected, we can greatly reduce waste in claims processing activities and help increase overall profitability for customers like CARSTAR.” For more information about Audatex, visit www.audatex.us. For more information about Driven Brands, visit www.Driven Brands.com.

ABRA Auto Body & Glass Announces Succession Plan, Commences CEO Search

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ABRA Auto Body & Glass announced on May 2 that Duane Rouse plans to transition from day-to-day operations, stepping down as Chief Executive Officer to assume the role of Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors. Rouse will continue to serve as CEO until a replacement is appointed. ABRA has commenced an executive search to find a successor to Rouse. “As I prepare to step back from day-to-day operations and move into my new role, I want to thank our more than 5,000 employees who have been the secret to our success in growing into a leading national damaged vehicle repair company,” said CEO Duane Rouse. “I am confident that under the leadership of a new CEO, supported by our current best-inthe-business executive team, ABRA will continue as a reliable partner for insurers while maintaining rapid and profitable growth.” Since Rouse became CEO in 2011, ABRA’s system-wide revenue has increased from under $300 million to more than $1 billion. The company has also added more than 150 new locations in the last 2 years. Rouse said, “With a successful strategy and accomplished executive

team in place, ABRA is well-positioned for the future. The company is in a position of strength and now is the time to transition day-to-day leadership to a new Chief Executive who will lead the company into its next chapter of growth. I will remain a significant shareholder and through my Vice Chairman role I look forward to continuing to be part of ABRA’s very bright future.” Erik Ragatz, current Chairperson of the Board of ABRA Auto Body & Glass, and Managing Director of private equity firm Hellman & Friedman, ABRA’s majority shareholder, said, “During his 20 year tenure—and particularly in his 5 years as CEO— Duane not only helped aggressively grow the company through both strategic acquisitions and internal initiatives, but also built a wonderful organization and business. We are now beginning a search that will identify CEO candidates with the right experience and cultural fit for the organization. Duane will be an important voice in this process, and remain an important part of ABRA as he assumes the role of Vice Chairman.” For more information about ABRA visit www.abraauto.com

www.autobodynews.com | JUNE 2016 AUTOBODY NEWS 63

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