Bodyworx Professional 5#3

SPECIAL EDITION OF

CAREER PATH : PLANNING AHEAD FOR YOUR FUTURE CAREER

NAME OF THE GAME

SUDDEN STOP BRAKES ARE ABOUT TO GET A WHOLE LOT SMARTER

THE CCIF REDEFINES REPAIRER ROLES

REPAIRERS IN THE RANKS Automotive technicians in Canada’s Armed Forces

+ PLUS

12 Fall 2018

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$7.95

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Painter Nicole Hamilton claims gold at Skills Canada, Custom painting and hard rock in Orillia and much, much more!

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CONTENTS

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cover story 8 Repairers in the Ranks Corporal Jesse Leblanc, and the repairers of the Canadian Army’s 2 Service Battallion show the world why they are second to none!

regulars 6 Publisher’s Page

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by Darryl Simmons

18 Educator Insight

by Cecile Bukmeier

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37 News Take a look back at some of the most unique and interesting stories we covered this year.

New Products The latest and greatest gadgets that can make make your job a whole lot easier.

46 Final Detail

by Jordan Arseneault

Attracting Young Talent How the future of the industry rests on the shoulders of today’s youth.

features 30 Self Care

33 Auto Career

Working hard and staying determined are two key traits of collision repairers, but don’t forget to take care of yourself.

Finding your career path in collision repair is easier than you think.

on the cover: Cpl Jesse Leblanc 2 Service Battalion, stationed at the military base in Petawawa, Ontario.

Photo taken by Jordan Arseneault.

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MOTIVATED PAINTERS CONTENTS

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Inside Scoop Nova Scotia painter Nicole Hamilton’s quest for national recognition leads her to Edmonton Alberta in persuit of a gold medal.

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Custom Corner Jamie Haffenden is a man of many talents, living as both a musician and operator of his own custom paint bike shop.

I-CAR I-CAR has a new range of classes that will help students an easier transition into the collision repair industry.

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PRE-SCAN

REPAIRERS AND REMEMBERANCE Our everlasting debt to vehicle mechanics in uniform DARRYL SIMMONS

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n November 11, 1918, the sound of guns and mortars grew silent. The Great War had come to an end.

Of the 425,000 Canadian soldiers who served overseas, one-in-seven would not return. But for those who did, it was time to return home.

On the battlefields of Europe, these soldiers had become very familiar with gasoline powered vehicles, from the armoured cars that drove them to-andfrom the trenches, to the ambulances

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ASSOCIATE EDITOR Jordan Arseneault 905.370.0101 jordan@mediamatters.ca ART DIRECTOR Michelle Miller 905.370.0101 michelle@mediamatters.ca VP INDUSTRY RELATIONS & ADVERTISING Gloria Mann 647.998.5677 advertising@collisionrepairmag.com

It fell to these young veterans to lay out the very foundation of Canada’s collision repair industry as it is known today.

This issue of Bodyworx Professional, which coincides with the 100th anniversary of the Armistice, is dedicated to the many brave soldiers who have served— and too often lost their lives—as vehicle technicians and repairers.

In our cover story, we are honoured to have been invited to take a close look at the vital operations being done by the

The dedication of these soldiers is credit to our country. Their commitment to excellence should inspire technicians in every part of our industry. that whisked away the wounded, and the airplanes that battled high above them.

This was even more true of the many soldiers who had served their King and empire as part of the Canadian Army Service Corps—which was renamed the Royal Canadian Army Service Corps (RCASC) in recognition of their valour.

Despite the circumspect training and inadequate tools, they had routinely performed procedures most of us would find unthinkable, from fixing tank tracks broken by landmines and repairing axles as vehicles sank into the mud—all while under fire.

When many of them had left Canada, the sight of an automobile was still enough of a novelty to gather crowds. By the time of the armistice, North America’s economy had turned towards their mass production, and auto ownership was swiftly becoming mainstream.

PUBLISHER Darryl Simmons 647.409.7070 publisher@collisionrepairmag.com

brave men and women of the Second Service Battalion, a successor of the RCASC. Stationed in Petawawa, Ontario, these soldiers—many of them veterans of the War in Afghanistan—demonstrate a commitment to the craft honed by arduous training and the certain knowledge that lives depend on their ability to do their work.

The dedication of these soldiers is credit to our country. Their commitment to excellence should inspire technicians in every part of our industry. After all, even for civilian drivers, an improper repair can be a matter of life and death.

MANAGING DIRECTOR IMM/DIRECTOR BUSINESS SOLUTIONS & MARKETING Ellen Smith 416.312.7446 ellen@mediamatters.ca PUBLISHER’S ASSISTANT Laura Jensen 647.998.5677 laura@mediamatters.ca CONTRIBUTORS Erin McLaughlin, Lindsey Cooke, Cecile Bukmeier, Evan Nelson, Harland Goulbourne, Gabriel Merino, Allison Preston.

SUBSCRIPTION One-year $29.95 / Two-year $49.95

Bodyworx Professional™ is published bi-monthly, and

is dedicated to serving the business interests of the collision repair industry. It is published by Media Matters Inc. Material in Bodyworx Professional™ may not be reproduced in any form without written consent from the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertising and disclaims all responsibilities for claims or statements made by its advertisers or independent columnists. All facts, opinions, statements appearing in this publication are those of the writers and editors themselves, and are in no way to be construed as statements, positions or endorsements by the publisher.

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Bodyworx Professional is published by Media Matters Inc., publishers of:

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PROFILE OF SUCCESS

REPAIRERS

IN THE I

RANKS

nside a dimly lit warehouse-sized garage, stocked with light armoured vehicles and convoy trucks, Jesse Leblanc is living out his dream.

Since he was a child, Leblanc had always wanted to be a soldier.

“Growing up, I always played army and just knew the army is where I wanted to be,” Leblanc recalls.

Now 27-years-of-age, Leblanc works fulltime as a vehicle technician for the Canadian forces. The warehouse-sized garage, well that’s his office, and the vehicles inside it, his work projects. Dressed in a pair of work overalls, Leblanc is right at home.

It was only seven years prior, however, when Leblanc’s reality was nothing more than a childhood dream.

Rather than enlisting immediately after leaving school, Leblanc went to Centennial College in Scarborough, spending two years taking a course to become a heavy-duty equipment technician. At 20, he took a job in a heavy equipment shop, fixing and maintaining a rental fleet.

While the employment was stable and in his field, it left the young man unsatisfied.

Cpl Broughton and Cpl Leblanc

Cpl Broughton and MCpl Mendoza (front) Cpl Ellis and Cpl Leblanc (back) 8

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BY JORDAN ARSENEAULT

PROFILE OF SUCCESS

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“One day I got sick of thinking about it and decided to just do it.”

- Cpl Jesse Leblanc

Leblanc was determined to make sure his career aspirations didn’t slip away.

“One day I got sick of thinking about it and decided to just do it,” says Leblanc.

After researching the many roles available to members of the Canadian Armed Forces, Leblanc decided to put himself forward as a vehicle technician, realizing that the position would allow him to bridge together both his passion for the military and his expertise as a technician.

Six months after applying, Leblanc reported for basic training in St. Jean, Quebec, where he spent three months. After that, he was off to Shilo, Manitoba, where he completed his qualification as a soldier.

In order to qualify as a vehicle technician, Leblanc spent a year in Borden, Ontario, studying for and eventually receiving his Qualification Level 3, the training specific to his trade. He also gained a more in-depth understanding of what it takes to be a member of the Canadian Armed Forces.

“It was a really cool experience, I really enjoyed it,” says Leblanc. “That’s why I joined up, that’s the kind of stuff I wanted to do. I wanted to be a tech, but I also wanted to be in the military.”

After fifteen months of rigorous training, Leblanc’s dream had become a reality, as he was ready to start his new career.

Cpl Broughton

Cpl Leblanc FALL 2018 BODYWORX PROFESSIONAL

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PROFILE OF SUCCESS

Cpl Ellis

Cpl Ellis and Cpl Leblanc

Now in his seventh year with the forces, Leblanc’s journey has not failed to live up to his childhood expectations. The soldier, who joined as a non-commissioned member was promoted to corporal in 2015, and is now part of 2 Service Battalion, stationed at the military base in Petawawa, Ontario.

“I personally work at a second line shop, which deals with generally bigger jobs,” Leblanc says. “We maintain, repair and overhaul land vehicles. Anything we use to drive around, we take care of it.”

Since completing the formal training for his position, Leblanc has continued to learn more-and-more about his profession over the course of his time in Petawawa, specifically in the field of diagnostics.

“Everything is different, you get stuff that comes in that you may have never seen before and you have to be able to diagnose the issues,” says Leblanc.

Leblanc is also considering pursuing further education within the forces. He is eager to complete his Primary Leadership Qualification, which would pave the way for him to take on larger responsibilities.

“I’d be in charge of a section of techs on the floor,” says Leblanc. “It’s definitely more of a leadership role, one that forces you to be responsible for those underneath you.”

Outside of his work, Leblanc has taken the opportunity to get involved in the military community, becoming a part of the base’s rugby team. In October 2015 Leblanc trav-

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elled overseas with the team, as a chance to compete internationally.

“I’ve had a lot of great non-military related opportunities come my way by being in the military,” Leblanc says. “The military isn’t just a career; it’s a lifestyle, one that will offer you opportunities you won’t find anywhere else.”

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Cpl Broughton, Cpl Ellis, Cpl Leblanc, Cpl Desjardins and MCpl Mendoza

Cpl Leblanc

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INSIDE SCOOP Nicole Hamilton fell in love with the idea of working in a bodyshop during a high school job shadowing project.

THE PERFECT FINISH Skills Canada Champion Nicole Hamilton finds her calling

BY JORDAN ARSENEAULT

Nicole Hamilton, centre, claims gold for Nova Scotia at Skills Canada, 2018.

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t just 24-years-of-age Nicole Hamilton has already made quite the name for herself within the collision repair industry, having won a gold medal at this year’s Skills Canada competition in Edmonton.

Despite her national recognition, it wasn’t long ago when Hamilton first discovered her passion for car painting.

Enrolled in an options program back in high school, she was tasked with the decision of selecting a job to shadow.

“Initially I wanted to do video game art and design, but there wasn’t many places in Nova Scotia to do that,” Hamilton said.

After being advised by her program instructor to pursue a career that would make use of her strong mathematics skills, she decided to try her hand at a trade. All it took was one trip to an autobody shop before the Nova Scotia resident was hooked; signing up for an autobody collision repair and refinish program shortly after.

INSIDE SCOOP

At 20-years-of-age, and enrolled at a post secondary institution, Hamilton began competing in car painting competitions. It wasn’t long before local bodyshops began to notice her work.

“My cousin’s husband reached out to me asking if I was looking for a job and if I was interested in working for them,” she said. “I had caught his boss’s attention after a local paper wrote an article on the skills competition.”

After just two provincial competitions, Hamilton qualified for her first Skills Canada national event. She would spend two days competing with Canada’s best in Saskatoon.

“I was a bit nervous but I knew what I had to do,” said Hamilton. “I was not prepared for all the cameras and videos being taken over the two days but I didn’t find it bad after I was done.”

Hamilton placed fifth out of eight competitors, missing the podium by only a few points.

Her experience was motivation to get back again. She had a hunger to win, and most of all a desire to continually improve her abilities as a painter. It was a major turning point in the young trade worker’s career.

“Asking the judges questions on how I could improve or what I could do better, really helped me a lot heading back to the shop in Nova Scotia,” said Hamilton. “I really grew as a paint tech.”

The extent of Hamilton’s growth was undeniable. She qualified for the next two national competitions, continuing to ask questions and observe the great talents that surrounded her.

Despite finishing outside the podium in her

Nicole Hamilton, celebrates with provincial team mates

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Nicole Hamilton poses with Skills Canada gold medal.

first three national competitions, Hamilton remained focused and determined to improve on her previous performances.

At 24 years-of-age, this year’s nationals in Edmonton would be Hamilton’s last crack at a gold medal. Having contended for the past five years, Hamilton had more than proven her elite technical ability. Being the lone returnee from last year’s event, Hamilton not only competed but also mentored those around her. Hoping

her hard work had paid off, she waited patiently as the winners were announced.

“Hearing my name called out for gold will always be a memorable moment for me,” said Hamilton. “Knowing the judges so well and meeting so many friends in the industry will open up many doors for me going forward.”

It is connections such as these that have benefited so many past competitors.

“We’ve had instances of companies at the event offering employment to participants right on the spot,” said Shaun Thorson, Chief Executive Officer of Skills Canada. “A lot of people can do quality work and a lot of people can work quickly, what separates our medal winners from these people is that they can do both.”

These are qualities that Hamilton can now hang her hat on going forward in her career. Having now graduated her school program, as well as received her Red Seal certification, it is unclear what exactly is next for the tradeswoman.

One thing that is for certain, Hamilton will remain active in the very competition that has done so much for her career.

“From here I’ll stay involved in Skills through the alumni,” said Hamilton. “I really hope to become a judge, mostly so I can see other apprentices like myself grow and compete.”

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NEW PRODUCTS

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New Products NITROMAX GENERATORS - NitroMax NitroMax Generators are stand-alone systems from NitroHeat, that are installed inline between the compressed air supply and the spray gun. Ideal for use in both waterborne and solvent paint applications, the model includes the innovative NitroHeat pre-filtration system, the nitrogen membrane separator and the HeatPro200 heated hose controller and hose. The benefits of the system include reduction of overspray and improved transfer efficiency, curing time, cycle time, productivity and finish quality. The systems are high-performance filtration units that clean and separate the gases in compressed air to harness the available nitrogen for paint applications. The units can be wall mounted and easily “self installed,” says NitroHeat.

TOUCHMIX XI - PPG Refinish The TouchMix XI computer is one of three tools making up PPG’s XI line. The computer provides easy navigation of the PaintManager software program offered by the company.

The TouchMix XI unit features plug and play functionality for scales, printers and spectrophotometers. It has a 37.5 cm colour touchscreen, which is glass for easy cleaning and has a paint-resistant industrial-strength finish. Its small footprint enables it to be configured as stand, pole or wall mounted with no external computer or keyboard required. In addition, the TouchMix XI computer provides a variety of networking options, including USB data backup, WiFi capability, and Ethernet and HDMI compatibility.

FRED OVERSPRAY MASTER - Diversitech The FRED Overspray Master is a portable paint fume extractor designed to capture paint overspray and filter harmful VOC fumes and odors from touch up painting operations. The compact portable design allows operators to position the extraction arm in confined spaces or on large work pieces where a paint booth is not practical. The portable paint fume extraction unit includes a hood mounted paint pocket arrestor pre-filter, four MERV 11 primary filters and 2 extruded carbon after filters for VOC fumes. The filters in the unit comply with the NESHAP 319 standard for toxic chromate coatings and primers, commonly found in aerospace painting applications. The Overspray Master comes with a 10’ Extractor capture arm, with external pantograph style articulation ensuring ultra-smooth repositioning and protecting the arm’s components from wear and tear.

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NEW PRODUCTS

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NEW PRODUCTS

ACQUIRE QUANTUM EFX - Axalta

Axalta Coating Systems’ fifth-generation spectrophotometer, the Acquire Quantum EFX, is lighter, faster and more capable of reading metallic, pearl and effect colours than previous generations, according to the company. The Acquire Quantum EFX employs Axalta’s Acquire Color System. The Acquire Quantum EFX is almost half the size of its predecessor, which the manufacturer says enables it to be comfortably operated with one hand, and usable in hard-to-reach places. It includes a top-mounted touchscreen, calibrated for high visibility, even in harsh lighting conditions. The unit comes with a “smart cradle” for charging and direct connection to PCs. The Acquire Quantum EFX is also WiFi enabled.

AUTOMATCHIC VISION - AkzoNobel

AkzoNobel says its Automatchic Vision is a revolutionary digital system that gives bodyshops a precise match of the existing colour on any area of a vehicle. The system consists of two elements: Automatchic Vision, the latest generation of AkzoNobel’s handheld device for digital colour analysis, and Automatchic Smart Search, the company’s colour retrieval software that it says provides the optimum matching colour formula. The system uses the latest digital technology to guarantee precise, reliable measurements of colours, including curved parts of a vehicle that are traditionally difficult to read, according to AkzoNobel. They also say the system is intuitive and easy to operate, requiring only minimal training to achieve accurate measurements quickly.

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Nicholas Denny and Alex Savard, general manager of Assured Orleans South.

ASSURING DEVELOPMENT How Nicholas Denny has driven his career forward

N

icholas Denny has always had a loved cars. Starting out as a family hobby, Nicholas quickly developed a passion for collision repair.

“Growing up, my uncles were bodyshop professionals and every time I’d visit them,they’d always be working on something,” Denny says. “It was my cousin, who is actually my teacher as well, who got me involved in the repairs.

Puttering around with cars, well, it just really intrigued me, and so I decided to make a career out of it.”

Four years ago Denny got his start at the Assured Orleans South facility as a detailer.

“I got ahold of one of my friends and heard they were looking for new apprentices to come in and learn,” Denny says.“So I gave it a shot and have been here ever since.”

Now, through hard work and perseNicholas Denny pulls out a verance, Nicholas is a proud bodyshop bumper. Not all fixes can be technician. However, he does miss the done on an app. early days when everything was new and exciting.

“I definitely miss getting to try new things and the opportunity to try new equipment,” Denny says. “Just being able to see all the different things, and now being a tech it’s just a second nature seeing all the different cars and its nothing that I haven’t already done.”

After taking home a bronze at the Canadian Skills Competition, new opportunities have arisen for him. Moving up the ranks at Assured, Nick is now also a teacher with two apprentices under him.

“Going there was something I found extremely motivating to me, and made me redouble my commitment to my career development,” Denny recalls. “I wasn’t sure if I was completely ready for it, but I started taking on more projects and responsibilities. I’m now working with two other apprentices under me. It is very cool to get to teach them in the same way I was taught!”

How does he feel about this new workload?

“Oh, I couldn’t be happier. I just hope I can proceed and show them the same way I was taught when I was growing up and being introduced to the trade,” Denny says enthusiastically. “As far as I’m concerned, they are receiving everything that they need from me, and they seem to be happy and enjoy their days at work!”

Now, not only does Nicholas’ passion for bodywork remain fervent, but his mastery of it continues to grow.

“Collision work has always been my favourite,” Denny says.“Just watching something that looks like nothing, that’s all smashed up, and being able to fix it is just incredible. And now that I’m able to do it myself it’s absolutely extraordinary!

Nick concludes by saying, “I would just like to thank the company, family, friends and teachers. Without them, I wouldn’t be here!”

VISIT OUR WEBSITE: ASSUREDAUTO.CA ADVERTORIAL

EDUCATOR INSIGHT

THE NEW KID

As an apprentice, you deserve support

BY CECILE BUKMEIER

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nowing that you have people to lean on is extremely important in this industry. In fact, feeling isolated is a major reason why many individuals leave their place of work. Consequently, mentorship can have a big impact on the culture of the repair industry. If people feel like they fit in and are supported, they will be satisfied at their place of employment, engage in repair procedures, and become better and more reliable employees.

In high school, my initial experience in collision repair was difficult and I often felt secluded and alone. My first boss encouraged me to join reception and to stay away from working in the back of the shop, as it was a “challenging environment.” I told him that I wanted to learn autobody and that I would do whatever it took to be a part of the shop. He reluctantly gave me a cleaning position in the shop, where I was responsible for sweeping the floors and taking out used parts and garbage. I knew I had to start somewhere and believed that if I proved I could handle heavy parts and keep the shop clean, eventually I would get promoted to the wash bay or prep station.

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EDUCATOR INSIGHT

After a rough start to her career, Cecile is eager to use her position to help make entering the workforce easier for people of diverse backgrounds.

It always seemed that the techs were trying to keep me busy with cleaning. I felt like no one wanted to help me progress in learning about the industry. Garbage was thrown on the ground, even though there were garbage cans every ten feet. While I was cleaning, I would see my colleagues throwing sandpaper in the opposite direction of the trash can, laughing. When I asked

technicians to show me what they were working on, they would tell me that they were too busy and instruct me to sweep their stall and take out used parts instead.

I did not have any friends in the autobody industry. My friends from my high school were confused as to why I would want to work in a noisy, dusty and demanding environment. None of them had the same

Cecile working with a student.

During her own apprenticeship, she had been discouraged by months of being allowed to work on only menial tasks like sweeping.

passion for vehicles that I did. They would often say, “what do you expect, you shouldn’t be in a shop,” or “it’s not a place for you,” when I told them about my struggles. They said it was impractical for me to believe that technicians would take me seriously.

They thought of shops as a place where the guys could go to hangout.

I felt like no one understood my discouraging apprenticeship endeavour. I started to feel dejected, after many months of sweeping and taking out the trash. It was unfair that the technicians and manager didn’t take me seriously as a hopeful apprentice.

I began to believe that I would never get the opportunity to elevate my abilities and become an autobody technician if I continued in the role I was in.

It wasn’t until I attended a 12-week pre-apprenticeship program that I began to gain practical knowledge. This was extremely important as it allowed me to advance my education before attempting to return to a shop. I finally made some friends who shared my interest in autobody, and the students and teachers were supportive during the learning process at school. While enrolled in the course, we were required to complete work experience in a bodyshop as part of our assessment. I met with shop managers and told them that a four week practicum was part of the training program,

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EDUCATOR INSIGHT

After many months of asking to participate in other task besides sweeping or taking out trash, I felt dejected. and it was required that I work on tasks that an autobody technician apprentice would complete. I was met with raised eyebrows and questions about my competence and comfort with hard work.

I went to at least a dozen shops before I found one that agreed to take me on. My job was to sand and mask vehicles for refinishing. I met with the painter and the manager told him that he would be responsible for watching over my training and to ensure I did the work correctly. I tried to do everything he told me, but after a couple weeks, he stopped directing me. I would see him remove my masking in the booth and redo almost every job I sent to him. I was confused as to why and when I asked him, he told me not to worry about it.

I began to receive different types of jobs such as painting the shop walls, organizing body panels and restocking prep area supplies. After the 4-week practicum, the

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Cecile working at a paint booth. When she first started applying for autobody repair technician jobs, she would get turned town “over and over again.”

Cecile’s own grit and tenacity may have kept her in the game, but her own talents have help make her an industry star. In the 2013 National Skills Competition in Canada, she took home gold.

EDUCATOR INSIGHT

With help, my skills and knowledge flourished, and so did the shop.

I was able to develop relationships with the new employees and they showed me respect. We were all able to work together as a team. manager told me that they would keep me on and pay me minimum wage. I decided to stay and try harder to complete quality repairs. I made sure my masking was tight with no pockets and tried to ensure that my blocking was done correctly. My assigned jobs took longer, but they were better, and I did not see as much revising done.

After a month, another more experienced and efficient prepper was hired on.

Soon after, my manager told me there was a shortage of work at the shop and that they would not be able to keep me as an apprentice. Even though I was let down

again, I didn’t give up. I knew I could succeed in the trade with more practice.

I drove around the city with my new resumes, looking for employment. I felt confident now that I had more experience and knowledge of the industry. I eventually found employment at a small family-run shop. I would be the only apprentice, so I would be required to complete all aspects of the repair processes, from disassembly to minor body work and painting to reassembly of the repaired vehicles. With help, my skills and knowledge flourished, and so did the shop. I was able to develop re-

lationships with the new employees and they showed me respect. We were all able to work together as a team.

No one can be expected to be proficient when they start out. Passing on knowledge and experience should be a goal of anyone competent in a profession. Some people can be driven away when they feel unsupported. Solving problems, correcting mistakes and steering apprentices toward the correct methods of repair is very important for the trade to survive.

Having an inclusive, diverse workforce in the shops will keep the desire to work in autobody alive. After all, apprentices are required to complete most of their training on the job. Without some form of mentorship, the apprenticeship experience can be diminished.

Cecile Bukmeier is an autobody instructor at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology.

You can email her at CECILEB@nait.ca.

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CUSTOM CORNER

A NEW Era For CUSTOM CARS

When it comes to custom vehicles, the generation gap between Gen-Xers and Millenials grows by the day

Custom cars are currently experiencing a monumental generational shift.

There seems to be a big difference between the tastes of Generation X and Millennials when talking ‘custom’ cars.

The custom ride of choice for generation X has traditionally been sporty, powerful and somewhat rebellious; though never far astray from their baby boomer parents.

Generation X dreamed of owning the cars that were plastered on their bedroom walls growing up. They began to inherit the classic ‘Americana’ cars such as the Pontiac GTO, Plymouth Barracuda, and Chevrolet Camaro, which were then mixed in with the dream cars such as the Corvette or Mustang.

Millennials however, are generally uninterested in building or owning classic Americana muscle cars of the 50s, 60s, or 70s. When you think about the first car you fantasized about owning, it was probably something like a Ferrari or Lamborghini or maybe even a Jaguar— something that most likely was outside of your budget. Now, think about when you first started to make a little money and realized your dream car may be a few years away. So you opened the printed auto trader and started to fantasize about the rides you could afford.

Millennials started buying inexpensive, versatile, and reliable vehicles that functioned just as well as a starter car should. The Nissan 240sx, the BMW E30 and the Jeep CJ-7 are cars that had been tossed by the

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“We have an obsession with cars from our teenage years and it never dies” - Ryan Romaniuk

previous generation to become the vehicles of youth. Millennials grew up with different cars plastered on their walls; Toyota Supra, Nissan Skyline GT-R, Honda NSX and off-road rides like the Ford Bronco.

Millennials have just started to settle into the workplace and have begun to earn a disposable income. This means that for the first time, they can seriously finance custom rides.

The generational shift within the custom car world is evident, even for someone who is perhaps less cultured when it comes to cars. All you have to do is pull up to the local Thursday night car show to see classic

BODYWORXMAG.COM BODYWORX PROFESSIONAL

Americana muscle cars as the minority to customized foreign vehicles.

However, taste may not be the same for everyone. One of the most fascinating aspects of customization involves the geographical differentiation that breeds completely different tastes and automotive pop-cultures.

Coming from a millennial who went to high school in the post 2010-era, the most popular trend has been taking these relatively inexpensive, reliable vehicles that were attainable when the world of driving first opened and making them brand new again—but this time with your own taste mixed in.

CUSTOM CORNER

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The frame restored after being sandblasted and painted, the old cab on the hoist waiting for the rolling chassis to be moved to another lift where the new cab is waiting.

Ryan Romaniuk is a prime example of how Millennials have their own ideas about custom cars. He lives with his mom in a Victorian style house in the middle of downtown Uxbridge. When you peer over the fence or look onto the porch, you might notice something is ‘different’ here.

You will find sets of doors from Dodge, fenders from Jeep Comanches and wheels that look like they’ve just come off Grave Digger. It is closer to a Dodge Jeep Ram parts warehouse than a family home. You can probably gather Ryan is crazy about anything Jeep or Dodge and has owned north of 15 vehicles combined since he got his licenses. Ryan is part of the new trend of millennial custom car enthusiasts that tend to be obsessed with inexpensive, versatile, and reliable vehicles that they were able to afford from the beginning.

Ryan’s current custom journey started two years ago when he stumbled upon a 2001 Dodge Ram 3500 Laramie for sale. The truck had a single owner and a clean sheet. Even after 326,000 km, the Cummins motor and drive train ran like clockwork, but ever ything else, well let’s just say it was comparable to Swiss cheese.

The first order of business was to strip the whole truck down to its bare bones, and I mean bare. The whole cab was removed, and the frame sent to be sandblasted. He followed it up by taking

the whole engine and drive line assembly out so that everything could be cleaned, and new bushings installed.

The new cab came from a southern U.S. truck that had never seen salt.

Even with its age and similar number of miles the cab looked as if it was in new condition. Ryan sourced a set of doors and a box for his build to guarantee that there would be no ‘Swiss cheese’ material left on his rig.

There seems to be a trend, especially with Millennials – with not giving up on a ride that has seen better days, it’s as if they yearn for the challenge to bring back a car from the dead.

Ryan translated his passion for Jeeps and Dodge trucks onto another level and now sells them for a living. This passion he developed by customizing his ride and saving it from the scrap yard landed him a job at Williamson Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Uxbridge, Ont. It’s safe to say Dodge runs in his blood. We often hear Gen-Xers complaining that the new generation doesn’t have the same passion for custom rides, this is far from reality.

No, young people aren’t interested in the same style of rides, but they seem to be even more committed to restoring and building up custom rides that would have maybe been considered too far gone by previous cohorts.

326,000 harsh kilometers have left a mark, time to remove strip everything down!

The interior upholstery is being transferred from the original cab to the ‘new’ transplant because it has been heavily faded from the sun exposure in Florida

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INDUSTRY LANDSCAPPE

Bikes, Paint, & Rock’n’Roll Jamie Haffenden balances his life as a musician and operator of his own custom paint bike shop

BY JOSH WHITE

Haffenden has been playing music since he was 12 years old.

J

amie Haffenden is a man of many hats—and two names. Hailing from Orillia, Ontario, he has made a name for himself in both the auto industry and the Canadian music scene. This lucky combination of talents has shaped his life as a top-notch painter with his own shop and a musician with two bands. Whether he is known as Jamie Haffenden of Savage Customs Paint Shop or Terry Savage of Terry Savage and the Wonky Honkees, he continuously puts out great work. Balancing these two lives cannot be easy, but Jamie not only finds a way—he does it well.

At 18, he was given the opportunity to work at his father’s shop, Reliable Auto Body; developing his interest in the industry. Initially working on rust repair for all kinds of vehicles, his specialization soon became custom painting. As a motorcycle enthusiast, it comes as no surprise that bikes became his primary vehicle to work on. Two years ago, Jamie opened Savage Customs, a business focused on doing custom paint jobs on motorcycles.

Jamie’s journey into his music career began much earlier. While he does not have a family of musicians, it has always been large part of his life. His father got him his first drum set at age 12, which kicked off his interest

in music. After a year of playing the drums, he picked up his sister’s guitar and started playing. Sucked in, it was not long before he was singing and writing his own music.

Surrounded by all kinds of music styles, Jamie learned to play and write in many different genres. From this sprouting talent came the bands Like Animals and Terry Savage and the Wonky Honkees.

Like Animals formed eight years ago as a progressive hard-rock trio with Jamie on

guitar and lead vocals. Looking to make music without limits, Jamie showed off his genre-spanning skills over several albums.

The 2009 release Sweet Whispers, Plagued Ears debuted their music to the world and has been followed by four more albums. In 2016, Like Animals released their latest EP, Feral. Full of energy and hard-rocking guitar riffs, Jamie does not hold back. In five songs, he demonstrates his skills has a guitarist, vocalist and songwriter. As if releasing

Haffenden working with Freedom Machines to lend his talents for a bike giveaway.

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INDUSTRY LANDSCAPPE

Haffenden finds time in his life as a custom painter to share his music all over Canada.

“Tours are a fun vacation. We go camp, we party, and play for fun people.”

several albums while building an autobody career was not impressive enough, he took a massive departure in music style with the Wonky Honkees.

Performing under the name Terry Savage, Jamie formed the five-piece group, Terry Savage and the Wonky Honkees. Describing themselves as “Ontario’s Truckstop Troubadours,” they bring country music back to its roots. Keeping the raw country sound but adding an energetic kick, they win over fans of punk, metal, and folk at their wild shows.

Releasing a few singles here and there, Jamie hopes to have an EP out this winter once he can find the time in his busy schedule. For now, the band is embarking on short tours around Canada playing shows all over the country. Getting the stage name from an old helmet he found with Terry written on the side and his Suzuki Savage Motorcycle, Jamie wears his inspiration from the auto industry on his sleeve—or rather his head.

Even with the success he has had, Haffenden admits it is not easy balancing the shop with his music career. Being part of two bands is demanding in itself, even without the added commitment of running a business. Fortunately, since becoming the owner, Haffenden has been able to make

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Balancing two bands and his own shop cannot be easy, but Haffenden finds a way to make them work together.

the time for new music and playing shows.

While he confesses his music has taken a back seat to the auto business, his ambition has not. Between his two bands, he has gone on short tours for the last six years. Even when he is back in Orillia, the music never stops calling. “I always have a guitar at the shop,” he said. “Some of the best music can come out of letting your mind explore while you’re working.”

He has also noted that his two worlds are not always kept separate. There have been times when the two parts of his life have interacted. Particularly this year, he said, “A lot of people I’ve painted bikes for this season have seen me playing at bike shows.” It has also been helpful with out-of-town business.

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Gaining clients from all over Canada, Haffenden was able to deliver a tank to Saskatchewan while on tour. As difficult as it is to juggle a music career and a body shop, he shows that they do not have to work against each other.

Haffenden recently embarked on a tour with Terry Savage and the Wonky Honkees.

Although the tours usually only last for a few weeks, he enjoys being able to get away. “Tours are a fun vacation. We go camp, we party, and play for fun people,” he said. With all the great work he has put out over the years through his bands and Savage Customs, Haffenden will certainly continuing going places in both industries.

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HEALTH & SAFETY

Healthy at Work

Simple lifestyle shifts for workers

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BY EVAN NELSON

eing healthy at work, and in general, is an important part of preventing burn out and increasing productivity.

While numerous training videos have no doubt shown you some of the ways you can keep healthy and stay safe in the autobody industry, there are only so many things a WHMIS information video can teach you.

Below you’ll find some simple and innovative ways that you can maintain your health while working in the autobody industry, without having to overhaul your entire way of life.

Healthier Lunches When you think of healthy eating, images of raw fruits and vegetables might come to mind. But there are many ways that you can make small, lasting changes in not only what you eat at work, but how you eat it. The Public Health Agency of Canada says that high-fat foods can negatively affect your appetite, body weight, and gastrointestinal system. But the food itself is only a small part in eating healthy. Consider some of these questions when thinking about your workday lunch routine: Do you eat in a rush? Do you eat alone? Do you eat too little during the workday, and/or too much after work? Do you consume a lot of caffeine from coffee, tea, energy drinks, or soda? According to the Public Health Agency of Canada,

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answering yes to any of these questions may mean you are putting additional strain on your body.

But don’t worry! Eating healthy doesn’t have to be a major shift in your lifestyle. It can be as simple as sitting down with a coworker for lunch. If your lunch breaks are short, consider bringing a lunch from home to avoid wasting precious minutes waiting in line. If you do plan on eating take-out or fast food for lunch, try making it a Friday treat, and supplement it with healthy snacks from home. Consider asking a coworker or two to make these healthy changes with you, so that you all feel inspired to keep up the good work.

HEALTH & SAFETY

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Get Involved in Workplace Safety This might seem obvious, but staying healthy at work starts with being safe at work. The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety has a number of helpful fact sheets for those wondering how they can improve the safety of their workplaces. While some of these fact sheets include detailed checklists for management, many of them are more accessible to the everyday worker. Its “Checklist for General Inspection,” for example, gives ideas for how workers can be more mindful about the physical space they work in. Consider areas of your workplace such as stairwells, floors, and storage areas. Are certain areas more cluttered than others? Are supplies piled too high? Are there ways that you could store your tools and supplies in a safer or more efficient way? Are spills and leaks dealt with quickly?

Being mindful about the physical space that you inhabit can help you make it a safer place for you and your coworkers. Even something as simple as grabbing a wet floor sign when you see the need for one can help to keep the space safe for everyone, as well as keeping you invested in the wellbeing of your workplace.

Staying healthy at work doesn’t have to be a herculean task. Being healthy is about making small, meaningful changes that you know you will be able to turn into positive habits. If you are feeling overwhelmed, try asking your

coworkers if they would be willing to jump on board with you. But regardless of whether you tackle these issues alone, or as part of a group, these changes should ultimately help make your work easier and more enjoyable.

Yoga or Meditation Yoga might seem like an overwhelming or nerve-wracking experience, or it might just seem like something that isn’t for you. For your first few classes, this might even seem to be true. Andrew Jobes, a yoga instructor from Peterborough, Ont. says that oftentimes the first few classes can be awkward as you learn how your body moves within different poses. But, as he explains in his article “I Can’t Do Yoga Because…” that is no reason not to try. “Self-acceptance and courage—acting despite our fears—are not only huge contributors to taking that first class, but are also developed and reinforced as we continue our practice.” In an industry where your body spends so much time working for you, it might be nice to return the favour. According to the Cleveland Clinic of Canada, you can expect improved posture and flexibility, reduced stress, and

an increase of overall body and core strength as a result. You can even choose which form of yoga you’d like to try: many wellness centres such as the YMCA offer classes in multiple forms of yoga. Try calling your local wellness centre to find out which classes might be best for you.

But if yoga still seems like an impossible feat, perhaps meditation or mindfulness could be a less daunting alternative. Platforms such as YouTube have a near-endless supply of guided meditations available for those who feel they may not be ready to step into a meditation class. According to the U.S National Centre for Complementary and Integrative Health, meditation may help to reduce blood pressure, alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, and lessen anxiety, depression, and insomnia.

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CAREER PATHS

The Places You’ll Go RARE REPAIRER

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

Vehicles in need of repair don’t stop at cars that belong to members of your community. Racecars, fleet cars, heavy equipment, military vehicles, buses, emergency vehicles, and more get damaged, and thus require someone to repair them. This is an exciting option for someone who loves to repair cars but wants to change up their career.

Those with exceptional communication skills and a deep passion for the industry as well as their community could be perfectly suited for a job in community outreach. Visit schools, organize career fairs or work with repair facilities to help them connect with locals. In a time when finding skilled technicians to enter the workforce is becoming increasingly difficult, community outreach is not just a luxury, but a necessity.

RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT AND INVENTING

OEM CORPORATE

Engineering and science are a huge component of repairing a vehicle.

If that’s a big part of why you enjoy what you do, perhaps you might want to dive deeper in to that world. Work with an OEM or research development group to improve upon or develop new technology.

Be a part of the wildly exciting technological advancements that are keeping the entire world on the edge of their seats.

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Hundreds of diverse and interesting careers are available in corporate to suit an enormous variety of interests and skill sets.

Examples include business development, sales and marketing, business operations, technology, and more.

CAREER PATHS

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YOUR CAREER OPTIONS ARE WIDE AND VAST In the last edition of Bodyworx Professional magazine, we illuminated many different options aspiring technicians have when they begin their careers. New-comers could start out by doing anything from a high school co-op, becoming an apprentice or joining their local repair facility as a parts clerk or detailer. Directly from there, one could leap to new heights, taking on positions such as licensed autobody collision and damage repairers, licensed autobody repairers, automotive painters or service technicians. Exciting stuff. But did you know that upward growth is far from over? Read on to discover all the career opportunities available to you.

EDUCATOR

SHOP MANAGEMENT

There’s nothing more satisfying than helping others improve at their craft. If this is a sentiment you agree with, consider teaching at a college or university, becoming a trainer for an OEM or banner group, or even starting up an online training resource through video posts or blogging.

If you love the shop you work but want to have a little more responsibility, consider pursuing shop management. Extra training and effort will of course be necessary, but the satisfaction of running a smooth shop will probably prove to be worth the effort.

BANNER GROUP CORPORATE

OWNERSHIP

Banner groups are often looking for talented individuals to help expand their business. A diverse range of career options are available including sales and marketing, business development, product ambassadors, operations, industry relations advisors, operations, and more.

If you’ve got that entrepreneurial spirit and live for every part of the collision repair process, consider owning a shop of your own.

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SCHOOL PROFILE

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ATTRACTING YOUNG TALENT Redefining the roles within the industry

R Patrice Marcil, chairman of the Canadian Collision Industry Forum

ecruiting young adults to enter the Collision Repair industry seems to be a bit of a struggle, at least in certain Canadian provinces.

Patrice Marcil, the chairman of the Canadian Collision Industry Forum explained that the registration numbers all depend upon the economy in each province.

“Right now, Alberta is short of registration because the oil industry is doing better- so many people go to that industry,” he said.

However, in Montreal there is a lot of registration because they have a night class, which allows young adults to work during the day and then attend class at night.

John Norris, the Executive Director of the Collision Industry Information Assistance trade organization in Ontario, released information indicating that Ontario hit record breaking registration this year with 746 apprentices enrolled.

BY LINDSEY COOKE

Marcil stressed the fact that the economy plays a huge role in this situation, but so do the prices for tools.

Kyle Salmers, a 22-year-old first-year truck and coach technician apprentice, says that the cost of tools and equipment coming out of the student’s pocket is one reason as to why people might shy away from entering the industry in the first place.

“A good place to start would be a much bigger grant at the end of the school year for tools,” he said.

“Buying tools is crazy expensive and a huge reason why people wouldn’t even bother with it. A full set of tools is around $5,000- $8,000.”

“I’m in my first-year apprentice and I’ve already spent over 10 grand on the tool truck,” he explained.

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SCHOOL PROFILE

Marcil said that this is another underlying issue that should be addressed by the industry in order to attract and recruit more young talent.

“It’s definitely a show stopper,” he added.

He pointed out that there are other trades such as construction where the tool boxes are cheaper, where as a collision repairer can spend up to $5,000 and expect to make lower wages when they first start out.

Marcil believes that the government should step in to do something to provide more incentives for students who want to complete the courses and buy the tools, or that students in this trade should be given special student loans for the tools they need.

The CCIF is working on different strategies and ways to beat this issue. The industry forum has been releasing surveys to students twice a year, for the past two years, to gather a better understanding as to what students are looking for in terms of the collision repair field.

They also have a strong belief that there is a misconception about this trade. Many people believe what they see on television.

They think that in this industry there is only one role and that role demonstrates bad and dangerous work environments, low wages, and

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Kyle Salmers tools cost between $5,000 - $8,000.

an overall poor quality of life; when in fact there are so many more roles to the industry now, Marcil explained.

There are customer service representatives, appraisers, technicians, mechanics, the list goes on.

“Roles have changed,” he said.

So in response, the CCIF has been working

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on short 30 second video segments to post onto their social media platforms, showing young adults in various positions within the industry. This brings awareness for young talent looking into this industry and hopefully some more attraction nationwide.

“I think that’s what the industry is about,” Marcil added.

NEWS

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Good as gold Fix Auto London North West painter/prepper Maggie Friesen could soon be headed to Russia, where she will compete for the chance to represent Canada at WorldSkills 2019.

“It was really exciting to compete at the national level,” said Friesen. “I’m really looking forward to seeing if I can make it on to Team Canada.”

Winning gold at this year’s Ontario skills competition, she earned a spot on the national podium, taking a bronze in Alberta this spring.

For her bosses, co-owners of Fix Auto London North West Darren Hewitt and Patrick Schaffner, they feel that Friesen’s successes are a source of pride for them as well.

“Maggie has been with us for a short time and she’s already fitting right in with the rest of the team,” says Hewitt. “We’re very proud that she’s going to have a chance to win a spot on Team Canada next year.”

Every two years WorldSkills hosts the world championships of skills which attracts more

Maggie Friesen took home a gold at Skills Ontario and a bronze at Skills Canada.

than 1,300 Competitors from more than 70 countries. At this event, young people from all corners of the globe gather together for the chance to win a prestigious medal in their chosen skill. There are competitions in over

fifty skills across a wide range of industries.

The Competitors represent the best of their peers and are selected from skills competitions that are held in WorldSkills Member countries and regions.

ACDC training rocked Massachusetts in September Auto Career Development Center (ACDC) hosted a three-day HEV, PHEV and EV course in Worcester, Massachusetts, instructed by company owner Craig Van Batenburg.

The newly developed class, which ran from September 5-7 of this year, is based on both modern technology and teaching methods.

The class gave the opportunity to learn inside the ACDC Center, a unique facility that provides students with a balanced mix of classroom experience and hands-on training.

Over the course of the three days trainees gained knowledge in a variety of fields including HV battery systems, regenerative breaking and high voltage air conditioning systems. In addition, a large variety of HEV’s along with scan tools and scopes were available for those enrolled in the course.

Included with the three-day training was a 26 hour online course, designed to help prepare those headed into the class. The online training was available to students up to three months past the course’s conclusion.

For attendees that finished the course, they will have the opportunity to write a test to become a ACDC qualified hybrid technician. The test is available two weeks after the completion of the training and requires a minimum mark of 80 percent to receive the designation.

Van Batenburg and ACDC have been providing Hybrid training resources since 2000 and EV training resources since 2008. Van Batenburg now works full time training, consulting and instructing.

Auto Career’s Development Center (ACDC) owner, Craig Van Batenburg discussing electric fundamentals in vehicle repairs at NACE Automechanika this year.

If the trip to Massachusetts is too far, Canadians will have the opportunity to learn from Van Batenburg when ACDC comes to Canada in January, in partnership with aftermarket retailer AARO. “Being able to come to Canada is a great opportunity, we have trained over 200 Canadian shop owners and industry workers in the past through our ACDC courses here in Worcester,” said Van Batenburg.

For more information or to sign-up visit fixhybrid.com.

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NEWS

Flatline and CARSTAR tackle measuring Car-O-Liner distributor Flatline Collision Repair Technology Specialists has partnered with CARSTAR to host an educational session with representatives of the collision repair and insurance industries.

With the array of new features and technologies lining modern vehicles, the event was designed to educate attendees about the equipment and procedures involved in electronic measuring.

“Providing comprehensive diagnostics has been a long-standing commitment for CARSTAR, as we see that it reduces cycle time, increases job quality and achieves on-time delivery which all improves the customer experience,” says CARSTAR’s director of EDGE performance Bill Davidge.

Electronic measuring equipment has traditionally existed to measure the effects of a collision by looking at the height, width and length of a vehicle. Now, in order for sensors and cameras to work as designed, it is crucial that all of the component parts are correctly aligned.

“We work in close cooperation with vehicle manufacturers around the world to measure new and updated vehicle models by our

The event was aimed at educating attendees about the equipment and processes required for electronic measuring to be properly and effectively performed.

international team of trained measuring engineers. This provides consistent access to current and reliable data including all crucial references,” says Car-O-Liner’s OEM account manager Carl Boyer. “Using our measuring specifications increases the productivity and the efficiency of the work while adequately documenting the damage,

ensuring the vehicle is repaired within OEM frame specifications.”

The educational session proved valuable for all attendees, taking away some history about the evolution of electronic measuring and the importance of accuracy, demonstrating how important it is for collision repair facilities to embrace the new technology.

First course on plastic damage assessment Accountable Estimating has paired up with Polyvance to introduce the industry’s first educational course about plastic part damage assessment.

Estimating Plastic Repair is the online training course designed to teach estimators how to properly assess the repairability of the plastic components on a vehicle. The course focuses on bumper covers and headlights.

It takes the user through a number of different types of plastics and the three main types of plastic repair techniques used throughout the industry.

It’s split up into four modules. Each module is designed to be less than 30 minutes in duration, allowing the learner to remain on site and in production while completing the training.

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President of Polyvance, Kurt Lammon and Roger Cada from Accountable Estimating are discussing in a YouTube video how beneficial this new course is.

Finally, the course ends with a series of exercised to test the skills of the estimator.

The result will be increased plastic repair profits and a greater ROI on training and equipment.

The overall completion of this course will prepare the estimator for a better understanding and skillset for estimating plastic repairs.

Accountable Estimating is also excited to

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introduce Polyvance’s Plastic Bumper Repairability Scale to the collision repair industry.

The purpose of this scale is to rate damage severity from level 1 to level 5, with level 1 being repairs that could easily be performed by a technician with average plastic repair skills and level 5 being extremely difficult or impossible for that same technician.

NEWS

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CAF hosts first conference to support women in the trades The Canadian Apprenticeship Forum will be hosting a conference in Halifax, NS to celebrate and support women in the trades.

This first-time event will be taking place on November 6 and 7 at the Marriott Harbourfront Hotel.

It will be open to women in trades, employers, labour organizations, government educators and other advocates for diversity in the industry.

So far, there have been a few sponsors for the event and the Automotive Industries Association of Canada is one of them.

The conference will host numerous panels discussing some of the challenged that are faced by women working in skilled trades.

Among the panels will be a guest speaker, Mandy Rennehan a Blue-Collar CEO & Founder of Freshco.ca.

Mandy Rennehan, Blue-Collar CEO and founder of Freshco.ca will be speaking at the Canadian Apprenticeship Forum conference celebrating women in the trades.

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CONTINUING EDUCATION

MORE COURSES FROM I-CAR! Checking into I-CAR’s popular courses

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-CAR’s most popular courses at the moment offer knowledge about estimate interactions with customers and understanding the cycle process time. In this segment, I will be discussing what each of those popular courses entail.

The Art and Science of Estimator Interactions goes over everything that has to do with the whole estimating process.

The course kicks off with lessons on how to successfully communicate with the customer. Students will be participating in four activities that will test their ability to build relationships and develop their communication skills with customers. Along with customer communication, trainees will also be using their problem- solving skills in working with insurance companies. Students will go through the whole process of estimating, as well as a step-by-step guide to identifying whether or not photos depict the reality of the damage.

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CONTINUING EDUCATION

The other seemingly popular course mentioned is ‘Understand the Cycle Time Process.’

This course checks into trends that are facing the industry; whether they are currently happening or in our near future.

The course starts with an overview of the new technology that plays a role in collision repair, such as the trend of adding face fronting cameras to vehicles, and the automatic braking standard. It later goes into the technology trends that are going to have a huge impact on the business of the industry such as Intelligent Damage Detection Systems, Resistance Spot Riveting Technology and more.

Students will go through the whole process of estimating, as well as a step-by-step guide to identifying whether photos depict the reality of the damage.

The second half of the course goes into discussing the North American, Asian and European vehicle manufacturers. Finally, students will learn about how diagnostics and scans can be beneficial to a repair facility, as well as the different kinds of scanning tools that exist.

After a student has completed this course they will be filled with more knowledge including the importance of scan tools, the growing technological trends that the industry will be facing and some of the considerations one should take in with the repairs of many new 2017 vehicle platforms.

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MODIVATED PAINTERS

PLAYING TELEPHONE Share your experiences with others

BY GABRIEL MERINO

B

rush it off, keep going, don’t let it bother you. I’ve lost count of how many times I have heard or said these phrases, though I usually just say it to myself.

But here’s the thing; Why does it bother me? And why brush it off, if it is affecting me? This is my heart, my emotions, oh wait yes, it’s me! The way I’m feeling is real, and

most of it and know that you have the choice to say to yourself, I forgive, I accept, I am better and free now.

My point I guess is this: we are beautiful because of what has happened to us, and if we choose to be bitter because of our past then we are sure to be bitter for our future.

Let’s not be selfish and keep ourselves from giving what we have to offer.

believe that shops should be providing self development courses for their employees to keep them motivated and focused, teaching them to have goals and personal targets to aim for. You know the saying: if you don’t know what you are aiming at you will hit it every time.

I h ave notic ed th rou g h M o t iva te d Painters over the years that happy painters

All the things that have happened to us have made us who we are now, so why discount them and brush them off?

should not be ignored. Are you dizzy yet?

This can of worms needs to be opened: crack that lid right off! I need to know why I get so bothered, that I can’t just brush things off and move forward. Instead, I have to look these problems in the eye. They’re part of my life, whether or not I want them to be.

All the things that have happened to us, good or bad, have made us who we are now, so why discount them and brush them off? You wouldn’t be who you are now: so strong, so resilient! Give thanks and be grateful because there was a purpose for the suffering, the tragedy and the anger that you have undoubtedly experienced, and will experience. Just because it sometimes feels like problems are pouring down, it doesn’t mean you have to drown. Try to make the

There is very little to gain by keeping things inside when we know it could help someone else, but much to gain from offering our knowledge to a co-worker or other people around us. You never know when something you taught someone will come back and pay for itself with interest! We must decide to aim more for collaboration instead of competition.

Competition is not a bad thing, but what there is to be gained by collaboration is way more rewarding in every aspect.

The automotive industry as a whole would benefit greatly by uniting and linking arms for a better future from the shop floor to the office chairs. Let’s teach our younger techs to work hard for themselves and for their goals. I

produce better results, care more for the people around them, are willing to learn always and of course earn more money because they focus and double down on the positive aspect of the job at hand and give it their 187 percent.

You bring so much value to your team and to up-and-coming techs, so that they take pride as tradesmen and women in what they do. Always make it easy for that customer to rave about you.

Gabriel Merino is the founder of the movement Motivated Painters. He is also head painter at Budd’s Collision. To get in touch with Gabriel, email him at motivatedpainters@gmail.com.

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READER IMPUT

Bald man’s rebuff Dear editor: I am a talented young repairer who feels he has been overlooked for workplace promotions because of the fact that I suffer from a serious case of baldness.

Recently, my employer announced that he would be choosing a new shop team lead after the untimely death of the previous one.

I really feel I was the natural choice for the role. We are a young team, and, at 31, I am the oldest and most experienced member. By repair operations performed, I bring more dollars into the business than anyone else. I also have the most certifications to my name.

Not only that, but I have held a number of leadership positions already—from heading up the staff health and safety committee to serving as the captain of our shop’s ultimate Frisbee team.

I was not, in fact, chosen. The honour went to a talentless young man on our team. He does not

have the respect of my peers. But, to quote the owner, he is quite dashing and has a thick head of blond hair. While he has not commented on my hair, he did give me a bottle of regrowth cream as a Christmas present.

I know that, if confronted, my boss would invent a list of reasons why Mr. Thickmane Handsomeface was promoted over me. I am not trying to get justice and am already looking for a new position. All I want to know is whether it might be good for me to wear a toupee at my next job.

Would it?

Bitter About Lost Dream

- Newfoundland and Labrador

Dear BALD: Bodyworx Professional is ill-equipped to comment on your specific situation, but feels you are wise to consider looking for work in other bodyshops.

When it comes to career advancement, baldness is often cited as being a barrier to upward mobility.

The studies that have come to this conclusion disagree on how much it affects one’s ability to move up within organizations, but it appears to be a burden that falls particularly heavily on bald men working for bosses who do not suffer from hair loss.

Your question about the practicality of wearing a toupee in your next role was not easy-to-answer for two reasons: one practical, the other about style.

The first was purely a matter of safety. Initially, I had assumed a toupee would be a safety hazard on the shop floor. Interestingly enough, however, modern toupee glues are designed to hold up far more effectively than those of the 1950s.

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When I think of toupees, I think of the obvious monstrosities worn by the elderly (and deluded) men of decades past. A quick internet search led me to discover that today’s models are far more convincing.

While most Canadians may believe they had fallen out of fashion since the 1980s, they haven’t. They are just much harder to spot. After some phone calls, I spoke with two members of the industry who do wear them on a day-to-day basis.

It was both of their views that toupees had been good for their careers. One of them, a senior corporate executive, even went so far as to say: “When I was balding, it didn’t matter how well I did my job. I blended in with the walls. The rug has been like a private jetpack for my career.”

In other words: go for it.

- Ed

POST SCAN

PROFESSIONAL PRIDE The repairers who dare JORDAN ARSENEAULT

A

s the incoming editor of Bodyworx Professional, it has been a profound honour to work with so many members of the collision repair community; from the soldiers of the II Service Battalion, to Skills Canada gold-medal winning painter Nicole Hamilton. Being able to share the inspiring stories of these hard working and talented

cles. I am often astounded by the support within shop organizations and the desire these teams of individuals had for providing top-quality repairs. The knowledge and training possessed by those involved should allow car owners to sleep easy at night, knowing their car will be restored to pre-accident condition.

repairers, as technicians must be up-to-date on all the latest training in order to properly calibrate and repair the complex systems attached to today’s vehicles.

For collision repair professionals, having a commitment to self-improvement is an entry requirement. Just about the only way to succeed in an industry that requires its

Having the opportunity to work with so many admirable repairers has really opened my eyes up to the great diversity of skills and career backgrounds that exist amongst collision repair professionals. individuals is the backbone of what makes this magazine so successful. It is with great delight that I have been able to highlight the spectacular accomplishments of so many within this industry and inspire those looking to get involved. We will continue to tell these stories and share with you the great passion and dedication that exists within the collision repair community.

Having the opportunity to work with so many admirable repairers has really opened my eyes up to the great diversity of skills and career backgrounds that exist amongst collision repair professionals. From shop floor mechanics, to estimators and store managers, this industry has something for everyone who has a passion for vehi-

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We find ourselves in a time when there are more question marks than answers when it comes to the future of the automotive industry. The technology that has been integrated into today’s vehicles is extensive to say the least. The potential of this technology leaves many wondering if they’ll be driving their own cars in ten years. Despite all the uncertainty that exists as a result of the new gizmos and gadgets found standard on most new cars, the presence of this technology has helped advance the industry in many respects.

From safety to customer convenience, the reality of these changes has had no shortage of consumer benefits. However, this has been a great challenge for collision

members to adapt to new and ever-more complex technology on a regular basis is to continually learn and grow.

As scary and unclear as the future of collision and vehicle technology might seem, it’s comforting knowing there are so many individuals working hard, day in and day out, to constantly improve the way we think about collision repair. The envelope is being pushed and we’re here to show you how.

Jordan Arseneault is the editor of Bodyworx Professional magazine.

He can be reached by phone at 905-370-0101, or emailed at jordan@mediamatters.ca