SPECIAL EDITION OF
DANGER! WELDING MYTHS PUTTING YOU AND YOUR SHOP AT RISK!
CLASSTIME IS OVER Tropicana graduates Shefat Golam and Jorden Cardinell kick their careers into high gear!
+ PLUS Leading the shop when you’re not in charge, a how-to guide to pinstriping your vehicle, and much, much more!
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CONTENTS
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cover story 12 Tropicana’s Best Fresh from Tropicana’s award-winning auto repair course, graduates get their careers off to a flying start with 12-week apprenticeship programs.
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26 CERTIFIED COLLEGE CURRICULUM
IN THE HEADLIGHTS
Flying cars, vehicular vandalism and and a close encounter with a camel! A look at the craziest car-and-collision-related headlines!
At Saskachewan Polytechnic, your training isn’t just cutting-edge, it is certifiably fresh! Our audit of the course making waves in the industry!
28 ON THE COVER: Shefat Golam and Jorden Cardinell at CSN Brimell in Toronto!
HELP WANTED The auto dismantling industry needs you! A look at why you should consider a career taking end-of-life vehicles apart!
Photos by: Harrison PattersonLeclerc
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CONTENTS
30 COOLER HEADS PREVAIL Want to turbo-charge your career? Here are the four can’tmiss strategies you need to keep your team emotionally invested in their work!
42 BORN TO BE WELD Mayhem-causing myths, dangerous misconceptions and more! Everything you need to know about the different types of welders and how—and how not—to use them!
regulars 06 Publisher’s Page by Darryl Simmons
23 Educator Insight
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by Cecile Bukmeier
34 Motivated Painters by Gabriel Merino
20 News 46 Final Detail by Jordan Arseneault
PRODUCTS TO WATCH The latest and greatest gadgets that can make make your job a whole lot easier!
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PRE-SCAN
INDISPENSABLE MECHANISMS Every bodyshop member plays a vital role
PUBLISHER Darryl Simmons 647.409.7070 publisher@collisionrepairmag.com EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Gideon Scanlon 905.370.0101 gideon@mediamatters.ca ASSOCIATE EDITOR Jordan Arseneault jordan@mediamatters.ca
DARRYL SIMMONS
STAFF WRITERS Cindy MacDonald Cindy@mediamatters.ca Lindsey Cooke Lindsey@mediamatters.ca
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s an industry, we have a lot of big characters. Many are warm, and others wild. Some are serious-minded, others live-to-laugh! I used to think that the industry had a lot of people who broke the mold, but then it dawned on me—there was never a mold to break! As publisher of Collision Repair and Bodyworx Professional, it has been my great privilege to meet so many of these big characters making their livings as wonderful technicians, painters, preppers and detailers.
When it comes to collision repair, everything comes down to the techs and painters, preppers and detailers. They are the bodyshop's indispensable cogs! If any one member isn’t doing their jobs properly, production doesn’t just slow—it comes to a complete stop. Sure, a strong team can cover for the odd sick day without too much trouble, but if someone is being counted on to finish a work order, they had better get done! I know, I know! If you’ve spent any time on a shop floor, these are self-evident truths. After all, you might not be able to stand the lead painter, but you count on her for your
When it comes to collision repair, everything comes down to the techs and painters, preppers and detailers. They are the bodyshop’s indispensable cogs! There is, one skill that does seem to be found in, if not all, the vast majority of people working on the front lines of the collision repair industry—though it isn’t really about their character. It is the ability to look beyond differences in personality and pull together to do great things as a team. Why? Because a bodyshop, like any of the complex machines inside it, can ‘t do any task unless every part is working together properly! Consider the pneumatic lift. When its hundred-or-so mechanisms work in perfect unison, it can accomplish feats-of-strengths that would be otherwise impossible. Despite this, collision repair professionals don’t tend to to take much notice of the machine—at least until one of those vital mechanisms conks out. Sure, there might be a few knobs that could be lost without any serious effect, but if just one key component is broken, that machine isn’t going to work at all.
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livelihood—and she sure counts on you. My message is really for the people who haven’t yet been so fortunate as to spend time on the shop floor. If you are considering a career in the field, you should know that while this isn’t an industry for the egodriven or the vain, for anyone with the spine to succeed, it can be both a challenging and deeply rewarding career. If you are reading this and know someone with the strength of character to succeed as part of a team, please share this magazine with them. The collision repair industry needs people—especially young people. We need their new ideas to tackle new problems. We need their fresh perspective on old ones. We need them for, well, just about everything.
ART DIRECTOR Michelle Miller 905.370.0101 michelle@mediamatters.ca GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jill Thacker jill@mediamatters.ca VP INDUSTRY RELATIONS & ADVERTISING Gloria Mann 647.998.5677 advertising@collisionrepairmag.com DIRECTOR BUSINESS SOLUTIONS Ellen Smith 416.312.7446 ellen@mediamatters.ca PUBLISHER’S ASSISTANT Laura Jensen 647.998.5677 laura@mediamatters.ca EDITORIAL INTERNS Kavika Misra, Clara Luck, Laura Orchard, Sarthak Agarwal CONTRIBUTORS Zachary Duncan, Cecile Bukmeier, Gabriel Merino, Jordan Porter, Stacey Phillips 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. PRINTED IN CANADA ISSN 1707-6072 CANADA POST CANADIAN PUBLICATIONS MAIL SALES PRODUCT AGREEMENT No. 40841632 RETURN POSTAGE GUARANTEED Send change of address notices and undeliverable copies to: 317 Reid St., Peterborugh ON K9J 3R2
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THE HEADLIGHTS
OEM Announcements
BEAMER’S DREAMERS
CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG While Toyota has hinted that it is develping a flying car, a nearly unknown company has beaten them to the punch. This year at GTEX, the trade show that showcases the technology of the future, Dubai-based Etisalat revealed it already has an autonomous flying vehicle. Hovering humingbird-like in a press video, the vehicle is also fully electric.
BRINGING THE BUBBLE BACK The Isetta—better known as the bubble car—a symbol of cheap and cheerful mobility on European roads in the 50’s-60’s, is making a comeback. Fifty-six years after its invention by two Swiss brothers, Oliver and Merlin Ouboter, the duo are working on a new version of their cute two-seater vehicle. The vehicle, known as the Microlino, has 7,200 orders already placed. The car swaps out the old single-cylinder petrol engine for a 20 horsepower electric motor. The brothers plan to launch the vehicle in December!
BMW Motorrad has been working on a special project for more than two years: a self-driving motorcycle. Developed by graduate engineer Stefan Hans and his team, the vehicle independently drives off, accelerates, circles a winding test track and independently slows down to a stop. The goal of this project according to BMW is to help inattentive drivers in dangerous situations. “We wanted to improve motor-cycle safety,” Hans said. With this forward-thinking development, BMW Motorrad, as a driver for technical innovations in the field of motorcycling, is by no means aiming for a completely independent motorbike.The aim of the prototype is to gather additional knowledge about the driving dynamics in order to detect dangerous situations early on and thus support the driver with appropriate safety systems while turning at intersections or when braking suddenly.
TICKET TO RIDE Self-driving electric vehicles are slowly becoming a reality—with slowly being the operative word. In October, Edmonton launched their first electronic autonomous vehicle pilot project. Residents can go to three different neighborhoods across the city to try the shuttle over its three week duration. For those concerned about the possibility of robotic road-rage, fear not. The vehicle has a trained operator whose job is to jump in at the first sign of trouble! In September, Calgary saw its own autonomous bus project, with residents ferried between the Calgary Zoo LRT station to the TELUS Spark Science Centre. The two cities will share their test results, which Edmonton said will enable additional data evaluation of how the pilot vehicle operates in two different Alberta climates.
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AUTONOMOUS DREAM TEAM It looks like Cruise, Honda and General Motors are teaming up to develop their own take on the autonomous car. Honda will be contributing approximately $2 billion over 12 years which, together with a $750 million equity investment in Cruise, brings its total commitment to the project to $2.75 billion. “This is the logical next step in General Motors and Honda’s relationship, given our joint work on electric vehicles, and our close integration with Cruise,” said General Motors CEO Mary Barra.
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VOLKSWAGEN SQUASHES BEETLE Say good-bye to the Beetle. Volkswagen announced they are no longer making the model. For the past 80 years the ‘punch buggy’ has served as one of the most popular vehicles in the world. It came to promenance as a fashionable car of the hippy generation in the 1960s, and one Beetle even found fame as a movie star, with the Herbie films. With the incline in electric and more efficient vehicles, the beetle has declined because the motoring is needed to be “bug free.”
THE HEADLIGHTS
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Unbelievable Accidents
COLLISION CAUSES BLACKOUT STACKED ON THE SCENE What are the odds that one vehicle lands directly on top of the other in the event of an accident? In Arizona, police and emergency vehicles were alerted to a collision with a pickup truck that landed on top of a car after the truck was hit by another vehicle. Firefighters said that it was a miracle that the two people in the car and the woman driving the pickup weren’t injured after the crash!
TESLA BLAST OFF IN BARRIE In September, security footage caught a 2016 four-door Tesla crossing railroad tracks in Barrie, Ontario at a very high speed. This caused the vehicle to fly 30 metres over the railroad and eventually crash. The impact of the crash caused the car to skid and hit a tree in a parking lot. The 26-year-old driver suffered minor injuries and was charged with dangerous driving.
A vehicle crashed into an electric pole in Mississauga causing over 3000 people to be without power for a short period of time, however Alectra Utilities says all the power has since been restored. A video released on Twitter showed sparks of light that appeared like there was a fire but Peel Regional police said there wasn’t. The sparks were a result of, “the wires shorting themselves when they came in contact with each other,” police said.
Vehicular Crime and Punishment
FAKE RECALL NOTICES A dealership in Washington D.C settled with the Federal Trade Commission for supposedly sending fake recall notices in the mail, so they could boost their dealer’s repair business. They sent the notice to 7,000 Toyota owners in 2015 and 14,000 Nissan owners in 2017. The notice had mentioned that the manufacturer may have tried to contact you previously, and this was the follow-up effort. To settle this matter the dealership agreed they wouldn’t mislead consumers with this, but they never admitted to doing anything wrong. The settlement also didn’t include any compensation for consumers. The dealership said in a written statement that it sent the letters to its customers because it was having difficulty identifying and fixing cars with unrepaired safety defects. Manufacturer lists of unrepaired vehicles with open recalls aren’t always available to dealers.
THE GREAT ESCAPE
DRUNKY BREWSTER In September, police pulled over a vehicle in Charlottetown, P.E.I. and were surprised to see a 13-year-old behind the wheel. The man in the passenger seat was intoxicated and decided to let a 13-year-old drive home instead of taking over the wheel. Charlottetown police reported responding to a complaint about an erratic driver on Riverside Drive Monday night. The man was arrested and spent the night in jail. The accused is facing charges under the Liquor Control Act and the Highway Traffic Act.
Talk about the ultimate escape! A Tauranga, New Zealand man used almost every form of transportation to escape from the police. The police had multiple warrants out for the man, including drug and weapon charges. Officers were called to an area where the 37-year-old man was seen leaving a suspicious vehicle in a hurry. A couple hours later he returned to the vehicle but decided to run on foot away from the police. He then ran across a nearby golf course where he spotted a bike and stole it. After the bike broke down, he tried to steal a vehicle but that also didn’t seem to pan out very well. Being near the beach, he saw the water as his only option left. He tried to get away on a surf ski kayak without paddles. Before too long he ended up tipping into the water, where police finally caught him.
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THE HEADLIGHTS
When Animals Attack
SAY IT AIN’T SO, JOE! A camel was trapped inside a vehicle after it was hit by a speeding car in India. The camel walked onto a highway just as the Toyota Corolla was approaching. The collision flung the camel into the car, smashing the windshield and trapping the confused animal inside, where he flailed. The driver of the car was unharmed, but was taken to a nearby hospital as a precaution. Concerned pedestrians, meanwhile, spent the next four hours trying to free the camel, whose legs were coiled in the front seat of the car. The camel was eventually freed and was treated by vets.
HOW NOW, BROWN COW? In October, Morag, a recently retired milking cow, escaped a local cattle market in Scotland. Unconvinced by the retirement party her owners had planned, the brazen bovine decided to celebrate in her own way. Having been allowed inside a local Mazda dealership by its obliging automatic doors. In what was likely an attempt to evade recapture, she spent several minutes attempting to look inconspicuous. Having decided she was no longer being pursued, Morag became startled when the doors, which had so kindly allowed her to enter, would not allow her to leave. Incensed, Morag began to make a scene. As she trundled through the showroom, panicked employees hid in their offices, leaving her no choice but to express her frustrations to an innocent Mazda 5. In total she caused about $2,000 of damages. 10
DEER Bear DOBurglar THEIR BIT BEAR BURGLAR After a Colorado car-owner went to his vehicle and saw that there were three doors wide open, he was curious to figure out why the apparent burglar hadn’t stolen his laptop. Upon reviewing footage from a nearby security camera he discovered that there had been no burglar at all, but rather an unexpected guest... one with four honey-coated paws. The camera had a good visual of the scene as a curious black bear entered the vehicle. In the video, it appears that the honey-mad beast hadn’t the slightest problem using the handles to open the doors, though she did forget to close them after she was done. The car doors remained open for three hours and there was no serious damage to the vehicle.
HOUNDED DOWN A Toronto driver-in-training will no longer be allowed behind the wheel after trying to run down a postman delivering mail to an experimental driving course. Disaster struck when Posey, a three-year-old mutt participating in an experiment teaching dogs to drive, got her car off to an early start. Already buckled up, Posey spied a postie and hit the gas before her instructor could take his seat, which was equipped with a secondary breaking system. Fortunately for the postman, the vehicle was set to go no faster than 4 km/ hr, giving him ample time to run away.
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After a Colorado owner went their Manitoba Public car Insurance has to issued vehicle sawdeer that were three warningsand about in there the southeastern doors open, he probably scared cornerwide of the province. With was more than someone had broken it. But camera 1,700 collisions withinto deer lasta year, in that had a good visual of the vehicle all the Eastman Region, which borders both night picked somethingaelse. A curious Ontario and up Minnesota, driver’s odds black bear was the culprit and from of crashing into one there are the bestthe in video is appearsatit least, had nofor problem using Canada—best, the collision the handles toWhile open the thesacrifices doors, but did repair industry. made forget to close them after he done. by Eastman deer on behalf of was the indusThe car doors remained open for three try deserve special notice, populations hours andregions there was no real damage to in other of Manitoba are—by the any vehicle. measure—doing their bit. Last year, Manitobans reported more than 11,000 wildlife collisions—the majority of which were with deer. It is estimated that they cost the insurer more than $40 million per annum. More than 7,000 collisions occurred in Winnipeg. In fact, MPI has gone so far as to identify more than a dozen high-risk areas within the city and place hard-to-miss warnings.
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PROFILE OF SUCCESS Jorden Cardinell and Shefat Golam received scholarships for top grades in their graduating class.
TROPICANA’S FRESHLY TRAINED REPAIRERS
Photography by Harrison Patterson-Leclerc
Armed with the skills to succeed, BY JORDAN ARSENEAULT Tropicana’s graduates prove themselves in the trade
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t’s almost time for lunch as Jorden Cardinell puts the final touches on the front end of a newly repaired bumper. The inspiring apprentice inspects the part from all sides, before sliding underneath the vehicle to secure its clips. Covered in grease from head to toe, Cardinell can’t help but smile. In the span of a few months he had transformed his life, from a high school graduate with a dream,
to an automotive student with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the field of collision repair. “I fell in love with autobody in high school but had no practical experience outside of that,” Cardinell said. That all changed earlier this year when Cardinell stumbled across the Tropicana autobody pre-apprenticeship program. The program which includes seven weeks of
Jorden Cardinell sands the exterior of a car.
Shefat Golam helps conduct an estimate on a vehicle. 12
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pre-employment training and a 12-week level one autobody collision and damage repair course at Centennial College, was exactly the type of opportunity Cardinell was searching for. Not having the resources to afford further schooling and still lacking the experience and training required to make his dream a reality, Cardinell took his shot at applying for the program. Not only did Cardinell get accepted, he excelled; received top honours
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PROFILE OF SUCCESS
[Left to Right] Jorden Cardinell, Shefat Golam, Akeme Smith, Dylan Ramcharran, Tramar Anderson are all graduates of the Tropicana program.
in his graduating class resulting in a $500 academic scholarship. “Tropicana provided me with an opportunity to gain knowledge of the industry and taught me how to fix vehicles,” Cardinell said. “I now have the education and experience I need to go and become a level 2 apprentice and continue towards a career as an automotive mechanic.” Having graduated the program in September, Cardinell is currently working at Assured Automotive in Scarborough as a part of his 12-week paid placement set up by the Tropicana program. Cardinell’s story is one of many examples of the impact the Tropicana program has had on new apprentices entering the industry. In just nine years the program has helped over 100 students become level one apprentices, while bolstering a student success rate of over 70 percent. It’s not just the academic success however that makes the program so special, but also the impact it has had on students outside the classroom. “This program has had a very large impact on my life,” Shefat Golam said. Golam, another recent graduate of the program and scholarship recipient, is currently completing her 12-week paid placement at Brimell CSN in Scarborough.
Dylan works on a car at CSN Brimell.
“I believe it is the dedication of the staff at Tropicana, who genuinely want to help the students succeed that makes this program work so well.” - Tom Forster
“I have only been here for a short few months and the staff at Brimell has become my second family. I love coming into work during the weekdays and it makes time fly by having such a great work environment,” she said. Golam first learned about the program through her brother who was completing a program of his own underneath the Tropicana umbrella. Collision repair was something Golam was familiar with, having completed autobody classes in high school, but it was the challenge of the industry that motivated Golam to further her automotive education. “When I tell people I work at a bodyshop people are shocked because I do not fit the stereotype but it’s a new world and we need to work together to break all stereotypes and norms,” said Golam.
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PROFILE OF SUCCESS
“I would love to show people that even though I am a woman I can still work in a field as such.” Program Coordinator Suad Dualeh has seen the results first hand; working with hundreds of students between the ages of 18 and 30 throughout the greater Toronto area. Dualeh believes that it’s not just the success of students, but also the demographic of individuals chosen that has made the program so meaningful. “At Tropicana Employment Centre, we work with a marginalized group that has been overlooked for a long period of time,” Dualeh said. “These young adults do not have the network or the resources to access trade areas on their own and many encounter additional socio-economic obstacles that impede their success. Tropicana Employment Centre has traditionally worked with this client population and has staff with the experience and skills necessary to address the various needs of these clients.” Dualeh’s impact and her dedication towards the program hasn’t gone unnoticed, with some sponsors viewing it as one of the contributing factors to the tremendous success of the initiative thus far. “I believe it is the dedication of the staff at Tropicana who genuinely want to help the students succeed, that makes this program work so well,” said Tom Forster, PBE general manager LKQ Keystone. “Tropicana Community Services are a valuable asset and their reward is every student that has gone through this program successfully. They work hard everyday to make sure this program and the students within it are successful.” Another major strength of the program has been the continued support it’s received from sponsors. Organizations such as 3M, LKQ,
Jorden and Shefat are currently working through their 12 week placements as a part of the Tropicana program
CIIA and CARSTAR have all served as long-time sponsors of Tropicana, contributing meals and supplies for all students. “The program serves to provide valuable employment for students that perhaps wouldn’t have been able to enter or stay in there,” said John Norris, executive director of CIIA. CARSTAR was one of the original sponsors to get involved with Tropicana, helping the program get off the ground by sending industry support letters to the government requesting funding. With the program now well established CARSTAR has shifted its efforts to supporting specific Tropicana objectives, while also offering assistance for job fairs and placements. Aside from presenting an opportunity for those who might lack the ability to be involved, the program has also lent a major hand in supplying the industry with motivated and capable workers. Programs such as Tropicana’s will be vital in helping to provide relief for the worker shortage developing within collision repair. “It’s important to continue to support the next generation of collision repair and paint technicians through educational programs.
Shefat goes through the process of creating a repair estimate.
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We regard this as an important program both within the community and the industry,” said Peter Wrong, senior accountant representative at 3M. “The people in the collision repair industry are aging very quickly and if we do not replace the veterans that are leaving with an influx of qualified new recruits then the volume of technicians needed to sustain the day-to-day business will not be maintained,” said Norris. Caridnell and Golam are two of the latest examples of young enthusiastic workers ready to take collision repair by storm. Despite not knowing what lays ahead in their perspective careers, both can agree that the fateful decision to pursue Tropicana was the right choice. “The vast majority of the population drives a vehicle which is why this particular field is one that will always be in demand,” Golam said. “I have met a lot of wonderful people and have had a very rewarding experience.” “I would tell anyone considering Tropicana to apply,” Cardinell said. “It’s a great program and was there for me when I didn’t know what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.”
Jorden works on a car in the shop of Assured Automotive.
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CAREER DEVELOPMENT
360 Fabrication's team. There are potential leaders in every bodyshop team. Will you be the one to step-up?
How to Lead When You’re Not in Charge BY ZACHARY DUNCAN
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ven during the day-to-day grind, the unexpected will happen. A panel is left unpainted, a job is unexpectedly scratched, or, perhaps, the manager drops-the-ball and slows production to a stand-still. If you listen, you will hear explicatives being shouted around the facility. It may even be the moment the parts guy earns a new and not-so-desirable nickname. It is also exactly the sort of moment when should-be leaders can show their mettle. Anyone on the floor will tell you that, when one thing goes wrong, it can affect the entire shop. When things go right more than they go wrong, the shop succeeds. If you are the team member to make that happen, you will ultimately succeed as well. If you are not in a leadership role or have bad management, you can still be a leader. In fact, to lead well is to lead up, lead laterally, and lead down.
LEADING LATERALLY
is crucial for day-to-day work life. It may also be the hardest part to get right. Keep in mind that your decision-making habits reflect your priorities at work—your personal life comes second. If your office friendships are preventing you from working as effectively as you otherwise would, make sure to put them on pause during the work day. Managing toxic relationships with peers, however, is a little more difficult. Yes, it can be miserable to work in a culture where no one gets along. The new painter may be a primadonna, the body man scratches jobs because he’s always high—but you can’t change those things. A good lateral leader focuses on making it easier for everyone to change, not on changing everyone. A good place to start is by celebrating your co-workers little victories. When a bodyshop’s culture is rancid, people will often roam around like a hawk looking to criticize, but few people roam looking to encourage. If you have the courage to, however, other people will take note—and start to follow suit.
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CAREER DEVELOPMENT
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LEADING DOWN requires you to listen more than you talk. This
ensures that those under you are actually heard and that they know they are respected. Remember, the attitude of the employee is a direct reflection of the one in charge. They may not be your employee, but someone must sweep up after the guy who never cleans his stall. Just make sure you practice what you preach and if you make shortcuts don’t be upset when they do too. There will be times—especially in workplaces where safety is as important as a bodyshop—that some severity will be required. Keep in mind, however, that you can’t shame people into being on-the-ball. What you can do is be clear about why mistakes are unacceptable. After all, if the mistake doesn’t result in the offenders termination, giving them the opportunity to understand the ramifications of their mistake won’t just help them remain employed, it might just save your neck too!
LEADING UP is a matter of being effective in your interactions
with those above you. Building better habits in your decision making is a great way to begin doing this well. It may sound counter-intuitive, but the best way to get your boss on your side isn’t to befriend him or her, it is to be professional approach your role and make decisions that are in the best interest of your shop—not yourself. The best way of doing this is to adopt the mindset of the business owner. If you consistently put the greater success of the shop before the smaller success of your own position, the overall impression will be better than if you chase praise and boast about your successes.
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NEWS
CARSTAR hosts pre-apprenticeship graduation Over the past few years, CARSTAR has sought to increase young people’s interest in the collision repair industry by raising awareness of the many, varied opportunities within it. It was with this in mind that CARSTAR North America’s headquarters in Hamilton, Ontario, hosted the gradation ceremony for Mohawk College’s autobody and collision damage repairer pre-apprenticeship program. “It’s encouraging that young talent, like we see here today, is interested in the collision repair industry, considering the demographic shift we are witnessing in facilities across North America,” said
Bill Davidge, director of EDGE performance, CARSTAR. During the event, the 17 students received their preapprenticeship training program completion certificates. Three students also received outstanding achievement awards, which were co-presented by Treshak Industries and 360 Refinish Supply.
Mohawk College’s autobody and collision damage repairer preapprenticeship graduates.
Ford cuts Ontario College of Trades Ontario’s provincial government announced in late October the that the Ontario College of Trades will cease operations in early 2019 after a winding down period. The Making Ontario Open for Business Act, which also scuttled plans for a raise the minimum wage, also lays out plans for the creation of a new government organization to handle some of the OCOT’s duties, with any others reverting to the Ministry of Training, Colleges, and Universities. While Doug Ford’s government has said the College is a “source of unnecessary and burdensome complexity for skilled trades employment in the province,” not everyone agrees. Speaking to Collision Repair on the condition of anonymity, one member of the provincial organization described the closure as ‘unfortunate.’ “The move will not benefit technicians or the general public,” the source said. “The College of Trades’ duties will still need to be performed.”
Founded in 2009, the College’s compliance and enforcement officers are mandated to ensure restricted trades like autobody and collision repair are either trades licensed or registered apprentices.
Ontario Premier, Doug Ford is shutting down the operations of the Ontario College of Trades in early 2019.
Polyvance supports I-CAR’s new program Polyvance has given its endorsement to I-CAR’s new Sustaining Partner program. That being said, Polyvance, which has been a part of I-CAR’s Industry Training Alliance program since 2015, offers the only recognized hands-on nitrogen plastic welding training in the industry. The Industry Training Alliance recognizes training provided by industry partners like Polyvance, allowing students to redeem such training for I-CAR continuing education credit hours. However, until now, technicians have had to pay I-CAR credit hours for training provided under the Industry Training Alliance program. With the advent of the Sustaining Partner program, I-CAR credits will come at no additional cost when training is provided by Sustaining Partners, like Polyvance. This should serve to encourage shops
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and technicians to do more training, thus supporting I-CAR’s goal of ensuring complete, safe and quality repairs. Polyvance currently offers five different courses on plastic repair – three hands-on and two online self-paced courses. The online courses include the new EPR-01 estimating plastic repair course that is held in conjunction with the accountable estimating for $129 and the PR-03 headlight repair course for $49.
NEWS
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CNC expands its heavy mechanical trades facility The College of New Caledonia in Prince George, B.C., has a new facility that will help heavy mechanical trade students gain the practical skills employers – particularly in the North -- need and that will prepare them for long-lasting, good-paying careers in industries such as forestry, mining and transportation. Heavy mechanical trades students inspect, service and repair heavy trucks, commercial trucks, buses, diesel engines, transport trailers, cranes, graders, drills, bulldozers and other heavy equipment at the new 2,352-square-metre facility. “As a student, I appreciate the work that has been done to improve my learning and further education for those interested in the heavy-duty mechanic trade. I am very happy and excited to continue my learning in this new building,” said Ryan Bachand, a heavy mechanical trade student at the College of New Caledonia. Costing $18.5 million, the facility can accommodate 251 full-time-equivalent spaces,
A new $18.5 million facility for heavy mechanical trade students at British Columbia’s College of New Caledonia aims to give students the skills that today’s employers seek.
and up to 48 new spaces, in the heavy-duty equipment technician and truck and transport mechanics program. Funding for the facility was provided through the Government of Canada’s PostSecondary Institutions Strategic Investment Fund, which was established to help enhance and modernize buildings on post-secondary campuses across the country, as well as to
improve their environmental sustainability. “Our government’s investment in a new trades facility at the College of New Caledonia will help boost practical skills training for students in a sector that will continue to create jobs. We all benefit when students are given the tools they need to excel and contribute in tomorrow’s economy,” said Navdeep Bains, federal minister of innovation, science and economic development.
AIA releases new website to help with employment Looking for employment within the automotive industry just got a little bit easier, thanks to the new AutoConnex.ca website, which consolidates job profiles, provides training, and even forecasts upcoming positions. Announced by the Automotive Industries Association (AIA) and the Government of Canada in Thunder Bay, Ontario, the exciting new tool is aimed at those involved, or looking to get involved, in the auto industry. The website markets itself as a one-stop hub for those seeking employment in the automotive industry – the go-to place for regional job forecasts, employment profiles and educational resources, including a list of trade schools across Canada. The tool’s goals are to help diversify the industry and help individuals to understand their best options. “The aftermarket industry faces a perception problem. But it is backwards thinking to say that this industry isn’t for women, or isn’t for smart people. I believe AutoConnex will solve the perception problem,” said Canada’s Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour Patty Hajdu. AutoConnex.ca also provides stakeholders with a more comprehensive understanding of the industry, enabling them to make informed decisions in a number of areas, including policy development and strategic hiring.
(Left to right) AIA president Jean-Francois-Champagne, Hon. Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour Patrice Hadju and owner of Fountain Tire Thunder Bay, Darcy Hunter.
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The Assured Etobicoke team. The new, cutting-edge facility opened its doors in May.
ASSURING SUCCESS
Raymond Khan’s long line of industry experience
P
roud Canadian Raymond Khan is an enthusiastic lead bodyman and shop foreman of Assured Etobicoke’s brand-new facility, which opened in May of 2018. In the industry for 35 years, Khan got his start in 1983 at a Toyota dealership. Later, he started his career as a detailer, then went on to prep and paint, which he specialized in for a dozen years. He then moved into the role of a collision repairer. As a result of his breadth-of-experience in many areas of the automotive sector, and his long career working with different Assured locations, including Assured Oakville and Assured Mississauga City Centre, Khan was invited to play an integral role in the design of Assured Etobicoke. Tasked with sourcing and ordering the cutting-edge
Raymond Khan, lead bodyman and shop foreman of Assured Etobicoke.
facility’s equipment and assisting with its design. From preparing the shop to meet today’s and tomorrow’s technical needs, to hiring the ‘right’ technicians for the type of work they do, Khan was excited to be in a role that required him to make use of the lessons learned throughout his varied career. With three apprentices, all between 18 and 25-years-old working at Assured Etobicoke, Khan is excited to share those same lessons with the next generation of collision professionals. “I meet with the team each morning to assist in helping them set and meet their goals, both business and in their personal life,” said Khan. This committment to his team is evident, reflected in the enthusiasm they bring to their own work.
VISIT OUR WEBSITE: ASSUREDAUTO.CA
ADVERTORIAL
INDUSTRY INSIGHT
INFORMATION IS POWER The more you know, the better the results BY CECILE BUKMEIER
F
ixing a vehicle after a collision used to mean swapping out a few parts and straightening sheet metal panels. All you really needed was a hammer, welder and some common hand tools in your arsenal. But not so much today. The tools and equipment required to repair modern vehicles are more complex than ever before. Collision repair shops require multiple welders, rivet guns, electronic measuring systems and curing equipment.
increasing. As OEMs become more involved in creating and enforcing repair standards, costs associated will rise due to managing tools, equipment and other procedures. Having the right equipment is essential to operating a collision repair shop successfully. Equipment manufacturers must ensure that all owners and parts manuals, as well as service specifications, are provided with their equipment. They should also be able to provide any training necessary to operate
a brightly lit area allows estimators to be as thorough as possible. Quality lighting is also necessary to see hazards around the shop space and helps eliminate trips and falls. Throughout the repair process, technicians must be able to pick up on small dents and pinholes to maintain work productivity and minimize delays. Paint preparation requires major attention to detail. All edges on panels must be scuffed to be refinished, so the coating doesn’t peel
The costs to operate a modern repair facility are increasing. As OEMs become more involved in creating and enforcing repair standards, managing tools, equipment and procedures will involve significant costs.
And to complete repairs safely and efficiently, technicians need a broad range of hand and power tools. Vehicles are becoming increasingly sophisticated each year. Manufacturing includes more use of carbon fibre, aluminum and other advanced materials. Working with these materials requires new training, equipment and tools. Advanced repair processes are also making collision repair more specialized than ever before. Tool and equipment manufacturers are continuously developing and improving technologies for making repairs. Technicians and shop owners have many decisions to make when it comes time to invest in equipment. The costs to operate a modern repair facility are
the equipment. Most manufacturers will demonstrate their equipment. Some will even leave their equipment at the shop for the technicians to test in their work environment. This allows technicians to learn what it would be like to use the equipment and to see the quality of work the tool can produce so they can make an informed decision on whether to invest in it. A basic piece of equipment that I notice is often overlooked in many repair centres is lighting. During the initial estimate and tear down, it is important to see and document all damage related to the incident. Missing a dent or broken component at this stage will require a supplement and could delay the repair once the vehicle is in the shop. Having
in the future. Masking needs to be precise to avoid over-masking areas to be sprayed and causing a redo. Paint technicians also need special colour-corrected lighting to analyze and tint variations of OEM colours. They used to rely on pulling the vehicle outside to match factory colours, but now there are reliable tools that can nearly duplicate the full spectrum of natural daylight. Using these color-corrective lights shows technicians – while they are in the paint booth -- if the colour is slightly off in the blend area or if there are mottling issues with metallic paints. Lighting also plays a role in the mood of everyone working in the shop, which can affect productivity. If people feel they are working in a dungeon, they may not feel
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INDUSTRY INSIGHT
Cecile Bukmeier an autobody instructor at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology shares some of her industry insight.
as motivated throughout the day. Technicians are not only repairing dents and aligning sheet metal, they must also navigate the vehicle’s electronic system to ensure it will work as it was designed to do before the collision. All advanced driver assistance systems require recalibration to function properly after a repair. Increasing technological complexity creates a change in the way vehicles are repaired. Modern vehicles require diagnostic tools that have the latest OEM specifications, which must be updated regularly. It is important that the vehicle’s electronic system is scanned to identify any diagnostic trouble codes that may have been triggered by the collision or the disassembly of the vehicle. Hand tools are necessary for a variety of tasks and are a major investment in the collision industry. Each tool is designed for a specific application, and by knowing how to select and use the best tool for a repair, technicians are able to complete tasks in less time. Without the right tools, even the best technician will struggle to produce quality work. It is common that most hand tools are purchased by the technicians themselves, so they can choose which ones will best suit their needs. The repair facility is responsible for purchasing and maintaining heavy equipment like welders, compressors, frame machines and paint booths. As repairs become more complex and specific, some facilities have begun to purchase specialized hand tools for vehicle manufacturers that are repaired often in their facility. When purchasing tools, aim for higher quality materials from reputable
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manufacturers. Research different brands. Most will offer a warranty against tool failure. Quality and dependability is a steak, so try to purchase tools that will perform well and last a long time. Consider the design of the tool too. Many popular hand-tool manufacturers will use an ergonomic design aimed at reducing strain and fatigue on the user. Budget tools are usually less efficient. They can be heavier, more awkward to use and break more easily. Cheaper handles and grips can also cause these tools to be uncomfortable to use. They may be cheaper to begin with, but poor quality tools can cause a technician to take more time to complete tasks, and the tool may have to be replaced more often, making them less cost-effective in the long run. As time goes on, regular use wears down
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Cecile Bukmeier working with two of her students.
cheaper internal parts, requiring more maintenance and more down-time for servicing. However, not all cheap tools are bad tools. In fact, there are times when technicians prefer to buy cheaper tools. In some cases, for example, a cheaper tool is purchased so it can be modified for a specific purpose. Certain economy tool brands will produce the same quality of material as more expensive brands and simply be labelled differently. With experience, you should be able find quality hand tools at bargain prices. Electric, air and hydraulic tools allow for more speed, accuracy and power. Safety must always be kept in mind when operating any type of power tool. Technicians need to be extra cautious in ensuring the work environment is free of clutter and spills. It is important to make sure any clothing, jewelry or hair does not get tangled in the tool components. Electrical tools still have back pressure after the trigger is released, which contributes to momentum produced by the tool. Always use caution when setting these tools down, as they may get caught or recoil. Air tools don’t pose a shock or fire hazard, and they are lighter than their electric counterparts. They offer a better power to weight ratio and don’t cause the user as much fatigue. Battery operated power tools are gaining prominence in the industry and are often preferred because there is no cord, and power is readily available as long as the battery has been charged. Batteries for
INDUSTRY INSIGHT these tools are becoming much more reliable, and with lithium-ion technology, they last longer than ever before. Keeping tools stored, cleaned and maintained properly will prolong their life. Using a toolbox, shelving and covers will protect tools and equipment. Dust and debris can accumulate over time inside mechanical tools. Cleaning and keeping moving parts lubricated is important to maintain proper function. Hand tools are an important investment and will last
Cecile Bukmeier at the National Skills Competition in 2013.
many years if cared for properly. W i th s p e c i a l ty e q u i p m e n t b e i n g introduced at a rapid pace, it can be hard to identify what equipment is worth investing in. Trade magazines and OEM repair websites can be a great resource for new tools and emerging industry trends. Talking with other repair centres and attending trade-related conferences can provide information on emerging technology and equipment. The people who are going to be using the equipment
the most should be involved in making decisions on equipment upgrades. Not every collision centre has the same requirements â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a tool that may benefit one shop may have little use in another. With so many diverse options available, it is important to research the equipment that will best fit your business. Research the vehicle demographics in your region. It is not necessary to purchase every tool available. Look at the different types of vehicles that come through your shop, and focus on the services your facility is certified to perform. Also, look at the cost of certification -- consider if obtaining a particular certification will produce a good return on investment. It really depends on your local market. It can feel overwhelming to decide what will be right for your business. Getting as much information as possible on new or different tools will allow you to make informed decisions. 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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SCHOOL PROFILE
Amber Edwards and Mickey Peterson graduated as level four apprentices in the motor vehicle body repair apprenticeship program.
SASKATCHEWAN POLYTECHNIC Certified Collision Care-certified college collision curriculum BY LINDSEY COOKE
O
ne Canadian school that made headlines this year with its recognition from the Certified Collision Care, is the Saskatchewan Polytechnic Institute and more specifically their autobody technician program. Saskatchewan Polytechnic is the provinces primary public institution for post-secondary technical education and skills training. Formerly operating as the Saskatchewan Institute of Applied Science and Technology (SIAST), the school has campuses in various locations throughout the province, but only offering the autobody technician program in Regina and Saskatoon.
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For those of you that might not know, about Certified Collision Care but it manages the collision repair facility OEM certification programs for Fiat Chrysler, Ford, Nissan and Kia in Canada. Their primary mission is to raise the industry’s technical capability and business operating standards, amongst many other things. For one that is eager to start working in the industry as soon as possible, Saskatchewan Polytechnic might be the right choice. Being the first and only post-secondary institution to be recognized for its investment in tools, equipment and training, the program offers a one-year certificate, apprenticeship and teaches a variety of skills to equip future repairers with the knowledge of body repair and refinishing.
SCHOOL PROFILE
Program Overview
Apprenticeship Head Start
In general, the program prepares students to work in collision repair facilities, auto dealerships and private garages. A one-year certificate program, autobody technician focuses on providing students with a solid foundation in the knowledge and skills the student will need to work in the body repair and refinishing industries. Practical training includes:
An autobody technician certificate from Saskatchewan Polytechnic provides students with advanced standing as an apprentice in the motor vehicle body repairer trade. Officially registering as an apprentice requires finding a job in the automotive body repair trade.
- basic and advanced metal work - basic and advanced painting - benchwork and safe working procedures -d oor servicing, glass installation and electrical systems - f ront sheet metal and plastic material repair - industry communications and math
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Admission Requirements Students applying to the autobody technician Program at Saskatchewan Polytechnic must possess at least a Grade 10 education and be able to satisfy the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s English Language Requirement. In some cases, applicants who do not possess these qualifications may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through a special admission assessment. Interested individuals should still apply. Applicants are automatically considered for special admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met.
- welding
Program Length
During the course work, students hammer out dings, paint vehicles, install windshields, align bumpers and more. Students also spend two weeks in an autobody repair shop getting a first-hand taste of the job.
The autobody technician certificate program runs for a total of 30 weeks. The program starts in August. For more information on Saskatchewan Polytechnic, please visit saskpolytech.ca.
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CAREER PROFILE
After the CARS Expo, David Gold had a discussion with prominent U.K. dismantler, Allen Prebble about how to work with the newer generations so they can be a valuable asset to the auto recycling businesses they represent.
HELP WANTED A call for auto dismantlers
BY LINDSEY COOKE
T
he automotive industry is full of paths that lead to tremendous career opportunities. David Gold, president of Automotive Recyclers Association and owner of Standard Auto Wreckers, is determined to help youth see this potential, specifically when it comes to auto dismantling. Nothing lasts forever, and vehicles are no different. With that in mind, stakeholders play an important role in determining what happens to these end-of-life vehicles and how they are repurposed. So, in that case, for those of you that have an interest with automotive recycling and dismantling, you’re in luck– “There is always a demand for it,” said Gold. As technology progresses and vehicle parts climb in price, new technology plays a biggerand-bigger role in the day-to-day work of auto
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dismantlers. A variety of tools used to buy salvaged vehicles and maintain inventories are operated through technological software. “It is a labour-intensive business, but we are starving for good people to be involved. As time progresses the vehicles become more complex, which is why there is a demand for young talent with all the skills sets,” said Gold. Standard Auto Wreckers is one of the many auto dismantling businesses in Canada, and their various locations are always seeking fresh faces and new talent, especially right now. “We could always could use more, we could actually use about five more people right now,” said Gold. Gold stressed that the major issue that exists towards attracting youth to the industry,
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is helping them realize the potential that lies ahead in auto dismantling. As president for the ARA Gold has attended various conferences and conventions that focus on placing emphasis on attracting young talent to the industry, as well as identifying how they are best suited for the workplace. One of the conferences he attended this past summer, which discussed these ideas in
“There is tremendous opportunity for the younger generation.” -David Gold
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CAREER PROFILE
After the CARS convention ended, Gold travelled to Paris with Automotive Recyclers Association vice president, Chad Counselman and CEO of Car-Part, Jeff Schroder to see the state-of-the-art auto dismantling facility called INDRA. They met with director of facility, Olivier Gaudeau and discussed the benefits that the new generation will have with this industry. (Left to right) Chad Counselman, Jeff Schroeder, Oliver Gaudeau and David Gold.
(Left to right) Director of INDRA auto dismantling facility, Oliver Gaudeau, Standard Auto Wreckers owner, David Gold and CEO of Car-Part, Jeff Schroder are discussing the new opportunities for the younger generation in front of the “disassembly line” for end-of-life vehicles.
Pre-Requisites
London, England, was “CARS.” Gold had the role of moderating a panel titled, “Different Methods, Different Experiences: Dismantling in the UK & Further Afield.” “It was great – there was one millennial who presented and demonstrated how he has embraced technology and used it to his advantage to sell parts on line and organize his business (which is done on a very small footprint),” he said. Gold encourages anyone with a passion to take a trip to their local auto-dismantler and introduce themselves. “There is not a recycling facility out there that wouldn’t accept someone with a good
attitude and willingness to work hard,” he confirmed. While most auto dismantlers are “car enthusiasts”, it is not the same kind of work as a mechanic or collision repairer. In fact, Gold would describe it as more of an “art than a science” as it is the act of actually ripping apart a vehicle and identifying which parts are capable for reuse. To better help youth understand what is expected from the job and what kind of salary wage an auto dismantler could be looking at, Gold has provided a detailed summary.
• Having some knowledge and a keen interest with this industry is a given. • In addition to this, you must be self-disciplined, goal oriented, and possess a positive attitude. • One other thing Gold mentioned as a prerequisite to pursue a career like this is the advantage of having your own tools. As we know, tools are not cheap and having your own ready to go shows that there will be some careful consideration and protection when handling them.
Expected Pay • Auto-dismantlers right now make anywhere from $30 to $50-an-hour. • The pay is also based on performance and the work that is done. There is only so much money-per-vehicle and so much money-per-part.
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CAREER DEVELOPMENT
EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE AND THE BOTTOM LINE Five skills to cut down cycle times BY ZACHARY DUNCAN
C
ycle time is the one thing everyone wants to see increase—from the shop owner, to the newest person on staff. For the owner, it isn’t just a sign that the business is bringing in more money, it also indicates that the right people are on the team. For the shop-floor team, it isn’t just a good sign for their long-term employment opportunities, it is also likely to have a direct or indirect impact on paycheques. On the shop-floor, improving cycle time is typically seen as the direct result of increased technical skills, improved work-flow procedures and some old fashioned elbow grease—but there may be more to it.
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For Daniel Goleman, a noted psychologist who has covered behavioural science for the New York Times, the trick to improving cycle times is emotional intelligence (EI)—a collective term describing four skills: self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation and empathy. According to a study done by Goleman, senior managers with improved EI saw a 20 percent increase in their divisions yearly goals. One does not, however, need to be a manager to be able to benefit from these four skills—especially if one aspires to eventually taking on a managerial role. The following definitions are taken from Goleman’s study recorded in HBR’s 10 must Reads On Leadership
CAREER DEVELOPMENT
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Self-Awareness 1.1.Self-Awareness Knowing one’s strengths, weaknesses, drives, values, and impact onon others. Knowing one’s strengths, weaknesses, drives, values, and impact others. Self-awareness is key to improving the amount of work we get done and the quality of it. No one lies to us better than ourselves. So, to apply this, be honest with yourself! What affects your work progress the most? For instance, if you are naturally unorganized—which we know causes struggles—set aside time each morning to organize to save you time in the long run.
2. Self-Regulation Controlling or redirecting disruptive impulses and moods. If there was ever an applicable one to collision repair, it’s this one! Regulate yourself. The application here is simple, be proactive rather than reactive. For instance, when the third job that day has been sent back to you, relinquish your desire to walk over there and call them every word under the sun and instead learn to do everything in your control to keep those instances from happening.
3. Motivation Being driven to achieve for the sake of achievement. It’s easy to dive into the flow of quantity over quality even though that motto demotes the reputation of you and the shop. However, it is possible to have quality in quantity. To apply this is to renew your passion for your craft. Remember why you started in this profession. Get back to improving every aspect of your game and hold fast to optimism when failures come your way. This will embolden the motivation of the shop and enhance your reputation as a technician.
4. Empathy Considering others’ feeling, especially when making decisions. Just when you thought this couldn’t get more counter cultural, it does. Start employing empathy in your workplace. Yes, people do dumb things, and there are lots of know-it-alls out there. However, people just have bad days. So, apply this. When that technician snaps like usual, seek to understand where they come from instead of contributing to their negativity by snapping back.
5. Social Skill Consideringrelationships Managing others’ feeling, to move especially peoplewhen in desires making directions. decisions. Collision Just whenrepair you thought is more this of a couldn’t team sport getthan moremany counter involved cultural, likeittodoes. admit, Start which employing is why social empathy skills are in your not talked workplace. aboutYes, nearpeople enough. do To dumb apply things, this begin and there investare ing lots in your of know-it-alls relationshipsout with there. the However, other technicians people just andhave yes, bad evendays. the body So, apply man this. whoWhen is a professional that technician hack.snaps Honorlike their usual, workseek when to understand it’s quality, provide where they quality come work from yourself, instead and of just contributing get to know to them their negativity over a meal. by This snapping will prove back.to be a game changer for you over time because when the relationships are strengthened the team is strengthened. WINTER 2018 BODYWORX PROFESSIONAL
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INSIDE SCOOP
IN THE KNOW
Quick Facts From the Automotive Industry Association BY CINDY MACDONALD
G
ood news, collision repairers! Canada's auto aftermarket is looking healthier than ever, according to the Automotive Industries Association of Canada's 2018 Outlook Study. The news has been particularly good for the collision repair sector, with it becoming one of the largest areas-of-growth in employment within the aftermarket. According to the study, jobs in collision repair are up by 2.3 percent, making it along with jobs in tire retail stores in the auto parts sales, the fastestgrowing sector. A number of economic stars appear to be aligning, suggesting that the market can look forward to continued good fortune. For one thing, in 2017, the last year with available data, the Canadian light vehicle aftermarket was valued at $21.6 billion, beating the previously documented record of $21.0 billion in 2015.
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INSIDE SCOOP
For another, Canadians are keeping their cars longer, and older cars require more out-of-warranty repairs! The 2018 Outlook Study reports the average age of a light vehicle in the Canadian national vehicle fleet was 9.71 years of age. This is the highest average age on record and “is a natural consequence of the technology and quality of vehicles improving over time.” Saskatchewan and British Columbia were the provinces with the oldest vehicles on average. In fact, in 2019, the average age for a light vehicle in Canada might cross the 10-year
threshold for the first time ever! From an aftermarket perspective, the benefits appear to be trickling down throughout the industry. Ratesof-pay for bodyshop workers have risen a full 1.8 percent over inflation, while manufacturers and distributors can enjoy selling their services and parts for 1.5 percent more than the previous year. Best of all, Canadians are buying more-and-more vehicles. In fact, the number of light vehicles has risen by 19.5 percent in the past five years, and
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is expected to continue growing until 2022. While the collision repair industr y may be sitting pretty, drivers who don't make their living in the industr y are facing price increases. The price of operating a passenger vehicle in 2017 rose 5.5 percent. Gasoline prices saw the biggest increase across all categories, rising 11.8 percent between 2016 and 2017. This report provides a comprehensive picture of the current aftermarket industry, as well as forecasts and trends that will impact the aftermarket.
QUICK FACTS • There are 26.8
million light vehicles registered on the road in Canada
• This is the fifth consecutive year of new vehicle sales records
• 68.6 percent of vehicles sold in 2017 were classified as light trucks
• About 398,900
Canadians are employed in the overall automotive aftermarket
•1 8.4 million of Canada’s vehicles are more than six years old
•T he price of operating a passenger vehicle in 2017 rose 5.5 percent
• Compact sport utility vehicles were the most popular in Canada, with 424,760 sold
• A record-breaking of 2,038,798 new light vehicles were purchased by Canadians last year
• The automotive aftermarket is valued at $21 billion in Canada, almost exactly equal to Canada’s tourism industry
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MOTIVATED PAINTERS
STRATEGIC INSIGHT LEARN TO LOVE LIFE AND YOUR CAREER
BY GABRIEL MERINO
The team of painters at Budd’s Collision. Gabriel says he owes much to his co-workers. (Top from left) Reid, Gabriel, Emily and Miguel. (Bottom from left) Chris, Steve, Jason and Zahari.
In the words of American author and motivational speaker Zig Ziglar, “You can get anything you want in life if you just help enough other people get what they want in life.”
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veryone is different. Everyone has their own goals. Everyone has their own strategies for becoming successful—mine comes in three parts. In my column this month, I hoped to share them with you, the Bodyworx Professional reader. First off, it’s important to find something you like in the bodyshop. If you have something that you enjoy, finding the motivation to push yourself in that area and learn more becomes so much easier. When I first started with my career I dabbled with a little bit on everything before I decided that I wanted to be a painter. After trying out a lot of specialties, I was finally able to envision myself as the guy behind the spraygun, making cars look shiny and beautiful for the customer. Once I established my designated passion, I let my interest in my work drive me to get better at it!
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MOTIVATED PAINTERS
Gabriel with the office staff at Budd’s Collision. (From left) Gabriel, Alfie, Nicole, Jr., Tania, Mack, Kevin, Ian, Patrick and Michelle.
My second lesson is simple: if you’re not prepared to go the extra mile, you shouldn’t bother at all! Being from an immigrant family, the first thing we had to do was work—I’ve been doing it since I was 12. No matter who the boss is, everyone I’ve ever had has expected their employees to get their jobs done. If it isn’t done, you stay late and do it. If you don’t, you find yourself a new job. But this isn’t really something you should just do for your boss. Do it because it will make you a better person. Putting in the extra work even when you don’t want to is really tough, but when it’s done, you reap the benefits. Not only will putting in the extra effort put you in a good place careerwise, it will make you a happier person— if you make yourself care about the work you do, you will eventually find it difficult to imagine not caring about it! Working hard is just one aspect of it, but adding value into the work you’re performing, ends up being the perfect mix! Find ways to add value to the people around you. In fact, your income is often corelated with this. It might take years to see the benefits, but if you keep up with adding value, it will turn back to you. In the words of American author and motivational speaker Zig Ziglar, “You can get anything you want in life if you just help enough other people get what they want in life.” But on that note, I should mention my third
According to Gabriel, many young entrepreneurs are either too quick to give up on their goals, or addicted to the hustle.
strategy for success: be positive! In order to remain motivated to work hard and add value to your business, you must possess a good attitude. During my whole career I have always remained a positive person. Yes, mistakes will be made, and that can make anyone feel demoralized. Try to think of them as a learning experience. Stay humble and always be willing to learn from your mistakes. Remember that there will always
be somebody who knows—or wants to make you feel that they know— more than you. Don’t take anything personally! Brush it off, because at the end of the day, it doesn’t have anything to do with 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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CUSTOM CORNER
The Lead Sled, a pinstriped 1951 Mercury Sedan, custom-painted by former pinstriper Danno Druin. Like a pinstriped suit, can look both elegant and edgy.
STYLISH SKILL How to pinstripe in six easy steps
BY PRESTER JOHN
W
hile the pros may make it look all so easy, pinstriping a vehicle isn’t! Like every other skill, the trick is practice! Start with a simple design vehicle, even one of your own. There are a number of techniques, but the best one to start with is mechanical pinstriping. One of the big advantages is that a mechanical striper produces consistent stripes, allowing you to focus on making them straight or contoured, depending on your design. Adding in a magnetic pinstriping strip can help guide your hand, helping you to achieve consistency. Stencil tape is also an option. These allow you to paint stripes of various colours without waiting for others to dry. Run the tape along where you wish to paint. Make sure you press out the air bubbles along the way, as paint can bleed into these pockets, ruining the effect. There’s no doubt that these techniques work, but for flexibility and results they can’t beat freehand striping. Naturally, it’s also the hardest to master.
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While the 1958 film Hot Rod Gang was described by one reviewer as “a juvenile work violence and stupidity appealing only to the basest instincts of teenagers,” it helped bring pinstriping into the public consciousness. In the now-lost original cut of the film, a scene features a pinstriper at work. In the six decades since its release, the techniques used by today’s pros has changed very little.
CUSTOM CORNER
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EQUIPMENT STRIPING BRUSH Like any kind of paintbrush, striping brushes vary wildly—and you really do get what you pay for! Cheaper brushes tend to be harder to work with than more expensive ones, and ultimately use more paint. A good way to test the quality of a brush is to smell the tip. If has an overwhelming plastic scent, it should be avoided. Good plastic fibre brushes do not produce much of a smell. If it has a slight musky scent, then you’ve hit the jackpot! The highest quality brushes are often made of sea otter fur, which has a slight skunk-like scent.
PAINT Pinstriping is usually performed with the same paint used on customized signs. The most commonly used brand is 1-Shot, though you’ll find that there are a number of alternatives.
STEP
1 2 3 STEP
STEP
DESIGN Before doing anything else, sketch out your design. A good marker will allow you to draw both thick and thin lines.
CHOOSE YOUR COLOURS The best pinstripe designs stick to just two colours—any more and it will start to look garish. Take a look at a colour wheel. A good tip is to pick shades that are either half or a third of the way around the wheel.
VISUAL GUIDANCE Give yourself a visual guide. This can be as simple as a strip of tape, though drawing an actual grid is said to produce sharper designs. You can lay out a grid of one-inch squares directly onto most materials with a soft pencil. Pencil lines do not interfere with paint adherence.
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CUSTOM CORNER
STEP
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PREP THE BRUSH Be liberal with your paint. Make sure there is an excess of it on the brush, and use an old glossy magazine or piece of scrap metal or plastic to wipe off the extra amount before starting.
START STRIPING Hold the brush between your thumb and forefinger. Hold it at the part where the bristles connect to the handle, and make sure the flat side faces away from you. Use a consistent, even pressure to make consistent even lines. Curves should be smooth and balanced. Check against both the grid and the other lines already completed to ensure that they match and provide symmetry.
RINSE AND REPEAT Avoid switching between your colours. Once all of the painting for the first colour is finished, rinse your brush under a cold tap until the water runs clear. Then follow the same procedures again to lay down the second colour.
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CONTINUING EDUCATION
The women of 427 Collision.
Hybrid Fixes and Vehicle Communications Checking into I-CAR Canada’s newest courses
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-CAR Canada has come out with some fresh new courses geared towards training repairers in accordance to the technology present in newer vehicles. Bodyworx Professional is going to highlight a couple of the new courses that are providing knowledge on what is to be expected for hybrid vehicles and vehicle communication networks. Electric and hybrid vehicles are predicted to take over our roads in the near future, so it is important to understand how to handle this type of technology when in need of a repair. Hybrid Vehicle Identification and Damage Analysis is a course designed to help students understand how hybrid electric vehicles work and how to identify high voltage parts within the vehicle. The course also goes over safety tips for disabling these types of vehicles. The first module introduces hybrid vehicles, and by the end of part one, students should have an understanding of how to identify the
parts in the vehicle’s high voltage system. The second module is all about the safety aspect when working with these vehicles. Hybrids contain high voltage electricity, and this part of the course explains safety steps necessary when approaching and removing a damaged hybrid vehicle. In addition, it also provides information on how to tell if the vehicle is using badging or VINs. The final module provides an overview of features specific to hybrid vehicles, such as regenerative braking and added sound to alert pedestrians. Finally, this module concludes by discussing different types of cooling systems used on the high voltage battery and the inverter/converter. Understanding vehicle communication networks is one of the other new released courses that is slated as a one-hour session, introducing students to vehicle networks and how they have provided improvement into to-
day’s automobile communications. An example of the communication networks they will be referring to are electronic control modules and controller area networks. The other topic this course goes over is the different types of scan codes and how these relationships are used for evaluating the faults. The course contains two modules. The first goes over the difference between vehicle networks and electrical systems, the different types of electronic control models and how they interact and communicate with network sensors and indicators. The characteristics of the most common databases in vehicles today are also on the agenda for discussion. Part-two of this course starts with instructions on the different types of scan codes and what the specific parts of a code indicate. Students will then review a scan report and interpret multiple codes of how they relate with the communication network.
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SPOTLIGHT ON WELDING Bonding ultra strength steel must be done so by using a resistance spot welder in order to maintain the integrity of the vehicle’s structure.
Debunking myths in the industry Industry legend Sean Slaven breaks down the biggest mistakes welders make
The MIG/MAG welder and the TIG welder both have their uses but when it comes to bonding aluminum their is one clear choice!
BY JORDAN ARSENEAULT
KNOW YOUR WELDERS METAL INERT GAS (MIG) WELDING is an arc welding process in which a continuous solid wire electrode is fed through a welding gun and into the weld pool, joining the two base materials together. Shielding gases are sent through the welding gun, protecting the weld pool from contamination. TUNGSTEN INERT GAS (TIG) WELDING uses a non-consumable tungsten electrode to channel the welding arc. The welding pool is protected from impurities by a cooled with an inert gas, typically argon. While MIG welders with a continuous feeding wire, while TIG requires the use of welding rods that are slowly fed into the weld puddle. RESISTANCE SPOT WELDING (RSW) is a process in which contacting metal surface points are joined by the heat obtained from resistance to electric current. It is a subset of electric resistance welding. The process uses two copper alloy electrodes to concentrate welding current into a small point, clamping together the bond, and sending a current through it to bond it. An immense amount of power can be delivered to the spot in as little as 1/100,000 of a second. 40
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o better help our readers understand the ins and outs of collision repair; Bodyworx Professional sat down with Sean Slaven, owner of Absolute Solutions and representative for Arslan Automotive Canada, to discuss some of the common misconceptions that exist within the industry. With a diverse background of work experience dealing with both welding and tools and equipment, Slaven was a perfect candidate to help shed light on some of the incorrect knowledge being spread throughout the repairer community. Having visited his fair share of repair shops over the course of his career, Slaven has just about seen it all. He is passionate about educating those involved in the trade, not only to help bodyshops become more efficient, but to also keep drivers on the road safe. In this interview Slaven shares his extensive knowledge of bonding and the changes he has seen from the use of oxyacetylene to the introduction of the Uni-Body. This is where Slaven saw the birth of the MIG/ MAG welder within the collision repair industry.
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Sean Slaven, Ontario sales manager for Arslan Automotive Canada
Due to the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standards, the collision industry and technicians have seen the introduction of ultra high strength steels, aluminum, carbon fibre and other exotic materials.
SPOTLIGHT ON WELDING
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1) MYTH NUMBER ONE, TIG welders should be used to bond aluminum on a vehicle. Slaven explains that this is not only a common misconception in bodyshops, but also one that can cause unnecessary damage to a vehicle. According to Slaven a MIG/MAG Pulse welder must be used, as the high frequency arc used by the TIG welder can disturb the sensors in a vehicle. Regardless of if the battery is connected or not, any part on a vehicle being repaired with a TIG welder will lead to problems with the automobile’s on-board computers. In the event of a TIG welder being improperly used, collision shops can expect to see a variety of lights appear on their dashboards, or as Slaven likes to put it “your dashboard will light up like a Christmas tree.”
2) MYTH NUMBER TWO, I can use a standard MIG welder to fix today’s vehicles. This is a myth many technicians believe today, but because of the introduction of new materials such as ultra high strength steels, aluminum and carbon fibre the technician may be required to use various methods of bonding. These methods include Squeeze Type resistance spot welders (STRSW), MIG/MAG Pulse Welders, rivet bonding and panel bonding. In some instances all four methods can be used in a repair. This is why it is crucial for collision repair shops and technicians to adhere to and follow OEM repair procedures. The use of resistance spot welders has been adapted by OEM’s because of the introduction of ultra high strength steels. This allows the technician to bond ultra high strength steel with minimal damage to the molecular structure. In cases where the STRSW cannot be used, the OEM repair procedure will indicate to the technician what method of bonding is required, such as MIG/MAG pulse Brazing.
MIG Metal Inert-Gas
3) MYTH NUMBER THREE, I’m repairing it correctly because that’s the way the factory made it. It is a common misconception in the industry that repairing something correctly is to use the same process the vehicle went through when it was first built. An example of this is an OEM using a STRSW to build the vehicle, but calling for rivet bonding and panel bonding in conjunction with each other as the proper repair procedure.
4) MYTH NUMBER FOUR, The fourth myth is not actually a myth, but rather a prediction into the future. Slaven believes MIG/MAG pulse brazing will become more common place within the repair process when bonding UHSS. According to Slaven MIG/MAG pulse brazing is ideal due to its lower melting point. Utilizing a method that generates significantly less heat is extremely beneficial, as it lowers the margin of error that exists from the threat of the welder disturbing the molecular structure of the steel. In the end the technique is able to maintain the structural integrity of the vehicle, which will ultimately better protect the vehicle’s occupants.
Resistance Spot Welding
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NEW PRODUCTS
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Next Gen Tools DEOS - Mirka Sleek and stylish, this electric orbital sander from design-oriented Finnish manufacturer Mirka does not just look pretty. Built as an improved version of Mirka’s wildly popular DEROS sander, the brushless motor is said to be more powerful and less energy consumptive than the one in the DEROS. At just 10 cm tall, the tool may be small, but it packs a punch. Designed to be compact and highly maneuverable, Mirka says the DEOS designers focused on creating an ergonomic design to ensure that the sander can be used comfortably for long periods without fatigue. mirka.com
Remote Diagnostic Device - asTech Turn on, connect, complete. With this remote pre- and post- scanning tool, asTech. The technician connects the asTech device to the vehicle, puts the key in the car, turns the ignition and submits a service request to asTech.com. An OEM master technician will send a message to the asTech device informing the shop that the scan is about to begin, after which a full report is transmitted back to the shop. The report details any issues causing dashboard warning lights to stay lit, and any error codes that have not tripped dashlights. It also delivers a report on whether sensor systems are functioning properly. astech.com
Total Sanding System - 3M While the old adage may say that cleanliness is next to godliness, 3M engineered this total sanding system to not just improve a facility’s cleanliness, but also its safety, efficiency and profitability. The Total Automotive Sanding System combines 3M abrasives with premium power tools and dust extraction solutions from Festool Automotive Systems. The combination is, according to the company, a comprehensive surface preparation and finishing system. 3mcanada.ca
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NEW PRODUCTS
Fume Extractor - Diversitech With toxic welding fumes being one of the most serious health and safety concerns facing the industry today, this high vacuum extractor designed to keep the shop floor in light to medium-duty welding applications in confined spaces. The designers say the extractor helps keep facilities OSHA compliant. The company feels the appeal comes from the way it avoids compromising performance while remaining compact.The motor powers a three stage filtration process. First, a metal mesh pre-filter stops sparks from entering the machine. Then a MERV 15 NanoFiber filter captures any particles 0.5 microns and larger. Finally, an activated carbon panel works to reduce odours in the air before they are returned to your environment. To simplify maintenance, a built-in lamp that automatically senses when the filter needs to be cleaned or changed. The unit also includes a MIG gun adapter and a magnetic base. diversitech.ca
Paint Prep System - 3M Automotive Mobile, compact and easy-to-use, the Paint Prep System delivers an efficient and profitable paint prep experience, according to the device’s manufacturer, 3M. The system is marketed as having exceptional dust extraction capabilities and an incredibly intuitive interface. The system also offers extensive storage for any additional tools a technician needs during the job. Offered in two model types, pneumatic or electric, the system is designed to reduce the amount of dust in the air from sanding and improve cycle time, meaning less rework. The system is intended to be used with a series of accompanying accessories to reduce cycle time and increase the functionality of the Paint Prep System. 3mcanada.ca
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. axaltacs.com
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NEW PRODUCTS
ACA 500 X-TRA Cut Compound - 3D Canada
The ACA 500 X-TRA Cut Compound by 3D was manufactured to provide actual paint correction by utilizing Alpha Cermanic Alumina, a new type of abrasive technology. The new technology corrects swirls and scratches faster than standard abrasives, while not requiring the same level of heat. The product produces real paint correction, without the use of filters and silicones to hide damage. The ACA 500 is flexible and versatile enough to be used with any machine or pad combination. The compound features a low-dusting, sun-friendly formula that contains no solvents, kerosene, or crystalline. 3dproductscanada.com
ACA 520 Finishing Polish - 3D Canada
The ACA 520 Finishing Polish by 3D is an innovative multi-surface leveling agent that accelerates and enhances performance. The product is engineered with NANO Abrasive Technology capable of correcting virtually any painted surface, leaving a hologram free, glass-like finish without having to add fillers. The technology eliminates the possibility of “dye black.” The ACA polish removes every scratch left from ACA 500 X-TRA Cut Compound. The product is easy-to-use and clean up. The polish is most effective when applied in shaded areas, but is also sun-friendly. 3dproductscanada.com
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POST SCAN
BECOME THE CHANGE-MAKER Don’t just suggest new ideas, make them happen JORDAN ARSENEAULT
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e, as humans, can sometimes struggle keeping up with changes, especially when they affect our day-to-day habits. Even when a change in habit promises obvious benefits, we often remain utterly loyal to our old approach. It’s these very habits that hinder our ability to advance in the workplace.
However, the person who stands up for changes in procedure will almost always be the top contender to succeed the general manager! In this issue, Bodyworx Professional has focused on delivering readers the skills they need to take on such a vital leadership role. From our summary of how to be a leader even when you are not
Being able to adapt and adjust to this shift is crucial for shops to stay ahead of the curve.
In the bodyshop, like everywhere else, the temptation to stick to old approaches can be harmful— and that has to change! If we are going to keep today’s complex cars in tip-top shape, we cannot rely on the tools used to fix the less complex vehicles of the past. The collision repair industry has changed dramatically since the days of popup headlights, and it’s important that, as members of the industry, we position ourselves to fit the needs of customers and ultimately maintain the safety of our roadways! We’re not naturals, but that doesn’t mean we can’t be better. In our industry, we have to be better. If there is one guarantee in the autobody repair business, it’s the consistent change of pace that exists. Being able to adapt and adjust to this shift is crucial for shops to stay ahead of the curve. While some might feel the responsibility to make progressive changes falls solely on the bodyshop’s manager, the truth is that it often doesn’t.
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in charge, to our look at some of the common misconceptions about welding, we have aimed to give ambitious collision repair industry professionals the tools they need to become effective advocates for change. It is our hope that readers will utilize the wisdom gathered from the interviews with experienced bodyshop professionals and use this knowledge to make positive and impactful changes in modernizing the shop floor. By learning from each other we can help create a brighter future for collision repair.
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