I-CAR Heads into 2025 Conference to Elevate Repair Standards
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Significant Advances for the Collision Repair Industry in 2025
Leading credentialing body for collision repair celebrates 10,000 Gold Class facilities milestone
I-CAR, the recognized leader in technical educational programming and industry solutions for collision repair, is gearing up for the 2025 National Conference with pivotal new initiatives. These initiatives aim to strengthen educational frameworks and professional standards across the industry, ensuring that repair service providers deliver safe and high-quality repairs, while also addressing the technician shortage challenge. One of the key highlights of this year includes enhancements to the I-CAR Academy’s entry-level curriculum designed for schools and repair facilities. Furthermore, significant updates to the recognition programs, including advanced training requirements for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), reflect a timely response to the fast-evolving automotive landscape.
Reaching a Major Milestone: 10,000 Gold Class Shops
I-CAR concluded 2024 with an impressive tally of 10,014 Gold Class shops across the United States. This noteworthy achievement represents not just a number, but a collective dedication to excellence within the industry. As automobiles become increasingly sophisticated, expanding the Gold Class network allows local communities greater access to highly-trained repair professionals committed to safety and quality. This growth aligns seamlessly with I-CAR's mission of equipping technicians with the necessary skills and knowledge to handle emerging automotive technologies, ultimately reassuring the public of their vehicle's safety and performance. Reaching this 10,000 shop benchmark also marks a significant step towards I-CAR's long-term goal of 20,000 Gold Class facilities, up from 2,661 Gold Class shops in 2012. "This milestone is a reflection of our industry's unified vision aimed at linking high-end vehicle technology with top-tier repair expertise, ensuring road safety for all drivers," remarked John Van Alstyne, CEO and President of I-CAR.
Enhancing Gold Class Standards with ADAS Training
In response to the growing intricacy of ADAS, I-CAR has revised the Gold Class recognition requirements. The newly integrated role-based online ADAS training courses aim to ensure that repair professionals are well-versed in specific aspects of ADAS integration:
Role-Specific Responsibilities
- Refinish Technicians will be trained to ensure that paint coatings do not interfere with sensor operations.
- Structural Technicians will learn to properly align critical ADAS-related structural components.
- Non-Structural Technicians will be trained in fitting and calibrating ADAS components effectively.
- Estimators and Repair Planners will gain skills in assessing and directing ADAS repairs.
- Auto Physical Damage Appraisers will be qualified to evaluate repair needs related to ADAS.
Moreover, Gold Class facilities performing in-house ADAS calibrations must designate an ADAS Technician by their 2026 renewal. This specialist is expected to achieve Platinum Recognition by their subsequent renewal deadline, ensuring that facilities maintain high standards in ADAS repairs and support vehicle safety systems.
I-CAR Academy Designation: A Better Training Path
I-CAR is also amplifying its I-CAR Academy for Shops program by introducing an I-CAR Academy designation for Gold Class shops. This new recognition will not only enhance visibility for these shops but also bolster recruiting initiatives and other benefits. Facilities that achieve the I-CAR Academy designation will be encouraged to have qualified mentors and team leaders on staff, leveraging I-CAR Academy Curriculum to nurture the development of entry-level technicians. Additionally, these shops will receive priority placement on CollisionCareers.com, including new recruitment opportunities from the upcoming job board and access to I-CAR's newly established Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship Program.
"I Count on I-CAR" Campaign: Raising Awareness of Collision Repair
The recently launched marketing campaign “I Count on I-CAR” emphasizes the fundamental role collision repair plays within society. The campaign takes a broad-reaching approach to convey the message across diverse industry segments and to the millions of daily drivers reliant on I-CAR's services. Through various media outlets, the campaign seeks to elevate public understanding of the consumer benefits linked to formally trained technicians and accredited facilities. The ultimate goal is to enrich the perception of the collision repair field, ensuring that current and future technicians appreciate the significance of their profession.
Looking Ahead: Commitment to a Promising Future
I-CAR's latest initiatives underscore an unwavering dedication to advancing excellence within the collision repair sector. "By remaining proactive and providing professionals with the necessary resources and education, we are committed to championing a vision that ultimately benefits consumers across the board," shared Van Alstyne. Join I-CAR on this transformative journey in collision repair by visiting www.i-car.com.
About I-CAR: Founded in 1979, I-CAR serves as a not-for-profit organization focused on delivering education and solutions to meet the dynamic needs of the collision repair industry. Through continuous improvement efforts, I-CAR is committed to elevating the quality and safety of auto collision repair for consumers and professionals alike. For additional information, visit www.i-car.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is I-CAR?
I-CAR is a leading not-for-profit organization that provides education and technical training services to the automotive collision repair industry.
What does achieving Gold Class status mean?
Gold Class status indicates that a collision repair shop has met rigorous training requirements and is committed to maintaining high-quality standards in repair services.
How many Gold Class shops are there currently?
As of the end of 2024, there are 10,014 Gold Class shops in the United States.
What is the purpose of the "I Count on I-CAR" campaign?
The campaign aims to raise awareness about the importance of collision repair and the critical involvement of properly trained technicians and certified shops.
How does I-CAR support the future of collision repair?
I-CAR focuses on educational initiatives, technological training, and industry workplace placements to address the technician shortage and improve repair standards.
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