Automotive technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, not just under the hood, but throughout the entire vehicle. Given this ‘Technical Tsunami,’ it’s difficult for collision repair technicians and estimators to spot and accurately assess the full extent of repairs needed if they don’t have the most up-to-date training.

Consider this: vehicles are becoming lighter and more fuel efficient; plastics, lightweight steels and aluminum are integral to these new, lightweight designs – but they’re also different to repair than vehicles just a few years ago; electronics are now embedded in nearly every automotive system, adding new complexities to vehicle repair; and hidden damage is common in vehicles involved in a collision.

These advancing technologies, materials and electronics present new challenges for the collision repair industry. With automakers (OEMs) introducing more than 100 vehicle changes each model year, the speed with which new technologies and high-tech materials continue to be introduced into vehicle applications is unprecedented. For the collision repair industry, devising a viable way to stay ahead of unrelenting advancement is mission-critical.

And that’s where I-CAR becomes the collision repair industry’s training partner of choice. I-CAR is an international not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing the information, knowledge and skills required to perform complete, safe and quality repairs for the ultimate benefit of the consumer.

I-CAR offers a variety of educational and training recognition programs designed for the collision repair industry. With proper education and training, shops can improve cycle time and throughput, revenue and profit, decrease rental car days and reduce shop liability risk.

Professional Development Program™

Designed with extensive input from the collision repair industry, the I-CAR Professional Development Program (PDP) trains collision repair professionals in essential role-relevant knowledge and skills. PDP training gives collision repair professionals and insurance auto physical damage appraisers the role-relevant information, knowledge and skills they need to perform complete repairs. Lack of standardization of industry training is damaging, and the I-CAR PDP directly addresses this growing issue. Businesses that invest in PDP training can benefit from improved business performance, enhanced employee development and reduced risks.

Vehicle and Technology Specific Training

To manage the consistent and rapid waves of change brought on by the Technical Tsunami, I-CAR is adding new courses to its Vehicle and Technology Specific Training (VTST) curriculum portfolio as new vehicle technologies come to market. These course additions will help inform and educate all members of the collision repair ecosystem about the complexity of repairs, the imperative to repair all systems to OEM specifications to ensure safety, and the diagnostics that need to be performed throughout the repair process to uncover hidden damage to electronic systems.

These courses feature diagnostics, calibration and scan tools, as well as the latest edition of its Vehicle Technology and Trends courses. VTST breaks down the complexities into manageable segments of information to provide educational opportunities that will mitigate the effects of the Technical Tsunami on the collision repair ecosystem.

I-CAR also offers several vehicle-maker specific courses, such as Vehicle Technology and Trends 2016; Honda and Acura TPMS Collision Repair; General Motors Model and Procedures; Toyota Models and Procedures; and more. New in 2017, I-CAR is also offering packages of the VTST program. Registering for a package offers students the opportunity to receive special pricing.  

Gold Class^® Recognition

The Gold Class^® recognition is the highest role-relevant training achievement recognized by the collision repair industry. To earn the Gold Class recognition, businesses must achieve and maintain a high level of role-relevant training across each of the major collision repair roles. This is measured by achievement and maintenance of Platinum™ recognition, earned through I-CAR training, by designated Role Reps at your facility.

By becoming Gold Class, you demonstrate to your customers, your staff and the industry that your business is committed to the highest standards of professionalism.

Grow Your Business with Education and Training

The numerous technologies that enhance the driving experience and provide added measures of safety have increased vehicle complexity exponentially – and there’s no end in sight. Through education and training, I-CAR is working to transform the numerous challenges faced by the collision repair industry into strategic opportunities to effectively manage the pace of technology and change within the collision repair business.

The reality of collision repair today is that if you’re not training on new technologies, you’re falling behind. I-CAR training keeps you up to speed on the latest industry developments, so you can be confident you’re not just treading water – you’ll be riding the wave.

ALLDATA Collision builds on the industry-leading mechanical information found in ALLDATA Repair, adding OEM procedures such as section and structural repairs, handling of new materials, and panel removal and replacement. Request a demo of ALLDATA Collision by calling (888) 853-7309 or click here to get started.