Honoring Excellence with Annual Achievement Awards
I-CAR celebrated the recipients of its prestigious annual awards during an event dedicated to acknowledging excellence in the collision repair sector. The awards were given at the Collision Industry Red Carpet Awards Night, a highlight of the SEMA festivities. This annual gathering focuses on individuals and organizations that exhibit remarkable dedication to advancing the collision repair industry.
Recognizing the Jeff Silver Award Winners
The Jeff Silver Award for Platinum Individuals
The coveted Jeff Silver Award was presented to Jared Nicholson of Collision Leaders. This award honors individuals who have embodied commitment to I-CAR's highest recognition, the Platinum credential, which requires a minimum of five consecutive years of maintaining this esteemed status.
“It is with great pride that I-CAR presents this year’s Jeff Silver Award to Jared Nicholson,” expressed John Van Alstyne, I-CAR's CEO and President. “Jared's dedication to excellence in collision repair, focus on mentoring, and passion for workforce development are the values this award embodies.”
Jared Nicholson has significantly impacted the collision repair industry since 2015, actively advocating for the Platinum credential across various platforms. His qualifications include nine Platinum recognitions spanning Refinishing, Structural, Non-Structual, Estimating, and Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS), showcasing his extensive knowledge in collision repair.
Contribution to Workforce Development
In addition to his accolades, Nicholson has been instrumental in launching I-CAR's Collision Careers initiative, collaborating with educational institutions to implement I-CAR's curriculum while promoting career opportunities within the field. His advocacy has fostered career development in young students pursuing the collision repair profession and contributed to Skills USA competitions as a judge.
The Russ Verona Award for Gold Class Shops
Recognizing Jerry's Body Shop
Jerry's Body Shop received the Russ Verona Award, recognizing its remarkable contributions as an I-CAR Gold Class business. This award is given to a collision repair center showcasing steadfast commitment to excellence, maintaining the Gold Class Standard, and unwavering support for training efforts.
“Jerry’s Body Shop has upheld a tradition of complete and safe repairs since 1991, proudly upholding their Gold Class status,” stated Van Alstyne. “Their commitment to the Gold Class standard transcends their operations, benefitting both their community and the collision repair industry.”
Family Commitment and Industry Impact
The Kottschade family symbolizes a relentless dedication to the collision repair field. Their commitment is visible in their active participation in advisory boards, national committees, and organizations such as the Women's Industry Network (WIN). This commitment extends to scholarship programs that nurture and empower the next generation of collision repair professionals.
“We are ecstatic to present the 2023 Russ Verona Memorial Award to Jerry's Body Shop,” remarked Van Alstyne. “Their unwavering dedication to the Gold Class standard, along with their emphasis on training and excellence, perfectly reflects the values of this award.”
A Legacy of Excellence in the Collision Repair Industry
Established in 2006 and 2009, the I-CAR Russ Verona Memorial Award for Gold Class Shops and the Jeff Silver Memorial Award for Platinum Individuals are bestowed annually to honor industry trailblazers. Jeff Silver's tenure as I-CAR's President led to the establishment of these award programs that recognize outstanding individual and business achievements in the automotive collision repair sector.
Both awards pay tribute to the legacy of Russ Verona, the first owner of an I-CAR Gold Class-designated business. Through these recognitions, I-CAR strives to inspire others in the industry to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and commitment to safety.
About I-CAR
Founded in 1979, I-CAR is a not-for-profit organization designed to meet the evolving educational needs of the collision repair industry. With accreditation from IACET, I-CAR focuses on enhancing the quality and safety of auto collision repairs for the ultimate benefit of consumers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the I-CAR awards?
The I-CAR awards aim to recognize individuals and businesses that have significantly contributed to enhancing the standards of the collision repair industry.
Who received the Jeff Silver Award this year?
The Jeff Silver Award was awarded to Jared Nicholson for his exceptional commitment to excellence in the collision repair industry.
What does the Russ Verona Award honor?
The Russ Verona Award honors collision repair centers committed to excellence and technical training, reflecting high operational standards.
When are the annual I-CAR awards presented?
The awards are presented annually during the SEMA event at the Collision Industry Red Carpet Awards Night.
What organization is responsible for the I-CAR awards?
I-CAR, a not-for-profit educational organization, oversees the recognition programs to honor key contributors to the collision repair industry.
