Bodyworx 8#1

SPECIAL EDITION OF

SEVEN STEPS TO CAREER SUCCESS

BODYWORX THE VOICE OF COLLISION REPAIR TECHS & PAINTERS

PROFESSIONAL FOSS-IL FUELS

UNVEILING ELECTROLIGHT The bold shade named Akzo’s hue of the year!

An up-close look at Canada’s first gas-powered car

MORE THAN

LUCK

Lucky 13’s Hannah Kasiri has talent in droves

+Plus ONLINE ALERTNESS | PANDEMIC REALITY CHECK | STATSCAN ON APPRENTICESHIP Visit bodyworxmag.com SPRING 2021 l $7.95 l Canada Post Canadian Publications Mail Sales Product Agreement No. 40841632 l 86 John Street, Thornhill, ON L3T 1Y2

CONTENTS SPECIAL EDITION OF

>>>

SEVEN STEPS TO CAREER SUCCESS

BODYWORX THE VOICE OF COLLISION REPAIR TECHS & PAINTERS

PROFESSIONAL FOSS-IL FUELS

UNVEILING ELECTROLIGHT The bold shade named Akzo’s hue of the year!

An up-close look at Canada’s first gas-powered car

MORE THAN

LUCK

Lucky 13’s Hannah Kasiri has talent in droves

+Plus ONLINE ALERTNESS | PANDEMIC REALITY CHECK | STATSCAN ON APPRENTICESHIP Visit bodyworxmag.com SPRING 2021 l $7.95 l Canada Post Canadian Publications Mail Sales Product Agreement No. 40841632 l 86 John Street, Thornhill, ON L3T 1Y2

06

COVER Hannah Kasiri has overcome it all to become owner of Lucky 13 Autobody in Edmonton, Alberta, and she continues to prove she is at the top of her game in the world of auto painting.

18 23

Feeling burnt out online?

Bodyworx has all the tips you need for dealing with dreaded internet fatigue.

ElectroLight, Axalta’s new automotive colour of the year pulses with energy and style, while still echoing a message of sustainability.

20

COLUMNISTS

By Darryl Simmons

any tech excel in their role and always make the best impression.

22 WHAT MAKES A GOOD MENTOR?

By Ben Hart

By Stefano Liessi

26 FINAL DETAIL

By Allison Rogers

Apprenticeship Report from StatsCanada reveals the facts behind Canada’s skilled trades shortage in an aging industry.

16 PUT YOUR BEST COAT FORWARD

Steps to help

04 PUBLISHER’S PAGE

24 REALITY CHECK

15 UPS AND DOWNS

The latest

20 NOT

FORD, FOSS

George Foote Fosse in 1897, creator of Canada’s first gaspowered motor vehicle and the story of his grandson trying to recreate the legacy.

BODYWORX THE VOICE OF COLLISION REPAIR TECHS & PAINTERS

PROFESSIONAL SPRING 2021 | BODYWORX PROFESSIONAL 3

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BODYWORX

PUBLISHER’S PAGE

THE VOICE OF COLLISION REPAIR TECHS & PAINTERS

PROFESSIONAL PUBLISHER Darryl Simmons publisher@collisionrepairmag.com

REV IT UP Buckle in—it’s about to get thrilling

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Orest Tkaczuk | orest@mediamatters.ca EDITOR Allison Rogers | allison@mediamatters.ca STAFF WRITERS Julia Lloyd | julia@mediamatters.ca Kenzie Letman | kenzie@mediamatters.ca Max Reid | max@mediamatters.ca ART DIRECTOR Yvonne Corvers | yvonne@mediamatters.ca

BY DARRYL SIMMONS

GRAPHIC DESIGN INTERN Victoria Volkova | victoria@mediamatters.ca VP OF INDUSTRY RELATIONS & ADVERTISING Gloria Mann 647.998.5677 | gd.mann@rogers.com

I

t would be easy to throw in the towel right now. A year deep in this global crisis, many are exhausted. They’ve been exhausted.

But why on Earth would anyone in Canada’s automotive trade want to? There has never been a more exciting time to be here.

In a move solidifying the aftermarket’s commitment to providing quality, safe repairs amid a sea of technological invention, 3M has invested collision repair diagnostics company asTech. The same company crafting your go-to sandpapers, tape, PAPRs and more will dip its resources into tools dedicated

You are a Bodyworx Professional.

Back in the olden days—at the Canadian Collision Industry Forum’s 2020 event in Toronto—collision repair professionals across Canada remarked at the never-before-seen rate of technological advancement in the automotive sector. In the last five years, they said we’d seen more automotive innovation than the previous 10 combined.

They beamed at the capabilities of modern welders, top-notch spray guns and all the modern aftermarket has to offer.

Little did they know, from crisis comes innovation. The Second World War brought us the first computers, radar and the jerrycan, to name just a few catastrophe-driven conceptions. In our pre-pandemic world, the collision repair industry had already seen technological advancement occur at the fastest rate it’d ever witnessed. Imagine the brilliance the next five years can hold.

to the safe and proper repair of the modern vehicle’s advanced components.

Some will be prepared for these incoming changes. Those who are not will stand up to the challenge. If one thing is sure of any member of the automotive repair community, it’s that they can take a challenge and mold it into something beautiful.

Power on. As a member of Canada’s collision repair community, you’re in it for the long haul. Our industry is not going anywhere anytime soon, and you are a vital part of keeping our nation’s roads safe. You are a Bodyworx Professional.

44 BODYWORXMAG.COM BODYWORXMAG.COM || BODYWORX BODYWORX PROFESSIONAL PROFESSIONAL

DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS SOLUTIONS Ellen Smith 416.312.7446 | ellen@mediamatters.ca INDUSTRY RELATIONS ASSISTANT Wanja Mann (647) 998-5677 wanjamann1@gmail.com DIGITAL OPERATIONS MANAGER Cassie Doyle | cassie@mediamatters.ca CONTRIBUTORS Ben Hart, Stefano Liessi SUBSCRIPTION One-year $25 / Student Discount is 10%

Bodyworx Professional ™ is published quarterly, and is

dedicated to serving the professionals 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:

SUPPORTING TRAINING & CERTIFICATIONS The automotive aftermarket industry has become more technologically advanced than ever before.

By helping our franchise partners pursue certifications and training, we ensure their teams are equipped with the expertise and skills to repair today’s modern vehicles.

Get the Fix Network advantage.

Explore our career opportunities. fixauto.com/ca-on/en/career-opportunities

>>> ON THE COVER

If one thing could be said about Hannah, it’s that she makes many people in the industry look lazy in comparison to her drive to achieve greatness.

After working in her first shop for about six months, Hannah stepped into the paint booth fell in love with automotive refinishing.

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ON THE COVER

>>>

IT’S NOT ABOUT

LUCK

Hard work and determination drive Hannah Kasiri’s talents

BY JULIA LLOYD

S

ometimes in life, we think we know what we want — until it is right in front of us.

Hannah Kasiri, the owner of Lucky 13 Autobody and Paint in Edmonton, Alberta, grew up anticipating a completely different life path. She nearly went to school for animal sciences and started her career at a small animal vet clinic.

After only one year, Hannah realized the career path she had embarked on just wasn’t the right fit.’ Shortly after leaving the clinic, Hannah ultimately discovered her true passion—auto repair and painting.

“Around the same time I had left the clinic, my friend owned a small custom bodyshop and asked me to help around. I started doing prep and light bodywork and soon realized this was something I could make into a career and life,” Hannah told Bodyworx Professional.

After helping her friend at his custom shop, Hannah returned to her hometown in Alberta and began working for a collision and mechanic shop. She started as a panel beater and worked prep for about six months before she stepped into the paint booth.

“The time I spent doing body and prep work helped me understand paint more and understand how to double-check my work

before sending it to the booth,” explained Hannah.

After two years at her first shop, Hannah moved to a production shop that had con-

tracts with dealerships and other wholesale contracts. With far more employees and a lot more push through than her previous facility, Hannah soon found herself painting up to three cars a day in addition to her bodywork prep.

“I learned a lot about work ethic and teaching myself to be more efficient,” said Hannah.

Yet it wasn’t all sunshine and roses for Hannah; even through her success, she still was faced with stereotypes regarding her place in a male-dominated industry.

“I have been in a lot of shops where men have mistreated me on numerous occasions. That’s what pushed me to open up my shop, so that I would have my safe environment, not being bogged down and no one can take that away from me.”

About a year and a half ago, Hannah decided it was time to take matters into her own hands, and opened Lucky 13 Autobody and Paint, where she serves as the head painter and body technician. The facility provides vehicle autobody restoration, custom paint services, paint repairs, rust repair, full paint restoration, and break-in repair.

“I am Lucky 13,” said Hannah.

“All my customers, all my contracts don’t leave unless they are happy.

I am humbled by the opportunity to start my own business and organically cater to every client that walks through my door.

When a customer trusts me with their car, whether it be collision or custom, it gives

SPRING 2021 | BODYWORX PROFESSIONAL 7

>>> ON THE COVER The ‘Big Bertha’ 1999 Mercedes Benz 500, said Hannah, was a paint job that meant a lot to her because she worked on it solo from start to finish.

Harley was a 2019 bike, orable job e th em m on t es os m id ey Her second kout. When she first la a rusty root beer d ea te Br in n pa so ,” vid ke Da visor. an bi e an “old m a large wind it looked lik ughout and ro th e m ro ch colour with

me an incredible feeling of determination.

Ultimately my goal is to give my customers everything I can give them.”

Every day Hannah puts her heart into her work at Lucky 13, working from morning to night and proving an inspiration not only for other women in the industry, but to anyone passionately determined to succeed in their field.

According to Hannah, her shop is different from many other bodyshops as she takes the time to ensure she’s working within her customer’s budget.

“I think all people should be able to afford quality bodywork. If a customer gives me a copy of what they can afford, I will work with it. If I can get away with not pulling off a bumper or spending a little less time in their vehicle, but still be able to warranty the work and ensure quality work, then I will do so,” said Hannah.

“I also do a lot of smart repair and plastic welding; I try not to replace as much as possible and try to fit as much as I can into saving time and money.”

While passionate about all elements of the bodywork business, Hannah holds great pride in her paintwork. She recalls two of her absolute favourite paint jobs throughout her time in the industry.

The ‘Big Bertha’ 1999 Mercedes Benz 500, said Hannah, was a paint job that meant a lot to her because she worked on it solo from start to finish.

“It taught me a lot and most of all to believe in yourself and the skills you have learned over the years. It took me roughly

three weeks to finish but when she was finally ready for delivery, I felt proud of my work and seeing my client’s face light up I knew my hard work paid off.

“I have been in a lot of shops where men have mistreated me on numerous occasions.

That’s what pushed me to open up my shop, so that I would have my safe environment, not being bogged down and no one can take that away from me.”

— Hannah Kasiri, owner of Lucky 13 Autobody and Paint

Her second most memorable job was a 2019 Harley Davidson Breakout. And when she first laid eyes on the bike, it looked like an “old man bike,” painted a rusty root beer colour with chrome throughout and a large wind visor. She sat with the owner of the bike and eventually came up with a game plan to modernize and completely blackout the bike!

“I started the teardown, sent out rims and every single chrome part from the engine to get powder coated. We bought blackout fork

8 BODYWORXMAG.COM | BODYWORX PROFESSIONAL

kits, custom fenders and loads of other add ons! This custom build took roughly 9 weeks due to coronavirus,” explained Hannah.

“Getting parts was a nightmare. I worked closely with Dyno West to finish this custom build. Troy the owner of Dyno West is the best of the best. It’s a family-run shop and I’m so blessed to have been able to work with them on this killer build.”

As Hannah gets ready to officially start her second year of business, looking into the future can be intimidating—but Hannah never stops thinking about the future of her shop.

“I want to build an unstoppable team that can take Lucky 13 to the next level. I hope to build a bigger shop from the ground up and have two booths—one for custom work and one for collision with a few more bays,” she said.

“I will also be working on a YouTube channel over the next few months with the channel Dent Fix to share some new products that I see changing the way I do smart repairs and to share with others new effective ways to complete jobs.”

A mere decade ago, Hannah envisioned a far different career. While making a name for herself in the autobody world has not been easy, she said she wouldn’t trade it for the world and encourages others to also aim for their dreams.

“Never give in to the negativity. Believe in yourself and lean on the people around you that bring you up no matter what. With all the stereotypes and negativity comes love, support and growth—it’s all about what you choose to focus on.”

PREPPING FOR PERFECTION Andre’s journey to finding his groove

U

nsure of what to do at the end of high school, Andre Figueiredo decided to take a year off to explore his options.

At first, he enjoyed working in construction, but the bitter cold was something he did not want to endure once winter came around. One day, Andre got to chatting with a customer at his mother’s at-home daycare—Fil Calouro, who extended her helping hand to secure Andre a Detailer role at our Assured Toronto West location, where she worked.

For the next two years Andre continued to develop as a detailer, until his manager, Richard Boudreau asked if he wanted to learn a trade.

Andre wasn’t keen on becoming a body technician—but he did have an interest in painting. At this point, Andre learned that, in the art of automotive painting, you need to learn to “prep” a car before you paint one.

In 2014, Richard paired him up with Anand, a seasoned automotive painter to show him the ropes for the next four years. While challenging, Andre wanted to prove to himself he could complete the apprenticeship. Showing his appreciation for Anand’s commitment to him, Andre never missed a day of work.

After about five years, Andre felt the official tap on the shoulder. He had honed his skills and appeared ready to move on—but he didn’t. As for now, Andre says he can only see himself in this role.

“This experience has made me a better man, this job has taught me what real life is about; discipline, not taking short cuts, take time to step back and view your situation and maintain open lines of communication”.

Andre says patience is the key for any beginner.

“Be patient, take your time – even when people are breathing down your neck, maintain your focus and most of all have faith in yourself.”

What he is truly thankful for, is that his peers did not give up him—nor did Assured.

“They never gave up on me—they could always see I was trying my hardest” We at Assured are glad we could provide Andre a career, and support his future development. Currently, Andre is employed at Assured’s facility in Etobicoke. His brother, Flavio, has been with the company for seven years, at the same facility where Andre started his journey.

VISIT OUR WEBSITE: ASSUREDAUTO.CA

ADVERTORIAL

>>>

IN THE HEADLIGHTS

INDUSTRY COVER YOUR ADAS

HIGH FIVES FOR FUNDS

All bodyshop staff should be aware of advanced driver assistance system calibration requirements, a team of I-CAR specialists said during a February Canadian Collision Industry Conference (CCIF) session. “The better question is who doesn’t need to know,” remarked Bud Center, I-CAR manager of technical research and development. “If the CSR answers a customer call, they must know the preliminary questions to ask and primary functions of the system. Estimators need to identify the systems, procedures and equipment. Technicians need to understand how repairs will affect the systems…and what needs to be recalibrated afterwards.

Even porters need to understand how ADAS behaves when moving vehicles. “Everyone at the shop needs to have an understanding of how their roles play into ADAS,” said Center.

The 2020 recipients of the AIA High Five for Kids Foundation Recognition Awards are Lordco and AIA Canada Northern Alberta, Division. The AIA High Five for Kids recognition awards is given out to a member company and an AIA Canada division that demonstrated an exceptional commitment to fulfilling the foundation’s mission of bringing positive change and improvements to the quality of children and youth in their local communities.

All bodyshop staff, even CSRs, should be aware of ADAS calibration requirements, according to I-CAR specialists.

FEELING BLUE BASF released its 2020 Colour Report, showing off the most popular paint colours of the past year. The report covered trends reported from four distinct automotive markets: Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA); as well as North America, Asia Pacific and South America. According to the report, the EMEA market is showing an affinity for blue coatings as it was reported that about “11 percent of new vehicles were coated in blue, making it the most popular chromatic colour.” In North America, blue vehicles have shown to be trending highly, edging out red as the most popular chromatic colour in the market.

DATA DEBATE Tom Bissonnette, director for the Saskatchewan Association of Automotive Repairers, said automakers have every right to control their information—though collision centres are usually the first that have to deal with new technologies of this variety and adapt accordingly. “I can see that the OEMs would want to have a network of shops that have access to their proprietary information so that they can protect their brand—Tesla, BMW and Mercedes do that now to some extent,” said Bissonnette. “The challenge is that it is usually the collision centres that are the first repairer that has to deal with this new technology.” Regardless, Bissonnette says the independent repairer is long from being blocked by such measures from OEMs. “I don’t think it will ever come to a point where they totally block out the independent repairer—there’s no way the dealer network could deal with all the vehicles that need to be repaired and recalibrated,” he said. The Automotive Industries Association was recently featured on CTV News as the aftermarket organization continues to advocate for vehicle data ownership and the consumer’s right to choose a repair facility. Through its ‘Your Data. Your Choice’ campaign, AIA Canada is calling on the federal government to acknowledge the importance of vehicle data ownership. The aftermarket organization says independent shops will be effectively shut out from repairing newer cars without proper data from OEMs.

YOU COULD WIN Women’s Industry Network (WIN) is once again ready to financially support the women who are breaking into the collision repair industry. Applications for the 2021 program are currently being accepted through to March 15. The scholarships offered by WIN are designed to provide financial support and educational opportunities to qualified applicants looking to advance in the industry.

The successful applicants not only receive a $1,000 scholarship to go towards continuing their education, but they will also receive a complimentary one-year WIN membership to support them in their journey. In addition to that, those chosen will be awarded free registration to attend the 2021 WIN Virtual Educational Conference in May. The application deadline is March 15, and the application can be accessed via the WIN website.

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AIA Canada has been advocating for consumer ownership of vehicle data since November 2020.

>>> FINAL DETAIL

IN THE HEADLIGHTS

TRAINING PLAN AHEAD

POSITIVELY RIVETING

Sudbury-based Collège Boréal has announced a partnership with mining equipment manufacturer, Epiroc Canada, to offer students a Battery Electric Vehicle Maintenance program. The 40-hour online course kicked off on February 9 and is to be followed by hands-on training provided in classroom and workshop settings.

Ford has announced an update to its I-CAR procedure for replacing the outer box side of F-150 trucks, announced in mid-December. This latest update from Canada’s most popular OEM announced that the replacement of F-150 outer box sides may now “now include the use of self-piercing rivets (SPRs) in specified locations.” This update only affects F-150 models including and newer than the 2015 model. Super Duty trucks will not be able to use SPRs for the repair procedure.

Ford said that they made the update to account for a newly sourced SPR that allows the specialized rivets to be used in outer box side replacements.

SELLING THE TRADES Ontario’s minister of labour, training and skills development has a bold new strategy for re-energizing the province’s economy, and the first step is bringing skilled trades recruitment right into Ontario high schools. Barring potential COVID-19 disruptions, “I’m sending dozens of recruiters into high schools across Ontario to compete against universities to get kids to go into the trades,” said Minister Monte McNaughton. At the moment, one in three skilled tradespeople is over the age of 55.

STUCK IN THE CLOUDS

“I want kids to know there are 144 different trades to choose from, and you can make six figures and earn a pension and get benefits, and in many cases, you can be your own boss,” said Ontario minister of labour, training and skills development Monte McNaughton.

HONDA HOW-TO Honda’s US branch has issued its latest body repair information guide covering the 2022 Acura MDX for body shops in North America. The new MDX body construction features; next-generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure; high-strength steel and advanced high-strength steel used for body construction; the MDX has an aluminum hood panel, front fender, front damper housing, and front and rear bumper beams for weight reduction and improved fuel efficiency. Lastly, the car body is equipped with 1,500 MPa inner and outer door stiffeners. You can find the service information and body repair manual (BRM) online at techinfo.honda.com, as well as a summary of the new body and vehicle technologies that may affect collision and other body repair shops shortly.

Honda has unveiled a body repair guide for the 2022 Acura MDX, which features a high-strength steel body and a six-piece roof.

During the December 17 IBISTV Global Summit broadcast, Dave Flockhart, COO of BETAG Innovation; Chris Humphries, president of WorldSkills; Mario Dimovski, owner of TradieBot and Guillaume Grucy, senior EMEA business development manager for PPG Europe discussed the implications of skilled training in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. The three panellists all agreed that remote learning has a series of benefits, including more accessible, more flexible and results in lower student travel costs. However, when technical skills need brushing-up, the industry needs to get creative to keep users engaged. “I think we need to excite technicians about our industry. At the end of the day, it’s a craft that needs to be practiced and honed. Virtual training absolutely has its place, but face-to-face training is a must-have in an industry like this,” said Flockhart. Grucy of PPG said that, when it comes to painting training, there’s no question that in-person sessions are the preferred choice. “Online training provides technical elements,” said Grucy. “For practical paint training, you need to be in-person.”

TRULY MAGNANIMOUS Sheridan College has a big boost coming in the form to a $2 million donation from Magna International. The donation from the Aurora, Ontario-based automotive technology supplier is earmarked for updates to equipment in the Skilled Trades Centre at Sheridan’s Davis Campus in Brampton, Ontario. As well, part of the money will be used to create scholarships and additional training resources. As a result, Sheridan has renamed their facility to the Magna Skilled Trades Centre, in honour of the gesture.

A generous donation from Magna International to Sheridan College’s Skilled Trades centre has seen the college rename the building to the Magna Skilled Trades Centre.

SPRING 2021 | BODYWORX PROFESSIONAL 11

>>>

IN THE HEADLIGHTS

TECH TRENDS CALIBRATION COLLABORATION AirPro Diagnostics and Car ADAS Solutions announced the establishment of a collaboration to deliver turn-key calibration solutions for shops to include set-up, training, implementation, support, and validation of calibration services. Whether shops want to become a retail calibration centre or calibrate the vehicles they currently repair, this partnership will deliver for collision repairers all across the U.S. and Canada. While ADAS technology and properly repairing the calibrating vehicles has been a growing concern for the industry, AirPro and Car ADAS Solutions are the first in the industry to provide a complete solution for repairers to properly perform calibrations in-house. Together AirPro and Car ADAS Solutions will assist shops in becoming ADAS calibration experts, by providing training and a network of experts to continuously support them along the way. As a result of this collaboration, AirPro will be the first remote diagnostic provider to offer a start to finish solution for ADAS calibrations to the industry as a whole.

IN ABP’S ESTIMATION Solera has announced that its Audatex Estimating platform has been named “best estimating system,” by the Auto Body Professionals Club (ABP) in the United Kingdom—for the 13th consecutive year. The ABP’s annual awards program, “The Night of Knights,” held online this year due to the pandemic, determined the award winners by popular vote from a base of more than 2000 autobody repair shops from around the U.K. ABP members are at the forefront of all that happens in the U.K. autobody repair industry; their vote of confidence validates and underscores Solera’s leading position in the industry.

Solera has announced that its Audatex Estimating platform has been named “best estimating system,” by the U.K.’s Auto Body Professionals Club (ABP).

NEW YEAR, NEW LOGO General Motors is debuting a new marketing campaign as part of the company’s comprehensive efforts to accelerate mass adoption of electric vehicles. The “Everybody In” campaign is a call to action meant to reflect a movement that’s inclusive and accessible. The campaign sets an optimistic and inclusive tone for the company’s EV future and focuses on three themes: exciting a new generation of buyers and accelerating EV adoption; demonstrating GM’s EV leadership, which includes the investment of $27 billion in EV and AV products through 2025 and the launches of 30 new EVs globally by the end of 2025; and highlighting the range, performance and flexibility of the Ultium platform.

In similar steps to Kia, GM unveiled a new logo for 2021.

Volkswagen also unveiled a new logo in 2020.

SHEILDS UP A new facility out of the University of Windsor will be the first of its kind in Canada to tackle cybersecurity issues in self-driving vehicles, according to the school. SHIELD Automotive Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence is a space that seeks to understand the vulnerabilities in the hardware and software used in autonomous vehicles. In return, the centre will develop policies and skills to protect the data being collected.

One of the centre’s founders and directors Mitra Mirhassani said people “have to be worried,” about the data being collected and the ways in which it could impact them.

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>>> FINAL DETAIL

IN THE HEADLIGHTS

TECH TRENDS ELECTING ELECTRIC U.S. President Joe Biden announced that he will be converting the entire federal fleet to EVs. The U.S. federal fleet is made up of more than 645,000 vehicles: 245,000 civilian vehicles, 173,000 military vehicles, and 225,000 post office vehicles, according to Electrek. A timeline has yet to be announced, but Biden said the vehicles will be electric and American-made.

U.S. President Joe Biden will shift the nation’s federal fleet to zero-emissions vehicles—a convoy that’s more than 600,000 vehicles strong.

TIPS TO BUILD YOUR CAREER IN THE COLLISION REPAIR INDUSTRY As skilled technicians become increasingly in demand, it is becoming a job seeker’s market for collision repairers. If you do decide to enter the industry, here are some quick tips to help build a long-lasting career: • Ask for training in as many roles as your employer allows • Be open to learning new roles, even if you do not think you will like it • Surround yourself with people whose skills you admire and listen to the feedback they give you • Stay professional by keeping a positive attitude, being personable and always presenting yourself well Having collision repair experience and being open to various roles and training also improves your skillset, but better positions you for future opportunity.

CARSTAR.ca SPRING 2021 | BODYWORX PROFESSIONAL 13

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IN THE HEADLIGHTS

CAN YOU BELIEVE THIS?!

ABANDONMENT ANNIVERSARY

REVERSE RULES OF THE ROAD

A Volkswagen Golf abandoned on the street in the U.K. has been sitting for so long that frustrated neighbourhood residents decided to throw it a birthday party. George Street in Shefford, Bedfordshire, has been home to an abandoned VW Golf since December 2019.

The street has also been home to a large community of residents who are annoyed the vehicle has been an eyesore of the community for over a year now. In a final act of desperation, the community decided to throw the car a birthday party for remaining in the same spot for a year.

Video footage captured by a motorist shows police stopping a driver speeding the wrong way down Highway 401 near Belleville, Ontario on January 6. Police received multiple calls about the red vehicle traveling against traffic on the busy highway, and eventually brought it to a halt by setting up a roadblock. The vehicle—what appears to be a red hatchback or small crossover–was allegedly being driven by a 76-year-old man and was clocked at speeds of over 150 km/h.

SLOW FOR SEA LIONS We’ve all seen an image or two of a puzzled moose crossing a wooded road—but a sight unfamiliar to many Canadians comes commonplace in Washington state. As the rains come and the rivers rise, there’s a traditional photo op that Northwesterners know well—salmon swimming across standing water on highways...and seals chasing their dinner.

Alfred’s had enough of Sea World’s antics—he’s gone rouge.

Automate your HD estimate To learn more, call 1-844-AUDATEX or email sales.canada@audatex.ca

14 BODYWORXMAG.COM | BODYWORX PROFESSIONAL

A Belleville, Ontario, man decided to switch up his driving habits in 2021 and was eventually caught travelling the wrong way on Highway 401.

TRAINING

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UPS AND DOWNS STATSCAN UNVEILS 2019 APPRENTICESHIP REPORT

Over half of the overall decline occurred in Alberta, where the number of certifications fell by 1,266 to a decade low of 7,665.

BY JULIA LLOYD

R

egistration in apprenticeship programs and certifications in the trades have been on a decrease since 2018, as losses in Alberta offset gains in Ontario and Quebec.

Statistic Canada recently reported that registration in apprenticeship programs fell 2.9 percent, and certifications were down 3.9 percent.

Before the pandemic, the number of new registrations in apprenticeship programs in Canada fell 2.9 percent from 2018 to 77,673 new registrations in 2019. The report released was said to provide a baseline for examining COVID-19’s impact on apprenticeship programs across the country.

Over three quarters of the decline occurred in Alberta, where the number of new registrations

in apprenticeships fell by almost 25 percent (down 2,832) to 11,607 in 2019, the lowest level in a decade. New registrations in Alberta decreased in 20 of the 21 major trade groups.

According to the survey of employment, payrolls and Hours, Alberta had the slowest employment growth (+0.7 percent) among the provinces in 2019. Employment in Alberta was down sharply in industries where apprenticeships are most concentrated, such as construction (-4.0 percent) and mining, quarrying, and oil and gas extraction (-4.0 percent).

Meanwhile, the construction industry in Quebec (+5.7 percent) and Ontario (+2.0 percent) experienced strong employment growth in 2019. This helped new registrations in apprenticeship programs to reach a 10-year

Over three-quarters of the decline occurred in Alberta, where the number of new registrations in apprenticeships fell by almost one-quarter (down 2,832) to 11,607 in 2019, the lowest level in a decade. New registrations in Alberta decreased in 20 of the 21 major trade groups.

high in Quebec (23,568) and a 5-year high in Ontario (20,991).

Investments in infrastructure projects in Ontario in recent years have coincided with increases in new registrations for electricians (up 321), plumbers, pipefitters, and steamfitters (240), and refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics (231).

Despite employment and economic growth in recent years, the annual number of newly certified tradespeople across Canada declined 3.9 percent to 52,367 in 2019, following a 6.6 percent gain in 2018.

More than half of the overall decline occurred in Alberta, where the number of certifications fell by 1,266 to a decade low of 7,665.

Before the pandemic, the number of new registrations in apprenticeship programs in Canada fell 2.9 percent from 2018 to 77,673 new registrations in 2019.

SPRING 2021 | BODYWORX PROFESSIONAL 15

>>> TRAINING

PUT YOUR BEST COAT FORWARD SEVEN STEPS TO E XCEL IN THE SHOP

F

inding the right education is important before entering any field of work, whether you receive a formal education at a post-secondary institution or you dive right into an apprenticeship.

One way or another, you want to make sure the education and training you’re receiving lines up with your field of work, and you’re curating a set of skills that is useful to your employer.

If you’ve been thinking about a career in the automotive industry, more specifically in a bodyshop setting, we’re here to provide some insight into what skills and characteristics are valuable when looking to succeed in the workplace.

DEMONSTRATE WILLINGNESS TO LEARN AND ADAPT The automotive industry is in the midst of major technological advancements in the realm of electric and autonomous vehicles.

This means that the information, tools, procedures and technology that we currently use to repair vehicles will also be changing as more EVs are rolled out on a mass-market scale.

Kim Roberts, customer experience, business development and marketing manager of Barrie North Fix Auto said that one of the main qualities they look for when hiring a technician is the willingness to learn and take initiative in their education.

“Someone who’s shown that they’re doing I-CAR training and working towards their individual Platinum Status,” Roberts noted. “And someone who’s interested in learning about the new technology in vehicles.”

The industry is constantly changing and being able to learn and adapt accordingly is an incredibly valuable asset to have around the bodyshop.

16 BODYWORXMAG.COM | BODYWORX PROFESSIONAL

BECOME LICENSED, OR BE ON YOUR WAY TO BECOMING A LICENSED TECHNICIAN Though it’s not mandatory to be licensed, it is considered an asset by many body shops to have or be working towards your provinces’ respective licensing designation.

There are many possibilities when it comes to the type of licensing you are looking to acquire, and it depends highly on the type of work you are hoping to perform.

For instance, in Ontario if you’re looking to become a collision damage or auto body repairer you would want to complete either the 310B Auto Body and Collision Damage Repairer or the 310Q Auto Body Repairer certification program. Of course, the most valued certification is through the Red Seal program which is a nationally recognized standard for skilled trades across Canada.

TRAINING

>>>

TOOL AND PROCEDURE COMPETENCY This one may be a given, seeing as that in order to do any job you need to know how to use the necessary equipment safely and efficiently. But it’s important to note that not every tool will be the same from job to job. So, letting your employer know that you’re not familiar with the specific tools they have, but you’re willing to take the time to learn how they operate, will be extremely valuable to a potential employer.

This also ties into the changing technology that comes with EVs rolling out on the market, as these vehicles become more commonplace the equipment used in shops will need to be updated to meet the needs of clients. So, staying current with leading-edge technology, equipment and procedures will always be an asset.

OBTAIN WRITTEN AND VERBAL COMMUNICATION ABILITIES The ability to effectively communicate should be a staple in anyone’s set of skills as it is crucial in almost every workplace.

One way or another technician’s will be communicating, whether with each other or with a customer, and it is incredibly important to have the capacity to convey potential issues or just general repair processes, in either case, with ease. When speaking with your team you won’t need to simplify your terms and phrases as you might have to when consulting with a client, this is why effective communication abilities are crucial for any technician to have.

COMPLEX PROBLEM SOLVING On a day-to-day basis there are going to be many issues that will require your attention.

Knowing which ones to prioritize and then how to solve them is an advantage employer will always be looking for.

The ability to think on your feet when a problem arises and come up with quick and effective solutions will not only allow you to work more efficiently, but it will also help the overall efficiency of your shop.

TIME MANAGEMENT AND INITIATIVE/SELF-STARTING ABILITIES Effective time management is an incredibly valuable skill to any employer; the ability to prioritize your tasks and complete them within a timely manner and then also seek out more work once you’ve finished is something every employer looks for in an employee.

Taking charge of your workload and ensuring your tasks are finished on time and to company standards will show your employer that you not only possess important skills, but that you value the work you do as well.

Any working environment can be stressful and have moments of chaos.

ABILITY TO PERFORM IN A HIGHPRESSURE, HIGH-VOLUME ENVIRONMENT Any working environment can be stressful and have moments of chaos, but knowing how to maneuver through those moments will prove to your employer that you are capable of working under pressure. When things get busy, the ability to take a step back and assess the situation before proceeding with a strategic plan is key to working in a high-volume shop.

Though each shop, or working environment, puts different values on different skills, it’s important to know the basic characteristics that will help you succeed in a shop environment.

SPRING 2021 | BODYWORX PROFESSIONAL 17

>>> PAINTER’S CORNER

GOING GREEN

ElectroLight is an expressively refreshing green-yellow hue inspired by bold, contemporary flavours that echo style, energy and flair.

A X ALTA’S HUE OF THE YE AR COMES WITH PR ACTICAL PURPOSE

BY JULIA LLOYD

A

xalta has announced its 2021 global automotive colour of the year—a striking green bearing the name Electrolight.

ElectroLight is an expressively refreshing green-yellow hue inspired by bold, contemporary flavours that echo style, energy and flair.

The colour invokes a blend of sport design elements with functional performance and offers versatility when combined with two-tone charcoal colour accents, or matte finished on a variety of mobility solutions.

“Offering innovative products that are ahead of the curve is what we live and breathe every day at Axalta,” said Hadi Awada, senior vicepresident at Axalta. “ElectroLight is another step towards illuminating a path for a green future for all types of vehicles, including autonomous vehicles. Formulated with mobility-sensing technology in mind, ElectroLight combines a passion for individualisation with coating science into a functional, expressive and dynamic colour.”

ElectroLight is formulated with reflective properties that make it highly visible to light detection and ranging (LiDAR) systems, while it’s layer structure and pigment content are easily transmissible by radio detection and ranging (RADAR) systems.

Fully autonomous vehicles are closer than ever to becoming a reality and will increasingly rely on LiDAR and RADAR technology to see and to interact with the world around them.

ElectroLight meets industry safety standards and improves the performance of both types of systems, making it a stand-out colour option in both trend and technology, according to Axalta’s press release.

“Our 2021 colour evokes sustainability, happiness and safety. ElectroLight is at the forefront of today’s colour trends, while also anticipating emerging technology advances.

Consumers are looking for a breakout colour and ElectroLight manifests this while bringing a progressive approach to automotive styling and design,” said Nancy Lockhart, global product manager of colour at Axalta.

While Axalta’s recently released 2020 Global Automotive Color Popularity Report still shows that white remains the most frequently purchased automotive colour globally, interest in automotive colours with a more customised and personalised look is becoming increasingly desired by consumers.

The report, revealed in early 2021, showed that as of today, 38 percent of drivers own a white vehicle, 19 percent sport black vehicles

while 15 percent own a gray vehicle.

Silver continues to be on the decline in all regions and its popularity is now in the single digits at nine percent. Black holds steady year-over-year and remains a favourite in luxury vehicles.

The tasteful gray hue has increased by two percentage points worldwide and is at a 10-year high, said Axalta.

Today’s most popular hues, according to Axalta’s estimates.

ElectroLight is formulated with reflective properties that make it highly visible to light detection and ranging (LiDAR) systems, while it’s layer structure and pigment content are easily transmissible by radio detection and ranging (RADAR) systems.

18 BODYWORXMAG.COM | BODYWORX PROFESSIONAL

Celebrating

20

THE PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE OF

COLLISION REPAIR

ANNUAL REPORT: INSURERS GET THEIR GRADES!

Volume 19, Number 6 l December 2020

YEARS

WAT YOU BAC

Top tips t cyberh

GTA GREATNESS QUALITY AND CONFIDENCE PUT ASSURED MISSISSAUGA NORTH AT THE TOP

PLUS: CCIF’s virtual event | Hot new products for 2021 | NAIT’s new normal AND MUCH, MU www.collisionrepairmag.com Canada Post Canadian Publications Mail Sales Product Agreement No. 40841632 l 86 John Street, Thornhill, ON L3T 1Y2

Collision Repair Magazine’s 20th Anniversary Issue coming this summer

Featuring

• Interviews with past cover stars • • Scrapbooks from the Collision Repair archives • • Timelines of our history • • And much, much more! • Share your photos, memories or ideas from throughout the years for a chance to be featured!

20

YEARS

ANNIVERSARY

For more information visit collisionrepairmag.com

AFT MAR ONL

Industry expe first-ever vir

SCAN ME

>>>

RESTORATION

NOT FORD—FOSS CANADA’S FIRST GASOLINE ENGINE AUTOMOBILE

BY JULIA LLOYD

H

ave you ever heard of the Fossmobile?

In 1897, the vehicle claimed the title of Canada’s first successful gasoline-engine automobile.

“We grew up listening to my grandfather and father tell stories of the Fossmobile,” Ron Foss, grandson of Fossmobile inventor George Foote Foss told Bodyworx Professional.

“It was something my whole family grew up with; even my granddaughter has done a project on the topic.”

When Ron was young, his grandfather received two honorary memberships, one from the vintage Automobile Club of Montreal and the other from the Antique Automobile Club of America.

Ron knew his grandfather as a great Canadian inventor. Though as he grew older, he realized few outside Sherbrooke knew the inspiring legacy of George Foss or his Fossmobile.

“More Canadians should know that Henry Ford was not the first to invent the gasoline-powered automobile in Canada, it was my grandfather—George Foss.”

When George began his project in 1896, he envisioned a vehicle that would transcend the industry and make driving more convenient and efficient. He first began his hobby working with boats and soon after coming back from a trip to Boston, he moved on to automobiles.

He wanted to craft a gas-powered vehicle that could last longer than 20 minutes on the road.

“He decided there was a better way to build a vehicle,” Ron said.

“I remember him telling us the first time he had tried to sell it. A guy came down from Ottawa to Montreal to test drive it, but when he tried to start it, it kicked back and pulled over the cowling onto the ground. It was a no sale, but then my grandfather found out that the guy had a wooden leg,” laughed Ron. “By 1897, he was driving around scaring children, getting stuck in the mud and getting tickets for driving on the sidewalk.”

In 1902, after a year in storage, George sold the Fossmobile—the only one he ever made—for $75, and it was never seen again.

Now, more than a century later, Ron has

20 BODYWORXMAG.COM | BODYWORX PROFESSIONAL

George Foote Foss, inventor of Canada’s first gas-powered engine vehicle.

“I thought more Canadians should know that Henry Ford was not the first in Canada to invent the gasolinepowered automobile, it was my grandfather— George Foss.”

RESTORATION

>>>

While the original Fossmobile has long since vanished, a monument exists for it in Sherbrooke, Quebec.

One of the parts acquired by Ron, George’s grandson, who will be recreating the Fossmobile in an asclose-as-possible replica.

enlisted the help of automotive historians and other experts in vintage restoration for a very special project. The goal; to reverse engineer a tribute to George Foss’s invention.

According to Ron, his team has found parts similar to the original tools of the time to recreate the vehicle almost exactly how it was designed in 1897. Unique items like the engine’s wood cowling have been faithfully remade and utilizing the same style of paint that “old buggies and carriages” would have been painted with, said Ron. They even sourced a period engine similar to the one that gave the Fossmobile a whopping top speed of 24km/h.

“COVID has blocked us a couple of times, we’ve lost a few months over the year because of the lockdowns. There are always things that come up and take even longer to make. We are at a stage now where all the parts that we need have been found, and everything else needs to be fabricated.

“I would think that by April, May the tribute should be done,” said Ron. To fund the endeavour, Ron launched a GoFundMe last year, where they have raised just over $16,500, with a goal of $35,000.

Ron is hoping to gain national attention for his grandfather’s invention and have the car ready to ride for its 125th anniversary, next year.

“When you talk to the average Canadian, many don’t know who successfully built the first gasoline-powered car in Canada and that it was done in Sherbrooke, Quebec by my grandfather,” said Ron. “We’re going to change that.”

The 1897 Fossmobile in all its glory.

SPRING 2021 | BODYWORX PROFESSIONAL 21

>>>

TRAINING

WHAT MAKES A GOOD MENTOR? IN MY E XPERIENCE…

BY BEN HART

I

love this trade. Collision repair has treated me well from an eager apprentice, to a journeyman and now an instructor.

With that said, it hasn’t all been a fairy tale of ideology. I had a few rough years, made many mistakes and ventured down the wrong path at times. In some of these situations I had mentors who facilitated just enough slack for me to make mistakes and learn. In other situations, I did not, and fell flat on my face.

There are a few bad apples in the trade who not only refuse to mentor others, but also delight in their failure. Momentarily I was the metaphorical punching bag for a few of them.

My skin is as thick as my determination, so I got back up and continued to repair vehicles to the best of my ability. I chose to fight back by continuing to learn and improve my skills.

There were more failures along the way, but the path to success is rarely smooth.

When the time came, I happily guided my own apprentices towards the path of success and hoped their journey would be better than mine. “Learn from my mistakes,” I would say with encouragement and “don’t worry, there isn’t much you can mess up that I haven’t already. Sorry, you’re not that special.”

My first mentor in the collision industry was my grandfather, who patiently took the time to show the basics and teach me fundamental theories. Looking back, this was quite the task considering my inquisitive nature and poorly coordinated motor-skills. While my grandfather has long since passed, I am sure he would be proud to know that many of his teachings are alive in my classroom today.

From there I was thrown to the wolves in a shop with the old-school sink or swim mentality. While I was provided mentorship and guidance, it was not gentle. After some time proving myself, mutual respect was gained and my working-life vastly improved. After a few years there, I realized I needed to find a new employer who had the proper equipment and training to provide more suitable training

for heavy collision repair. I left amicably and ventured to where the Journeyman technicians were much more willing to train. I was fortunate that I found this rare opportunity.

I successfully completed my apprenticeship, but that was not the end. As a young journeyman, I wanted to prove that I belonged in the big leagues. I decided to move up in the world again, but soon learned that the

A mentor is one who assists, guides, advises, trains, tutors or coaches.

A mentor can come from all walks of life and experiences. Mentorship is an attitude, not a right of seniority or experience. grass isn’t always greener—between trying too hard and moving to a toxic environment, the odds were not in my favour. I am sure I made a lasting impression with some of those individuals—and not one I am proud of—but I continued to learn! While I could easily blame others and insinuate my failures were no fault of my own, that certainly wasn’t true.

After some time, I reflected on the situation to learn what I could have done better when faced with a tough crowd. As the old saying goes, we aren’t victims, merely volunteers. I chose to put myself in that situation and stay there—shame on me. But looking further, I asked many questions and had to consider that shop management plays a role. Why would a manager or owner enable a toxic work environment? Why would someone not want to help someone else? Why does this trade allow some to succeed, while others flounder?

I decided that it was time I become a part of the solution rather than let past experiences

paint a grim outlook for the rest of my career.

I became involved with Apprenticeship and Industry Training, here in Alberta, and then moved into the role of a Post-Secondary instructor. While I may not be able to wave a magic wand and fix all the problems with the industry, I hope I can do more to improve it than disseminate negativity.

In my searches, I learned that there are some fallacies that exist. Anyone can be a mentor if they choose to. A mentor is one who assists, guides, advises, trains, tutors or coaches. A mentor can come from all walks of life and experiences. Mentorship is an attitude, not a right of seniority or experience.

As a journeyman technician, manager, owner, or any position for that matter, realize that learning can occur from any source; learning does not exist in a rigid hierarchical structure. Learn from your apprentices, detailers, estimators and administrative staff.

Then mutually reciprocate these exchanges.

As an owner or manger, consider cross-training.

Keep in mind that a good mentor is respectful, patient, empathetic and concise. One who focusses on the positive and offers encouragement. If you are an owner or technician, apprentice, manager, administrator, appraiser, adjuster, or involved in this industry in any way and you do not train others, focus on negativity or allow others to convey negativity, then you are a part of the very problem you complain about.

Last year was a tough year—for 2021 lets each make a goal to mentor at least one other person and get involved with at least one industry organization or initiative. A former employer used to say, “happy customers, happy staff and money to boot.” If you focus on quality and fostering a positive working environment, this will make profitability for all much easier. I have seen these positive effects work which is why I will end this similarly to how I started, by saying that I love this trade, can you love it too?

Ben Hart is a Red Seal certified autobody technician and refinisher with more than two decades of experience in the industry. For the past two years he has instructed apprenticeship programs at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology. He can be reached at ben.hart@sait.ca.

22 BODYWORXMAG.COM | BODYWORX PROFESSIONAL

STEPS TO SCREENTIME SUCCESS Tired of online training? Refresh your strategy!

WHAT IS INTERNET FATIGUE? Internet fatigue comes when you refresh and read screens compulsively until you find yourself exhausted by it. It can be an anxiety that comes with feeling trapped in a whirlwind of information.

ARE YOU SUFFERING FROM INTERNET FATIGUE? Mentally, you may find issues concentrating in front of a screen, memory impairment and problems differentiating your thoughts from realities.

Example: Did I complete that task and forget, or just think about completing it?

Physically, you may find yourself tired yet unable to sleep, or experience aches and pains from lack of movement.

THREE WAYS TO STAY FOCUSED FIND YOUR AMBIANCE Find your perfect balance of background noise or silence to create the perfect environment to sit down at your computer and work.

1

2

3

STAY MINDFUL Creating routines can help combat internet fatigue when working from home.

Make sure to include breaks and avoid staring at your screen for hours on end.

CREATE YOUR ‘NOOK’ To combat a distracting home environment, set up a consistent place in your home to do your work. Wherever you decide to do this, consider this place a ‘work-zone’ and don’t let yourself slack until you’ve completed your tasks.

TAKE A BREAK! Don’t feel bad if you feel you need to take a step back from the world of online working.

Take a moment to breathe and relax before heading back to your work.

K BREAE TIM

>>> TRAINING

REALITY CHECK THERE IS NOTHING NORMAL ABOUT THE ‘NEW NORMAL’

BY STEFANO LIESSI

H

ere we are—we survived to see 2021 despite the hackneyed persona of its predecessor 2020.

As many of you likely are, I am rather bitter about 2020, it was a less than pleasant experience for many of us, resemblant to that of having the rug pulled out right from under you. As business owners I cannot begin to imagine what it was, and still is, like to have this experience come at you without warning.

I too, was greatly affected by the charade of attempts to mitigate the fallout from 2020.

Now, you may have noticed that I have refrained from using the cliché terms of 2020 as they have become trite in my view and not worthy of any further recognition. If one wants to so desperately relive the disaster that was, they may feel free to consult the powers that know all… Google.

As the year formerly known as 2020 unfolded, many cliché terms were created, one wqwhich aggravated me to no end right from the get-go. I refuse to accept the term ‘new normal’–not even remotely will I take what was delt to us as the new normal.

Let’s erase the idea of the what the new normal has been made out to be. What we are doing now is far from normal, and I am quite

sure most of you who are business owners are not quite ready to be told will be the way things are going forward.

Instead, may I suggest we take this opportunity to redefine our normal into something better by implementing new ideas and strategies in

You can see there is a new norm coming and it is one we should be adjusting our sails for now —pun intended. effort to get to the next level or goal that you may have. After all, there is no better time than the present!

During my travels I am constantly faced with the same retort to suggestions when it comes to implementing a new strategy. For example, I may suggest to a facility to take some time out to implement a new estimating strategy, perhaps blueprinting—to which I hear excuses like, ‘we are too busy’ or ‘we don’t have the time’. Based on many of the shops I have been through over the last few months, I would have to beg to differ on that.

24 BODYWORXMAG.COM | BODYWORX PROFESSIONAL

The volume of work has tanked out there, there were 10,000 less car accidents in Edmonton than the year before. That is significant—and it shows as I walk through the shops. The repair volume is way down, staffing is minimal—though some have managed to keep staff on, all at a cost that will need to be repaid or recovered; ergo the “new normal”.

Yeah…no thank you.

Now would be the time to implement new strategies in your facility, the time and patience required to get a new idea off the ground can be overwhelming when you have a full shop to tend to, adjusting or updating SOPs for the staff, updating your estimating profiles, getting on top of OE procedures, some well-deserved training, then implementation of said training.

If you focus this time on these ideas for when it picks up, you will be ready to embrace the work load the way you really want too, the way you have wanted to for years.

Why let something out of your control dictate your new normal when you should be creating your own for the future. Change can be good when it is warranted and implemented on your terms or agreeable terms. Not all change is good, and the change we have seen is a prime example of not good. Force fed change with

TRAINING no time to implement strategies correctly are a recipe for disaster (PBE) And if you like that new normal, well, I have a bridge for sale in London.

There is change coming, and the landscape in the future will be much different than it was in 2019. Just look at the use of OE standards becoming more and more mainstream, the line items associated with these new SOPs. Look at the global picture and the push towards the greener vehicles that will be coming down the line. Are you aware that currently there are 52 makes and models of PEV and HEV available to the North American consumer, with a showing increased availability in the used vehicle market as well, which means affordable vehicles for all, not just Daddy Warbucks.

Let’s also factor in some real government legislation regarding where our industry is headed, look at Norway, Norway boasts the highest penetration of electric vehicles in the world. This year about 50% of new cars sold in this (Norway) oil-and-gas rich country will be battery-electric only. Norway’s Parliament aims to ban all cars that are not zero emissions by 2025.

Some of our political figures can see this as the future norm, some not so much. The Quebec government, right here in Canada, are moving forward with their long-awaited plan to tackle climate, a ban on the sale of new gas-powered vehicles, starting in 2035. With 1.5 million on the road by 2030.

You can see there is a new norm coming and it is one we should be adjusting our sails for now—pun intended.

These vehicles will need new training, new expertise and possibly some dedicated skill set for them to be repaired correctly, not to

>>>

mention the added ADAS features that need to be tended to, along with all that administrative front end work. When are you going to get ready for that change? When you are busy—or during the down time right now?

Utilize the opportunity right now for more than an advertising vehicle to splash your name and logo on sanitizer and masks, something that will be history, 2020 is done, stick a fork in it and get ready to embrace what is going to really matter, your business and maneuvering your staff to accommodate your real new normal.

STEFANO LIESSI A Red Seal technician and founder of Canadian Collision Specialist, Stefano Liessi enhances his experience with 12 years of I-CAR instructing, coupled with high school teaching to bring training that encompasses all learning types. With experience on the corporate side of the industry, as well as in management and ownership, Stefano’s focus is proper repairs and equitably for all people involved in the collision industry.

TOUCH

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Post-repair documentation provides your customers the peace-of-mind to know their vehicle has been properly repaired. spanesi-americas.com/products/damage-diagnostics/touch Spanesi Americas, Inc. 123 Ambassador Dr. STE 107 Naperville, IL 60140 2021 - 8#1 Bodyworx Spanesi HP Ad Rev1.indd 1

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>>>

FINAL DETAIL

HOW ARE YOU? Take a mental-health checkpoint

BY ALLISON ROGERS

N

early at the year mark in this global pandemic, you are undoubtedly tired. We all are.

Days drag on like cold molasses. We miss social contact. A return to ‘normal life’ seems six horizons away.

What strategies are you taking to keep yourself sane?

Conversations recognizing the importance of mental health have been pushed into the shadows amid the pandemic. We’ve been more aware of our physical health than ever—a simple trip to the grocery store can even involve a symptom check-in—but how do you really feel?

Talk to them—take some weight off your shoulders. Cliché as it may be, a five-minute unload can do wonders for mental clarity.

If you don’t peg yourself as the so-called ‘emotional type,’ try doing it in the mirror. Talk to your dog. Talk to your tools. Release any pentup frustrations—just don’t hurt anyone or break anything in the process. This magazine will not be held liable.

The consequences of pent-up frustrations far outweigh those of letting your feelings be known. In a time where life seems to be pushing from every side, you can’t let a simple screw-up dismantle your

A five-minute unload can do wonders for mental clarity.

According to the latest survey conducted by the Canadian Mental Health Association regarding the mental health impacts of COVID-19 during the second wave of the pandemic, one in 10 Canadians (10 percent) reported concern for their mental health. That’s up four percent from May 2020, when six percent of Canadians reported the same feeling.

There is absolutely no shame in admitting the pressure of the pandemic. Zeus will not send his almighty thunderbolt after you if you admit you’re feeling glum.

The most important thing to remember is that you are not alone; the concept of global crisis means there are millions of people experiencing the exact same feelings as you. A simple glance through your contacts or friends list can dig up dozens of individuals that are just as pandemicdrained as you are.

26 BODYWORXMAG.COM | BODYWORX PROFESSIONAL

determination. Stay conscious—and in control—of your moods.

To all the bodywork professionals out there, keep up your work. Know that your efforts and passion inspire and allow so many others to persist each and every day.

And take care of your mental health the same way you’d attend to a freshly-painted panel.

Allison Rogers is the editor of Bodyworx Professional. She can be reached at allison@mediamatters.ca, or 905-370-0101.

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