Hammer & Dolly April 2025 by Thomas Greco Publishing, Inc.

DIRECTOR’S

SCC: I’m Saying it Louder, Again

Words worth repeating, because we want you to have every chance to get where you’re needed. Not just for you, but for your whole team; no matter what position you hold:

WMABA has worked hard to bring this opportunity, made for you. All that we do in preparation of the Collision P.R.E.P (Professional Repairer Education Program) series coming May 1-3 at the Southeast Collision Conference at the Greater Richmond Convention Center in Richmond, Virginia, is all arranged so that our industry can have opportunities to increase their knowledge, network and professionalism. In these modern times, getting yourself to industry events has never been more important to your professional health!

Both WMABA and the Carolinas Collision Association are excited to host the national Collision Industry Conference, and SCRS – Society of Collision Repair Specialists –meetings in conjunction with SCC, also held in the same location. Several other national associations will also be holding board meetings, or council meetings. It will bring another level of engagement, community and information to the repairers in our market regions.

Every person in the modern repair facility will be informed and challenged by a slate of Nationally-known and recognized speakers.

WMABA OFFICERS

PRESIDENT Kris Burton kris@rosslynautobody.com - 703-820-1800

VICE PRESIDENT Phil Rice price@bapspaint.com - 540-846-6617

TREASURER John Shoemaker john.a.shoemaker@basf.com - 248-763-4375

SECRETARY Barry Dorn bdorn@dornsbodyandpaint.com - 804-746-3928

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Steven Krieps steve@gregclineauto.com 304-755-1146

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Folks like Mike Anderson, Danny Gredinberg, Mike Jones, Taylor Moss, and more, in addition to a full panel discussion with OEMs, draw repairers from far and wide! With the education program, there will be classes throughout the day Friday and Saturday for attendees to choose based on their interests and needs.

Every conference and meeting I attend is an attest to how gravely important it is for shops to be engaged – from management to technician to detailer – in the gathering of technological and structural advancements taking place in today’s vehicles and today’s business climate. When I say structural, I mean the vehicle and how you’ve structured your business model. Repairers who are adapting and changing are making headway, and it’s important that the entire industry do the same.

We are a skilled profession, not a trade. I don’t take credit for that realization; it goes to someone who’s a longtime owner who has always strived to repair vehicles by the OE procedure every time. But it’s high time we stand in a place of authority.

Much happens without you knowing, if you don’t leave your four walls. I give the analogy that it’s like our industry is suffering from perpetual “Covid shut-in syndrome”. What does that mean? It means, you’re not getting out; many are only getting the

Rodney Bolton (boltonconsulting61@gmail.com) 443-386-0086 Tom Brown (thbrown@ppg.com) 703-624-5819 Torchy Chandler (torchy.chandler@gmail.com) 410-309-2242 Tracy Dombrowski (tracy@collisionadvice.com) 571-458-0648

ADMINISTRATION

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Jordan Hendler (jordanhendler@wmaba.com) 804-789-9649

WMABA CORPORATE OFFICE

P.O. Box 3157 • Mechanicsville, VA 23116

education that comes to their doorstep or online. Trust me, ladies and gents, it’s not the same as being present, and in so many ways you’re only cheating yourself of positive revelation.

When you come to education events in person, you get a greater sense of purpose, of industry, of community and of knowledge and it’s vital to every aspect of your day-to-day; no matter your position.

If you make one investment in your business this year, let it be the Southeast Collision Conference.

There’s too much at stake, both for you and your customers, to stick to the daily grind and not engage. I promise you will gain insight as to your own future and ways in which you can get to it, and people who will rally around and with you to see it happen.

The Conference isn’t just a conference, it’s our associations’ best weapon against the onslaught you face and we want to raise you into a leader who knows how to bring resources into power and light.

Jordan Hendler (804) 789-9649 jordanhendler@wmaba.com

HAMMER & DOLLY STAFF

PUBLISHER Thomas Greco thomas@grecopublishing.com

SALES DIRECTOR Alicia Figurelli alicia@grecopublishing.com

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Alana Quartuccio alana@grecopublishing.com

SENIOR CONTRIBUTING Chasidy Rae Sisk

EDITOR chasidy@grecopublishing.com

OFFICE MANAGER Donna Greco donna@grecopublishing.com

PRODUCTION Joe Greco COORDINATOR joe@grecopublishing.com

www.grecopublishing.com @grecopublishing

C O N F E R E N C E

M A Y

1 6 - 1 8 GREENSBORO NORTH

Greensboro Coliseum

CAROLINA

F R I D A Y , M a y 1 7

8:30am – 10:00am |

Future-proof Your Shop: Tomorrow’s Success Starts with Today Mike Anderson, Collision Advice

11:30am – 1:00pm | LUNCH & LEARN

Efficiency Unleashed: Rethinking Roles in Collision Repair

Michael Bradshaw of K&M Collision, Barry Dorn of Dorn's Body & Paint, and Kris Burton of Rosslyn Auto Body

MAY 1-3 RICHMOND VIRGINIA

2:00pm – 3:00pm | Option 1 The Critical Steps Involved

THURSDAY, MAY 1

Kick

FRIDAY, MAY 2

Tradeshow 10am - 5pm

Education 8:30am - 5:30pm

SATURDAY, MAY 3

S A T U R D A Y , M a y 1 8

Tradeshow 9am - 3pm

8:30am – 9:30am | Option 1

Education 8:30am - 4:30pm

100% Disassembly Mike Anderson

8:30am – 9:30am | Option 2

Do You Have Leaky Profit? Find Out Where

Profit Leaks from Your Collision Center and How to Fill the Holes! Taylor Moss, OEConnection

11:00am – 12:30pm | LUNCH & LEARN

Repairer to Repairer: RTA’s and PRI’s, The Process & the Shop’s Role

Panelists: Adrian Mora, Collision Consumer Advocates, Billy Walkowiak, Collision Safety Consultants; Moderated by: Steve Krieps, WMABA Imm Past President / Collision Safety Consultants of WV

2:00pm – 3:30pm | Option 1

Nurturing the Goose That Laid the Golden Egg

Bruce Schronce, StrongLead’s Executive Partner and Leadership & Business Consultant

2:00pm – 3:30pm | Option 2

Increased Profitability through Proper Documentation: How communication, documentation and collision shop positioning must change in 2024 and beyond

Keith Manich, AMAM - Director of Collision Services, Automotive Training Institute

SCHOOL

Washington County Career and Technical Education Center PROFILE

When it comes to attracting young people to collision repair – and retaining their interest in the field – no tool is as valuable as engagement from local industry professionals!

That certainly seems to be the case at Washington County Career and Technical Education Center (WCCTEC) in Abingdon, VA. “Industry involvement is always a plus for our students,” reports WCCTEC Auto Body Repair Instructor Brian Casey. “We sometimes have guest speakers from the local industry, which gets students thinking and talking about their future, which is always a positive. We try to take three or four field trips per year because these are good team building activities and morale boosters. Last year, we toured the Volvo truck factory, and it was a good experience for all. It is always a benefit for students to hear career information from different sources other than their daily teacher.”

WCCTEC collision students attend class for about two and a half hours each day over the course of two school years with an option to take a third year of classes if there’s space available and the instructor approves. First-year students attend classes in the morning, and during the afternoon, “Third-year students train with the second-year students and then transition to work-based learning by mid-year,” Casey explains.

Classes typically consist of 16 to 18 students, according to Casey. “This has not changed much in my almost 16 years of

teaching. In our area, automotive classes are generally very popular. We have an application process and make efforts to place students who are genuinely interested in automotive work and not just looking for a place to hang out.”

WCCTEC helps seniors and recent graduates find industry employment with the assistance of two coordinators from Jobs for VA Graduates. “The addition of the second coordinator in the past two years has improved our industry involvement and has helped open some new opportunities for our students,” shares Casey. “I also have contacts with all the major body shops in our surrounding area. Most students can get an internship in one of the local body shops with just the instructor’s recommendation.

“We also have a job shadowing program where students can visit and work with a professional in a body shop for a few days or weeks to get a better idea of what the actual career is like,” he adds. “The biggest issue with placement is the fact that our school is in a somewhat rural area, and there are not as many choices for employment as in large urban areas.”

In order to keep his program up-to-date on the latest industry trends and needs, Casey relies on the school’s automotive advisory board, which meets twice each school year. Its current 10 members include a service manager, body shop manager, technicians,

continued on pg. 10

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WMABA SCHOOL PROFILE

continued from pg. 6

estimators, a service writer and a tool vendor.

“The advisory board is stronger now than at any time in my career,” Casey boasts.

“The board helps us in many ways. They keep us up-to-date on the latest equipment and practices used in their businesses as well as

give feedback on employees who have come through our program. I like to have some of my better performing students attend the advisory meeting each year. Advisors also come to the school during school hours from time to time and speak to our students about careers in their field.”

Casey finds his career as an instructor to be very rewarding. “One of my favorite things is SkillsUSA competitions. This is a true test of the student’s skills without assistance from the instructor. It is also a huge motivator for students. When they win or place, it is good to see them get excited and motivated for the next level. I am a lead SkillsUSA advisor at our school and get to work with the SkillsUSA officers. This is rewarding in the fact that I get to watch students become proficient public speakers, planners and leaders.”

He also finds it “rewarding when I see students master tasks, such as painting or welding, that they were unable to accomplish

before taking this class. Sometimes, they learn that they really enjoy and are good at things they did not think they could do. Another huge reward is when students are successful in the workplace and make a good living using skills that they learned in my class.”

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Of course, no job is without its challenges. “All in all, I am very satisfied with my job as a collision instructor; however, this job is challenging, and sometimes success is difficult to measure,” Casey acknowledges. “I have the same challenges as most other teachers: managing time and resources. Instructional funds have not kept pace with inflation. Shop supplies have increased at rates not comparable to other commodities. My students do a high percentage of live work on customer vehicles, which I prefer because it motivates students more than practicing. Having said that, I could always use more supplies/ funds for practicing basic skills. When it comes to placing students in careers, one challenge is having them take retail and factory jobs that pay better on the front end but do not lead to a rewarding career. It is difficult for them to look at an apprenticeship in a shop as getting training while being paid.”

Although Casey has yet to “take full advantage” of everything WMABA has to offer since the school is not located near most of the association’s member shops, he finds WMABA’s monthly magazine to be very useful. “I read Hammer and Dolly every month and distribute copies to my students. This information keeps me up to date on industry trends and standards.” H&D

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SAFE Repair Act Focuses on Consumer Protection NEWS

The Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), Automotive Service Association (ASA) and the Alliance for Automotive Innovation (Auto Innovators) have come together on proposed landmark Right to Repair legislation that puts emphasis on consumer protection.

In late February, the independent repairers and automakers released the following statement, “The Safety as First Emphasis (SAFE) Repair Act guarantees independent repair facilities will continue to have the same ability to perform diagnostic and repair services as franchised auto dealers. The bill will give consumers confidence their vehicles are safely repaired, in well-equipped shops, by well-trained technicians using

the repair information made available by automakers.”

“I’m really proud of what this proposed language represents, in that it addresses very real challenges independent repair businesses face in trying to serve their customer well,” shares SCRS Executive Director Aaron Schulenburg. “We’ve received very positive reinforcement from our state associations and a very diverse cross section of repair businesses, all of whom have said the same thing; essentially, ‘Thank you, it’s about time someone addressed consumer safety and choice.’”

The three organizations previously came together in July 2023 to establish an Automotive Repair Data Sharing

Commitment on behalf of vehicle owners, which “recognizes and reaffirms the belief that consumers should have access to safe and proper repairs throughout a vehicle’s lifecycle.” It also stated, “Independent repair facilities shall have access to the same diagnostic and repair information that auto manufacturers make available to authorized dealer networks.”

The SAFE Repair Act intends to build off that agreement.

A letter addressed to members of Congress on behalf of the proposed legislation expressed their shared commitment to ensuring that consumers have access to safe, proper and transparent vehicle repairs: “The collaboration between our organizations reflects a unified desire to advance consumer safety and choice while addressing the challenges and opportunities in today’s automotive repair landscape.”

The letter also stated: “While... existing frameworks have created a thriving and competitive repair marketplace, we understand the desire for a federal legislative solution that addresses evolving consumer expectations and technological advancements. That’s why our three organizations have come together to propose a new path forward – one that builds on existing protections while introducing additional measures to

NATIONAL NEWS

continued from pg. 16

prioritize consumer safety and choice.”

Last Congress, policymakers considered the Right to Equitable and Professional Auto Industry Repair (REPAIR) Act. That bill mandated access to tools, data and information but was silent on a consumer’s right to ensure these were utilized to restore a vehicle’s safety systems or structure to full functionality. In fact, safety was never addressed as a priority of the REPAIR Act – but it is a priority of the proposed SAFE Repair Act.

Just five days after the SAFE Repair Act was introduced, a bipartisan group of lawmakers reintroduced the REPAIR Act in Congress.

According to the independent repairers’ and automakers’ statement, “Automotive right-to-repair already exists in the United States. Vehicle owners can get their vehicle serviced in wellequipped shops by well-trained technicians anytime, anywhere and any place. This competitive marketplace is possible because automakers make all of the information needed to diagnose and repair a vehicle available to all vehicle repair shops. This means independent repair shops already have access to the same diagnostic and repair information as authorized dealers. As a result, roughly 70 percent of post-warranty work today is completed out of the automakers’ authorized dealer networks.”

“The reality is the collision repair industry isn’t expressing concerns about not having access to OEM repair information, or concerned that consumers are seeking out alternative parts and being forced to use OEM parts – this is really what the proponents are saying,” adds Schulenburg. “The pressures collision repairers ARE facing is that consumers want their vehicle repaired correctly, and we recognize the industry has access to the resources they need to accomplish that – but there are obstacles put in the way where consumers are penalized if they choose to repair their

vehicle at repair businesses using all the information, procedures, tools and parts that are available to them.

“I think we’ve always felt like if there is a conversation about the ‘Right to Repair,’ it should really be a conversation about the right to receive safe, proper repairs. But it was also important to us to recognize that if we’re going to oppose other bills, it’s equally as important to bring productive and fruitful suggestions on how we can better address the real challenges facing the industry. We wanted to work with other repair groups and with the automakers and collectively present solutions on how we can do a better job to protect consumer choice and protect consumers’ right to have their vehicle repaired safely, following the information that’s already made available to the industry.”

The SAFE Repair Act includes:

• Affirmation of vehicle data access: Ensures consumers and independent repair shops have data needed to repair vehicles.

• Empowers consumers: Ensures consumers retain the right to decide where and how their vehicles are repaired.

• Prioritizes vehicle safety: Guarantees repairs are performed in accordance with manufacturer-produced repair procedures to restore vehicle safety systems and structural integrity.

• Offers part choices: Ensures consumers have a choice between original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts and non-OEM repair parts.

• Protects non-OEM choices: Extends the same recall and safety protections to customers choosing non-OEM parts as currently available for customers choosing OEM parts.

• Enhances transparency: Requires disclosure of prior alterations or repairs for used vehicles.

• Promotes inspection programs: Supports periodic safety inspection and post-collision inspection programs to safeguard against unsafe or improper repairs. To read more on the SAFE Repair Act, please visit bit.ly/SAFERepairAct. H&D

Executive Director’s Thoughts

The SAFE Repair Act is a crucial step forward in protecting consumer choice and vehicle safety, and these groups’ efforts to help ensure independent facilities have access to essential repair data is so important. Repairers deserve transparency and options, and consumers deserve to feel confident in their vehicle repairs. Kudos to SCRS, ASA and Auto Innovators for continuing to do what’s right, for the good of us all. - Jordan Hendler

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Here’s to 241 years of combined service excellence

This year, as Albert Kemperle Inc. celebrates its 83rd anniversary, BASF also celebrates its 158th anniversary. We are proud of our decades of partnership with BASF and years of serving the auto paint and body industry together. Kemperle’s founders would be proud of this relationship and the growth their company has experienced because of it.

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PUT YOUR EYE ON THE PRIZE AT SCC AND CIC

It’s time to put your eye on the prize!

There is plenty of opportunity to win big in the collision repair industry, provided one puts in the time and effort to seek out all the information and knowledge possible. Collision repair professionals in the WMABA region and beyond can get all the resources they need at the Southeast Collision Conference (SCC) taking place May 1-3 at the Greater Richmond Convention Center in Richmond, VA.

WMABA has teamed up with the Carolinas Collision Association (CCA) for the third consecutive year to present an exciting weekend of educational offerings, top-of-the-line exhibitors and much more. Show goers in and around Virginia are expected to make their way to Richmond to take advantage of the great

opportunity this show offers year after year. Last year, the show was held in North Carolina as SCC moves annually between the two states in order to serve as many repairers as possible.

“We’re looking forward to a really successful show,” shares CCA Executive Director Josh Kent. “There’s so much in store this year, making the show bigger and better thanks to new insightful material from our speakers, and our vendors always provide an exciting atmosphere on the trade show floor.”

WMABA Executive Director Jordan Hendler expresses equal anticipation.

“The trade show portion of SCC will have something for everyone,” she promises. “Demonstrations, tooling, equipment, networks, software and more are all on site with their skilled

experts to engage with repairers. Every person in the business –from tech to manager – will have the opportunity to increase their network and knowledge of products throughout the two full days of the show. The center stage will also feature special presentations and demonstrations, varying from hands-on demos to tool grant giveaways.”

As if SCC wasn’t already enough reason to get to Richmond, the spring Collision Industry Conference (CIC) is also set to take place at the Greater Richmond Convention Center over a two-day time period. The event will start on Wednesday, April 30 from 12 pm to 5pm with a reception following at 6pm. Discussions will pick up on Thursday, May 1 from 8am to 1pm. Also happening that week, the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) will conduct its Open Board meeting on Thursday, May 1 from 2pm to 5pm, with annual Board elections taking place on Wednesday, April 30 from 5pm to 6:30pm.

SCC festivities will get underway on Thursday, May 1 with the Kick-Off Awards Dinner where both WMABA and CCA will present awards to Board members and member shops.

WMABA’s Collision P.R.E.P. (Professional Repairer Education Program) once again is poised to deliver a comprehensive toolbox of knowledge to collision repair professionals to help them triumph over challenges.

“The Collision P.R.E.P. education series, as part of the Southeast Collision Conference, is still evolving to meet the needs of collision repairers now seven years in,” explains Hendler. “The goal is to bring sessions relevant to the daily needs and struggles for various roles, with nationally-known speakers and panel discussions of experts. More than informative, many classes are motivational, giving participants inspiration to bring positive change into their position in the business. Vehicle repairability and business practices are constantly evolving, and staying on top of it is a little easier when you can get it all in one place over a few days!”

The educational component of the show will begin bright and early at 8:30am on Friday, May 2 when one of the most dynamic speakers around – the one and only Mike Anderson (Collision Advice) – presents “Stay Humble, Stay Hungry.” Anderson will share trends regarding customer pay increasing and how collision repairers need to stay humble and hungry in all aspects of their business including customer interaction and repair plans.

“I’m excited once again to share my insights and passion with the attendees at SCC,” states Anderson. “Each year, I pick a theme, and my theme for 2025 is ‘stay humble, stay hungry!’ As collision repairers, we have to be careful that we don’t get calloused to the consumers’ needs. We have to remain patient with vehicle owners. In addition, we have to stay humble and not think that we know it all in regard to OEM repair procedures. In my session, I will be sharing what the future holds for collision repairers regarding the latest data on average severity, average labor hours by state, OEM trends and insights, insurer trends and

insights, consumer spending habits, the role of AI in our industry and so much more. I hope to see some old friends and hopefully make some new friends as well.”

Anderson will return to the Collision P.R.E.P. stage on Saturday, May 3 to lead a panel discussion on safety inspections. Attendees will hear from shop owners who have made safety inspections a priority in their repair planning process.

Also on Friday, Andrew Batenhorst (Pacific BMW Collision Center; CA) will set out to inform repair professionals about why the legacy estimator role is causing severe damage to one’s operation.

“My main goal is to rip off the comfy, warm blanket that the industry has been dragging around with them like Linus over the past 30 years,” explains Batenhorst. “The blanket symbolizes the estimator role and all the baggage that comes with it. We will discuss the waste that this role is creating, which includes bogging down repairs and preventing effective reimbursement. And to come full circle, I will teach participants how to structure their shop for success with a set of simple tools to design an effective repair planning SOP.” He suggests that repairers “bring an open mind and a willingness to learn. Be curious and be ready to ask me plenty of questions. I have no personal financial gain to get out of this event – I’m here to help the industry get better. My methods are proven and can be duplicated in any size shop.”

Batenhorst is eager to make this presentation for the SCC audience. “SCC is a great forum for learning, and they carefully curate the agenda to ensure participants get the most out of their time at the event. Like any large scale event, they don’t always hit every market, due to geography. In my own research, less than five percent of the industry is actively doing something to address the pitfalls of the estimator role. The more audiences I can reach, the sooner the industry can grow and improve.”

Danny Gredinberg (Database Enhancement Gateway) and Kyle Motzkus (industry professional, educator) are teaming up to give collision repair professionals more confidence in their approach to repair planning with “Overcoming Information Overload - Streamlining Repair Planning” on Friday afternoon.

“We’re going to examine ways shops can look at workflows and streamline the repair planning process and provide understanding on how to prioritize and filter out the documentation you don’t actually need,” explains Gredinberg whose technical experience in procedure research will allow him to give a 30,000 foot view while Motzkus’ in-shop experience can provide a 10-foot look at how it’s done.

“Repairers will walk away with a better sense of how to close the gap with whoever is paying the bill – whether that’s the customer or if that customer is going through an insurance carrier,” offers Motzkus. “The end game is that shops want to get paid. A lot of issues people have with getting paid are due to a lack of confidence. That does not mean they don’t know what they are

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COVER STORY

continued from pg. 25

doing, but they may not know how to properly explain to whomever is paying the bill.”

One does not want to “bulldoze their way into negotiation” by talking at too high of a level which can lead to getting no for an answer, suggests Motzkus. The discussion will also focus on how to best involve the customer.

They recommend attendees come in with an open mind, and as Gredinberg suggests, “You don’t have to fix everything overnight.”

“Be 100 percent open minded, but also come in with your work pants on,” adds Motzkus. “Be willing to leave your ego at the door. Just because you know how to do something doesn’t mean you know how to do everything. You can always learn something new. Being willing to listen and learn and not just go in and check off a box is a fairly important mindset to have.”

Gredinberg noted that SCC being held in conjunction with CIC means that the convention center will be populated by industry folks in all roles – from estimators to technicians and then some –opening the door to absorb information directly rather than second hand. “Don’t be scared to engage with your peers and people outside of your direct network. Be willing to learn.”

“Getting out of your comfort zone is an incredibly powerful statement,” Motzkus contributes. “This will be an engaging and interactive session. If you don’t ask questions, I will make you ask questions.”

Advances in technology remain hot button issues; therefore, Steve Dawson (Hunter Engineering) will tackle “Taking the Blind Spots Out of ADAS Calibrations” while Taylor Moss (OEConnection) will explore “AI in Collision Repair – The Good, The Bad and The Ugly.” See the full Collision P.R.E.P. schedule on page 29.

The aisles of the convention center will be lined with vendors showcasing their latest and greatest innovations and resources.

Platinum Sponsor Blue Ridge Color Company (BRCC) returns to the SCC aisles because they truly appreciate “the value that our customers get from the education and networking” the event has to offer, says Blake Harris, president of BRCC.

One of the things he most looks forward to is “seeing our customers able to get away from the daily grind. We often

categorize the Southeast Collision Conference as the safe zone. We all played tag when we were little, and there was that one place that you could always go that was called the safe zone that no one could tag you out. I think that’s the most enjoyable part that we at BRCC and our customers look forward to.”

“Our commitment to this event is driven by our shared values of innovation, community engagement and business growth,” expresses Aritha L. Richardson of Enterprise Mobility. “As long-time members and partners, we recognize the SCC as a vital platform for networking, industry insights and collaboration with key stakeholders. Our presence allows us to connect with industry leaders, support meaningful discussions and demonstrate our continued investment in the success of businesses and communities in the Southeast. Enterprise remains dedicated to driving mobility solutions, fostering economic development and strengthening relationships within the association.”

Richardson, who also serves on the CCA Board of Directors, says Enterprise is “most looking forward to deepening our connections, sharing innovative mobility solutions and collaborating on key industry challenges. Most importantly, we’re eager to listen, collaborate and contribute to meaningful discussions that will shape the future of our industry and the communities we serve.”

“We love being a part of this show,” states Paul Cook, service consultant for AkzoNobel, a Gold Sponsor. “It allows us to connect with some of our current customers and prospective customers. It gives us a space to showcase everything we have to offer at AkzoNobel, from our premium brand Sikkens to our best-in-class mid-market and value brands. Plus, we get to showcase our training and consulting services. We have a wide range of services to offer, from estimating classes to on-site visits and our Carbeat production system.”

“Whether it’s through the purchase of new equipment, new knowledge found in the classrooms or by making new friends, we strive to make this show an experience that will give our attendees a new sense of purpose and vision to put toward their business,” sums up Kent.

For more information and to register for SCC, visit southeastcollisionconference.com. To register for CIC, visit ciclink.com; for more information on SCRS, visit scrs.com H&D

S O U T H E A S T

C O N F E R E N C E

A Y

1 6 - 1 8 GREENSBORO NORTH CAROLINA

Greensboro Coliseum

FRIDAY, MAY 2

8:30am – 10:00am

8:30am – 10:00am |

THURSDAY, MAY 1

Kick Off & Awards Dinner 6:30pm

C O L L I S I O N FEATURING

Stay Humble, Stay Hungry

Future-proof Your Shop: Tomorrow’s Success Starts with Today Mike Anderson, Collision Advice

Presented by: Mike Anderson, Collision Advice

FRIDAY, MAY 2

Tradeshow 10am - 5pm

Education 8:30am - 5:30pm

SATURDAY, MAY 3

Tradeshow 9am - 3pm

Education 8:30am - 4:30pm

S A T U R D A Y , M a y 1 8

SATURDAY, MAY 3

8:30am – 9:30am | Option 1

100% Disassembly Mike Anderson

There’s Big Money In WORKSHOP ORGANIZATION

Presented by: Lee Rush, Sherwin-Williams

8:30am – 9:30am | Option 2

11:30am – 1:00pm | LUNCH & LEARN

11:30am – 12:30pm

Efficiency Unleashed: Rethinking Roles in Collision Repair

LUNCH & LEARN

Michael Bradshaw of K&M Collision, Barry Dorn of Dorn's Body & Paint, and Kris Burton of Rosslyn Auto Body

Hear it from the OEMs: Procedures, Vehicle Repairability, and a Focus on ADAS Issues [Panel Discussion]

2:00pm – 3:00pm | Option 1

Death of the Estimator Role

The Critical Steps Involved to Achieve an OEM-Centric Calibration Greg Peeters, CEO, Car ADAS Solutions

Presented by: Andrew Batenhorst

2:00pm – 3:00pm | Option 2

Building Value in Your Shop

Keep it Kleen: The True Costs of Contamination

8:30am – 9:30am | Option 2

Taking the Blind Spots Out of ADAS Calibration

Do You Have Leaky Profit? Find Out Where Profit Leaks from Your Collision Center and How to Fill the Holes! Taylor Moss, OEConnection

Presented by: Steve Dawson, Regional Manager, Hunter Engineering

11:00am – 12:30pm | LUNCH & LEARN

11:30am – 12:30pm LUNCH & LEARN

Repairer to Repairer: RTA’s and PRI’s, The Process & the Shop’s Role Panelists: Adrian Mora, Collision Consumer Advocates, Billy Walkowiak, Collision Safety Consultants; Moderated by: Steve Krieps, WMABA Imm Past President / Collision Safety Consultants of WV

Matt DiFrancesco, CExP™, Principal/Certified Exit Planner, High Lift Financial

Presented by: Rick Selover, National Account Manager- GARMAT USA Spray Booths, Founder & Host of The Mind Wrench Podcast

4:30pm – 5:30pm | Option 1

Self Confidence: An advanced repair plan you can expand on Danny Gredinberg, the DEG, and Kyle Motzkus, General Manager of Hunter Autobody and Missouri Autobody Association

4:30pm – 5:30pm | Option 1

Overcoming Information Overload – Streamlining Repair Planning

Presented by: Danny Gredinberg, the DEG, and Kyle Motzkus, Repair Planner, Quality Collision Group

4:30pm – 5:30pm | Option 2

Navigating the Challenges of Recruiting & Retaining Technicians Jay Goninen, Co-Founder & President, WrenchWay

4:30pm – 5:30pm | Option 2

Overcoming Information Overload – Streamlining Repair Planning

Presented by: Kaye Gitibin, CEO, GO Rentals

and even more happening on the tradeshow stage!

Change is Inevitable, Growth is Optional

2:00pm – 3:30pm | Option 1

Presented by: Mike Jones, President of Discover Leadership Training

Nurturing the Goose That Laid the Golden Egg Bruce Schronce, StrongLead’s Executive Partner and Leadership & Business Consultant

3:00pm – 4:30pm | Option 1

2:00pm – 3:30pm | Option 2

Safety Inspections [Panel Discussion]

Presented by: Mike Anderson

3:00pm – 4:30pm | Option 2

AI in Collision Repair – The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly

Increased Profitability through Proper Documentation: How communication, documentation and collision shop positioning must change in 2024 and beyond Keith Manich, AMAM - Director of Collision Services, Automotive Training Institute

Presented by: Taylor Moss, OEConnection

The XPress 800: Practicality and Precision for All Riveting Needs

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The XPress 800 is made even more user-friendly with easily interchangeable adaptors, while being lightweight and effortlessly maneuverable. Its power control system includes a convenient STOP key, allowing you to halt tool advancement for adjustments without releasing pump pressure.

The XPress riveting system provides versatility by accommodating various tools for diverse functions and applications, with several customizations available to accommodate any repair needs. Thanks to its modular design, this device seamlessly integrates with a range of hydraulic cylinders and designated C-arms, enabling pressure control for self-piercing rivets, flow form rivets, blind rivets, punching and blind rivet nuts (when appropriately configured). The basic, standard and full set options offer versatility and portability, enabling repairers to locate the system wherever the job requires. Additional kits are available for specific manufacturers, allowing facilities to adhere to OEM requirements and repair procedures wherever necessary.

The XPress 800 Riveting System offers options and customizations to handle a wide variety of repairs.

At RAE, we recognize that the right tools are only half of the equation. That’s why we provide comprehensive training with the purchase of tools like the XPress 800, ensuring technicians can confidently master the equipment and perform repairs with precision. This commitment to training helps facilities not only meet, but exceed, OEM standards.

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ADVICE INDUSTRY ASK MIKE:

How Can the Industry Shield Itself Against Cybersecurity Threats?

This month, we “ASK MIKE” to share his thoughts on some of the most common cybersecurity threats facing the collision repair industry. We at Hammer & Dolly hope you find the following exchange useful, and we encourage you to reach out to us if you have a question for Mike on this or any industry-related matter that he can answer in a future issue.

Hammer & Dolly: Any industry – and anyone with a computer, for that matter – is subject to cybersecurity threats. What are some examples of cybersecurity issues you’ve encountered as an automotive industry consultant, and what are some ways shops and other businesses can protect themselves from them?

Mike Anderson: I personally know of at least 20 shops that have been hacked and held for ransom in Bitcoin over the years. The highest ransom amount was $30,000. Not one of those businesses got out of the situation without paying the ransom – all they could do was negotiate with the attacker for a lower amount.

The first thing I tell people is never to assume their backup systems are working. Just like you maintain your compressors and spray booths, you need to maintain your IT systems. At least quarterly, you should have your IT person confirm that your backup is working.

Remember when you used to have fire drills at school? Talk to your IT person about doing a similar exercise with the

people at your shop. What should they do if someone at the facility gets hacked? Should you turn off and unplug your computers right away? Have an emergency plan in place if you get hacked.

As the saying goes, ‘An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.’ David Willett of SPARK Underwriters has access to free training that shops can take to become educated on minimizing their risk. Just as we do hazardous material training every year, you should do cybersecurity training as well.

Some companies are very strict about how they lock down their systems. For example, their employees can’t visit unapproved websites. It’s my opinion that people should use dual authentication. Some people may complain about having to change their password in CCC all the time, but that helps prevent hacking. Also, knowing what data pumps are on your computers is critical. There are companies out there that can help you identify them.

Shops also need to be mindful of bank transfers. I was recently at a shop when a guy called and said, ‘I’m from your bank. I need you to transfer this money,’ and the person at the shop did it. I said, ‘You need to question that!’ He called his bank, and they said, ‘That wasn’t us!’ I saw that happen at a shop just a few weeks ago. If someone supposedly calls you from your bank, tell them you’ll call them back, then call your local bank branch to make sure the call was legitimate.

Back when I had my shop, I got a call from a dealership where I bought parts. The guy says, ‘Hey, there’s a guy here wearing a Wagonwork shirt, saying he’s here to pick up $3,000 worth of parts that he ordered, and he wants us to charge them to your account. Something about this doesn’t seem right.’ It turns out this person had made a shirt with our shop’s logo on it. He was working on cars in a parking lot somewhere. The police were called, and he was arrested. That’s another example of some of the crazy stuff people will do to try to steal from you.

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character off in the address or something else that indicates it’s a fake account. If someone emails you a ‘bill’ as an attachment, it’s important to first double- and triple-check the sender’s email address before you click on the link or attachment. This is another example of why in-shop cybersecurity training is necessary.

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It’s also essential to carry the appropriate insurance. I suspect most people aren’t properly insured for these types of incidents. Ensuring that you are insured should be a priority.

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mbsilverspring@mileone.com S 8am-3pm

H&D: This conversation reminds me of the ongoing discussions in this industry about who owns certain data. It seems that consumer data is also potentially at risk in these situations.

MA: Here’s something along those lines that many people don’t think about. I really appreciate that a lot of technicians like to

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Beware of hacking attempts.

post pictures of vehicles on social media because they’re proud of their work. However, a business owner should never allow that to happen. It’s a violation of the customer’s privacy. If, God forbid, you’re not performing safe and proper repairs, that image on Facebook or elsewhere online could be used against you in a lawsuit. Furthermore, it can also damage your reputation and undermine customer trust. Always prioritize protecting the consumer over showing off your work online.

Mike Anderson is an Accredited Automotive Manager (AAM) and the former owner of Wagonwork Collision Centers, two highly acclaimed shops located in Alexandria, VA. He has served as a member of many industry organizations throughout his career, including the WMABA Board of Directors, the Mitchell Advisory Board, the MOTOR Advisory Board, the ASE Test Review

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