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PPG Confirms Interest in AkzoNobel, So Far ‘No’ PPG confirmed on March 10 that it made an attractive and comprehensive proposal to Akzo Nobel N.V. on March 2, 2017, inviting AkzoNobel to enter into negotiations with PPG on a potential transaction to form a combined company, which AkzoNobel rejected. PPG continues to believe there is a strong strategic rationale for the proposed transaction between PPG and AkzoNobel. Michael McGarry, chairman and CEO of PPG, said, “PPG has long admired AkzoNobel’s businesses, global presence, culture and principles as well as its advances in innovative product development and sustainable business practices. We believe a combination of our two companies is a very compelling strategic opportunity. We are
confident that this combination is in the best interests of the stakeholders of both companies as it presents a unique opportunity to build on the successful legacies of our businesses. PPG has carefully considered the interest of all AkzoNobel stakeholders including shareholders, employees, customers and the communities it serves and has proposed its willingness to enter into serious commitments in respect of all stakeholders.” “Strategically, the combination of PPG and AkzoNobel would deliver an enhanced global player in paints, coatings and specialty materials, combining complementary products, technologies and geographies, and would create a stronger competitor in a highly competitive global market.”
Co-Defendants Plead Guilty in CA Insurance “Scratch Out” Fraud Scheme
ered two auto body facilities in Salinas involved in a “scratch out” fraud scheme in which a fully insured vehicle is fraudulently vandalized by the vehicle owner or an associate of the body shop with the owner’s consent. Thereafter, an insurance claim is filed which is typically inflated and often seeks thousands of dollars to repair the fraudulent damage. When the insurance company pays the claim, the money is shared between the shop owner, the vehicle owner, and any other participants in the scheme. One such facility was West Market Auto Body, operated by Martin Lopez. In mid-2015, a joint operation was See Scratch Out Scheme, Page 10
Change Service Requested
P.O. BOX 1516, CARLSBAD, CA 92018
Monterey County District Attorney Dean D. Flippo recently announced that on February 22, defendant Antonio Arias, age 47, of Salinas, pled guilty to a felony charge of auto insurance fraud and defendant Martin Lopez, age 49, of Salinas pled guilty to a felony charge of auto insurance fraud and a misdemeanor violation of worker’s compensation insurance fraud. Sentencing will take place on March 22, 2017 before Judge Andrew Liu. In 2015, investigators from MADCAT (the Multi Agency Detail Commercial Auto Theft), the District Attorney’s Office and NICB (the National Insurance Crime Bureau) discov-
VOL. 35 ISSUE 4 APRIL 2017
CAA Lobbyist Jack Molodanof Updates Chapter on Labor Rate Surveys, 2017 Laws by Victoria Antonelli
On March 2, California Autobody Association (CAA) lobbyist Jack Molodanof addressed a packed room of industry members gathered at the Brookside Golf Club in Pasadena, CA. Attendees enjoyed dinner and networking opportunities from 6pm to 7pm before CAA Glendale/Foothill
CAA lobbyist Jack Molodanof was the featured speaker at the CAA meeting March 2 in Pasadena
Chapter President Hillel Shamam introduced Molodanof. The CAA lobbyist began by explaining the new labor rate survey regulations that took effect on March 1, 2017. In order for insurers to meet the new standardized requirements, labor rate surveys must be current and have to be completed annually. After that time, they become non-compliant, unless they includes a Consumer Price Index (CPI), which allows for a year extension. The surveys must include all auto body shops in the geographical area that are registered with the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR). The geographical area is determined through “geo-coding,” a “very accurate” formula that uses the longitude and latitude of a location to determine the six closest auto body shops. See CAA Lobbyist, Page 21
2017 ASCCA/CalABC/CAA Joint Legislative Day is April 25 by Ed Attanasio
Every year, there are more than 2,500 separate bills that hit Sacramento almost simultaneously. How many will potentially harm the collision repair industry and how many might help it? Every year, this deluge of bills comes around like clockwork and that’s why the annual ASCCA/CalABC/CAA’s Joint Legislative Day on April 25 in the State Capitol is always significant, as body shop and mechanical shop owners meet with their representatives to oppose some bills while endorsing others. The individual sifting through these bills right now is Jack Molodanof, the go-to lawyer/lobbyist in California for the automotive repair industry who represents several state-wide automotive associations, inclu- ding the California Autobody Association (CAA) and Automotive Service Councils of California (ASCCA).
Every year, this enormous job is handled adroitly by Molodanof and his team. “We need to find the bills that are going to directly affect the automotive repair industry in California if they pass,” he said. “There are always a lot of different groups out there with different agendas, so we need to be vigilant and thorough to ferret out the ones we need to address.” Again in 2017, CAA partners with the Automotive Service Councils of California (ASCCA)—the largest independent automotive repair organization in California—to hold this event. With more than 800 members, the ASCCA has been representing all areas of the automotive repair industry, including mechanical, auto body, supplier and educators in the automotive technology field for the past 77 years. With scheduled appointments throughout the Capitol’s offices all day See Joint Legislative Day, Page 8
Presorted Standard US Postage PAID San Bernardino, CA Permit #2244
2 APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
Contents
COLUMNS Attanasio - Only WyoTech Grads Work at Richard Wood Kustoms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Attanasio - RGI Spray Booths Celebrates Grand Opening of New Tracy, CA Location . . 30 Attanasio - She’s Retired, But Not Out of the Game: The Story of “Collisionista” . . . . . . . 52 Attanasio - There’s No Free Lunch When it Comes to Your Website . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Luehr - How to Create Loyal Customers . . . . . 38 Phillips - Award-Winning CA Dealership Collision Center Says Employee Satisfaction and Customer Satisfaction Are One in the Same. . 56 Phillips - George Avery Shares Thoughts on Direct Repair Programs: From the Cradle to the Grave?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Phillips - Mike Anderson: Why Repairers Need to Research OEM Procedures on Every Single Vehicle Every Single Time . . . . . . . . 32 Phillips - Ten Ways to Find Top Talent for Your Shop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Yoswick - Survey Shows How Regularly Shops Get Paid for Shop Supplies, Aluminum Labor Rates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 NATIONAL 2017 MSO Symposium Registration is Open, Agenda Released . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 3M Automotive Aftermarket Division Deploys New Mobile D.E.M.O. Trailer . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Accepting Nominations for the 2017 Mort Schwartz Excellence in Education Award . . . 71 Advanced Technology & Diagnostic Repair Forum to Launch at NACE Automechanika. . 62 Auto Care Caucus Filed in Congress . . . . . . . . 58 Automotive Refinish Coatings Market Analysis, Segments, Growth and Value Chain 2015-2025 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
The open meeting will be immediately followed by SCRS' annual election for open seats on the board of directors. The election will begin at 5:15pm and ballot collection will close promptly at 5:45pm. On Wednesday, SCRS will be hosting the Repairer Roundtable meeting from 8:30am - 11:00am in the Waterfront room. The Roundtable is intended to stimulate open discussion among the participants in the room. The 2017 event is going to focus on current and future technology evolutions that have direct impact on collision repairer's approach to modern day repairs. For more visit www.scrs.com.
Publisher & Editor: Jeremy Hayhurst General Manager: Barbara Davies Online Editor and Copywriter: Deana Cacus Contributing Writers: Tom Franklin, David Brown, John Yoswick, Janet Chaney, Toby Chess, Ed Attanasio, Chasidy Sisk, David Luehr, Stacey Phillips, Victoria Antonelli Advertising Sales: Joe Momber, Sean Hartman, Bill Doyle, Norman Morano (800) 699-8251 Office Manager: Louise Tedesco Sales Assistant: Jessica Day Content/Social Media Specialist: Cass Heckel
Audi Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . .68 Automotive ID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 AutoNation Chrysler-Jeep-DodgeRam-Fiat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Axalta Coating Systems . . . . . . . . . . .2 BMW Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . .65 Bob Smith BMW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 Bob Smith MINI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 Capitol Subaru . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72 Certified Automotive Parts Association (CAPA) . . . . . . . . . . .31 ChemSpec USA, LLC. . . . . . . . . . . .10 Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep-Ram of Seattle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70 Colortone Automotive Paints . . . . . .18 Dave Smith Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 Del Grande Dealer Group . . . . . .16-17 Denny Menholt Chevrolet . . . . . . . .39 DJS Fabrications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Downtown Motors of LA (Audi, VW, Porsche) . . . . . . . . . . .49 Eco Repair Systems of North America, LLC . . . . . . . . . . .43 ECS Automotive Concepts . . . . . . .24 Engine Parts Warehouse . . . . . . . . .26 Enterprise Rent-A-Car . . . . . . . . . . .46 Equalizer Industries, Inc. . . . . . . . . . .9 First Auto Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 Ford of Kirkland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57 Ford Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . .53 Galpin Motors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Glenn E. Thomas Dodge-ChryslerJeep . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 GM Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . . .61 Herkules Equipment Corporation . .21 Honda-Acura Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36-37 Hyundai of Kirkland . . . . . . . . . . . . .57 Hyundai of Seattle . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57 Hyundai Wholesale Parts Dealers . .58
Art Director: Rodolfo Garcia Graphic Designer: Michelle Lucas
Western
BASF Offers Exclusive Bentley Level 1 and Level 2 Refinish Training Courses . . . . . . . . 60 CARSTAR and Automotive Training Coordinators Partner for I-CAR Gold Certification Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 CCC Information Services Inc. Publishes 2017 Crash Course Report. . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Collision Industry Provides $12M+ to Schools, Students in 2016 Through Collision Repair Education Foundation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63 Elite Electronics Supports SCRS as Corporate Member . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Equipment and Tool Institute Releases Position Statement on Pre- and Post-Repair System Scanning. . . . . . . . . . . 71 FinishMaster Acquires Hi-Tec/Professional Paint and Auto Body Supply, Inc. . . . . . . . . 12 I-CAR Announces 2017 International Board of Directors, Presents Joe Laurentino With Founder’s Award . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 I-CAR Announces Nationwide Initiative to Hold Classes in Technical Schools & Colleges . . 18 March 31 Deadline for Applications for NABC Executive Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71 New Transportation Secretary Re-Evaluating Self-Driving Car Guidance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Nissan Issues Precautions For Repairing Bumpers with Blind Spot Warning Installed. . 14 OEC Announces Appointment of Executive Vice President of Sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Owner of Rio Auto Body in NJ Serves as Keynote Speaker for Career Day At Local School . . . 27 Pittsburgh, PA, to Host Several SCRS Events in April - RSVP by April 12 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Polyvance Releases R08 PPE+PS Plastic Welding Rod. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Porsche and Nissan Issue Recalls over Windshield and Airbag Issue. . . . . . . . . . . . 14 PPG Confirms Interest in AkzoNobel, So Far ‘No’ . . 1 PPG Debuts TouchMix® XI Touchscreen Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 PPG Foundation Funds Collision Student Scholarships Through CREF . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 PPG Holding Sold Out MVP Conference in Scottsdale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Precision Collision Center Earns Assured Performance Certification and Top Automaker Recognition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 SCRS Education Committee Presents on “Kool Tools” from SEMA Show. . . . . . . . . . 69 Self-driving Nissan Leaf Takes to Europe’s Streets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Sherwin-Williams Announces 2017 Second Quarter Training Schedule. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 Spanesi Americas Continues Expansion in the Rockies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Stamford Firefighters Forced To Break Into Auto Body Shop To Attack Blaze . . . . . . . . . 27 Staten Island Body Shop Celebrates Women in Leadership with Release of New Video . . 60 There is Still Time to Support 3M’s Hire Our Heroes Fundraiser . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68 WIN 2017 Conference Registration Opens, Agenda Announced . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Women’s Industry Network Announces Winners of the 2017 Most Influential Women in Collision Repair Award . . . . . . . . 71
On Tuesday, April 18th, the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) will hold an open board meeting from 3:00 - 5:00pm in the Grand Station 3 room at the Sheraton Station Square in Pittsburgh, PA. Everyone wishing to learn more about the association's industry work is encouraged to attend. The two hour meeting will include updates from SCRS staff, committees, and guests from the industry sharing what they have undertaken on behalf of the membership. At the conclusion of the open meeting, SCRS will premiere the next installment of the SCRS video series.
Indexof Advertisers
REGIONAL 1Collision Network Adds MSO in California . . . 22 2017 ASCCA/CalABC/CAA Joint Legislative Day April 25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 Auto Body Hawaii Hosts High School Senior Essay Contest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Auto Repair Training Behind Bars in Northern CA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 CAA Lobbyist Jack Molodanof Updates Chapter on Labor Rate Surveys, 2017 Laws . . . . . . . 1 California Backs Down on Self-Driving Car Rules, DMW Says No Steering Wheel Needed . . . . . 4 Co-Defendants Plead Guilty in CA Insurance “Scratch Out” Fraud Scheme . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 National AutoBody Research to Launch New California Labor Rate Survey. . . . . . . . 10 Non-Traditional Path Is Tradition for This Female Auto Body Student . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Oregon Collision Programs Seeking Donation to Help Educate Students . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 San Jose to Host Next Sherwin-Williams EcoLean Level 2 Workshop . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Service King Grows to 20 Los Angeles Locations, Partners With Performance Paint and Body . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Service King Partners With San Diego’s Gene Townsend Auto Body and Paint . . . . . 10 Uber Gets Calif. Permit to Test Robotic Cars . . . 4
Pittsburgh, PA, to Host Several SCRS Events in April - RSVP by April 12
Serving California and Nevada. Autobody News is a monthly publication for the autobody industry. Permission to reproduce in any form the material published in Autobody News must be obtained in writing from the publisher. ©2017 Adamantine Media LLC.
Autobody News P.O. Box 1516, Carlsbad, CA 92018 (800) 699-8251 / (760) 603-3229 Fax www.autobodynews.com / news@autobodynews.com
Insta Finish Car Care . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Kearny Mesa Subaru-Hyundai . . . . .45 Kia Motors Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55 Killer Tools & Equipment . . . . . . . . .25 Lyle Pearson Auto Group . . . . . . . . .44 Maita Subaru . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48 Mazda Wholesale Parts Dealers . . .56 MINI Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . .64 Mitsubishi Wholesale Parts Dealers . .52 MOPAR Wholesale Parts Dealers . .41 Moss Bros. Chrysler-Jeep-Dodge . .19 Nissan/Infiniti Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67 Northside Trucks & Equipment . . . .30 Penske Hyundai . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Polyvance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 Porsche Wholesale Parts Dealers . .62 Puente Hills Subaru . . . . . . . . . . . . .42 Riverside Kia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 Riverside Metro VW-Honda-HyundaiNissan-Mazda . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38 Roy Robinson Subaru . . . . . . . . . . .32 SATA Dan-Am Company . . . . . . . . . .7 Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26, 27 Shingle Springs Subaru . . . . . . . . . .63 Sierra Chevrolet-Honda-Subaru . . .51 Spanesi Americas . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Subaru Wholesale Parts Dealers . . .59 Tacoma Dodge-Chrysler-Jeep-Ram .29 The Bay Area Automotive Group . . .47 Valley Auto Dismantlers Association, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50 Valspar Automotive . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Volkswagen Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69 Volvo Wholesale Parts Dealers . . . .54 Wizards Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Yellow Jacket . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
www.autobodynews.com | APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS 3
California Backs Down on Self-Driving Car Rules, DMW Says No Steering Wheel Needed
California has relaxed several rules on self-driving cars as the state tries to maintain its status as a leader in the field. Alphabet, then Google, had a very public reaction to the original requirement that all vehicles have provisions for drivers and steering wheels. The state’s Department of Motor Vehicles released proposed regulations for autonomous vehicles, dropping an earlier requirement that a human driver had to be present while testing on public roads. The DMV also backed down on a previous rule that vehicles needed a steering wheel and pedals for the operator to take back control. “When we think of driverless vehicles they can either have conventional controls, which are steering wheels, pedals, things like that, or they cannot,” said California DMV Chief Counsel Brian Soublet during a conference call with reporters. If companies test vehicles without conventional controls, they have to show the California DMV that they have approval from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, he added. NHTSA said in early 2016 that self-driving software systems, not just humans, can be con-
sidered drivers. “If California was going to keep that level of development activity in the state, what they did was necessary and timely,” said Eric Noble, president of The CarLab, an automotive consulting firm. “They kind of had to do it because at some point manufacturers can’t move autonomous vehicles forward without getting controls out of cars.” California’s change of heart is likely good news for Mountain View, California-based Alphabet Inc., which is developing self-driving software and vehicles through its Waymo division. When the state’s DMV published draft regulations in late 2015 that required human drivers, a steering wheel and pedals, the company was “gravely disappointed.” Google had recently built prototypes with no steering wheel or pedals, and it had to retrofit them to continue testing in California. Californi’s new proposals follow a Michigan law passed in December, which allowed testing with no human driver. It also created a framework for selling autonomous cars which the California DMV also added to its proposed rules.
New Transportation Secretary Re-Evaluating SelfDriving Car Guidance
U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao said she was reviewing self-driving vehicle guidance issued by the Obama administration and urged companies to explain the benefits of automated vehicles to a skeptical public. The guidelines, which were issued in September, call on automakers to voluntarily submit details of self-driving vehicle systems to regulators in a 15point “safety assessment” and urge states to defer to the federal government on most vehicle regulations. Automakers have raised numerous concerns about the guidance, including that it requires them to turn over significant data, could delay testing by months and lead to states making the voluntary guidelines mandatory. In November, major automakers urged the then-incoming Trump administration to re-evaluate the guidelines and some have called for significant changes. Automakers called on Congress earlier this month to make legislative changes to speed self-driving cars to U.S. roads. Chao, in her first major public remarks since taking office last month, told the National Governors Association: “This administration is evaluat-
Celphy Makes Room for The Clowns
ing this guidance and will consult with you and other stakeholders as we update it and amend it, to ensure that it strikes the right balance.” She said self-driving cars could dramatically improve safety. In 2015, 35,092 people died in U.S. traffic crashes, up 7 percent and the highest full-year increase since 1966. In the first nine months of 2016, fatalities were up 8 percent. Chao, noting research that 94 percent of traffic crashes were due to human error, said: “There’s a lot at stake in getting this technology right.” She said the Trump administration wanted to ensure it “is a catalyst for safe, efficient technologies, not an impediment. In particular, I want to challenge Silicon Valley, Detroit, and all other auto industry hubs to step up and help educate a skeptical public about the benefits of automated technology.” Chao said she was “very concerned” about the potential impact of automated vehicles on employment. There are 3.5 million U.S. truck drivers alone and millions of others employed in driving-related occupations. She also said she would seek input from states as regulators develop rules on drones.
4 APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
Uber Gets Calif. Permit To Test Robot Cars
Uber has received a permit from the California Department of Motor Vehicles to test its robot cars in the state and Consumer Watchdog warned that the cars should not carry passengers while still being tested. “When Uber illegally deployed its robot cars in San Francisco last year, the vehicles were observed driving through red lights,” said John M. Simpson Consumer Watchdog’s Privacy Project Director. “Uber’s technology simply isn’t safe enough to put passengers at risk.” Under California law companies testing selfdriving cars with a permit in the state must file reports of any crashes and annual “disengagement reports” describing when the robot technology failed and a human operator had to intervene. Both reports are posted on the DMV’s website. “Now that Uber has permits to test, the company’s activities must be closely monitored by police,” Simpson said. “What is clear is that Uber must not use passengers as human guinea pigs a publicity stunt.” Consumer Watchdog asked people in San Francisco to watch out for traffic violations and safety threats by Uber’s test vehicles.
Self-driving Nissan Leaf Takes to Europe’s Streets
A self-driving Nissan car has taken to the streets of London for the automaker’s first European tests of an autonomous vehicle. Traveling at up to 50 mph and moving from local streets to a major multi-lane road, the modified Nissan Leaf electric car showcased the kind of technology many hope to be the future of travel. Britain has been wooing developers of autonomous vehicles, hoping to grab a slice of an industry it estimates could be worth 900 billion pounds ($1.1 trillion) worldwide by 2025. It also recently announced changes to allow for a single insurance policy to cover motorists driving conventionally and in autonomous mode, as it tries to get regulations in place to encourage the uptake of driverless cars from 2020. Britain’s flexible approach to testing autonomous vehicles helped Nissan pick London for its first European tests, Maarten Sierhuis, the director of its research center in Silicon Valley told Reuters. “It’s not everywhere in Europe that we can go and drive on the road,” Sierhuis said. Nissan launched a version of its self-driving technology dubbed ProPILOT last year in Japan and plans to offer the feature in the Qashqai crossover in Europe this year.
www.autobodynews.com | APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS 5
Non-Traditional Path Is Tradition for This Female Auto Body Student
For Technical High School student Demry Polum, working in a maledominated environment doesn’t intimidate her. In fact, it’s in her blood. Her grandmother was a truck driver for five years, and her mother has been in the industry for 15 years. So it was no surprise that when she
learned of the high school from friends when she was a senior at Tacoma’s Wilson High School. “A traditional high school environment wasn’t working, and I have always wanted to work with cars, so I transferred, and it’s been a great experience!” Looking back on her upbringing, Demry notes that her grandmother mostly raised her and her three siblings because of the long hours her mother worked. She recalls tinkering with items around the house, pulling things apart and putting them together to see how they functioned. “My childhood helped push me toward what I want to do in my professional life. Grandma always taught me “When I found out about the Technical High School at that women can do the same Bates, I knew this was the perfect opportunity to do thing men can,” said Demry. something that spoke to me,” said Demry “If my mom and grandma heard about Bates’ Technical High could handle working in a mostlySchool in Tacoma, WA, she was drawn male industry, then I can handle it, toward the Auto Body Rebuilding and too.” Refinishing program. “When I found When she started the program, out about the Technical High School at she was the sole female. Now, there Bates, I knew this was the perfect op- are three others. “I love that there are portunity to do something that spoke more girls in the program,” she said. to me,” says 19-year-old Demry, who “I like being able to see that there are
others like me out there, who are able to say to the world, ‘you can’t tell me I can’t do this.’ It’s been awesome having them there,” said Demry, who also works at a restaurant five days a week following her studies. Demry lights up when she talks about painting cars. “I love watching cars transform from their bashed, broken and battered state when they come into the shop, and then leaving looking like a masterpiece. That’s my art—to paint and blend a part of a car so that it matches perfectly with the rest of it. I consider that an art, and it’s what I love doing,” she said, smiling. When she talks about her motivation to succeed, she does it for her mom and grandma. “I want to be able to give back to them, because they provided me with so much growing up,” Demry said. Demry is set to graduate with both her Associate in Applied Science degree and high school diploma in August 2017. Her ultimate goal is to open her own shop after gaining work experience painting in other shops. We thank Bates Technical College for reprint permission.
San Jose to Host Next Sherwin-Williams EcoLean Level 2 Workshop
Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes will hold its next 2017 Eco Lean™ Level 2 workshop April 4-5 at the Westin San Jose Hotel in San Jose, CA. While there, the workshop group will have the privilege of touring the Golden West Collision Center, a state-of-the-art facility which has completely implemented lean production principles. Exclusively designed to educate attendees about maximizing profitability by improving productivity and eliminating waste throughout their facilities, the EcoLean Level 2 workshop is an extensive two-day course. It further implements the Sherwin-Williams message by educating shop owners on the connection between environmentally sound business decisions and the reduction of process and environmental waste. “Attendees will see immediate results by learning to schedule efficiently, implement damage analysis, blueprinting, and a predictable parts process,” said Greg Eisenhardt, SherwinWilliams Automotive Finishes manager of sales excellence. “This is all communicated in our EcoLean Level 2 workshop providing collision shop owners and managers with the tools to
immediately help align their Purpose, People, and Process on the production floor.” Eisenhardt noted that EcoLean courses have been built by some of the best consultants in the industry, and provide collision repair professionals the opportunity to relax in the company of their own peers while learning from one another over the two day period. The EcoLean Level 2 workshop curriculum includes: ▪ Repair Planning for Rapid Throughput—understanding the importance of a comprehensive repair plan ▪ Damage Analysis/Blueprinting— specific steps to drive down errors and redundancies found in a traditional repair estimate ▪ Parts Correctness—methods on how to decrease missing, incorrect, and damaged parts within traditional production activities All class materials, lunch on both days and a group dinner is included in the workshop fee. Breakfast vouchers are included with hotel room reservation. Hotel and transportation costs are the responsibility of each attendee. To register for the EcoLean Level 2 workshop online, visit www.sherwin -automotive.com/ecolean2.
6 APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
Auto Body Hawaii Hosts High School Senior Essay Contest by Big Island Now
Auto Body Hawaii is holding its 6th annual Essay Contest for high school seniors. Auto Body Hawaii will provide West Hawai‘i’s graduating high school seniors the opportunity to showcase their writing skills for the chance to win $1,000. Past winners have been selected from Kealakehe, Parker, Makua Lani and Konawaena Schools. The theme for the 2017’s essay competition is: ”What was your biggest ‘Moment of Awesomeness’ in your life?” The contest entry deadline is April 28, 2017. For a list of participating schools and contest rules, visit https://autobodyhawaii.com/essay -contest/. Call Tracey Taylor at 3292544 or email essay@autobody hawaii.com for more information. We thank Big Island Now for reprint permission.
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www.autobodynews.com | APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS 7
Continued from Cover
Joint Legislative Day
long, ASCCA/CAA members will break into smaller groups to canvas to cover as much territory as possible. As members of both organizations hurriedly search through the hallways looking for politicians’ offices to make their appointments, there is always a little excitement in the air, according to CAA Executive David McClune. “We have limited time and we want to see as many people as we possibly can,” McClune said. “I have seen that this type of lobbying truly works. When a body shop owner sits down with its local politician and tells them about their business and the issues that they face, they get attention. Starting a dialogue is the first step, and Legislative Day is where it happens in many cases.” This year’s ASCCA State President David Kusa is ready to take on the Capitol on April 25. “I can confidently say the government work that we perform year after year has to be the best thing we do here at ASCCA, and partnering with an organization like CAA makes us even more powerful at the state level,” Kusa said. “Having someone in Sacramento fighting for our rights is vital and shops need to know that we are playing that vital role at CAA.” CAA State President Kathy Mello also sees great value in this annual pilgrimage to the Capitol. “This is our big day every year when we can meet with our political representatives,” said. “We can influence these bills before they become laws and provide important feedback for our key decision makers, so we tell our membership to make the most of it. If we’re not part of the process, we can’t play a role, so Legislative Day is a huge deal for us and for the industry as a whole.” Executive Director Johan Gallo from the California Automotive Business Coalition (CalABC), one of the Legislative Day sponsors, values the annual event for several reasons, he said. “There are so many different professional automotive repair organizations in California, and Legislative Day is an excellent opportunity for all of us to get together and discuss our issues and needs. We’re stronger if we’re unified, and by sharing our knowledge with each other, we can stay that way.” Although most of the bills are still being reviewed by both organizations at this point, one is on both ASCCA and CAA’s radar. It’s AB 475, as introduced by Assemblyman Ed Chau (D-Mon-
terey). Entitled “Total Loss Salvage Vehicles and Dismantled Vehicles: Registration,” the bill states, “Existing law prohibits a vehicle that has been reported as a total loss salvage vehicle or dismantled vehicle from being subsequently registered until the prescribed bill of sale, an appropriate application, official lamp and brake adjustment certificates, as specified, other required documents and fees, and specified pollution control information is submitted to the Department of Motor Vehicles. Existing law prohibits the Department of Motor Vehicles from registering a vehicle that has been reported as a total loss salvage vehicle or dismantled vehicle if the vehicle has been referred to the Department of the California Highway Patrol, or selected for inspection
8 APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
by that department, as specified, until the applicant for registration submits to the Department of Motor Vehicles a certification of that inspection. “This bill would additionally require a certification of structural integrity to be submitted to the Department of Motor Vehicles before a vehicle that has been reported as a total loss salvage vehicle or dismantled vehicle may be registered.” For body shops that hold annual car giveaways, this bill could impact their ability to take salvaged vehicles and refurbish them for deserving people, according to Molodanof. Speakers on Legislative Day 2017 will include the Bureau of Automotive Repair’s Chief Art Dorais and his new Deputy Chief Tim Corcoran, who will
discuss BAR updates, regulations and enforcement. In addition, Assemblyman Ed Chau has also agreed to talk about AB 475 and field questions from ASCCA and CAA members in attendance. Legislative Day starts at 8 am and runs until 3 at the Capitol Event Center, located at 1020 11th Street in Sacramento. The day commences with a breakfast featuring the day’s speakers, as well as a presentation from Jack Molodanof about how to approach state legislators during the day. “This is our chance to be heard as an industry in Sacramento,” Molodanof said. “We work year round to make this happen and we know from our experience that we’ve changed bills and have had others blocked through our efforts.”
Industry Training
Stacey Phillips is a freelance writer and editor for the automotive industry. She has 20 years of experience writing for a variety of publications. She can be reached at sphillips.autobodynews@gmail.com.
Pro Spot Hosts CREF Career Fair, Helping Students and Potential Employers Connect with Stacey Phillips
The headquarters at Pro Spot International in Carlsbad, CA, was busier than usual in March when the company hosted a Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF) career fair. Busloads of high school and college stu-
About 350 students attended the CREF career fair at Pro Spot in March
dents arrived at the company’s location ready to meet potential employers and learn more about the collision repair industry. Approximately 350 students from San Diego and surrounding communities attended the event, which included lunch and a tour of the facility where
Pro Spot manufacturers resistant spot welding equipment and products. The students also had to the opportunity to talk to the 15 companies who were there to discuss future employment options and what it takes to be prepared. They included collision repair facilities, a technical school, rental car company and other industry stakeholders. “These events have been great in terms of helping create that connection between the students and future employers,” said Brandon Eckenrode, CREF’s director of development. “The students are able to meet companies first-hand and learn about the industry.” The event was one of 20 career fairs planned by CREF this year across the country. This is the second year the Spring Career Fairs have been held. CREF kicked off the first of the year in February in Des Moines, Iowa. More than 1,000 students registered for the March career fairs held in San
Diego, as well as Houston and Dallas, Texas. Eckenrode said the career fairs are a key component of the foundation’s
utive director of CREF. “Not just with the career fairs but everything the foundation is working on.” This includes scholarship and grants, SkillsUSA and
(l to r) Service King was represented by Vanessa Polanco, Chris Maimone, Carmen Ayala, Gordon Welliver and Erica Aguirre
Ron Olsson, president of Pro Spot International (left) with CREF Executive Director Clark Plucinski
mission to “support repair educational programs, schools, and students to create qualified, entry-level employees and connect them with an array of career opportunities.” “Our whole focus is about employment,” said Clark Plucinski, the exec-
other programs that encourage and support young collision repair students to pursue careers in the collision repair industry. Plucinski said over $60 million has been donated to CREF to support See CREF Career Fair, Page 12
www.autobodynews.com | APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS 9
Service King Partners With San Diego’s Gene Townsend Auto Body and Paint
Service King Collision Repair Centers® has announced that the company has completed a partnership with Gene Townsend Auto Body and Paint, located in the greater San
Diego metro area. As part of the deal, the single-location repair center, located at 609 South Marshall Ave. in El Cajon, CA, will begin operating as Service King immediately. “This is another exciting step in our continued journey to serve customers and business partners across the San Diego community,” said Alan Saviano, Service King market vice president for Southern California. “Service King continues to be intentional in our growth plans by partnering with established and reputable teams dedicated to superior customer service. It’s a privilege to welcome Gene
Townsend Auto Body and Paint to the Service King family. Together, we look forward to a bright future.” Gene Townsend Auto Body and Paint served the community with high-quality collision repair service since 1959 and is I-CAR Certified. “The entire Gene Townsend Auto Body and Paint team is proud to join hands with an industryleader like Service King,” said original owner and founder Gene Townsend. “This is a great step forward for our teammates, customers and partners. The national support system Service King provides now backs the very same quality and craftsmanship expected by our customers for more than 50 years.” Service King first expanded to the San Diego metro in 2015 and continues to explore opportunities for additional growth. For more information, visit www .ServiceKing.com.
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National AutoBody Research to Launch New California Labor Rate Survey
This month, National AutoBody Research (NABR) will launch a new version of its labor rate survey, specifically tailored to the standardized labor rate survey format defined by the California Department of Insurance (CDI) in their new, recently implemented Auto Body Labor Rate Survey regulations. NABR’s fully compliant survey not only will follow the standardized survey format but also will comply with the other technical and administrative aspects of the regulation in order to support insurers who prefer to efficiently outsource the survey to a third-party, and to provide collision centers with prevailing rate reports for their geographic area using a compliant survey from an independent source. To meet some of the regulation’s more technical requirements such as geocoding, determination of qualified shops within a “geographic area,” and the calculation of a “prevailing rate,” NABR will leverage its Variable Rate System (VRS) online software technology, enabling VRS users to generate a compliant prevailing rate report for any body shop and geographic area in California in mere seconds. “We’re pleased to offer this complete survey service to all insurers
and collision centers doing business in California,” said Sam Valenzuela, president of NABR. “This solution provides exactly what the California collision repair industry needs: one independent, third-party conducting compliant labor rate surveys and providing one source for labor rate information that both insurers and shops can use, so everybody is on the same page.” Importantly, NABR’s approach eliminates the redundancy and inefficiency of multiple insurers conducting the same survey to the same body shops, and avoids the inevitable problem of costly and time-consuming reconciliations among separate surveys, as those surveys get different results due to differences in survey response rates or other survey inconsistencies. NABR’s CDI-compliant labor rate survey will be available to all insurers with automotive insurance business in California. For California collision centers, a personalized prevailing rate report for their unique geographic area will be included at no additional charge for VRS subscribers, and available separately for a fee for non-VRS subscribers. For more information, visit www.National AutoBodyResearch.com.
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Scratch Out Scheme
undertaken wherein an undercover investigator contacted Arias and inquired about the possibility of setting up a “scratch out” scheme. Arias worked at West Market as a car painter who agreed to participate in the scheme. Arias then gave the investigator instructions on how to damage the vehicle to avoid any suspicions by the insurance company. He also gave the investigator instructions on what to say to the insurance adjustors in order to convince them the damage was legitimate. The investigator—using an undercover vehicle— followed Arias’ directions and returned the now damaged-vehicle to him for repair. After a claim was submitted, a check for $4888.11 was issued to West Market. In late 2015, Lopez, the owner of the auto body shop, agreed to host a separate scratch out scheme and a second undercover car was delivered to West Market. Lopez also gave specific instructions to undercover agents on how to vandalize the car for insurance money. A fictitious estimate was submitted by Lopez to the insurance company for payment and Lopez received
$5,006.18. Upon inspection of the body shop, investigators found that the shop was not in compliance with worker’s compensation insurance laws. Auto insurance fraud is not uncommon in Monterey County and is a serious problem nationwide resulting in billions of dollars lost every year. As a result, insurance rates are increased to cover those costs. The District Attorney’s Office-Auto Insurance Fraud Unit works in conjunction with the Monterey County Sheriff’s Department MADCAT in investigating auto body shops throughout the County. Members of the public having information about possible insurance fraud are encouraged to report what they know to MCSO Detective Ken Owen at 831-755-7279, CHP Detective Chuck Rodriguez at 831-755-3818, DA Investigator Maribel Torres-Hart at 831-883-7588 or District Attorney’s Office Fraud Hotline at 831-755-3224. This case was investigated by Detective Arras Wilson, MSCO, Detective Chris Browning, CHP, and Investigator Maribel Torres-Hart, District Attorney. John Pearce of the National Insurance Crime Bureau assisted in the investigation by providing the vehicles used in the undercover operation.
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Continued from Page 9
CREF Career Day
students in the industry since 2009 when the organization embraced the change from helping schools with the I-CAR curriculum to philanthropic fundraising to support the schools. In 2016 alone, more than $12 million was provided to high school and college collision school programs through CREF. This was an increase of over 13 percent from the previous year. “We’re very thankful that Pro Spot hosted the event. Pro Spot’s involvement has been tremendous. They’ve donated nearly $400,000 to the Foundation overall (both monetary and in-kind donations), which includes welders that we are able to distribute out to the schools,” said Eckenrode. “It’s through the industry’s generosity that we’re able to have these type of events.” Ashley Olsson, the director of communications at Pro Spot, said it was exciting to meet the students and show them Pro Spot’s operation. The company owns three patents for special welding equipment and applications and works with the majority of the largest auto manufacturers in the
world. During the career fair, demonstration stations were set up where students could see where the company designs and manufacturers resistance spot welders, aluminum and steel dent repair systems, pulse MIG welders,
(l to r) Marmed Kay, Ronaldo Meza, CREF Executive Director Clark Plucinski, ProSpot’s Director of Communications Ashley Olsson, Oscar Callejas, Javier Ruelas, Angel Rodriquez and Cesar Ruano
rivet guns and tools, dust-free sanding systems, fume extraction and more. She said Pro Spot is proud to be a “made in the U.S.” manufacturer. “We want students to know there are a lot of jobs available in this industry,” said Olsson. “Most people who go to tech schools think that they can only
FinishMaster Acquires Hi-Tec/Professional Paint and Auto Body Supply, Inc.
FinishMaster, Inc. a wholly-owned subsidiary of Uni-Select Inc., recently announced that it has completed the acquisition of substantially all of the assets of Hi-Tec/Professional Paint and Auto Body Supply, Inc. (“HiTec”). This acquisition marks Finish-
Master’s first two locations in the state of Alaska in Anchorage and Fairbanks. With the addition of Alaska, FinishMaster is now located in 33 states and has 222 branches. “We are excited to join forces with a team who shares our commitment to collaborate with customers and build partnerships through exceptional service,” stated Steve Arndt,
Free
be body techs but what we’re trying to do is let them know there are different career opportunities available.” She said the career fair gives them the opportunity to talk to others in the industry such as collision repair facilities,
president and chief operating Officer of FinishMaster. “The ability to reach customers in Alaska is an exciting new opportunity for us, and we know by combining existing expertise with our national network of resources we are going to continue to appeal to the customers there. The team at Hi-Tec lives the same core values as our FinishMaster team nationwide and will very quickly become a part of our family. We are thrilled to have them on our team.” “This acquisition aligns with our strategic plan to grow in key markets and signifies a major milestone in our history with the first two locations in Alaska,” added Henry Buckley, president and chief executive officer of Uni-Select. “We look forward to continued growth in this new market as well as in existing ones.”
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insurance companies and technical schools. Service King was one of the companies at the event. “The benefit is to educate the students on opportunities that they can have once they graduate,” said Carmen Ayala of Service King. “The other benefit is for them to really
understand what they are learning and they can apply to real life and make a career out of it.” “It’s a lot of fun,” said Daniel Panduro, owner of Fix Auto Sun Valley, another attendee. “The emphasis is on meeting students today and talking about the collision repair industry as a whole.” Panduro said he enjoys coming out and meeting the students who are getting ready to graduate and really aren’t sure what they want to do. “I remember being in that position,” said Panduro. “I think it’s really cool that they have options available and we just want to be another option. “I have a passion for creating opportunities for our youth because I think it goes handin-hand with what we need.” “It’s really meant to open their eyes to the different things they could do after they are done with high school,” said Javier Valencia, a campus admissions representative from Universal Technical Institute (UTI). UTI regularly attends the career fairs to explain the types of training students will receive with the CRRT program and how it will benefit them in their future careers. “Students can earn See CREF Career Fair, Page 15
www.autobodynews.com | APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS 13
Porsche and Nissan Issue Recalls over Windshield and Airbag Issue
by Stephen Niedzwieck, glassBYTES
The National Highway Traffic Safety Association has issued two recall reports on defects on windshield bonding reported by Porsche and Nissan. On March 2, 2017 Porsche issued a recall on 21 of its 2017 models. According to the recall, windshields were improperly bonded to the vehicle frame and this may cause the windshield to detach in the event of collision. “An incorrect composition of the windshield adhesive could lead to a loss of the adhesion properties of the adhesive layer between windshield and the vehicle’s windshield frame,” according to the
report. The recall includes certain 2017 convertible models: 911 Carrera Cabriolet, 911 Carrera 4 Cabriolet, 911 Carrera 4S Cabriolet, 911 Carrera S Cabriolet, 911 Targa S, 911 Targa. 4S, 911 Turbo Cabriolet, 718 Boxter and 718 Boxter S vehicles. According to the recall, only convertible models are affected by the defect. “During manufacturing, the windshield may not have been properly bonded to the vehicle, allowing it to detach in a crash. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 212, ‘Windshield
Mounting,’” the recall states. Porsche will contact owners to inform them if their vehicle is affected, and dealers will rebond the windshield free of charge. Porsche has yet to release a notification schedule. Additionally, Nissan issued a recall on March 2, 2017 of 54,751 certain 2012 Nissan Versa vehicles due to a defect of side impact sensors. According to the recall, seat mounted airbags may deploy unexpectedly if the door is slammed. Nisan stated that degradation of the side impact sensor connector pins is the cause of the defect. “In the subject vehicles, dissimilar
metals were used in the side air bag sensor connector harness (gold ‘female’ connector and tin ‘male’ connector). In some of the affected vehicles this metal combination may lead to fretting and oxidation on the pins of the Satellite Sensor-to-Airbag Control Unit (ACU) harness connection. Fretting and oxidation on the connector pins increases the likelihood of a momentary communication loss from the satellite sensor to the ACU,” according to the recall. Nissan will contact owners within 60 days, dealers will install a new jumper harness kit on the main body harness and will replace the satellite sensor with a new one free of charge.
Nissan Issues Precautions For Repairing Bumpers with Blind Spot Warning Installed
Nissan North America, Inc. (Nissan) continues to be very concerned with the proper repair of our vehicles after a collision situation, especially as it pertains to safety related systems. With this in mind, Nissan would like to address a very important component of our Safety Shield Technologies, called Blind Spot Warning (BSW), and one of the specific repair considerations that relates to this system. BSW was introduced to some Nissan vehicles as early as 2011. On vehi-
cles equipped with this technology, the side radars, which are responsible for triggering the BSW, sit behind the rear bumper cover at both corners. For this reason, in a rear end collision scenario, Nissan DOES NOT support an repair, body filler application, or paint work on the rear bumper cover in the general area of the side radars. Nissan’s service manuals clearly state: “Do not attach a sticker (including transparent material), install an accessory or paint work near
14 APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
the side radar”. The damaged bumper cover should be instead replaced with a new bumper cover. In addition, since non-OEM bumper covers may vary in materials, build specifications, and fitment, and have not been tested by Nissan as far as compatibility with the BSW system, Nissan recommends replacing the bumper cover with a new Genuine Nissan bumper cover. Failure to adhere to these guide-
lines may cause the BSW system to not function properly, potentially causing serious safety concerns for our owners. Please reference service manual section “DAS” for additional detailed information. Nissan North America’s New Vehicle Limited Warranty, and Limited Warranty on replacement parts do not apply to any parts other than Genuine Nissan original equipment parts. Go to http://collision.nissanusa.com.
Service King Grows to 20 Los Angeles Locations, Partners With Performance Paint and Body
Service King Collision Repair Centers® has announced the opening of its 20th location in the greater Los Angeles area. The announcement comes as Service King recently finalized a deal to partner with Performance Paint and Body.
The newest Service King Collision Repair Center can be found at 3011 Lomita Blvd. in Torrance, CA. “This is yet another step in our mission to be the collision repair operator of choice across Los Angeles,” said Alan Saviano, Service King Market Vice President for Southern California. “Partnering with premier teams, such as Performance Paint and Body, ensure that we continue to grow in a way that best fits the needs of our customers and partners in the market. This is an exciting day for Service King and we look forward to growing together with
our new teammates.” Service King first expanded to the Los Angeles area in 2014. The organization provides all motorists with a written lifetime warranty on all workmanship, valid at any of its repair centers nationwide. “We are thrilled to join hands with Service King and its family of teammates,” said Gary Svecko, Founder of Performance Paint and Body. “This is a great step forward for our teammates and our loyal customers as Service King provides unparalleled resources that will benefit every aspect of our operations. We look forward to a very bright future under the Service King name.” The 15,000 square foot Service King location will serve customers across Torrance with the capability of repairing 180 vehicles per month. For more information, visit www .ServiceKing.com.
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Continued from Page 12
CREF Career Day
nine I-CAR certifications in our program—platinum level status,” said Valencia. “When students are looking for a school, they need to look for one that is right for them.” Long-time members of the collision repair industry also came out
opportunities available to them,” said Sobczak. “They go above and beyond, helping with support and getting the funds out there.” She said the career fairs are more than just about being a mechanic or collision tech. “We have kids and young adults in this industry who have an opportunity that I don’t think they realize is there,” said Sobczak. “The career fairs are an opportunity to show people and to show women that you can do anything. If it interests you, and you do it well, you have champions all around you willing to help you succeed.”
Upcoming CREF Career Fairs: Atlanta, GA - April 25th Chicago, IL - Week of May 1st Madison, WI - May 3rd (l to r) Javier Valencia, a campus admissions representative Denver, CO - May 8th from UTI, with James Lobaton, Alan Aldana and Jorge Nashville, TN - May 17th Grajeda Indianapolis, IN - TBD to show their support. Elisabeth Salt Lake City, UT - TBD Sobczak, a performance training co- Charlotte, NC – TBD ordinator from I-CAR, attended the Companies interested in particievent as part of I-CAR’s partnership pating in an upcoming event can email with CREF. “I don’t know of an in- the Education Foundation for more industry where people go to the lengths formation: Brandon.Eckonrode@edthat CREF does to show people the foundation.org.
www.autobodynews.com | APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS 15
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Shop Strategies
Stacey Phillips is a freelance writer and editor for the automotive industry. She has 20 years of experience writing for a variety of publications. She can be reached at sphillips.autobodynews@gmail.com.
I-CAR Announces Nationwide Initiative to Hold Classes in Technical Schools & Colleges with Stacey Phillips
Collision repair students across the country will soon have the opportunity to sign up and take I-CAR classes at a technical school or college in their local area. (I-CAR stands for the InterIndustry Conference on Auto Collision Repair.) In the past, classes were often held at collision repair facilities or other locations. Mike Miller, the northwest regional manager for ICAR, said many shops in the industry had concerns about the possibility of
losing employees by sending them to other collision repair facilities for training. “There will now be a neutral facility where the whole industry feels comfortable attending,” said Miller. “It is also a way that I-CAR can support the career technical schools and colleges that have supported us over the years.” This change is part of the national scheduling initiative I-CAR is currently implementing. The ultimate goal is to have training sites at 250300 schools where students can enroll for the I-CAR Professional Development Program™ (PDP). All I-CAR live classes will be included. “I-CAR’s PDP offers collision repair professionals a role-relevant training path that provides them with the knowledge and skills needed to perform complete, safe and quality repairs,” said Miller. Established in 1979, the international not-for-profit organization is represented by all segments of the industry including collision repair; insurance companies; OEMs; education, training and research; tools, equipment and supply; and other industry services. Miller said it’s very common for I-CAR to be approached by someone who is interested in taking a certain class shortly after that same class was
just held. Rather than setting up instruction on a reactive basis, Miller said the goal is to be proactive in the future. “We’re looking to give enough advanced notice so that everyone will have an opportunity to plan their training and decide when they need to send their technicians,” said Miller. “By being proactive, it allows the industry to look at our schedules and plan ahead.” In exchange for using the classrooms and lab space at the career technical school and colleges, I-CAR will provide the curriculum, licensing fees and other student fees at no charge. He estimates this will be a $5,000 annual savings to the schools, including savings of $1,100 for the annual PDPEducation Edition license, the inclusion of I-CAR’s Reparability Technical Support (RTS) portal access worth $1,700 and a savings of $150 fee per student. In addition, Miller said I-CAR is putting together a Purpose-Built curriculum. “Depending on the topic of the course and the needs of the course, it will determine whether it is delivered live, online or virtually,” he said. Live courses will typically have a hands-on component whereas online courses will be set up to teach technical information. During the past few months, ICAR has reached out to technical schools and colleges nationwide to discuss the national scheduling initiative. The plan is to roll out the program state by state over the year. In states with limited technical schools, such as Montana that only has one, ICAR will reach out to vendor locations to hold classes. They might be a paint company or a rental car provider. Depending on the market area, ICAR will determine the appropriate number of times classes are offered. In urban markets with more technicians, the training cadence will be more frequent. In rural areas, the training will not be offered as frequently, but Miller said I-CAR is committed to delivering all needed training to those
18 APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
areas. “We looked at the collision repair facility numbers and the student base and facilities that are Gold Class® or on the Road to Gold™ for I-CAR. All of that is factored in to the decisionmaking process,” said Miller. The majority of live I-CAR classes are four hours in length, which includes breaks and testing. Miller stressed the importance of staying up with current technology due to the changes in the industry. Part of this he attributes to the CAFE (Corporate Average Fuel Economy) standards. “They’re having to do everything they can to get vehicles as light as possible to achieve fuel efficiency,” said Miller. In the meantime, I-CAR continues to focus on educating the industry about collision repair. There are approximately 2,300 individuals who are part of the I-CAR infrastructure, either as a volunteer, instructor or staff member.
In addition to 145 full-time staff, there are 1,760 I-CAR volunteers across the country who help with marketing classes, securing locations and other support. “That’s the reason we are able to do so many great things for the industry at an affordable cost,” said Miller. All 540 I-CAR instructors have a strong knowledge about the automotive repair industry, with the majority having worked for a body shop or technical school. They all attend an instructor qualification workshop, as well as team teaching exercises with a veteran instructor. In addition, they are required to qualify for every course they teach and go through an Instructor Training Evaluation Process (ITE) to confirm they are prepared. I-CAR currently has about 270 committees throughout the United States. The committees are represented by all aspects of the industry. While the See I-CAR Announces, Page 22
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www.autobodynews.com | APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS 19
20 APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
12-15 use labor rate surveys,” said Molodanof. “[Even without a survey], the insurers can negotiate in good faith or pay your retail rate, that’s fine, but The survey must be completed dionce they start saying ‘this is all we’re rectly by the auto body shop owner paying’ they better have prepared and and/or manager. The survey also requires filed a survey that complies with the every shop to be registered with BAR, new requirements.” have the specified equipment criteria, The CAA lobbyist urged auto workers’ compensation insurance, and body shop owners to submit a formal Garage Keeper’s Liability Insurance. complaint to California Insurance Com“You cannot use Direct Repair Promissioner Dave Jones if they come gram (DRP) rates or negotiated rates,” across an insurance company that is reMolodanof stressed. “This has been a fusing to negotiate rates in good faith big stumbling block because insurance and does not have a standardized labor companies want to use the DRP rates; rate survey filed with the department. the new standardized regulations require “Dave Jones, in my opinion, is one retail labor rates.” of the best CICs we’ve had in this state,” “There are over 200 insurance said Molodanof. “He understands the companies in the state, and only about auto body industry and is very strong for advocate for consumers. You can have a pretty intelligent conversation with him about labor rates surveys, steering, aftermarket crash markets, while a lot of our elected officials have no clue what you’re talking about.” The California Department of Insurance (CDI) complaint CAA lobbyist, Jack Molodanof, answers a question posed forms were handed out at the by CAA Glendale/Foothill President, Hillel Shamam meeting and are also available Continued from Cover
CAA Lobbyist
on the CDI website and CAA website. “If an insurance company or adjuster comes in and says they’ve completed a standardized survey, ask about geo-coding and how your shop compares to the six closest shops (core area),” said Molodanof. “You’ll know right away if the survey is geo-coding compliant or not.”
additional three business days for photos.
● Insurance companies waive their rights to inspection if they don’t comply within the time periods noted above. ● Insurance companies cannot require customers to have their vehicle inspected at their DRP vendors once their policyholder has chosen a facility. ● Insurance companies cannot make deceptive comments about shops not in their program such as “their service or repair quality is poor” or “an inspection will occur at a later date.”
Next, Molodanof discussed a new law concerning battery replacement that will go into effect on April 1. In order to compensate for the battery plant contamination clean-up in Los Angeles that cost the state $180 million, Governor Jerry Brown has enacted a law affecting those who sell acid batteries to consumers. “As a repair shop, when you replace a damaged or nonfunctional battery, you’re going to need to charge an additional $1 per battery fee and it must be itemized on your invoice,” said Molodanof. “It’s an obligation; even if you don’t collect, you’re still responsible for the fee.” The last new law he covered concerned bandit tow trucks, which have
Attendees listened intently while Jack Molodanof went over recently passed collision repair laws
Although performing labor rate surveys are voluntary, there is, however, a huge incentive for insurance companies to conduct a standardized labor rate survey. “If the insurance company completes the survey and complies with all of the requirements, they get a rebuttable presumption … which means they can adjust your labor rate [they want to pay you],” Molodanof explained. “If you get a survey from an insurance company, you should fill it out,” he added. “If you don’t fill it out, it’s going to be used against you.” According to Molodanof, the new standardized labor rate survey form is “very straightforward and simple.” “The labor rate survey regulations are the most comprehensive in the entire country,” he added. “It will benefit consumers, insurance companies and shops.” After answering multiple questions from the attendees, Molodanof moved on to antisteering. The main updates were as follows and only pertain to policyholders (summarized by Jack Molondanof spent the majority of the meeting answering questions from attendees CAA Glendale/Foothill President Hillel Shamam): become a problem in Southern California, especially Los Angeles. ● Insurance companies have six “Bandit tow truck drivers pick up business days for an original inspec- cars and take off with them, and then tion and an additional six business the customer doesn’t know where the days for supplements/re-inspections, car is,” Molodanof explained. “By the provided the vehicle is made available time they find out, they end up having for inspection. to pay $2000 to $2500 to the storage facility.” See CAA Lobbyist, Page 22 ● Insurance companies can get an
www.autobodynews.com | APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS 21
native IDs, such as an employee motor club ID card, in place of a driver’s license,” said Molodanof. The last law passed this year that In order to combat this, the pre- the CAA lobbyist discussed convious law stated that auto body shops cerned windshields and adhesives. receiving vehicles from tow trucks “[When replacing a windshield], had to make note of the driver’s name, estimates on the POS systems have to license, and registration. However, a disclose to the customer that the vehilot of tow truck drivers did not feel cle cannot be operated for a certain comfortable handing over their li- amount of time while the adhesives censes due to identity fraud, etc. This dry,” said Molodanof. “The ‘cure time’ information also has to be included on the final invoice that goes to the customer.” He explained that the law came about due to a complaint that the BAR received from a senator in Northern California whose constituent had a windshield issue. Industry leader Charlie Robertson and CAA Los There wasn’t a single empty seat at Brookside Golf Club Angeles President Anthony during the March 2 CAA meeting Guinn also spoke on March left auto body shops in a tough spot, be2 to inform attendees of the CAA Los cause if the tow truck driver pulls Angeles March 14 meeting, which something sketchy, and their informafeatured a presentation on Moderntion isn’t on file, the shop owner could ized Collision Repair Business Solugo to jail for up to six months. tions. “A law was passed this year alFor more information on CAA, lowing auto body shops to accept altervisit calautobody.com. Continued from Page 21
CAA Lobbyist
22 APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
1Collision Network Adds MSO in California
1Collision Network has announced its further expansion in California with the addition of three locations in Berkeley, Oakland, and Richmond. Henry Seng, multi-shop owner of 101 Auto Body shops, stated, “We are optimistic about the future in our market, and we are grateful for the opportunity to continue growing our business as part of the 1Collision family of collision repair centers.” 1Collision Network President Jim Keller said, “We proudly welcome Henry and the 101 Auto Body team to our Network as we continue building our footprint in California.” The 1Collision Network is an organization of independent and dealer owned and operated collision repair businesses committed to high quality collision repair services, peak performance, developing trusting insurance relationships, and ensuring a positive, predictable, and seamless repair experience for both the consumer and the insurer. For further information about the 1Collision Network, please contact info@1Collision.net.
Continued from Page 18
I-CAR Announces
main focus has been class scheduling, the new national scheduling initiative will shift scheduling responsibility and allow volunteers to help grow I-CAR by reaching out those shops that currently are not training. Miller encourages the industry to learn more about the new I-CAR classes being offered over the next several months. “It’s a win-win-win for everyone involved,” said Miller. “Career and technical schools win, ICAR wins and ultimately the industry wins because we’re using a neutral location where students can attend and don’t feel like they are under any pressure. Ultimately, the motoring public wins with safer repairs.” For information about upcoming classes, visit www.i-car.com.
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Auto Repair Training Behind Bars in Northern CA by Giuseppe Ricapito, The Union Democrat
Machinery whirred. Sparks flew. Voices shouted. Adjacent to the main low- to medium-security yard Sierra Conservation Center (SCC) in Jamestown, inmates enrolled in the Vocational Education Program are putting themselves to work behind bars. “I learned a skill that made me feel like I should never be broke again. If you know this stuff on the streets, you probably would never end up here,” said inmate Brian Thorne, 32, standing in front of the hollow shell of a vehicle in the auto body shop. With more than a year of vocational training in programs such as auto body, auto mechanics, masonry, welding and carpentry, inmates hope their improved employment prospects will limit the chance that they return to prison. “You learn in incremental steps,” Thorne said, adding that he had been in the auto body program for about six months. “When you’re on the outside, it’s all about money issues. That’s why people end up here.” In all, 189 inmates, about 8 percent of the prison’s total population of 2,421, work as a part of the Inmate Vocational Program.
Sierra Conservation Center inmate Hector Anderson, 39, practices an overheard T-plate weld. Credit: Maggie Beck, Union Democrat
Whether it’s a vocation program or pursuing a GED, most inmates are involved in some sort of rehabilitative education while imprisoned at the site, said SCC Public Information Officer Robert Kelsey. The ones who aren’t are on waiting lists or waiting to transfer, he said.
All California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation prisons have education programs, he said, but SCC falls into the “upper range” of what’s available.
Flanked by metal-masked inmates in yellow leather coveralls, Brown said prisoners had to be monitored while they used “escape tools” such as bolt cutters, wire cutters, grinders, hacksaws, ladders and chains.
Life changes Inmate Ryan Hays, 30, said he had spent nearly 22 months in the program. “This is what I plan on doing. It interested me, and I like being in a construction field and building things,” he Sierra Conservation Center inmate Currick Moore, 49, (left) said. “Making something out positions an alignment sensor on a wheel as automotive of nothing, ya know?” vocational instructor Tony DeAnda (right) observes. Credit: In the low- to medium-seMaggie Beck, Union Democrat curity section where the vocational yard is housed, the prisoners are Classrooms In the small gated yard of the voca- serving terms for assault, burglary and tional classrooms, inmates typically some violent crimes. But those in the spend six and a half hours, from about programs envision the prospect of their 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. with a lunch break, eventual release as an opportunity to every day, to gain hands-on experi- acclimate back into society with strucence with their chosen trade, said Vo- tured and reliable employment. cations Principal Chris Sedler. Inmate DeAndre Parker, 46, deThe vocational yard is about 75 scended a step ladder from the roof of yards across and 30 yards deep, gated an outside shed constructed by the voon the wide side entrance and surcational carpentry class. He directed rounded by five classrooms and an “out-of-bounds section” staffed with SCC workers and inmates on building or maintenance duty. Rusted car frames are piled in rows next to long sheets of scrap metal. Stacks of lumber, dusty brick walls, and mounds of debris fill the common area. Between the corridors, prisoners in standard light- or dark-blue prison jumpsuits, or in purple vocation fatigues, take their lunch break or congregate for conversation. Just behind them are classrooms. The masonry classroom, chalky and sodden with liquid concrete, was a few steps from the welding classroom, emanating with heat, burning metal and flying sparks between cold sheets of steel. Welding instructor Steve Brown has spent three years teaching at SCC, he said, and has seen inmates go on to earn high-paying jobs as a part of the Iron Workers, Fitters and Boilermakers Unions. “There’s a lot of convicts in my trade,” he said. “Welding doesn’t care what you look like. Welding doesn’t care what you did. It doesn’t matter what your background is as long as you show up and do your job.”
24 APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
some of the other prisoners to check on recently installed shingles. “I didn’t like playing in the mud, I didn’t like burning myself. But I like working with hands. When I’m finished with this, I’ve got something everyone can see.” Parker completed all five levels of the carpentry course and now earns 37 cents an hour as an instructional assistant to teacher Randy Bland, 58. Parker said the team had to break down the structure a few weeks ago and lower it so the inmates could not see over the prison walls. Bland, who has been working in different capacities at the prison for over 17 years, said during his tenure as carpentry teacher he has seen multiple structures come up and down each season. “They break it down in the fall and build it up in the spring,” he said. It becomes almost redundant, though, he explained, when a student who has completed all or part of a course is released but later reincarcerated. “Most of the time you don’t hear See Training Behind Bars, Page 26
www.autobodynews.com | APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS 25
Continued from Page 24
Training Behind Bars
from them unless they come back. And once in a while, they do,” he said.
Recitivism Kelsey said there is no data compiled by SCC about inmates who have been involved in vocational programs who eventually return to prison. “The relationship really ends on an individual basis when they leave the gate,” Kelsey said. Inmates say their education offers a blueprint for success. Inmate Isaac Zamora, 22, has been in prison since he was 17. He said utilizing the skills he has learned in auto body, he does not plan to return. “This is my trade right here,” he said. “I enjoy this.” Zamora placed a car-buffering tool on the floor and stood up to admire the sheen on a Calaveras County Sheriff’s Office patrol car stripped of its external decals. When the vehicle was delivered to the prison, he said, it was riddled with dents, stripped paint and a variety of other aesthetic flaws sustained in the line of duty.
job anywhere.” Garza said some people have difficulty overcoming the stigma about criminal histories. “I get told sometimes, ‘I don’t want a felon working on my car.’ But my response always is, ‘What makes you think a felon won’t fix it in the body shop already?’” While some inmates worked on fixing the sheriff’s vehicle, others sat in an adjacent classroom watching a film about how to use a frame rack, Garza said. The room had all the hallmarks of an auto-body classroom: textSierra Conservation Center inmates in the automotive books, cans of paint, splotches vocational program, from left, Dan Foster, 48, David on the floor, bins of chemicals Homan, 34, and Nick Herran, 46, use a computerized and flammable signs checkeralignment machine. Credit: Maggie Beck, Union Democrat ing barrels on a back wall. “We bring it back to life,” said. But because it’s a prison, tools were in a locked, gated room marked by a red “Out of Bounds” sign and Job skills His teacher, Rick Garza, 49, has seen staffed by an inmate clerk. Prisoners students come and go throughout his approached the kiosk and traded a 10 years in SCC’s auto-body program, chip marked with their identification he said. Only when the students apply number for tools such as screwdrivers, themselves to learn behind bars can hammers, pliers, wrenches and grips. they exercise the discipline for employment upon their release, he said. Funding “This trade means they can get a Sedler said organizing funding for the Over the course of a few weeks, he and other advanced members of the auto-body course had stripped the vehicle to bare metal, applied a layer of primer, sealant, and then a fresh base coat and clearcoat.
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Sierra Conservation Center inmate Isaac Zamora, 22, color sands a Calaveras Sheriff patrol car. Credit: Maggie Beck, Union Democrat
Upon release, if an ex-inmate can explain familiarity with a certain kind of equipment they are more apt to be picked up for a position, Sedler said. But financing for applied learning tools are the biggest hurdle to keeping See Training Behind Bars, Page 39
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applied learning classrooms was a heavy task. Each room of the vocational yard was staffed by SCC officials, and a variety of tools, equipment and machinery that are all supplied via state, local, county, and private funding, he said. Sedler said state-of-the-art Hunter brand equipment for the auto mechanic classroom was the result of a competitive bidding by companies to provide the best price for the prison.
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Owner of Rio Auto Body in NJ Serves as Keynote Speaker for Career Day At Local School by Gia Gallone, CapeMayCountyHerald.com
On February 16, nearly 800 students sat inside the Middle Township Performing Arts Center (PAC) for Middle Township High School Career Day, eager to learn about the working world beyond high school. Students heard from over 40 presenters plus two keynote speakers, one being Lou Altobelli, owner of Rio Auto Body in Rio Grande. When speaking to the students, Lou focused heavily on success. “It’s not always about money and cars and houses,” he said. “It’s about being able to support your family and having what you need to live a comfortable life. It’s about happiness.” He explained that hard work is the true key
to success, no matter where you came from or where you want to go. Lou himself is a true example of creating his own success through hard work. Since he was a little kid, he always had a large interest in the automotive industry. He started working on
Lou Altobelli, owner of Rio Auto Body, served as the keynote speaker for Middle Township High School Career Day. Credit: www.CapeMay CountyHerald.com
cars at age 13 and developed a passion to own his own body shop one day. He worked hard and saved his money, and by the time he was 21, opened Rio Auto Body in 1994. “I invested every dollar I had into it, and eventually spun that off into multiple businesses between three counties,” Lou shared. Today, Lou is the proud owner of Rio Auto Body, Hi-Tech Auto & Truck Service Center, Court House Towing, Marmora Auto Body, Marmora Auto & Truck Center, Black Horse Pike Auto Body and Vineland Auto Body, all extremely successful businesses. Additionally, he sits on the board for Atlantic Cape Community College, Cape Regional Medical Center, Cape Assist, the Middle Township Chamber
of Commerce, Volunteers in Medicine and the Middle Township Economic Development Council. Lou came from humble means and was able to achieve everything he wanted to achieve and more. Additionally, Lou gave advice and strategies on how to reach that desired success, such as set goals, use good common sense and learn from your mistakes. Students and other audience members really seemed to absorb everything from the first speaker to the last. Students were truly interested in finding out what’s outside of high school and what possibilities exist within the job market. We thank www.CapeMayCounty Herald.com for reprint permission.
Stamford Firefighters Forced To Break Into Auto Body Shop To Attack Blaze
by Frank MacEachern, Stamford Daily Voice
Stamford, CT firefighters had to use power saws to cut open locked security gates to fight a fire at an auto body shop in early March.
Auto body shop fire in Stamford. Credit: Frank MacEachern
Firefighters responded to a 911 call at 1:14 a.m. Friday, March 3 for a fire at Bill's Service at 49 Gleason Ave. Initially, firefighters couldn't get into the building that had heavy smoke emanating from the singlestory building. Firefighters had to fight through heavy smoke, zero visibility and the maze-like conditions due to stored vehicles in order to find the blaze. The fire was doused by 2:38 a.m. No one was hurt, and the fire marshal is investigating the cause.
Your leading source for WESTERN Collision Repair News! western.autobodynews.com
www.autobodynews.com | APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS 27
Automotive Refinish Coatings Market Analysis, Segments, Growth and Value Chain 2015–2025 by Abhishek Budholiya
Automotive vehicles require timely maintenance and repairing to enhance the appearance and durability of vehicle by protecting them from external factors such as extreme temperature and UV radiation. Automotive refinishing coatings are frequently used in automotive aftermarket by end-users like body shops and repair centers. For durability, speed and perfect matching color the service providers use advanced technology such as spray guns to apply primer and color coats of paints. Refinishing coatings are also applied to components and the body of vehicles to protect from deterioration caused by foreign particles such as stone and other debris. An increasing demand for refinishing of vehicles across the globe has led to significant improvements in the automotive refinish coatings market such as development of advanced coating material which are eco-friendly and low-solvent content. These products also provide good blend of ease of use, speed, durability
and color match. Some of the underlying growth factors in global automotive refinish coatings market is consistent increase in number of vehicles in operation worldwide. Increase in miles driven, road accidents, and demand for recreational vehicles are the major drivers responsible for the growth of the global automotive refinish coatings market. However, volatility of raw material prices and enhanced road safety parameters are some of the major challenges in the global automotive refinish coatings market. The global automotive refinish coatings market is geographically segmented into seven key regions which are, North America, Latin America, Eastern Europe, Western Europe, AsiaPacific, Japan and Middle East and Africa. Asia-Pacific is a leading automotive refinish coatings market in terms of revenue due to rising vehicles in operation and increasing sales of pre-owned cars. However the growth in North America, Eastern Europe and Western Europe is expected to remain stagnant for the forecast period.
28 APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
Growth in the automotive refinish coatings market is relatively high in BRIC nations when compared with matured economies due to developing automotive aftermarket in these countries. This rapid growth in the market is fuelled by multiple macro-economic factors such as rising number of cab services, increasing car customization and rising capacity of collision repair and vehicle body shops. In addition, it is expected that in the next 30 years the total number of passenger cars in developing countries would reach around 3.5 to 4 billion. On the basis of product type, the global automotive refinish coatings market is further segmented into two sub-segments which are solvent-borne Coatings and waterborne Coatings. Solvent-borne coatings dominate the global automotive refinish coatings market, while for the forecast period, the growth rate of water-borne coating type is estimated to be high. In Europe and North America, automotive refinish coatings market adoption of waterborne coating material segment is
increasing rapidly due to government regulations to reduce volatile organic compounds (VOC) level, which is generally high in solventborne coatings. Some of the examples of market participants in global automotive refinish coatings market are DuPont Performance Coating, BASF SE, Kansai Paint Co. Ltd, Akzo Nobel N.V, KCC Corp, Noroo Paint Coatings Co. Ltd., PPG Industries Inc., and Matrix System Automotive Finishes. In future, the global automotive refinish market is expected to grow significantly in terms of volume and value. This growth will give rise to new product development with enhanced properties like quick-drying, cost-efficient and high-performance coatings.
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Shop Showcase
Ed Attanasio is an automotive journalist based in San Francisco, California. He can be reached at era39@aol.com.
RGI Spray Booths Celebrates Grand Opening of New Tracy, CA, Location with Ed Attanasio
region and selling into more than a dozen other industries in addition to collision repair, RGI Spray Booth Company is ready to hit the ground running. “We are all about customer service here at RGI and that is why we’ve succeeded in southern California, Nevada, Arizona and New Mexico through our Ontario, CA location,” Garcia said. “So this is a logical progression of what we’ve been doing now for the past four years.” In addition to making paint booths and painting accessories, RGI is a distributor of a wide range of collision repair equipment, in- cluding StarAliner, Titanium, Signature, InThis is RGI Booth Company’s second location and will novative, Infinity, DV Syscomplement its Ontario, CA by providing manufacturing tems and Prima Welding. support and warehousing logistics By visiting body shops and used as a manufacturing plant, ware- collision centers from Gilroy south all house and showroom and will employ the way to Canada to the north, RGI 20 people. Spray Booth Company takes a personal, Sales Manager Napoleon Garhands-on approach to selling paint cia is proud of this new facility, booths, paint accessories and collision which will complement his com- repair equipment, Garcia said. pany’s original location in Ontario, CA that was established in 2013. “We have big plans for the Bay Area because there are more shops there, which means more opportunities,” he said. “We have seen so much growth in this area within the last four years that we decided to establish a location in Tracy.” Ideally situated to serve RGI Booth Company’s Sales Manager Napoleon Garcia its sales territory, RGI Spray (left), Account Rep Mary Valles and Accountant Carolina Booth Company’s new facil- Ramos cut the ribbon at their Grand Opening in Tracy, CA ity is in a prime location to achieve its goals, Garcia said. “We are “I tell shop owners all the time that 90 minutes from Santa Cruz, Sacrathey can buy any piece of equipment, inmento and San Francisco, so we are in cluding a spray booth online,” he said. a great position to cover northern Cal“But at the end of the day, it all comes ifornia aggressively, as well as into down to support and service. When peoSeattle and even parts of Canada.” ple buy a spray booth from us, they With six sales reps working the know we made it because our name is
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on it and that there is no middleman.” Special guest vendors at the Grand Opening included DV Compressors, Signature Frame Machines,
Prima Welding, Infinity 3D Laser Measuring Systems, BendPak Lifts, Innovative Tools and Technologies and Titanium Hydraulic Products.
More than 300 people celebrated the Grand Opening of RGI Spray Booth Company’s new 60,000 sq. ft. facility in Tracy, CA on Feb. 11
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On February 11, RGI Spray Booth Company opened its second location in Tracy, CA at a Grand Opening that was attended by 300 body shop professionals, product distributors, assorted vendors and guests. For the first time, visitors were able to tour this new 60,000 sq. ft. facility that will be
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Tips for Busy Body Shops with Stacey Phillips
Stacey Phillips is a freelance writer and editor for the automotive industry. She has 20 years of experience writing for a variety of publications. She can be reached at sphillips.autobodynews@gmail.com.
Mike Anderson: Why Repairers Need to Research OEM Procedures on Every Single Vehicle Every Single Time One of the hot topics in the collision the same type of vehicle on a regular repair industry over the past several basis, is it still necessary to check the years is the importance of conducting OEM information on that same vehia pre- and post-repair scan. Mike An- cle. Yes, said Anderson, “The answer derson, president of Collision Advice, is 100 percent of the time.” He used an example of a shop that said in addition to scanning vehicles, it is absolutely critical to research was replacing a quarter panel on 2015 Ford Mustang a few months OEM repair procedures prior ago. When the shop reto working on a vehicle. searched the manufacturer’s During a Guild 21 webiguidelines, it found that Ford nar in March, Anderson talked required the roof to be reabout why collision repairers placed. Anderson visited need to check the vehicle another shop recently and manufacturer’s recommended noticed that Ford has a new guidelines on all vehicles, eveMike Anderson, ry time. sectioning procedure on that president of vehicle and the roof no “At the end of the day, if Collision Advice longer needs to be replaced. we aren’t researching the In another example, he said one OEM repair procedure every single time we do a repair, we’re not going of the OEMs changed the way the to know when things change,” said bedside panel is installed four differAnderson. “Just because we did it that ent times in 2016. “We don’t know what we don’t way today, does not mean that it will know,” said Anderson. “That’s why we not change in the future.” He often is asked if a shop fixes need to constantly and consistently re-
search OEM repair procedures.” In Anderson’s quarterly survey “Who Pays for What,” conducted in conjunction with CRASH Network, body shops were asked, “How frequently do you research OEM repair procedures at the time you write an estimate?” The percentage of repair facilities that said they research OEM procedures “all of the time” or “most of the time” increased slightly in 2016 compared to the prior year. (See graphic)
shared the following statistic, “According to the World Health Organization, 1.24 million people die in traffic accidents each year. On a global scale, traffic fatalities continue to increase steadily and are expected to become the fifth leading cause of death by 2030, unless countermeasures are implemented.” “We’ve gotten there faster than predicted,” said Anderson. “Last year, people who died as a result of a car accident was the fourth leading cause of
The #1 reason OEMs are up at night A few years ago during a Verifacts conference, Anderson heard a presentation by Rick Leos, formerly of Toyota and now with OPS Trax. Leos
death, above strokes.” The National Safety Council reported there were 40,200 traffic deaths in 2016; this is a six percent increase from the previous year. It is the first
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time since 2007 that more than 40,000 have died in motor vehicle crashes in a single year. Leos also shared research conducted by Toyota highlighting the three main sources of traffic accident fatalities. They include vehicle collisions, traffic lane departures and poor night visibility. In response to these findings, OEM manufacturers have developed accident collision avoidance technology, such as autonomous breaking and adaptive cruise control, to help mitigate these problems. While self-driving vehicles are frequently featured in the media, Anderson said after working with OEMs he found autonomous vehicles are not their primary focus. Instead, their goal is to keep people from dying in car accidents; minimize bodily injuries; improve fuel economy; and include comfort features such as blue tooth and other technology. “We need to understand that car manufacturers are building vehicles to keep people safer,” said Anderson. When he visits OEM manufacturers, Anderson said he always asks the same question: “What is the number one thing that keeps you awake at night as a car manufacturer?” “They’ve all
given the same answer—liability,” said Anderson. “They are all very concerned with ensuring that those vehicles are fixed properly.” He said the only sure fire way to ensure the collision avoidance systems are working properly is to perform a post-repair scan. With cars increasingly more complicated, today most vehicle compo-
nents are controlled by computer software. The lines of code control everything from tire pressure to collision avoidance, braking, backup, steering and other systems. While a Boeing 787 has 14 million lines of code and a 2013 fighter jet has 24 million, the average highend vehicle has 100 million lines of code.
Five takeaways from Mike Anderson’s presentation:
1) Researching OEM repair procedures is mandatory! It is NOT optional anymore. 2) Make sure to obtain authorization from a customer before you scan a vehicle and/or share the data with an insurer, OEM or any third party. 3) Just because an OEM does NOT have a position statement saying you need to scan vehicles, doesn’t mean the OEM doesn’t say it somewhere in the repair information. Research is mandatory. 4) It is NOT just about scanning. It’s about all of the recalibration, re-initializations, reprogramming and other collision repair procedures. 5) Educate your staff and debrief them about the information shared during the webinar.
“We’re not fixing the cars that our fathers, mothers, grandfathers, uncles and aunts fixed in the past,” said Anderson. “We’re working on a highly complex computerized device.”
How OEMs are addressing pre- and post repair scans Since last year, six vehicle manufactuers have released position statements stating that all their vehicles need to be scanned before they are released back to the customer. They include GM, Honda, FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobile), Mercedes-Benz, Nissan and Toyota. (The position statements can be found online: www.oemonestop.com.) These six manufacturers represent 61 percent of the market share in North America and are the majority of vehicles coming into body shops today, said Anderson. “Just because other vehicle manufacturers don’t have a position statement, doesn’t mean they don’t believe it needs to be done,” said Anderson. He said while many don’t have a formal position statement on scanning vehicles it clearly states in their OEM repair procedures that scanning needs See Research OEMs, Page 42
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Media and Publicity for Shops There’s No Free Lunch When it Comes to Your Website with Ed Attanasio
Many body shop owners have been seduced by the idea of having a free website while their competitors are dropping major bucks on their sites. They see a commercial on TV from services like wix.com, web.com or myfreewebsite.com and they get all excited at the thought of saving a ton of money. But they never question why it’s free in the first place. Haven’t they learned yet that when you save money, you also risk sacrificing quality? You buy a cheap paint and you need more coats to paint the cars. You buy inexpensive tape and it doesn’t always adhere properly. It’s Common Sense 101, yet I see a lot of free body shop websites out there and I always find it both surprising and disturbing. First off, haven’t you learned that free doesn’t always mean free forever? Haven’t we all been lured in at some point on a deal that looked sweet, but after six months the promotional price disappeared and now you’re paying full freight? It’s called the “freemium” approach, which involves providing a service for free at first and then later charging for basically the same service at a date in the future. It was a great deal when it was free, but now you are stuck with a subpar website that comes with a monthly bill. You got caught trying to save a few bucks and now this so-called free service is socking it to you. Most free website providers aren’t inexpensive once the free stage has transpired, so beware. First, they are going to charge you for hosting the site at a rate that is probably higher than most and if you want to make changes or add pages, for example, you better pony up additional funds. It’s never an easy task to customize a free website. They will usually
let you change things like type styles, fonts, colors, templates or themes, but if you want to do anything more elaborate than that, you’re out of luck. Free websites usually come along with advertising and they’re not advertising your shop. This is how these free website companies make money and one of the best ways for them to do this is by sticking advertising banners in prime positions on your website. One body shop went with a free service and then saw some of its competitors’ ads right on their home page, but that is the risk you take when you go cheap with your website. If you buy a free site, it also could be connected to a link farm. Marketing links is another easy way for website owners to make extra revenue. But if you have a free website and your provider has sold links on your site, you’re setting yourself up to be penalized by Google. And even worse, being blacklisted and re-indexed, which is essentially a death sentence from Google. In addition, your no-charge website could crash or go offline at any time without warning. In the end, you don’t actually own your website, which means it can crash and you can’t do anything more than cry or pray. In a worst case scenario, your website goes down full-time and forever, which means you could lose your domain name as well. A free website is likely defenseless to hackers. If you want someone from Russia or China playing with your content, then they are more than happy to oblige. Security is not a big priority for free website providers, so don’t be shocked when you get hacked if you have one. Restoring your site after you’ve been hacked can be a traumatic experience and some-
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Ed Attanasio is an automotive journalist based in San Francisco, California. He can be reached at era39@aol.com.
backend of a free website, any SEO you can achieve is nothing more than rudimentary at best. If one of the main goals of any website is to enable potential customers to find you easily online, a free website is unlikely to enhance your SEO one iota. You probably wouldn’t be surprised if you learned that once you sign up for a free or trial website, the customer service is literally nonexistent in many instances. If you run into trouble with your website, good luck, because you will never get them on the phone and they certainly won’t becalling you back anytime soon. There is a fine line between inexpensive and cheap, and if your website looks cheap, you’re probably going to be stuck in the cheap seats. You can save money on things like grocery bags and aftermarket headlights, but don’t try to cut dollars when you do your website the first time or re-design an old one.
thing you should avoid at all costs. Another drawback associated with having a free website is that they provide very limited space. So if you want to upload a wide range of photos or videos, you may run out of space rather quickly. Plus, your bandwidth will be seriously limited by using a free website service. This means that if you get a sudden surge of traffic or decide to host a substantial number of videos on your site, it could be pulled by the service without notice. Another way that free sites are limited pertains to the number of pages they offer and many of them feature three-page sites. A body shop website will look lightweight and cheap with just three pages and what do you do when you want to expand it in the future? One of the biggest shortcomings of a free website is that its Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is limited. Since you aren’t able to access the
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H OND A C AL I FO RN I A
AutoNation Honda Co sta M es a
866-411-4759 714-434-5270 Dept. Hours: M-F 7-7; Sat 8-5 kleines@autonation.com
AutoNation Honda Roseville Ro se vi l l e
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Avery Greene Honda Va l l e j o
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Barber Honda Ba ke rs fie l d
661-396-4235 Dept. Hours: M-F 8-5:30 bestchoice@barberhonda.com
First Honda Si m i Va l l e y
888-523-0698 805-584-6646 Dept. Hours: M-F 7-6; Sat 7:30-5 hondaparts@firstautogroup.com
Galpin Honda M i ssi o n H i l ls
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AC U RA C AL I FO RN I A
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Acura of Pleasanton Pleas ant on
888-985-6342 925-251-7126 Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 8-6 mitch.cash@hendrickauto.com
36 APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
Please contact these dealers for your Honda or Acura Genuine parts needs. C AL IFOR N I A
CAL IFO RNIA
C ALIF OR N IA
O R EGON
Honda Cars of Corona
Ocean Honda
South Bay Honda
Co ro na
S an t a C ru z
M il pi t a s
M e dfo rd
800-557-3652 951-734-9045
831-464-1800
877-475-1142 408-324-7460
888-471-7445 541-770-3763
Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-5 parts@southbayhonda.com
Dept. Hours: M-Sat 7:30-6; Sun 10-5 medfordhondaparts@lithia.com
Dept. Hours: M-Sat 7-5 terry.love@pscauto.com
Dept. Hours: M-F 7-6; Sat 8-4:30 mickw@oceanhondasantacruz.com
Pacific Honda
Honda of Hollywood
S an Die go
University Honda
Ho llywo o d
858-565-9402
D av i s
800-371-3719 323-466-3205
jgardiner@pacifichonda.com
800-585-8648 530-758-8770
Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 8-5 parts@hondaofhollywood.com
Robertson Honda Nor t h Ho lly wo od
Honda of Oakland
800-508-3894 818-301-3511
Oa kl a nd
Dept. Hours: M-F 7-6; Sat 8-5
510-547-8047 Dept. Hours: M-F 7-8; Sat 7-6
San Francisco Honda
Honda of Pasadena
415-913-5125
Pa sa de na
Dept. Hours: M-F 8-5 partsws@sfhonda.com
Dept. Hours: M-Sat 8-6; Sun 8-5 dfortier@uhdavis.com IDAH O
Larry H. Miller Honda B o is e
S an Fra nc is co
800-433-0676 626-683-5880 Dept. Hours: M-F 8-6; Sat 8-4
Scott Robinson Honda To rra nc e
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310-371-8320
Su nnyva le
Dept. Hours: M-F 7-6:30; Sat 7-5 mluna@scottrobinson.com
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Metro Honda M ontcl a ir
800-446-5697 909-625-8960 Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-5:30; Sat 7:30-4 wholesaleparts@metrohonda.com
Selma Honda S el m a
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888-941-2218 208-947-6060 Dept. Hours: M-F 7-6; Sat 8-5 N EVAD A
Findlay Honda
Sierra Honda Mo nrov i a
WASH I NG TO N
Hinshaw’s Honda Au b ur n
253-288-1069 Dept. Hours: M-F 7-6; Sat 7:30-4:30 rickb@hinshaws.com
Honda of Fife F i fe
888-229-2956 253-922-3331 Dept. Hours: M-F 7-6 Sat 8-5; Sun 8-4 parts@hondaoffife.com
McCurley Integrity Honda
La s Ve g as
Ri ch l a nd
702-982-4260
800-456-6257 509-547-7924
Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-5:30; Sat 8-5 fsanchez@findlayauto.com
Findlay Honda Henderson H e nd e r so n
Dept. Hours: M-F 7-6; Sat 7:30-4:30 hondapartsmgr@selmaautomall.com
Lithia Honda of Medford
888-234-4498 702-568-3531 Dept. Hours: M-F 7-6; Sat 8-5 fhhparts@findlayauto.com
800-322-8540 626-932-5614
Dept. Hours: M-F 8-5:30; Sat 8-4 hondaparts@mccurley.net
South Tacoma Honda Tac o ma
888-497-2410 253-474-7541 Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-6; Sat 8-5 bgregory@southtacomahonda.com
Dept. Hours: M-F 7-6; Sat 8-4 parts@sierracars.com
C AL IFOR N I A
CAL IFO RNIA
IDAH O
WASH I NG TO N
Acura of Riverside
Marin Acura
Lyle Pearson Acura
R iv er s id e
C o rt e M ad e ra
Bo is e
Fife
888-701-0725 951-688-1500
800-77-Acura 415-927-5350
800-621-1775 208-377-3900
253-926-3331
Dept. Hours: M-F 7-8; Sat 7-5 Ricardo.pena@hendrickauto.com Mark.reed@hendrickauto.com Jason.torres@hendrickauto.com
Dept. Hours: M-F 8-5:30; Sat 8-4 parts@marinacura.com
Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-6 acuraparts@lylepearson.com
Metro Acura M o n tc l ai r
AutoNation Acura of South Bay
800-446-5697 909-625-8960
To r ra n c e
Dept. Hours: M-F 7:30-5:30 wholesaleparts@metrohonda.com
310-784-8680 Dept. Hours: M-F 7-6; Sat 8-5 iwashitas@autonation.com
Hinshaw’s Acura Dept. Hours: M-F 7-6; Sat 8-5 johnny@hinshaws.com
N EVAD A
Findlay Acura He nde r s on
877-770-5873 702-982-4160 Dept. Hours: M-F 7-6; Sat 8-4 jmoore@findlayauto.com
www.autobodynews.com | APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS 37
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
Lean Operations
How to Create Loyal Customers with David Luehr
What is going to differentiate your business from the masses? It may not be what you think. What most collision repair shops advertise as their “unique value proposition” of high quality repairs is no longer sufficient by itself. Even though many shops still need a lot of improvement when it comes to a high-quality finished product, from the customer’s perspective, quality, is table stakes just for you to be in the game. They expect it. To differentiate yourself as a shop, you must have good quality, but a loyal customer wants more! Loyal customers, that will refer friends and family to a shop, need to have a great experience, not just a good repair. Repairers often seem to forget that they are in the business of selling an emotion, not simply a repair job. America’s greatest body shops understand this and spend the time necessary to train the people in customer-facing positions on how to cre-
ate this positive experience. If you are one of those shops putting a low-wage, unskilled person at the front desk to greet customers and answer the phone, you could be making a big mistake. If your estimators are not trained how to effectively create a positive experience for your customers, you could be making a big mistake. In fact, in my opinion, time spent training the front office staff with customer service skills could be one of the biggest opportunities a shop can take to differentiate themselves from the competition of our consolidating industry. With all the focus lately on training back-end operations, diagnostic scanning, cycle time, and so-on, customer service has been taking a back seat. Based on my own experience from shops I visit, I would say that customer service is actually getting worse as an industry! If you are reading this article and are thinking, “Well I have a CSI (Cus-
tomer Satisfaction Index) score of 95%, so I don’t see how this article applies to me,” you may have been lulled into a false sense of security. CSI scores do not measure a shop on all the factors that determine whether a customer will refer you, even if they say they will! Most shops think that good customer service means “gushing” over the customer and being annoyingly attentive. This is far from the truth. Think of the waiter at the restaurant that stands right behind you and fills your water glass every few minutes. This is not the experience I correlate with good customer service. There are several “emotional triggers” that must be activated to create a customer experience that will get them turned into a raving fan anxious to refer people to your shop. Importance Don’t most of us want to be treated
like we are important? I certainly do, and I prefer to shop at places that don’t make me feel like a number. You must take time to learn all you can about the customers’ needs, and what they find important in the repair experience and then deliver that experience to them. With all the recent emphasis in business that is placed on operational process, it is easy to forget to treat the customer like a real person. Don’t “process” customers! You must look at how your current practices contribute to customers feeling important. Do they have to fill out unnecessary lengthy forms, do employees call them by name, are they kept well informed throughout the repair process? Another way that importance plays a role in repeat and customer referrals is that customers also feel important when a friend or family member asks for a body shop referral. People instinctually want to help other people in
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need and also feel good doing so. I think shops would be surprised how often this referral does not happen, because of a lack of integrity, confidence, and consistency.
Integrity, Confidence, and Consistency Integrity by its definition requires that a business delivers on its promises to the customer. Without activating the integrity trigger inside the customer, you will be hard-pressed to get any referrals from them. Business friends, coming to my town, often ask me for restaurant recommendations and there is one that I always recommend. I feel confident to always recommend this restaurant, because every time I go there, I have a pleasant, consistent experience, and the food is always good. If the staff tells me that it will take fifteen minutes to be seated, it is ALWAYS fifteen minutes and usually less before I am seated. Are there restaurants in town with better food? Sure, but the experience is not consistent with each visit, therefore they are not showing me integrity to a standard, and they do not always deliver on their promises. Think of how this example applies to a collision repair business, but with an average tab of $2000!
Instead of gushing over your customers, and being over-the-top with your attempts to get a good CSI review, try treating them with respect, and attending to their needs. Here are a couple ideas that you can use to activate these emotional triggers that will get you referred!
● Provide a realistic promise date, and then deliver on this promise date. This for many shops is a challenge. That is why I recommend thorough repair planning/blueprinting prior to committing to a promise date. This shows that you can deliver on your promises…integrity!
● Another great way to show integrity is to make sure that your team completes all the little promises your estimators make, such as freebie touch-ups, etc. It is important to remember that if you forget to execute on these little promises, it won’t matter how good of a repair job you did on the rest of the car, because your credibility is shot in the customer’s eyes. Use a check-in sheet or other method of communication to ensure these promises are taken care of and you will be seen as a shop with great integrity.
● Don’t forget to proactively communicate with your customers during the repair process. Don’t make them call you to check on their repair status, this is no way to make customers feel important!
● Detail the car and make it cleaner than when it arrived.
● Show pride in your work during the vehicle delivery as you explain your warranty. This instills confidence in your customer.
Dave Luehr is the founder of Elite Body Shop Solutions, a company dedicated to the success of the independent collision repairer. He is also the co-author of “The Secrets of America’s Greatest Body Shops.” Visit www.elitebodyshopsolutions.com and www.bodyshopsecrets.com
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Continued from Page 26
Training Behind Bars
a classroom running, Tony DeAnda, 46, auto mechanics instructor, said. It cost around $25,000 for a half car with an operating engine connected to a box of switchable circuits, DeAnda said. But through the process of oil changes, engine swaps, and constantly striking the ignition, the engines eventually need repair or replacement. One solution is offering free vehicle maintenance or body work services to state employees, and members of county and state agencies, if their vehicle is less than 15 years old, Kelsey said. “It’s a dual benefit. Inmates get the work, and the state saves the money.” Clients are required to pay for materials, he added. But overall, the extent of the services offered, Kelsey said, was largely reliant on state funding. The depth of the classes and the number inmates who can participate varies from year to year. We thank The Union Democrat for reprint permission.
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Industry Insight with John Yoswick
—John Yoswick is a freelance writer based in Portland, Oregon, who has a body shop in the family and has been writing about the automotive industry since 1988. He is the editor of the weekly CRASH Network (for a free 4-week trial subscription, visit www.CrashNetwork.com). Contact him by email at jyoswick@SpiritOne.com.
Survey Shows How Regularly Shops Get Paid for Shop Supplies, Aluminum Labor Rates Automaker repair procedures and position statements have a clear and positive effect for repairers looking to get reimbursed for “not-included” items. That was among the findings of a recent “Who Pays for What?” survey,
four questionnaires a year conducted by Collision Advice and CRASH Network. Each of the quarterly surveys focuses on a different aspect of collision repair, asking shops about which “not-included” procedures they bill for, and about how frequently each of the largest auto insurers pays for those procedures. The latest of the 2017 “Who Pays” surveys, focused on body labor operations, is being conducted throughout the month of April; visit https://www.crash network.com/collisionadvice for more information or to take the survey. The “Who Pays for What?” survey results released earlier this year found that more shops said “having OEM documentation” was most effec-
In fact, having OEM documentation out-ranked presenting an invoice, whether from a dealership or an invoicing system, and even edged out “the ability to select the item in the estimating database” in terms of the most effective negotiating tools. More than 1,000 shops across the country responded to that particular “Who Pays” survey, which covered aluminum repair rates, OEM certification programs and vehicle scanning, along with how frequently repairers charge— and get paid for—specific shop supplies. Comparing the 2016 findings to those of the same survey a year earlier found that shops are reporting increased success in getting reimbursed for every one of the 17 different “notincluded” shop supplies asked. In some cases, the improvements in reimbursement frequency were not significant; quite a few items, however, showed marked improvement in the number of shops getting paid “always” or “most of the time” for these shop supplies when they were necessary for the repair. In 2016, for example, more than half of all shops (56 percent) who bill for plastic repair materials are regu-
“Once again, the survey results show that many shops are being paid for these items on a regular basis, even if your shop isn’t billing for them at
The survey asked shops that have earned one or more OEM aluminum repair certification to rate their satisfaction on their return in that investment
all,” Anderson said “You can’t get reimbursed for something you don’t bill for. And as more than 2,500 shops
who have taken one or more ‘Who Pays’ surveys can now attest, just participating in the four different quarterly surveys is a great reminder of the items and procedures that you are using or performing every day, but may not be listing on estimates or invoices.” Aluminum repair labor rates were another key part of the survey; those rates appear to have increased slightly from 2015 to 2016, though shops are generally charging those rates for a narrower range of repair operations. In 2015, the “Who Pays for What?” survey found that labor rates for non-structural aluminum repairs ranged widely, from $43 per hour to $118 per hour for repairs that were not part of an OEM certified repair program. A year later, the latest survey results show that the range, while just as wide, has increased slightly to $46 at the low end of the scale to $120 at the
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tive (among other choices presented) when negotiating to be compensated for “not-included” repair procedures and shop supplies used on a job. “I think that’s a big message to the OEMs,” said Mike Anderson of Collision Advice. “The fact that OEM documentation was ranked most effective when negotiating with insurers means that the position statements and bulletins published by the OEMs really do help our industry.”
larly reimbursed for them by the eight largest insurers; that was up 8.4 percentage points over the same survey in 2015. Insurers are also reimbursing shops more frequently for items like double-sided tape; more than threequarters of shops (78 percent) report regular reimbursement for this “not-included” item when it is required for the repair, up 6.8 percentage points from a year earlier.
40 APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
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See Survey Shows, Page 42
www.autobodynews.com | APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS 41
Continued from Page 40
Survey Shows
high end; 50 percent of respondents had a rate of $75 or higher. Compared to a year earlier, however, fewer shops (down 5.1 percentage points) said they are charging those higher aluminum repair rates for oper-
cent. Structural repair labor rates also saw the same slight increase over last year, from a range of $48 to $123 per hour in 2015 to a range of $50 to $130 per hour in 2016; 50 percent of respondents had a rate of $85 or higher. A number of the “Who Pays for What?” surveys have asked shops about their vehicle scanning processes. In the results released earlier this year, when
Which do you find most effective in ensuring you are compensated for ‘not-included’ items?
Shops said OEM documentation was the most effective tool in getting reimbursed for not-included items
ations such as R&I of components, or for refinish operations on aluminum (which fell 9.2 percentage points from last year). The percentage of shops charging higher rates for structural repair or replacement on aluminum vehicles remained virtually unchanged from a year ago, slightly higher than 91 per-
given a choice of eight different possible reasons for not performing a vehicle diagnostic scan, more than half of all shops (51 percent) said that sometimes the level of damage just doesn’t warrant a scan. On the other hand, very few (3 to 4 percent) said they skip the scanning process because it takes too long and impacts cycle time.
Continued from Page 33
such as an OEM manufacturer or insurer. He recommended having a thorough authorization form for customers to sign. Collision Diagnostic Services has a sample authorization form available on their website www.astech.com under Resources that can be used as a framework. Anderson suggested having an attorney review it to ensure it is binding according to a shop’s specific state laws. For more information and questions, contact Mike Anderson: mike@ collisionadvice.com; cell 301-5353333 or Tiffany Driggers: tiffany@ collisionadvice.com; cell 703-8980715 or visit www.collisionadvice.com.
Research OEMs
to be done to repair the vehicle. Last year during the NACE conference, Kristen Felder of Collision Hub, filmed a video featuring six car manufacturers—Audi, Chrysler, GM, Honda, Nissan and Toyota—and two insurers who were asked if a vehicle needs to be scanned even if it’s unoccupied and there isn’t a dash earning light. “They all said yes,” said Anderson. The video can be accessed on www.collisionadvice.com. Anderson offered various examples throughout the webinar of specific repair procedures that are required by manufacturers. In addition to scanning every vehicle, he said collision repairers need to pay attention to recalibrations, re-initializations, reprogramming, whether some of the bumper covers can be repaired and refinished, and other collision repair procedures. He also stressed the importance of ensuring a shop has permission from the customer to scan the vehicle and share the information with third parties
Despite the growing number of car manufacturers stressing the importance of scanning every vehicle, the survey indicates that many shops might not be getting the message. American Honda, for example, recently explained that a diagnostic scan is the only way to detect most trouble codes, noting that “only a small fraction of those codes actually turn on a [dash light],” yet a whopping 44 percent of repairers cited the absence of a dash light as a reason they would skip a post-repair scan. Some insurers may not be getting the message, either; the third most common reason shops gave is that insurers don’t want to pay for a post-repair scan (and even fewer want to pay for a pre-repair scan). Anderson said he’s even heard some insurers say that if no trouble codes are identified in a scan, the insurer shouldn’t have to pay for it at all. But as Anderson argued this past fall, “If your child got hurt at the playground, and you went to the hospital and they x-rayed your child’s leg and found it was okay, does the health insurance still cover the x-ray? The answer is yes, because it’s the only way to make sure nothing is wrong.”
The other three “Who Pays for What?” surveys conducted each year focus on body labor, refinish labor, and frame and mechanical labor. Shops can take the current survey (or sign up to be notified about future surveys) at https://www.crashnetwork .com/collisionadvice. The surveys each take about 15-20 minutes, and should be completed by the shop owner, manager or estimator who is most familiar with the shop’s billing practices and the payment practices of the largest national insurers. Individual responses are not released in any way; only cumulative data is released. At the website, shops also can download the results of previous surveys, reports that break the findings down by region, by insurer and by DRP vs. non-DRP. The reports also include analysis and resources to help shops better understand and use the information presented.
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Shop Showcase
Ed Attanasio is an automotive journalist based in San Francisco, California. He can be reached at era39@aol.com.
Only WyoTech Grads Work at Richard Wood Kustoms with Ed Attanasio
World-renowned for creating breathtaking cars that win top awards, Richard Wood believes in WyoTech, the technical school he graduated from
Richard Wood, the owner of Richard Wood Kustoms in Austin, TX, and a 1982 graduate of WyoTech, employs seven people, all of whom are graduates from the school
35 years ago. Today, Richard Wood Kustoms in Austin, TX, employs seven people and all of them are graduates
ing vehicles full-time. “We were one of the largest independent body shops in Texas with 87 employees, and then one day Caliber Collision called,” Wood said. “It was a substantial offer, so I got out, but also realized that I couldn’t retire.” Today, Richard Wood Kustoms operates out of a 5,000 sq. ft. shop located northwest of Austin in the Lake Travis area right next to his house on a lake. His commute is short and sweet and future expansion of the shop’s current size is evident. “Business is brisk and getting better all the time,” Wood exclaimed. “We have a long waiting list and [are] booked out for at least six months. We don’t do any collision work anymore, so things like cycle time and insurance companies aren’t a big part of our lives now. But I’m still attached to fixing cars and with my entire life dedicated to the industry, who knows, maybe one day, I’ll get back into that side of it.”
from WyoTech. He is giving back in a big way to the school which he said “Pulled me out of high school and changed my life.” Changing classic cars into amazing creations is what Richard Wood Kustoms is all about now, but his early days were not exactly easy, Wood said. “I was 21 and only two years out of WyoTech and I decided to start a body shop with my toolbox partner from school. We took an old 7-11 convenience store and used their old freezer for our paint booth and invested everything we had into the business, which was only $5,000. It was a little scary at first, but as our reputation grew, the work started pouring in.” In 1984, Richard founded Custom Car Crafters, a 30,000 sq. ft. shop located in North Austin and a 10,000 sq. ft. shop located South. In 2015, Wood was able to sell the shop to a large MSO to pursue his passion of restor-
To get the work done on-time and of the highest quality, Wood calls upon his all-star crew to exceed everyone’s expectations, he said, even though he’s never surprised when they
Wood helps out his alma mater whenever he can. In this photo, he is working with WyoTech students on a custom build
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continually impress him. “One of the best decisions I ever made was hiring WyoTech grads. I already know what they know because we all took the same classes. These guys are highly disciplined and not afraid of a challenge and that’s why they’re highly employable. I don’t have to re-train them and I surely don’t need to motivate them because they already got that part covered.” Wood’s attraction to working on cars got a kick start one evening when he was watching a TV show in 1977. “I was 12 and I was watching ‘That’s Incredible!’ and there was a guy on the show that was pin striping a car blindfolded,” he said. “When I saw that, I said I need to do that, but not with the blindfold. I got on my bike and rode to a shop nearby and said I needed a job and that’s how I got started.” Wood feels as though he owes something to the school and credits his success in many ways to his time at WyoTech. “The people from WyoTech came to my high school and pulled me out of there, which was definitely lifechanging,” he said. “My family was poor, so I knew that without WyoTech, my cards were already pretty much dealt. I was going to work at either a
chemical plant or in construction. Luckily, the folks at WyoTech saw that I had some talent and a passion for cars, otherwise I surely wouldn’t be where I am today.” Where he is today is winning best paint awards and doing vehicles for celebrities such as Jesse James, Lance
Rich Evans to keep wowing car collectors and fans for his work worldwide. To give back to his alma mater, Wood is more than optimistic to stay involved with WyoTech to give back in any way he can. For SEMA 2015, Wood worked alongside a team of nine other WyoTech graduates to build a
Richard Wood Kustoms is world-renowned for wowing car collectors and fans for its award-winning creations
Armstrong and Paul Tuttle from Orange County Choppers. He is partnering with top industry names like Detroit Muscle, Jeff Hayes of American Speed Shop, Mecum Auctions and
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1966 Ford Mustang at his facility. The project that was sponsored by WyoTech and the United States Military Educators Association (USMEA) included body modifications, drivetrain upgrades
as well as engine, electrical, and interior work. The nine WyoTech grads included three Richard Wood Kustoms employees, Robert Buchanan (Class of 2011), Jaime Hernandez (Class of 1997) and the newest member to his team, Jason Stults (Class of 2015), who was hired after his participation in the build. Woods also speaks regularly to high school students to share his journey while imparting sage advice. “I tell them that you don’t need to go to college to have a good career. There are a lot multi-millionaires out there in this industry that never spent a day in college. Find out what you love and do it. Learn as much as you can about it and then work hard. You will succeed and the opportunities will be there, and I am an example of that.” Wood, 52, has won multiple awards for amazing vehicles, but he never gets tired of what he’s doing, he said. “Getting cars ready for big shows like SEMA and the Grand National and working as a team to get it done, I still love that. People ask me about retirement, but that’s not for me. I would go crazy if I retired and I’m still passionate about my work, so, God willing, I’ll be doing this for many years to come.” PARTS DEPT. HOURS:
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Shop Strategies with Stacey Phillips
Ten Ways to Find Top Talent for Your Shop Finding the right person to hire at your body shop can make a huge difference to the success of your business. With Baby Boomers retiring and a critical shortage of technicians, it is becoming more important than ever to fill the employment gap. According to the Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF), more than 21,500 collision repair technicians leave the industry every year, a trend that has increased steadily since 1995. “Even with 80,000 young people enrolled in collision repair classes, there will not be enough qualified graduates to meet growing labor demands,” said CREF. No longer can you just put a sign in your window looking for new hires and expect to find the perfect technician. However, there are ways to reach out to find a good match for your body shop. 10 ways to find top talent:
1) Partner with a technical school Trade schools across the country are working hard to prepare the next generation of workers. By building a relationship with one in your area, you’ll have the opportunity to meet potential new hires and showcase your body shop. Javier Valencia, the campus admissions representative from the Universal Technical Institute, said that technical schools offer students the opportunity to gain specific knowledge that will help them learn what it takes to work in a variety of jobs in the industry.
2) Offer a job shadowing program or internship Inviting less experienced technicians into your shop and offering them hands-on training often leads to those same individuals becoming full-time employees. Many schools offer intern-
ship programs for students and will help place qualified workers in your place of business.
3) Advertise on your own website Set up a dedicated section on your company website to include new jobs. It only takes a few minutes to update the information and also showcases your company’s culture so potential workers will learn about what your business stands for.
4) Look for career websites There are a variety of career websites to choose from such as CareerBuilder .com, Monster.com and Indeed.com. By listing your job opportunity on one or more of them, it will help you reach a wider audience.
5) Post on social media Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn are great ways to advertise you are looking for employees. The next generation of workers are more than likely very comfortable on these mediums and use them frequently.
6) Offer perks A good wage is no longer enough to attract and retain employees. The next generation of workers is looking for companies that are open to flexible hours, make a difference in their communities and have open communication. They also want to learn and grow. Make sure to provide medical and dental benefits as well as the opportunity for advancement, which is very appealing to Millennials.
7) Attend career fairs Career fairs give companies a great opportunity to meet students who are looking for employment. “These types of events connect students with those looking to hire them,” said Brandon
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Stacey Phillips is a freelance writer and editor for the automotive industry. She has 20 years of experience writing for a variety of publications. She can be reached at sphillips.autobodynews@gmail.com.
Eckenrode, the director of development for CREF.
8) Pay well and offer additional training Provide your employees with attractive compensation and make sure they stay current with training. By investing in their future, you will have a better chance to gain a long-term employee. Incentives such as a tool allowance and tuition reimbursement are also appealing to potential employees.
9) Get creative In addition to the typical ways of finding new hires, it may be advantageous to think outside of the box. Consider reaching out to the military or even correctional facilities. Many have workplace development programs in collision repair.
10) Be passionate
Develop a culture of trust. Demonstrate that you care about your employees and want to create a team atmosphere where everyone is respected and appreciated. CREF is gathering student information as part of the organization’s National Student Resume Database. High school and college collision repair students looking for full-time, part-time or internship work are invited to provide their contact information to CREF at the end of the spring school semester. The database will be then be distributed to industry supporters. For information, email Brandon .Eckonrode@ed-foundation.org. The industry is currently looking for new ways to hire workers. If you have additional recommendations on how to find top talent, we encourage you to email us. By working together as an industry, it will help the collision repair industry grow and prosper in the future.
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Shop Strategies
Stacey Phillips is a freelance writer and editor for the automotive industry. She has 20 years of experience writing for a variety of publications. She can be reached at sphillips.autobodynews@gmail.com.
George Avery Shares Thoughts on Direct Repair Programs: From the Cradle to the Grave? with Stacey Phillips
Are customers driving the DRP? According to George Avery, who worked for State Farm Insurance for 37 years, the answer is a resounding yes. Avery said that direct repair programs (DRPs) were originally set up by insurance companies to offer better customer service and help ease the repair process. “When you get down to the bottom line, managing repair costs, quality and efficiency are the overall focus,” he said during a Guild 21 webinar in February.
multiple benefits as a result of tracking information, the challenge is when people look at different data points. He used the analogy of a bay full of ships. Data can tell you the characteristics of the ships, how many there are, the sizes, and how much they are carrying. “The point is that somebody has to get wet and get under the boat to see if there is a leak,” said Avery. “In our case, that’s an individual looking at a repair job and there are a lot of people
“As Dale Delmege used to say, ‘It starts to ratchet the oxygen down on a DRP in its success,’ ” — George Avery
“Typically, it’s the customer that drives that change for efficiency.” Avery, a past Collision Industry Conference chairman and State Farm executive, shared some of his thoughts about DRPs and reasons they might underperform. “The DRP added another level of complexity in some respects,” said Avery, who retired from State Farm in June 2016. “It’s easier for the customer but also has some stress for the other stakeholders.”
who don’t want to get wet.” Not only can it be time-consuming and expensive, but it can also cause frustration when one job affects the rest of the data. There is obviously more involved in the process than the amount of money spent on repair costs, according to Avery. For example, the data collected might suggest there are poor photos or poor repairs, but when you take a closer look, a poor repair might be referencing a piece of masking tape not pulled off or a rail that wasn’t welded correctly. “The The Evolution of the DRP and Big Data problem occurs when there is confusion During his Guild 21 presentation, Avery with how the issue impacts the rerecalled the days of writing competitive pairer’s performance,” he said. bids in the late 1970s and early 1980s Avery posed the following queswhen insurance estimators/adjustors tion to webinar attendees during his began writing repair estimates. “Compresentation: “Do you think big data is petitive bids had a great advantage,” he missing a step by not looking at enough said. “They gave the insureds a competvehicles?” Eighty percent answered itive price and I think it also yes—big data is missing a helped the repairers.” To help step—whereas the remaining make the process more con20 percent said it was not. venient for customers, insurers “For those 20 percent thinkbegan hiring estimators/adjusing that big data isn’t missing tors and setting up appointa step, are those people who ments for drivers to come in have confidence and perhaps for an estimate. This eventuare better at looking at spreadGeorge Avery, ally led to the DRP. sheets and doing analysis?” former State Farm Electronic estimates also asked Avery. executive emerged. “At first, everyone Avery then talked about five thought it was a glorified adding mabehaviors that cause DRPs to underperchine, but it really opened the door to form. He compared them to a person’s communicating electronically and that physical health and having conditions was the start of managing by data,” such as high cholesterol, high blood said Avery. pressure and overeating. “We all have Both insurers and repairers are curthings that that can cause you to get sick rently managing their businesses with or die but you can live with them,” said “big data.” Although he said there are Avery. “The behaviors that are happen-
48 APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
ing in the DRP contribute to the health of the DRP concept.”
Five behaviors that cause DRPs to underperform: 1) Managing performance with the DRP concept Avery said that DRP contracts can often be very detailed and he maintains that nobody really reads them. It’s like accepting the basic terms and conditions on the Internet before purchasing software or viewing a website. Many click “Agree” without reading the Terms and Conditions. While insurers outline their expectations in DRP contracts, Avery found they aren’t used in the body shop as an everyday tool to determine how to repair vehicles. Repairers are faced with making repair decisions all the time and most of them don’t take out the DRP contract to reference. Instead, most of the feedback they hear comes after the repair. “What happens is no news is good news,” he said. If nobody ques-
tions the repair, then they make the assumption “I guess it’s OK.”
2) Limited access to insurance claim handling practices Contracts aren’t able to cover every repair situation, according to Avery. When a shop has multiple DRP relationships, the insurer’s positions often vary, for example on appearance allowance, wheel repair or recycled air bags. “If there is limited or no access to get that information, it causes a problem,” said Avery. Confusion can also be caused when insurance staff handles situations differently or there are exceptions that occur. All of this leads to delays, extra phone calls and the time it takes to wait for answers. “As Dale Delmege used to say, ‘It starts to ratchet the oxygen down on a DRP in its success,’ ” said Avery. He said it is helpful for both the insurance staff and repairers if there is See George Avery Shares, Page 50
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that can be hired to validate a facility’s capabilities, whether it is in person or by collecting information remotely.
Continued from Page 48
George Avery Shares
4) Lack of communication/interaction “Most would probably agree that DRPs were developed to improve customer service and manage repair costs but it also reduced insurance claim staff,” said Avery. As a result, DRPs tend to operate with less interaction unless there is a problem or performance issue. “That lack of oxygen again starts to ratchet down the oxygen on the healthy DRP environment,” said Avery. Less interaction often causes delays and lack of communication, which can lead to rumors. This is especially apparent with social media. Avery said most of this can be avoided by having more information available up front. One way to encourage this is by setting up an advisory council consisting of both insurers and repairers. When Avery worked at State Farm, he participated in a repairers’ advisory council. As an industry spokesperson, he soon realized the benefits of having an active group like this and said it was an excellent way to help communication on both sides. “Sometimes changes are made; sometimes not,” said Avery.
something that can be referred to. Avery asked attendees: “Do insurers provide shops access to relevant claim information?” About 20 percent answered “yes,” they receive relevant information. The majority said they either aren’t receiving relevant information or are only sometimes receiving it.
3) Not inspecting repair facilities Although Avery acknowledged it takes time and can be costly, he stressed the importance of physically inspecting repair facilities to verify equipment is up to date. Otherwise, Avery said there are several symptoms of not looking at repair facilities. He pointed out that an insurer may not be aware that a certain repairer on their program is no longer a high performer or has the necessary equipment for the job. Competing shops are often frustrated when a less qualified, less equipped shop is on the same DRP program. With the rapid change of the automobile, it becomes even more important to inspect facilities on a regular basis. There are many companies
“Having someone participate in industry events, you can’t help but collect valid on-the-ground information. I think it benefits the insurer and the repairer, especially if the spokesperson is approachable and you have an opportunity where you can share your concerns.”
aspect to maintain quality control and ensure vehicles are fixed correctly. He said a potential stall of the DRP process is regarding efficiency. “This is the grave question mark,” said Avery. “I believe that insurers unintentionally put pressure on repairers simply by having different programs,” said Avery. “Basically, repairers wait for insurers to create programs and then they adapt to them. As a result, they spend a lot of energy with multiple procedures.” In closing, he asked webinar attendees if it would be possible for insurers and repairers to work together and create standard guidelines for DRPs. A clear majority showed interest in moving forward. A group from Guild 21 are looking at the feasibility of devising guidelines for the industry. Autobody News will continue to follow this story. George Avery provides consultant services and speaks at local, national, and international industry events on a variety of topics. He is an active participant in the National Auto Body Council (NABC) and Collision Industry Conference (CIC). For more information, contact George Avery at george @averyknows.com.
5) Limited or no physical inspections after the repairs are completed Avery also talked about the benefits of initiating a program to check the quality of repairs and validate the costs. “That applies to both the repairer and the insurer,” he said. “We all know that sometimes something can get missed.” The challenge for the insurer, according to Avery, is that there is no possible way to inspect every vehicle. Instead, a methodology is implemented where everything is “subject to review.” By not looking at some of the repairs after they are complete, Avery said customer complaints could arise from poor repair performance, inaccurate billing, and other issues. There is often frustration from the repairer and insurer about the time and money spent to re-inspect as well as from customers who don’t want to be disturbed after the repair. However, Avery said physical inspections are an important
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PPG Foundation Funds Collision Student Scholarships Through CREF
The PPG Foundation has provided $20,000 in funding for the Collision Repair Education Foundation that would be awarded to students who have demonstrated a career interest in automotive repair and refinish. The scholarships, worth $5,000 each, are awarded annually to full-time students attending a post-secondary school with
a focus on degree programs in collision repair. The funds may be used to assist the students with educational expenses as tuition, books, tools, and equipment. Scholarship award winners will be announced later this spring. Domenic Brusco, PPG Automotive Sr. Manager, MVP Business Solutions & Industry Relations noted, “We proudly
support the Collision Repair Education Foundation’s efforts in assisting the future professionals of the collision industry. Now more than ever do we need to showcase this industry as a viable career option for students and through these scholarships, we can help remove some of the financial barriers they face during their technical education.”
Industry members interested in working together with the Collision Repair Education Foundation in supporting secondary and post-secondary collision repair students, instructors, and their school programs should contact director of development Brandon Eckenrode at 847-463-5244 or Brandon.Eckenrode @ed-foundation.org.
OEC Announces Appointment of Executive Vice President of Sales
OEConnection (OEC), a leading technology provider for OEM distribution networks, has announced the appointment of Terry Cummins as Executive Vice President, Sales. Cummins will manage the Direct Sales team and is responsible for driving increased sales through automotive dealers and dealer groups. OEC web-based solutions help automakers, heavy-duty truck manu-
facturers and their franchised dealer networks increase OEM parts sales, drive greater operational efficiencies and enhance overall customer satisfaction. “We are delighted to welcome Terry to the team,” said Chuck Rotuno, OEC Chairman & CEO. “As an accomplished sales executive with tremendous industry experience, Terry brings a wealth of knowledge on how to develop
and execute sales strategies that support business growth for us and our customers and drive value for the end user.” Prior to joining OEC, Cummins was Vice President, Sales at Dealer-FX Group in Michigan, where he designed and built the US sales force and launched the company’s solution suite into Canada. Cummins also previously worked at Oracle and at Reynolds & Reynolds, where he served most re-
Oregon Collision Programs Seeking Donation to Help Educate Students Two collision repair training programs in Oregon are seeking assistance from the industry. The CTEC (Career & Technical Education Center) in Salem will open its new collision repair training program this fall. They have finalized a
list of large equipment still needed. Visit https://tinyurl.com/kznhv7r to see a copy. CTEC is asking for donations, discounts or financial contributions to help offset the $275,000 price tag. If you or your business can contribute in some
SIERRACHEVROLET
cently as Senior Vice President, Sales. “OEC is an industry leader and a top tech company due to its commitment to providing innovative technology solutions,” Cummins said. “They have an excellent track record of customer satisfaction and retention.” Cummins holds a Master’s of Business Administration from the University of South Dakota and a Bachelor of Arts from Michigan State University.
way, please contact Kim Hanson at (503) 881-4388. Portland Community College’s collision repair program at the school’s Rock Creek Campus is seeking vehicle donations. Vehicles that are 10 years old or newer are preferred, but
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they don’t have to run or look nice; body damage is okay as long as they haven’t been in a “train wreck.”
Please contact Geoff Snook, geoff.snook @pcc.edu, (971) 722-7586.
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Old School Know How
Ed Attanasio is an automotive journalist based in San Francisco, California. He can be reached at era39@aol.com.
She’s Retired, But Not Out of the Game: The Story of “Collisionista” with Ed Attanasio
If you have ever collided with Petra the automotive paint world. “I did an Schroeder, you know why they call apprenticeship for a paint company, but her “Collisionista,” because she isn’t wasn’t anywhere near paint at first,” she Chasidy Rae said. Sisk“I was in the business/administraafraid to take onwith any challenge in this male-dominated industry. If you ever tive side and eventually it morphed into encountered her at a Women’s Industry learning everything about the refinish Network (WIN) event or at any induspaint—how it’s made; the chemistry try conference, then you know that she behind it, research and development as is dedicated to helping the industry as a well as product management. I was whole and the women who work in it hooked at that point. Paint is a sticky with Thomas Franklin specifically. thing and it tends to do that.” While working in Germany, Schroeder had to gain respect from her male counterparts by establishing trust and continually proving herself, she said. “When I would meet with clients in many countries on different continents, with Ed Attanasiothey immediately assumed that I was the secretary or the assistant,” she said. “So when they found that I was in charge, they were a little shocked. But once they saw that I knew what I was Petra Schroeder retired after nearly 47 years working in the paint side of the industry, but doing, they came around quickly. I had she is still the current chair of WIN and a no problem with it, because my attitude trustee for the Collision Industry Foundation has always been that once I prove my(CIF) logistics self with my knowledge and demeanor, Schroeder recently retired after respect will follow. Many of these reworking for the same paint company lationships that were built back then are since 1969, although it has had several still going strong.” different names over the years, she exWhen Schroeder first came to the plained. “I worked almost 47 years for U.S., she immediately witnessed a big Herberts/DuPont/Axalta on two differdifference from the collision repair inent continents, first in Germany and dustry in Germany, where technicians then in the USA starting in 1995,” are highly-skilled craftsmen. “The edSchroeder said. “I now enjoy retireucation and curriculum to be a techniment, but am still very active as a volcian in Germany is very intense and the unteer in many of the North American certification process is stringent,” she industry associations and proudly serve said. “To become a master painter or a as the current chair of WIN and as a master body technician, you have to go trustee for Collision Industry Foundathrough 2-3 years of intense schooling tion (CIF). I also regularly attend CIC, and then a series of additional classes NABC Board meetings and other to achieve the highest level. In general, meetings during industry week.” I would say that it’s a more well-reIn 1995, Schroeder came to the spected profession in Germany, but we United States and landed in Plymouth, are catching up in this country.” MI, where she worked for American How did Schroeder initially learn Standox as its Director of Technical about WIN and how did her role within Services until 2000. From there, she the organization evolve? “I was at the worked for Dupont Performance Coatfirst WIN conference in 2007, and ings in brand development and then that’s when I immediately connected finished her career as a Standox brand with other females in the industry and manager and Industry Relations ManI haven’t missed one of their conferager for Axalta Coating Systems. ences yet,” she said. “After joining, I From 1969 to 1995, she worked in decided to get involved as much as I various positions in color service, prodcould, so I started speaking out and uct management and strategy for joining committees. Now I am the orHoechst/Herberts/Standox, in Wupperganization’s Chair and [am] delighted tal, Germany, where she learned about to be doing it.”
Old School Know How
Western Associations Media Matters
52 APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
If you’re not familiar with WIN, it is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to encouraging, developing and cultivating opportunities to attract women to collision repair. WIN recognizes excellence, promotes leadership and fosters a network primarily among women. To learn more about WIN programs or for information on becoming a member, please visit the WIN website at www.WomensIndustryNetwork .com. Schroeder has seen the organization grow in leaps and bounds and welcomes both men and women to join WIN. “We just hit 508 members in 2016, which is amazing, because we thought that 300 was going to be hard to reach just a few years back,” she said. “Many people don’t realize that we also welcome male members from the collision industry to join WIN. In fact, we have 30 men who are members now and whose support is greatly appreciated. We invite more to join.”
Currently living in Ypsilanti, MI and retired but surely not out of the game, what advice can Schroeder give to young women entering this industry? “I talk to young women in this industry on many occasions and work closely with 7-8 of them on a regular basis. We talk or text with them quite a bit about how to succeed in collision repair. I tell them, don’t get frustrated if you’re not immediately accepted. Do your job and the respect will come. If you can do your job and give respect, you will get it in return. You can achieve so much in this industry now— the sky is the limit. I tell them that it’s not a matter of if; it’s just a matter of when.” And one last question for Schroeder—why the nickname “Collisionista?” “It is a fantasy name, derived from the word collision,” she said. “Once I used it, people seemed to like it, so it’s been my moniker ever since.”
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www.autobodynews.com | APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS 53
Historical Snapshot with John Yoswick
—John Yoswick is a freelance writer based in Portland, Oregon, who has a body shop in the family and has been writing about the automotive industry since 1988. He is the editor of the weekly CRASH Network (for a free 4-week trial subscription, visit www.CrashNetwork.com). Contact him by email at jyoswick@SpiritOne.com.
What Happened to the MSO that Pledged to Double In Size by Making the Insurer the Customer?
“The fact is, on Door C, the ma- they have a door that [needs] three What happened to the MSO that pled- shop. Jeanne Silver, co-chair of the ged to double in size by making the in- CIC Parts and Airbags Committee, jority of the industry would quote that hours worth of repair and may have surer the customer? with Chasidy Rae said Siskthe shop was asked to order the door to an insurance estimator as been a repaint, that estimator is going door from three used parts suppliers being a clean door, with the full to hang up the phone and call another that the shop regularly does business knowledge in their mind that when recycler. The next recycler may not be 20 years ago in the collision repair with, without revealing the as honorable, and he’s going to say, industry (April 1997) Randy McPherson, the former pres- parts were part of a CIC proj‘Yes I have a perfect door.’ Then when ident of ABRA and now president of ect. Two of the companies the repairer orders the door, and when Collision Auto Repair of America were “single-location” auto it arrives, the repairer has a surprise. with Chasidy Rae recyclers, Sisk (CARA), said his organization grew while one was a That’s what happens in the real world.” into a $15 million company within 90 multi-location national sal– As reported in Hammer & Dolly. days of its formation last fall. He plans vage parts supplier. to double the size of the company by The results? All three Why Did Lou DiLisio say he was sick the end of this year, and continue parts were the correct year, to his stomach? growth both through acquisition of ex- make and model, and had all isting shops and development of new of the trim, glass and options 10 years ago in the collision repair with Chasidy Rae specified Sisk when ordered. (Hin- In 2002, a shop in Nashville brought to a CIC meeting facilities. industry (April 2007) McPherson said his company will ges were not specified when three used parts he ordered from three different vendors Former third-generation shop owner negotiate paint and equipment purordered; two of the doors to show how their condition compared to the description and Collision Industry Conference offered by the vendor chases direct from the manufacturers, came with hinges, but one did (CIC) chairman Lou DiLisio, now an and CARA company-owned stores not.) they deliver that door to the repairer, industry consultant, kicked off the will offer auto glass and paintless dent To avoid anti-trust issues, the comthey’ll have to negotiate the repairs on speeches during an “open mic” session repair. He said that his company, with Chasidylike Rae mittee Sisk did not reveal repair times the it,” Lieberman said. “They know very at the beginning of the CIC meeting in most of the consolidators, is focusing parts suppliers used to describe the conwell that if they tell the insurance es- Atlanta. on insurers as their customer. dition of the part, but said only that timator or body shop estimator that See What Happened, Page 58 “Now they have insureds that are Door A was described as having “light part of the process – we're not taking damage,” Door B was described as havthem for granted – but we really need ing “slight dings,” and that Door C Chasidy Rae “shows Sisk no damage.” How well the to embrace them with (insurers) as our customer,” McPherson said. “That’s a parts lived up to those descriptions was major change for this industry.” left to CIC participants to decide. “Clearly anyone who looked at – As reported in Autobody News. At its peak in the late 1990s, CARA Door C [and saw no damage] either had 26 locations in five states and $40 needs to get their eyes checked or they million in annualwith revenues. After losthe wrong door,” Massachusetts Chasidy Rae got Sisk ing $2 million in 1999, in mid-2000, shop owner Chuck Sulkala said. it locked the doors on its remaining 13 “Both the repairer who ordered shops – leaving customers’ cars inside the parts and I felt they were in differand 150 employees without their final ent condition than as described,” Silpaychecks – and filed Chapter 7 bank- ver agreed. “If you look at Door C, I Right Part. Right Price. Right Now. ruptcy. McPherson blamed the col- would venture to say that any repairer with Chasidy Rae Sisk lapse on CARA’s rapid and far-flung would return that door. Yet ‘shows no growth. His goal, he readily admits, damage’ is the exact description [the was to capitalize on the late-1990s seller provided].” So. California Idaho Wall Street appetite for industry “rollThe committee also checked to ups” or consolidators. see if any of the doors had been refinished. Two of the doors had consistent Chasidy Siskmil thickness of 3.0; Door C, NAN NUYS BOISE What happened with when CIC ordered Rae 3 paint used door assemblies to see what the however, had mil thickness that var818-778-2005 208-672-3402 ied from 4.5 to 5, leading the commitvendors delivered? 818-778-2090 Fax tee to suspect the door was a blended www.galpin.com panel in a previous repair. 15 years ago in the collision repair CIC participant Herb Lieberindustry (April 2002) with Chasidy Rae Sisk Participants at the Collision Industry man of Lakenor LKQ Auto Salvage Conference (CIC) in Nashville hovin Santa Fe Springs, CA, said inaccuered around three Ford Taurus left rate descriptions of parts condition is front door assemblies, ordered and all too common a problem in his inTrust your order to the collision parts specialists at these fine Dealers brought to the meeting by a Nashville dustry.
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with Ed Attanasio
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Shop Strategies
Stacey Phillips is a freelance writer and editor for the automotive industry. She has 20 years of experience writing for a variety of publications. She can be reached at sphillips.autobodynews@gmail.com.
Award-Winning CA Dealership Collision Center Says Employee Satisfaction and Customer Satisfaction Are One and the Same with Stacey Phillips
Body Shops Giving Back
best care of our customers and emLexus Toyota Carlsbad Collision Cenployees, it will yield incredible results. ter in greater San DiegoStacey recently Phillips rewith ceived the prestigious Lexus, Toyota We know that our team members are certified shop of the year award. The the most important assets to building a facility opened in 1983 with 10,000 world-class business. If you hire and
and increased efficiencies. It is with “stakeholders” like this that help create greater successes for all entities.
How long have you worked at Q: the collision repair shop and Tips for Busy Body Shopswhat is your background in the indus-
with Stacey Phillips
My SEMA with Stacey Phillips There are more than 52 employees at the award-winning collision center
square feet of production space, but by train the best, our customers/guests 2005, the collision center had relowill experience legendary service, and cated to a new building and a 48,000I truly believe that it shows in our rewith Victoria Antonelli square-foot state-of-the-art facility. It sults of employee satisfaction, cuswas constructed for optimum effitomer satisfaction and ultimately, profits and growth. ciency. Autobody News talked to Rudy Romero, the collision manager at ToyPart of our successes in 2016 were ota Carlsbad, about the award and made at the beginning of the year when what makes the collision center so successful.
Shop Strategies
try?
I was hired by this incredible company on August 8, 2008. A: I’ve been in this end of the industry
for 25 years now and worked for some of the best automotive groups in the country, such as the Bob Baker Automotive, Larry Miller Automotive and Penske Automotive Groups. I took everything that I learned along the way and brought all my teachings and ideas to Toyota Carlsbad, which is Oceanside Auto Country Inc., owned by Judy Jones-Cone. Mrs. JonesCone and her executive management
has afforded me the opportunity and support to build an incredible TEAM with a fantastic facility that produces world-class employees in a fantastic environment.
Can you tell us more about your Q: team? We have 52 employees at the award-winning collision center. A: Our number one focus is employee
satisfaction/guest satisfaction! They are one and the same. Our team members are customers and the face of the business. The employees are the customers of the management—we make the team members happy, they make the business grow! Nothing could be as important as each and every employee here. Our team of technicians takes pride in their workmanship. Each one has an aver-
The Right Parts. A Perfect Fit.
Product Innovation
Congratulations on reQ: ceiving the nation’s most prestigious award for
with Ed Attanasio
Lexus, Toyota certified shop of the year! Can you tell us about the award?
We received this presA: tigious award, or notification of it, at the end of
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Lexus Toyota Carlsbad Collision Center recently received the prestigious award for Lexus, Toyota certified shop of the year
February 2017. There will be an awards ceremony and celebration coming up soon, which will be a nice surprise for the entire team and spouses/guests, including some executives from the Lexus corporate office.
What are some of the shop's Q: best practices that set your facility apart from others in the industry
and may have contributed to receiving the award?
We really focus on the basics A: and believe that by taking the
Toyota Carlsbad Collision, FinishMaster, PPG and 3M made a commitment to assess Toyota Carlsbad Collisions current KPIs and SOPs and meet quarterly to make incremental improvements. We were all committed to re-writing the playbook for our shop, which helped reduce waste, “MUDA” (the Japanese word for wasted movement). We also implemented new processes, “Kaizen,” (a word used for continuous improvement) as part of our SOPs, which ultimately reduced costs
56 APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
SO. CALIFORNIA
Galpin Mazda Van Nuys
818-778-2005 Fax 818-778-2090 www.galpin.com
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Mazda Vacaville Vacaville
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age of 15 years of experience and they provide quality auto body repair and refinishing for our customers.
Q:
What special features were added to your collision repair center since the renovation in 2005? Our collision center now feaA: tures the latest in technology and equipment including frame ma-
chines, measuring systems, dimension charts, oxy-acetylene resistance, MIG welding equipment, a PPG refinishing system and climate-controlled downdraft paint booths. In addition, we have networked and wireless computerized estimating with digital imaging. More than $1 million has been invested in our renovated facility and specialized equipment so we can offer our customers the latest repair techniques and procedures. We have 59 repair bays and about 350 vehicles are repaired every month. Since opening in 1983, we have repaired 84,000 vehicles! The goal is to put our customers and their families back on the road as safely and quickly as possible.
waiting for their vehicles to be repaired?
We designed a waiting area with A: our customers in mind. We have Wi-Fi, satellite TV, coffee, treats and a
We have many certifications on A: many levels, with not only Toyota and Lexus, being master certified
in both realms, but I believe we’re the only Lexus certified collision center in San Diego County, and the first Lexus LFA certified collision center in the country! We strive to be #1 in all facets of the automotive industry on all levels, and are very proud of our achievements. We win these awards because I feel we have the best owner in the country who is always willing to listen, provide us with support and the tools that we need to be the best we can be. More than $1 million has been invested in the renovated facility and specialized equipment
telephone. Onsite Toyota rentals are available through Toyota Rent a Car (TRAC) for their convenience and we happen to be located next to Hertz. A free shuttle service is provided free of charge and runs every hour to nearby shopping, the beach, LEGOLAND and the Coaster train, which are all located in our vicinity.
How do you ensure your cusHow many certifications does Q: tomers are comfortable while Q: the collision center have?
other awards has Q: theWhatfacility received?
The dealership also received the prestigious Toyota President’s Award, which is a very high honor and is only awarded to dealerships that demonstrate a commitment to maintaining Toyota’s high standards for customer satisfaction.
How does your shop get inQ: volved in the community? We support our community in A: many ways, continuously giving back to local charities, groups,
schools, our military and their families. Some of these include YMCA Camp Pendelton USMC, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Carlsbad, local high school athletics, food drives for the San Diego County Food Bank, and blood drives.
Toyota Carlsbad is one of the What message would you like A: Q: most award-winning dealerto share with your team? ships in southern California. We have I am very proud of my team and been the recipient of the Toyota Motor Sales “Collision Center Excellence” A: very thankful that they continue to choose me as their leader in this inaward from 2009-2016. The award
recognizes the outstanding level of detail, craftsmanship and excellence that is at the foundation of the service we provide.
credible adventure and am blessed to work with the best people in the industry. We are the champions—#1 in the nation for 2017!
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Continued from Page 54
What Happened
“I’ve been part of this industry my entire life, and in the last year, I gotta tell you the things I’ve seen going on in this industry just make me sick to my stomach,” DiLisio said. “We need to unite and start to address some of these issues instead of allowing people to run all over us. I could spend the next five hours on specifics but…CARSTAR just wrote a letter that pretty much says the exact same thing: enough is enough.” DiLisio was referring to a recent open letter to the industry from Dick Cross, CEO of the CARSTAR franchise chain of shops. In the letter, Cross said that his company sees “a heightened air of tension across our franchise system that we believe represents the emotional state of our entire industry.” That tension, Cross said, is based in part on new claims handling programs and by the economic reality of buyers (insurers) taking advantage of an excess supply (collision shop capacity). DiLisio was one of several of those who spoke at CIC who applauded
CARSTAR for its letter urging “responsible push-back” by shops on such issues as unreasonable allowances for blend times and materials. – As reported in Northwest Automotive Journal. Cross led CARSTAR until 2011, when he was succeeded by David Byers.
In 2002, Dick Cross was CEO of the CARSTAR organization, and wrote an open letter to the industry calling for “responsible push-back” by shops on such issues as unreasonable allowances for blend times and materials
What was the real difference between non-Certified and Certified Shops?
5 years ago in the collision repair industry (April 2012) Steve Nantau of Ford Motor Company, who has been involved in the ‘in-
Auto Care Caucus Filed in Congress by Auto Care Association
One of the goals of the Auto Care Association’s government affairs program is to develop a team of legislators in the auto care industry’s corner when it comes to impacting legislation under consideration on Capitol Hill. The Association is
pleased to announce that Reps. Scott Perry, R-Pa., and Brendan Boyle, D-Pa., have agreed to become co-chairs of the official Auto Care Caucus in the U.S. House of Representatives. What exactly is a caucus? Caucuses, as they relate to Congress, represent and pursue the interests of a particular community. They can help identify other like-minded legislators who support a particular hobby or interest, and serve as a source of education for congressional staff and other officials on certain needs, views and concerns. Therefore, Reps. Perry and Boyle, as founding members of
the Auto Care Caucus, have agreed to take up the views of the auto care industry and advocate on our behalf amongst their peers. The 115th Congress has already been subjected to a high level of scrutiny from both the public and the media, but no group will be watching Capitol Hill more closely than the business community. With legislation addressing such issues as tax reform, healthcare, immigration and infrastructure on the horizon, businesses within the auto care industry and outside of it will all be affected in some way. The voice of the auto care industry needs to be heard and a caucus offers us another valuable tool to ensure that we have a seat at the table during these debates. Having a caucus with the Auto Care name is a great start, but now we want to ensure that it is effective. The larger the caucus, the greater the influence. We need to use this opportunity to educate legislators on our industry’s most pressing issues and enlist them to fight on our behalf. Recruitment is in full swing and members of the Auto Care Association are encouraged to contact their U.S. Representative and request that they join the Auto Care Caucus.
58 APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
dustry standards’ effort since 2007, said he believes a standards program will only be effective if the investment by a shop to achieve and maintain certification is recognized and rewarded. “Somehow the customer has to be aware there’s a certified shop and a non-certified shop, and they have to choose the certified shop,” Nantau said during the recent Collision Repair Executive Webcast. “And in some way I think the insurance company has to recognize that, and either incorporate that in their direct repair programs, or compensate the repair shop for spending the money to become certified.” He said he supports the idea of a single, third-party certifying entity, because otherwise he foresees only a growth in the number of automaker and independent certification programs, few of which will gain enough traction to achieve consumer awareness. Paul Gange of Fix Auto USA said the problem he sees with automaker certification programs is they are open only to those independent shops that have a relationship with a dealer, often excluding equally-qualified shops.
“Repairers willing and capable of…adhering to standard specifications and doing the work that’s it’s going to take to ensure that they can repair vehicles properly should have a right to repair that vehicle,” Gange said. “I would not want there to be a standard that excludes a shop that wanted to adhere to the standard but perhaps wasn’t able to participate because it didn’t have the endorsement of another organization.” Nantau said he doesn’t disagree with Gange. “If there was just one (certifying) entity that could be recognized by everybody, that would be probably be best for the industry,” he said. “I just don’t know if we can get there. The OEMs are (launching their own certification programs), and I think we’ll see more of them go that direction.” – As reported in CRASH Network (www.CrashNetwork.com), April 23, 2012. Nantau was correct in doubting the industry’s willingness or ability to develop and adopt a single standards program for shops, and the number of automaker and third-party shop certifications has continued to proliferate.
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www.autobodynews.com | APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS 59
Precision Collision Center Earns Assured Performance Certification and Top Automaker Recognition
Precision Collision Center has been officially Certified by Assured Performance, a non-profit consumer advocacy organization for maintaining the right tools, equipment, training, and facility necessary to repair the participating Automaker brand vehicles according to the manufacturer’s specifications. In achieving their Certification, Precision Collision Center is now an integral part of the most advanced repair capable and efficient auto body repair network in the world. Adding to their credentials, Precision Collision Center is officially recognized by Assured Performance, FCA, GM, Ford, Nissan, and Hyundai. To become Certified and officially recognized by the various Automakers, Precision Collision Center passed the rigorous Certification process essential to help ensure a proper and safe repair of the new generation of advanced vehicles. Less than 5 percent of body shops across the nation are able to meet the stringent requirements to become officially Certified and recognized. The Certified network is made up exclusively of best-in-class collision repair businesses that have met or exceeded the stringent requirements of the Certification program.
According to Precision Collision Center owner, Jim McGrew, “Our business has been built on a foundation of excellence and ethical business practices. Our state-of-the-art facility and certified technicians give us the ability to achieve this Certified status.” The Certification criteria is based upon auto manufacturer requirements. These are critical to ensure the vehicle fit, finish, durability, value and safety following an accident. As new model vehicles are being introduced that use lightweight high-strength materials and advanced technology, a proper repair according to manufacturer specification is even more important than ever to ensure the passenger safety and proper performance of the vehicle. Auto manufacturers want to ensure that consumers have the option of Certified collision repair wherever they live, work, or travel. “Consumers need the confidence and peace of mind to know their vehicle is repaired by a shop that has what it takes to ensure the vehicle safety," said Scott Biggs, CEO of Assured Performance Collision Care. "Precision Collision Center is officially a Collision Care Provider. They represent the standard by which all other body shops are measured.”
CARSTAR and Automotive Training Coordinators Partner for I-CAR Gold Certification Process
CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts has partnered with Automotive Training Coordinators (ATC) to simplify the I-CAR Gold Classification process for its owners.
“The I-CAR Gold Classification process can be a challenging, timeconsuming and at times frustrating process for our shops,” said Melissa Miller, vice president of operations for CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts. “I-CAR Gold is a key component of the EDGE Performance Platform and an area we recognized where we could help our franchisees. Automotive Training Coordinators is able to provide a personalized service allowing our franchise owners and employees to better understand requirements, schedule training, attend training and ensure that the credit is properly posted to their records.” ATC will work closely with the
shop managers, estimating and technician staff to manage their I-CAR requirements by their designated role. Throughout the process, ATC will work closely with management to establish goals, budgets and timelines to Gold Class, OEM or other programs by renewal dates. “We are pleased to become part of CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts’ success formula and support their efforts to meet and maintain training requirements,” stated Marie Peevy, owner of Automotive Training Coordinators, LLC. “Engaging ATC is evidence of their determination to succeed.” The goal of the CARSTAR EDGE Performance Platform is to create a culture of learning, meet insurance performance compliance and produce quality repairs. Now in its fourth year, the program is a sequenced process of implementation producing best-in-class people, processes and partnerships to deliver industry leading key performance indicators.
For more information, visit www.carstar .com.
60 APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
BASF Offers Exclusive Bentley Level 1 and Level 2 Refinish Training Courses
The BASF Glasurit® paint system continues to be the only paint system approved for the repair of Bentley vehicles. To ensure all Bentley vehicles are repaired to their pre-accident condition, all Bentley accredited technicians are required to be certified by BASF Glasurit trainers every three years. The 2017 Bentley Level 1 Glasurit Refinish training schedule for North America is: BEN100 Glasurit 90 Line - National Rule March 14-16, 2017, Jessup, MD BEN100 Glasurit 90 Line - Low VOC March 21-23, 2017, Buena Park, CA
This course provides technicians with comprehensive knowledge of correct Glasurit application techniques approved by Bentley. Level 1 concentrates on the repair
procedures for Mirror, Piano and Satin finishes. The 2017 Bentley Level 2 Glasurit Refinish training schedule for North America is: BEN200 Advanced Glasruit 90 Line- National Rule August 1-3, 2017, Houston, TX BEN200 Advanced Glasruit 90 Line-Low VOC August 8-10, 2017, Buena Park, CA This advanced level course, taught by Glasurit Global trainers, will provide technicians with Glasurit repair processes developed to duplicate Bentley-exclusive finishes such as 3coat Duo paint, Liquid Mercury and Matte Clear, and their correct use in the paint shop environment. Bentley courses are only open to technicians at Bentley-accredited body shops.
For more information and to enroll in the Bentley certified courses, email ote-support@basf.com or call 800201-1605.
Staten Island Body Shop Celebrates Women in Leadership with Release of New Video March is the month for celebrating women across America, but for Barry’s Auto Body, women are celebrated each and every day. That’s because Barry’s Auto Body team is led by women. From co-owner Michelle Crupi to Jayne, the auto collision estimator and Kerry, insurance claims representative, women are the engine that drives Barry’s Auto Body. To celebrate Women’s History Month, Barry’s Auto Body released the second in a series of humorous educational videos where Donna and her husband Vito struggle with various auto repair problems. Vito always thinks that he has the situation under control until Donna rolls in to save the day with a strong hand and lots of common sense. In the first installment of the “I Gotta Guy” series, we were introduced to married couple Donna and Vito. Vito is a Ralph Cramden-esque character who yells and flails his arms when he learns that Donna had a car accident and didn’t tell him. The bluster doesn’t bother Donna in the least—instead, she calmly tells him that she has a guy to fix the car and proves it when Barry comically appears on the scene. “We developed the ‘I Gotta Guy’
video series because we wanted to educate our customers about how to handle different car repair problems,” said Barry Crupi, co-owner of Barry’s Auto Body. “Much to Vito’s chagrin, Donna is the hero of the series, always coming up with the solution to the seemingly difficult situation. We wrote the script so that the characters would mimic what we see in the shop almost every day. People who think that car repair is a man’s world are living in the past. In today’s world, women make most of the decisions about auto repair both in the shop and out of the shop.” The new video is titled “You called who first?” and is a spoof on a popular commercial where a husband is talking to his insurance agent in the middle of the night. However, in this video, Donna knows that Vito is talking to the insurance company and she squarely and comically reprimands him for not calling Barry’s Auto Body first. The point of the video is to let people know that they should know what repairs need to be done on the car ahead of filing their claim to ensure that the vehicle is repaired properly. Video can be seen at www.barrys autobody.com.
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www.autobodynews.com | APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS 61
Advanced Technology & Diagnostic Repair Forum to Launch at NACE Automechanika The Automotive Service Association (ASA) has announced the launch of a new program for the collision repair market — the Advance Technology & Diagnostic Repair Forum. This inaugural event will take place Wednesday, July 26 at the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place in Chicago during NACE Automechanika.
The Advanced Technology & Diagnostic Repair Forum will focus on advanced automotive technology that is redefining the scope of a proper repair after the vehicle was involved in an accident. Sensors, cameras, accident avoidance systems, and wireless communications are just some examples of new technology that affects repairs. Car manufacturers, insurers, repairers, and technology companies are driving the content, which makes this the most comprehensive and relevant
program of its kind. Attendees will learn about the technology in today’s vehicle with a look towards the next 12-36 months. The business is changing rapidly, which is forcing everyone to re-evaluate training, equipment, operational and repair best practices, as well as their interactions with vehicle owners.
All industry stakeholders involved in the collision repair industry are welcome, including but not limited to the following:
●
Collision repairers
●
Insurance professionals
● Executive and management staff from MSOs, networks and franchisors
●
Technology providers
Dan Risley, ASA president and executive director, introduced the advisory board and moderated meetings that determined the content for this new program. This year’s advisory board, made up of key professionals repre-
senting different facets of the industry, includes the following:
●
●
Erick Bickett, CEO, Fix Auto
Clint Marlow, Director, Allstate
● Mark Allen, Collision Programs and Workshop Equipment Specialist, Audi ● Russ Hoffbauer, Claims Director, State Farm
● John Eck, Manager, Wholesale Dealer Channel, General Motors
● Sean Carey, President, SCG Management Consultants LLC
● Russell Thrall III, Publisher & Editor-In-Chief, CollisionWeek
● Scott Benavidez, Owner, Mr. B’s Paint & Body Shop Inc. ● Tom Williams, VP of Marketing, CCC Information Services
●
Jake Rodenroth, Director of
Elite Electronics Supports SCRS as Corporate Member The Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) has announced Elite Electronics as the newest Corporate Member of the association. Elite Electronics is a sublet service provider currently serving the Dallas, Ft. Worth, TX; Atlanta, GA; Oklahoma City and Tulsa, OK; Knoxville, Nashville and Memphis, TN; Philadelphia, PA; and
Charlotte, NC regions and their surrounding suburbs. Services include mobile reflashing, programming, diagnostics, air bag, theft and vandalism repair, and full mechanical services. “Supporting leading industry organizations like SCRS is really important to our company,” shared Don Smith, owner of Elite Electronics. “We’ve seen tremendous growth in the collision repair market relative to our service offerings, and it’s important that there is a strong exchange of communication across the country
that helps small businesses understand the changes and challenges facing the market, and helping to educate on solutions.” “SCRS has certainly placed a priority on highlighting the technology impacting repair process requirements; raising awareness of this information in our educational curriculum at the SEMA Show, and it’s frequently occupied the headlines in our Repairer Driven News coverage,” added SCRS Chairman Andy Dingman. “I think collision repair facility owners are hungry for this information, and are gravitating to groups like SCRS for education and to obtain perspective. As that happens, there are going to be natural synergies with companies that can help provide solutions to increasingly complex repairs. We are fortunate to welcome Don and his team as supporters of the association and the industry.” Elite Electronics has a desire to continually better understand the needs collision repairers have as technology evolves. “Whether it is technology in the vehicles, government regulations, or
62 APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
the insurance process,” added Smith, “staying on top of the developments allows Elite Electronics to better understand and adapt to our customers’ needs. This allows for a more proactive approach to collision repair, rather than a reactive one.” “We would love to see a better working relationship between the repair facilities, estimating programs, and insurance companies, and we believe that supporting SCRS and bringing our unique insight to the relationship can help advance the conversation.” Other companies wanting to support SCRS through membership can contact the SCRS office at info@ scrs.com. For more information, visit www .scrs.com.
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Client Services at Collision Diagnostic Services, asTech
● Jack Rozint, VP, Sales & Service, Mitchell International
● Roy Schnepper, President, Butler’s Collision
Some of the topics that will be covered in the ATDR Forum include autonomous vehicles, the use of OEM parts vs. aftermarket and salvage parts, government regulation and legislation, cars as mobile computers, a panel discussion with insurers, and more. The schedule and session descriptions are as follows: 7:00 a.m. – Private breakfast and networking
8:00 a.m. – Industry Update - The “mobile computer” redefines an industry as onboard computers, network technology, accident avoidance, and consumer convenience take center stage. This presentation will include the various levels of vehicle autonomy and technology, while sharing the con-
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cerns expressed by many of the industry segments. Specific technology, such as ADAS and the “connected car” will be included.
8:30 a.m. – OEM / A/M / Recycled Parts Panel - Discussion on OEM parts vs. the use of aftermarket or used OEM parts, specifically regarding advanced vehicle technology. For example, body control modules, ABS, windshields, adaptive headlights, cameras and alike. How do repairers address calibrating and programming? If OEM parts are the only solution, what is the impact on the industry? 9:15 a.m. – Coffee Break/Networking
9:45 a.m. – Governance Presentation - What role with government play in the advanced vehicle technology and the autonomous vehicle? How will the new administration impact or drive change? What rules/regulations and laws are in effect or proposed that could impact the industry? What does the playing field look like today?
10:15 a.m. – Bosch Presentation: OE Scan tool vs. A/M Scan Tool - Bosch manufactures the OE scan tool for sev-
eral car manufacturers. They also develop an A/M scan tool. Where do they get their information? What are their challenges? What is the difference between the two? Why do the differences exist?
10:30 a.m. – Repair & Insurer Panel What is required to recalibrate a vehicle? How are repairers adapting? When do shops decide to buy a scan tool? What are they buying? What are the biggest challenges repairers and insurers face? Where are repairers and insurers getting their information? What are the information providers doing? What is their role to provide repair information and vehicle build data (VIN #, trim detail)?
“This is the first event that exclusively covers the latest in telematics and other new technology as it relates to the collision repair industry,” Dan Risley stated. “The new advisory board made a huge impact in developing content relative to the needs of the market and attendees of this program will gain significant insight necessary for success in their businesses.”
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Collision Industry Provides $12M+ to Schools, Students in 2016 Through Collision Repair Education Foundation
In 2016, the collision industry provided over $12 million in donations to high school and college collision school programs through the Collision Repair Education Foundation, an increase of over 13 percent from 2015. Over $60 million has been provided since 2008, when the Education Foundation began its philanthropic focus of assisting collision school programs and students. “In 2016, the Education Foundation made significant strides to help achieve its vision of a collision industry with a sufficient number of qualified, properly trained, and immediately productive entry-level employees to meet current and future Industry needs,” said Clark Plucinski, Collision Repair Education Foundation Executive Director. “Through the collision industry’s generous support, we are able to deliver on our mission to support collision repair school programs and students to connect them with the array of career opportunities across the industry. Working together as an industry ensures that the students graduate and are productive and efficient day one. Thank you for supporting our efforts as we are truly making a difference supporting schools
and students across the country.” The Education Foundation continues to be recognized by Charity Navigator as a Four (out of Four) Star Charity, and returned eight-eight cents of every dollar donated towards supporting the school programs, instructors, and students in 2016. Stacy Bartnik, Collision Repair Education Foundation Board of Trustees Chair from ITW Evercoat said, “On behalf of the Board of Trustees, staff and the collision school programs and students we were able to support, I would like to thank our 2016 donors. We had an incredible year that saw us clearly define our Vision and Mission and establish 16 collision career fairs across the U.S. that were attended by over 4000 students interested in entering the industry. In 2017, we have already developed a statement of need, in conjunction with our industry supporters, to clearly define the steps necessary to achieve our Vision. I would invite companies and individuals to join us in providing support.”
For more information,article visit www an exclusive featuring .CollisionEducationFoundation.org.
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3M Automotive Aftermarket Division Deploys New Mobile D.E.M.O. Trailer 3M Automotive Aftermarket Division recently introduced a traveling interactive display trailer and educational classroom, featuring the latest in 3M collision repair technology. The 46foot long Demonstration & Education Mobile Operation (D.E.M.O.) trailer is out on tour visiting trade shows, distributors, collision shop customers and other major events.
On location, the DEMO unit expands into different live workstations, including body repair solutions, adhesives, coatings & sealers, paint prep, painting and paint finishing. Featured
product systems include the Accuspray™ Spray Gun System with PPS™ Paint Preparation System, to the new Total Automotive Sanding System, Cubitron™ II abrasives, Dynamic Mixing System, advanced power tools and more. The D.E.M.O. trailer made its debut at the Sherwin Williams National Meeting in Orlando and Premiere Auto Supply Open House in Miami, where, combined, more than 500 people took part in the mobile learning experience. The trailer gives customers the opportunity to try out 3M’s industry leading tools and product solutions.
The unit also includes a full classroom where collision repair professionals can learn the latest repair techniques, standard operating proce-
dures and more, as well as earning ICAR continuing education credits. “Our team has put a lot of time an effort into the new mobile unit,” said Dale Ross, U.S. marketing operations manager for 3M Automotive Aftermarket Division. “We believe that when a customer has an opportunity to pick up a 3M tool, or try out one our breakthrough Cubitron II abrasives for themselves, or spray with PPS™ and Accuspray firsthand, they will see the difference and won’t want to use anything else. We are proud to have a great new way to bring all that 3M has to offer to more customers.”
PPG Debuts TouchMix® XI Touchscreen Computer
PPG has launched its state-of-theart TOUCHMIX® XI computer, the first of three advanced tools that will make up PPG’s new branded Color Solutions product line known as XI. A PPG exclusive, this robust WINDOWS® OS computer is designed to provide easy navigation of PPG’s PAINTMANAGER® software program to reduce mixing room complexity and allow technicians to work more efficiently. “This is a highly significant technological leap in color solutions,” said John Beran, director, refinish global color IT. “By linking this remarkable self-contained unit with our PaintManager system, we’ve developed a secure and compact solution for the most demanding collision center environments.” According to Beran, the TouchMix XI unit features plug-and-play functionality, an easy-to-clean 15” glass color touchscreen and a paintresistant finish. Its small footprint permits it to be configured in several ways: stand-, pole- or wall-mounted with no external computer or keyboard required. For more information, visit www.ppgrefinish.com.
CCC Information Services Inc. Publishes 2017 Crash Course Report
CCC Information Services Inc. (“CCC”) has announced today the availability of its 2017 Crash Course, an in-depth report that focuses on the trends and business drivers within the automotive collision industry. This year’s report, “It’s Happening,” ex-
amines the vast technological and digital advancements being broadly embraced by consumers and incorporated into today’s vehicles, and their impact on the automotive claims, collision repair, parts, casualty, and automotive manufacturing industries. Crash Course is compiled using research and information from a wide range of sources and an aggregated set of data from CCC’s data warehouse, which includes approximately 180 million claims worth of information.
“In this year’s report, we look at how rapidly changing technology is driving change for the consumer, the vehicle, the insurer, the repairer, the parts provider, and the manufacturer,” said Susanna Gotsch, Lead Industry Analyst, CCC. “The growing number of digital connections being created means greater access to information. This information brings an even greater understanding of the end customer and creates operational transparency and insights into new risks and opportunities for the companies that serve them. We explore how many of these technologies are playing a key role throughout the automotive ecosystem, and how businesses are responding.” To explore these topics and their impact, several CCC subject matter experts have contributed to an expanded report. The Crash Course report also provides in-depth analysis on repair costs, telematics, casualty trends, and myriad other factors that contribute to the performance of the industry. To download the 2017 Crash Course report, visit www.cccis.com /crash-course-2017.
64 APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
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www.autobodynews.com | APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS 65
Polyvance Releases R08 PPE+PS Plastic Welding Rod Polyvance recently released its latest plastic welding rod to match plastics on some newer vehicles, the R08-01 PPE+PS. Polyphenylene Ether + Polystyrene (PPE+PS) is an engineering plastic that is used on some automotive interior and exterior applications. This plastic is quite rigid and may be glass-filled for greater strength. In the US and western Europe, it is marketed mainly by Sabic Industrial Plastics under their Noryl brand name. Using its in-house plastic extrusion line, Polyvance has extruded an injection-molding grade Noryl PPE+PS resin in a 1.8” diameter round profile, black in color. The rod is available for immediate sale. Polyvance offers the world’s largest variety of plastic welding rod materials, profiles, colors, and package sizes. The new R08 PPE+PS joins recently-added materials such as R13 PET, R14ASA, and R15 PPE+PA (GTX) plastics. For more information, visit www .polyvance.com.
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WIN 2017 Conference Registration Opens, Agenda Announced by Chasidy Rae Sisk
The Women’s Industry Network (WIN®) opened registration for its 2017 Educational Conference on February 15 for association members. This year’s conference is entitled “Be Extraordinary with Balance, Purpose and Results” and will take place in Denver, CO on May 8-10, 2017. Association members can enjoy an early-bird discount by registering to attend WIN’s 2017 Educational Conference by Wednesday, March 15. After that date, registration costs will increase to the standard rate of $475 for members and $650 for nonmembers. As always, WIN’s agenda is packed full of informative sessions for collision repair professionals as well as a variety of networking opportunities. The conference begins at 1PM on Monday with “New Member Orientation” which will be followed by an “Opening General Session: WIN Welcome.” Traci Brown will kick off the educational sessions with “Unspoken Keys to Success,” with Kevin Wolfe’s “Path of Choice” afterwards. At 5PM, WINners will engage in a Scavenger Hunt, complete with an
awards ceremony and refreshments. Monday evening will conclude with “Magical Thinking: Find the Extraordinary by Imagining the Impossible,” presented by Dennis Watkins from 7:45-8:45PM. Tuesday’s events will commence at 7AM with WIN’s Scholarship Industry Walk which benefits the association’s scholarship fund.
Attract, Hire and Retain Women Employees.” Festivities on Tuesday evening will center around WIN’s Most Influential Women (MIW) and Scholarship Award Ceremony and Gala Dinner. During this event, WIN will honor its 2017 MIWs for their contributions to the collision repair industry, in addition to recognizing this year’s WIN scholarship recipients. The final day of WIN’s 2017 Educational Conference will begin with “Creating a Customer Care Culture, and Finding and Inspiring a Staff to Support It” which will be presented by Steve Trapp and Regina McDonald. At 9:35AM, a networking event entitled “An Opportunity to Work on You!” will be facilitated by Liz Stein, Kathy Mello and Blair Womble. The last educational seminar of this year’s conference will be Mike Jones’ “Creating a Better Version of Yourself” which precedes WIN’s “Closing Session” with the conference concluding at noon.
After breakfast, Keynote Speaker Chuck Gallagher will present “Positive Choices for Business Success – The Ethics of Excellence.” Tuesday morning’s educational sessions conclude with Jody DeVere’s “Motivating Successful Women Leaders.” On Tuesday afternoon, conference attendees will choose two of the following three breakout sessions: “The Importance of OEM Certification” by Scott Biggs, “Managing For more information about WIN and Promote your business Ourselves and Our Energy Level”withits 2017 Educational Conference, visit presented by Alison Young, andfeaturing Jody https://www.womensindustrynetwork an exclusive article DeVere’s “Why It Is So Important to .com. your products or services.
The source for timely information that every body shop I-CAR Announces 2017 International Boardneeds! of Directors, Presents Joe Laurentino With Founder’s Award CHECK IT OUT!
I-CAR announced its 2017 International Board of Directors and Executive Committee following its strategic planning session and annual membership meeting in La Jolla, California held during the week of March 6. advertise TheToBoard of Directors is comprised of representatives from call Advertising Sales at: each of the following six in800-699-8251 dustry segments: collision repair; insurance; OEM vehicle e-mail: advertising@autobodynews.com manufacturers; equipment, tools, and supplies; education, www.autobodynews.com training, and research; and related industry services. James Roach (American Honda Motor Company) will lead as Chair of the Executive Committee. In addition, the following will serve on the Executive Committee: Timothy O’Day, Gerber Collision & Glass (Vice Chair); Ron Be Seen Oakland by Our Readers! Vincenzi, Auto Body, A Cook’s Collision Company (Treasurer); CALL Advertising Sales at: Mark Woirol, Tech-Cor (Secretary); Kyle Thompson, USAA (Member-AtLarge); Mark Allen, Audi of America (Member-At-Large); and Joseph Lauadvertising@autobodynews.com rentino, National General Insurance www.autobodynews.com Company (Immediate Past Chair). The remaining Directors include – Mark Algie, 3M; Stacy Bartnik, ITW Evercoat, Education Foundation Representative; John Donley, IAnet;
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make sure thatCall our Industry has the in- sitioned to meet the training and infor details! formation, knowledge and skills re- formational needs of our industry.” He is currently Vice President, quired to perform complete, safe and 800-699-8251 quality repairs. The I-CAR Board of Material Damage for National General Directors is resolutely committed to Insurance Company (NGIC) where he is responsible for developing and rethis important goal.” The overall strategic direction for fining national material damage phiI-CAR is set by the Board of Di- losophy, structure, objectives, and best rectors. In addition, the Board of practices. He oversees the manageDirectors also assists in obtain- ment of all material damage personnel, ing resources in support of the contracted vendors and partners, and Register Your Email for Our provides industry insight and direction I-CAR Mission. Joe Laurentino Given to the senior management group and business leaders. Founder’s Award. Laurentino is a CIC Gold Pin Joe Laurentino, Immediate www.autobodynews.com Past Chairman of the I-CAR® Member and serves on a variety of inInternational Board of Direc- dustry committees and advisory boards. tomotive Technologies; Roy Schnep- tors, was awarded the Founder’s Award In addition, he is I-CAR Platinum™ per, Butler’s Collision Inc.; Randy for his dedication and service to I-CAR and participates in a variety of other volunteer activities within his commuStabler, Pride Collision Centers Inc.; at the event. Register Email for hasOur served on the I- nity. Marcy Tieger, Symphony Advisors Your Laurentino “It is an honor to present the LLC; Gary Wano, GW & Son Auto CAR International Board of Directors 4 Times Monthly E-Newsletter 2010, serving in various roles Founder’s Award to Joe Laurentino,” Body, Inc.; and Michele Wyatt, Mu- since tual of Enumclaw Insurance Company. on the I-CAR Executive Committee said Roach. “Over the years, Joe has www.autobodynews.com Jim Roach, Chair of the I-CAR before serving as Chairman in 2015- consistently been nothing less than an indispensable asset to the I-CAR Board International Board of Directors stated, 2016. “It has been an honor to serve on of Directors, serving always with total “Every vehicle owner expects that their collision-damaged vehicle will be the I-CAR Board of Directors during commitment to the I-CAR Mission and properly and safely repaired. Our in- these exciting yet challenging times,” Vision.” dustry is obliged to meet these expec- said Laurentino. “The pace of technotations. And an ever-changing and logical change will continue to accelmore sophisticated vehicle technology erate in the coming years and I am compels I-CAR to work even harder to confident that I-CAR is uniquely po-
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Sherwin-Williams Announces 2017 Second Quarter Training Schedule
Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes has announced its second quarter training schedule starting in April
succeed in the automotive collision repair industry. Shop owners, managers, painters and technicians will learn
through June, 2017, with classes to be held at its training centers across the country. These training sessions provide participants with the skills needed to
through a combination of classroom, web and hands-on training settings. For more information, visit www .sherwin-automotive.com/refinish /training-support/.
There is Still Time to Support 3M’s Hire Our Heroes Fundraiser
There is still time to support military veterans and their families through the 3M Hire Our Heroes program and purchase the second annual 3M Hire Our Heroes Calendar for 2017. In partnership with the 3M Automotive Aftermarket Division (AAD), the Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF) announced it has donated more than $750,000 since 2013 to be used toward scholarships and tool grants for more than 210 military veterans and their families through the 3M Hire Our Heroes program. Shops interested in participating in this program can acquire a 2017 Hire Our Heroes Calendar with a $200 donation online. In 2017, 3M AAD and CREF are marking the fifth year of the program, and continuing an innovative way for shops to get involved, both organizations will be facilitating the second annual 3M Hire Our Heroes Calendar for 2017. With the $200 donation, designated to the 3M Hire Our Heroes fund, shops not only give to a worthy cause, they will also receive the commemorative calendar which contains approximately $1,700 worth of monthly deals on 3M products. In
2016, this initiative raised $210,000 for scholarships and tool grants distributed to military veterans and their family members who are studying collision repair. Those who make a $200 donation will be able to take advantage of exclusive free product offers on a wide array of 3M products, such as the 3M™ PPS ™ Sun Gun™ II light kit, 3M™ Power Tools, 3M™ Masking Tape, 3M™ Cubitron™ II abrasives, and other 3M™ products. This year, a bonus offer has been added: When a shop participates in all 12 months of promotional offers, they will qualify to receive a sample of new products introduced by 3M AAD in 2018. The first 500 people to make the $200 donation will also receive, in addition to the calendars, a Hire Our Heroes replica hood designed by automotive designer Chip Foose. Each month, shops receive an email with the information they need to redeem the coupon for the free products, based on their qualifying purchases and made on one invoice.
For more information, please visit www.collisioneducationfoundation.org
68 APRIL 2017 AUTOBODY NEWS | www.autobodynews.com
2017 MSO Symposium Registration is Open, Agenda Released
The MSO Symposium has announced that registration is open and the agenda has been released for the 2017 event. The sixth annual MSO Symposium, co-located with NACE Automechanika in Chicago, will take place Wednesday, July 26 at the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place. The agenda is as follows: 12:00 - 1:00: Luncheon 1:00 - 1:30: Industry Update presented by Vincent Romans, Brian Sullivan 1:30 - 2:15: Insurer Panel - moderated by Marcy Tieger, the panel will address the developing gap between car manufacturers and insurers as recommended repair procedures, vehicle scanning, onboard telematics, and repairability take center stage 2:15 - 3:00: OE Panel - moderated by Marcy Tieger, this panel will provide a perspective from the manufacturer’s standpoint of recommended repair procedures, vehicle scanning, and new technology 3:00 - 3:30: Refreshment Break - sponsored by BASF 3:30 - 4:10: MSO Panel - moderated by John Walcher, this panel will address challenges facing MSOs
including technology, scan tools, equipment, supplier consolidation, and staffing 4:10 - 4:50: MSO Panel II - this panel will cover OE certification and training, with leadership representing small, midsize, and large MSOs 4:50 - 5:30: Legislation and Regulation - Bob Redding will discuss how the new administration will affect business for the collision repair industry and insurers, as well as what legislation will have the greatest impact on business 5:30 - 7:00: Private MSO Symposium Reception - sponsored by PPG. “This is the only event that is exclusive to MSOs, insurance executives, and the strongest independent operators in the collision repair industry,” said Dan Risley, ASA president and executive director. Individuals must qualify to attend the MSO Symposium. The Symposium is exclusively attended by high-growth MSOs, owners of large independent repair shops, and property & casualty insurance company executives. For information and to register, please visit stonefortgroup.com/mso2017/register.
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SCRS Education Committee Presents on “Kool Tools” from SEMA Show
On January 11th, the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) held an open board meeting in Palm Springs, California which included a presentation from the SCRS Education Committee providing an overview of “Kool Tools” and unique products for collision repair businesses. The March print issue of Autobody News has an in-depth Kool Tools article written by Toby Chess. The source for timely The presentation, led by cominformation that every mittee member Toby Chess and committee chairman Kye Yeung, body shop needs! was the latest in what has become an annual800-699-8251 presentation during the JanCALL uary meetings. The presentation is inspired by the wide range of products and offerings exhibited during Mail Subscription the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, Nevada. Each year, the Education Com-
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mittee searches the SEMA Show for unique tools, equipment and offerings to the collision repair industry that they feel provide notable value in fixing today’s damaged vehicles. The products are often personally purchased by presenters Yeung and Chess, and putyour to usebusiness in a working Promote with collision repair environment to see anthey exclusive article featuring how - and the technicians in the or services. shopyour - likeproducts the products. Products that leave an impression on the committee are included in a live presentation at the SCRS open meeting in January. Watch the “Kool Tools” preCall for SEMA details! sentaion at the 2017 show at: http://bit.ly/kooltools2016 For 800-699-8251 more information about SCRS, or to join as a member, please visit www.scrs.com, call toll free 1877-841-0660 or email info@scrs .com.
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Spanesi Americas Continues Expansion in the Rockies
Spanesi Americas, a manufacturer of body shop equipment, is continuing to expand its distribution and customer support across North America. A recent addition to the company is Specialized Products Supply, who are now providing distribution and customer support in the Rockies, specifically in the State of Colorado. “Specialized Products Supply is a great addition to the Spanesi Americas team,” stated Tim Morgan, Managing Director of Spanesi Americas. “As we have continued to grow market share, Alan Squier and his group are already an established leader in the area market and their customers have been asking for solutions that together we will be able to provide them.” “We are excited to pick up the Spanesi equipment line,” said Alan Squier, owner of Specialized Products Supply. “This will give us the opportunity to offer a complete solution of high quality and exceptionally valued measuring and frame equipment, paint booths, and welders to our customers. Spanesi is a total equipment solution that will keep our customers up to date and competitive in the collision repair industry.” For more information, visit www .spanesi.com.
PPG Holding Sold Out MVP Conference in Scottsdale
PPG’s spring MVP Business Solutions Conference April 9-11 at the JW Marriott Camelback in Scottsdale, AZ, is another sellout with over 550 participants. The MVP Business Solutions Conferences are a place for collision center owners, managers and staff to step away from the dayto-day activity at the shop for the sake of re-charging, networking and learning. “We take the conferences very seriously” says Jim Berkey, PPG, Director, MVP Business Solutions. “We work hard to get the right balance between a comfortable and inviting venue, a mix of engaging and relevant content and a bit of entertainment as well. We have a great mix of collision center operators, distributors and supplying vendors from within the industry with a common goal of improving their business.” A mix of keynote speakers along with the ability to choose from a variety of breakout sessions gives the attendees an opportunity to tailor their experience based upon their specific needs and interests. The conference schedule is highlighted by prominent keynote speakers: Steve McClatchy, Tonya Reiman and John DiJulius.
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Equipment and Tool Institute Releases Position Statement on Pre- and Post-Repair System Scanning The Equipment and Tool Institute has released the following position statement: The Equipment and Tool Institute (ETI) fully agrees with the process of the pre- and post- systems scan position many in the industry are taking. The electronic safety systems on today’s vehicles are very important for occupant safety and must be checked after a repair for proper functionality. The pre-scan is now necessary for the repair facility to be able to help scope and estimate the repair processes required for a safe and complete repair. This is an important concern for collision repair providers as the vast majority are not OEM dealership facilities. The need for affordable access to the tools that are essential to perform safe, complete and accurate repairs is extremely important. It is unlikely most shops will be able to justify the purchase cost of multiple OEM scan tools for this procedure since independent body shops work on a great variety of OEM’s vehicles. Thus, the importance of having accu-
March 31 Deadline for Applications for NABC Executive Director
The National Auto Body Council has announced last call for applications for its Executive Director position. The deadline is March 31. The NABC search campaign is to fill the vacancy created by the upcoming retirement of NABC founder and current Executive Director Chuck Sulkala by the end of 2017. The executive director position reports to the NABC Board of Directors and works collaboratively with the Board to implement NABC’s strategic annual goals. Responsibilities include oversight over NABC’s daily operations, membership, fundraising, marketing, finance and revenue growth. A detailed position description is available on the NABC website. Interested candidates should email resumes to Mike McManus at NABC office (m.mcmanus@autobodycouncil.org) with copies to Nick Notte (Nick.Notte@i-car.com) and Renee Ricciotti (rcricciotti@ mmm.com), co-chairs of the NABC Personnel Committee.
rate, timely and affordable OEM scan tool data provided to the aftermarket to ensure our members have the information necessary to fully emulate the factory tool functions.
While we understand that many of the manufacturers do not know the capabilities of all the aftermarket scan tools, we know that many of the higher quality aftermarket tools provide the needed and necessary functions to complete a pre- and post scan properly for a majority of the vehicles they currently service. Data for the development of aftermarket scan tools is provided directly to scan tool manufacturers as agreed by previous contracts in the US so as to be able to fully emulate the factory tool. Many OEM’s provide this information in an affordable, accurate and timely manner. Yet some
OEM’s are less forthcoming and either restrict access to important data or price it at unaffordable levels. These access issues continue to plague the industry. ETI has no concern with repairers utilizing OEM tools when they are available and endorses their use in situations where they may be needed e.g. vehicles in their early years of service, where coverage may not be implemented in the current aftermarket tool release. For more information, contact ETI Executive Manager, Greg Potter, at gpotter@etools.org or 248656-5080. Founded in 1947, the Equipment and Tool Institute is a trade association of automotive tool and equipment manufacturers and technical information providers. ETI’s mission is to advance the vehicle service industry by providing technical data and open dialog between the manufacturers of transportation products, government regulators and the providers of tools, equipment and service information.
Accepting Nominations for the 2017 Mort Schwartz Excellence in Education Award
The Auto Care Association Education Committee is now accepting nominations for the 2017 Mort Schwartz Excellence in Education Award. The Mort Schwartz Excellence in Education Award is given to the person, company or educational institution that best advances the concepts and programs for education or continuing education in the North American auto care industry. Nominations should be submitted for their innovation, advancement or superlative efforts in education and training programs, or scholarship fundraising efforts. All Auto Care Association member companies and employees are eligible to submit a nomination. The winner will be selected by the Auto Care Association Education Committee, and presented during the 2017 Fall Leadership Days, Sept. 7, in San Francisco, CA. Submit a nomination by April 21, 2017. Use the online application form available at www.autocare.org /mort-schwartz-award/. The online application format enables applicants to enter, save and re-access text, attach documents and include internet links.
Women’s Industry Network Announces Winners of the 2017 Most Influential Women in Collision Repair Award
The Women’s Industry Network (WIN®) recently announced this year’s honorees for the Most Influential Women (MIW) of the collision repair industry award for 2017.After reviewing nominations and interviewing a number of amazing women, three inspiring industry leaders were selected to receive MIW honors:
● Cristina Fronzaglia-Murray, Manager of Marketing Communications, Automotive Refinish, PPG, Strongsville, OH ● Renee Ricciotti, Sales and Marketing Manager, 3M Automotive Aftermarket, St. Paul, MN ● Elizabeth Stein, Vice President of Industry Relations, Assured Performance Network, Laguna Hills, CA “As WIN celebrates being 500 members strong just 10 years after its founding, the 2017 MIW nominees showcased the geographic, functional and sector diversity of women who are shaping the future of collision repair,”
stated Sandra Herron, Owner of MiddlEdge, Inc. “This year’s award winners have blazed new trails for women in the industry. Each has a remarkable track record of creating company value, developing industry talent and serving both her local community and the collision repair industry.” Herron’s consulting firm was contracted as a third-party entity to interview the nominees and select this year’s honorees based on specific criteria established by the WIN Board of Directors. The Most Influential Women award recognizes women who have enriched the collision repair industry with their leadership, vision, and commitment to excellence. “Having been with WIN since its inception in 2006, it is wonderful to see first-hand how the MIW program has evolved and grown and how perfectly it aligns with WIN’s mission to ‘enhance the role of women in the industry,’” stated Petra Schroeder, WIN Chair. “Every year, I am truly amazed by the diversity of every nominee’s talent and industry involvement. It is my honor to extend heartfelt congratulations to Cristina, Renee and Elizabeth (Liz) for winning
this prestigious award.” Established in 1999 and under WIN stewardship since 2013, the Most Influential Women program has recognized over 80 women for their professional accomplishments and for going beyond requirements of their positions to give back to their communities. “The recipients have been a positive influence within the industry and their local communities,” said Cheryl Boswell, Chief Financial Officer at DCR Systems, LLC, 2015 MIW Honoree and Co-Chair of the 2017 MIW Committee. “This award recognizes those women who not only excel within their own companies, but who are also active in mentoring others to help them advance within our industry. It is an honor to work among these amazing women who continue to elevate this industry and who lead by example.” When the 2017 WIN Educational Conference convenes in Denver, Colorado, on May 8-10, 2017, past and current MIW honorees will be celebrated during a gala awards reception. Registration for the conference and the MIW dinner is now open. For more information, visit www.womensindustry network.com
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