INSPIRE AND EMPOWER THE NEXT GENERATION OF WORKERS
BY DARRYL SIMMONS
There has never been a better time to pursue a career in the collision repair space. It’s a field that captivates the hearts of those exposed to it. The hands-on nature of the work, the sheer satisfaction of turning bent or busted metal back to its former glory. Not to mention the constant innovation in techniques and technology. All of this—and more—makes collision repair an incredibly rewarding profession.
It’s never too early to begin promoting the possibilities of a career in collision repair. In fact, it’s a heavily discussed topic in the industry at the minute—when do we start promoting our trade to the youth? How can we ignite their passion and curiosity to set them on a path towards a fulfilling and prosperous future? The opportunities in collision repair are vast, ranging from specialized roles in painting and body repair to advanced positions in computerized diagnostics and structural repair—not to mention the roles outside of an actual facility. The team at Bodyworx believes that the earlier we can engage young individuals, the more likely they are to pursue this exciting career path.
Yes—exposure is key. It’s evident that the youth that do have a chance to experience a day on the production floor live it, and understand it. Fix Network’s recent event at their Calgary, Alberta, training facility is an excellent example of this. Partnered with the Calgary-based CAREERS organization, the network hosted two consecutive weekend sessions wherein a group of young ladies were shown the ins-and-outs of automotive refinishing. They learned about safety equipment and suited up for a panel-painting session in the paint booth. They did their own prep, base coat, spraying and clear coat, all with massive smiles on their faces.
AutoCanada Collision Centres also fosters an excellent program to inspire young technicians. The network provides industry-leading education and mentorship for autobody apprentices working in the network. Not only do they have access to courses from I-CAR, OEMs, paint providers and more, AutoCanada will also provide each apprentice a complete MAC Tool Box valued at $10,000. Pretty sweet deal that sets the apprentice up for success.
So, there you have it. The time is now— we have the tools needed to show the youth how rewarding a life in the industry can be. We need to seize this moment, capture their enthusiasm and embark on a bright future. The question to ask yourself now—what role will you play?
