FOR CHRIS CHINN, DRIVING CHANGE IN THE COLLISION REPAIR INDUSTRY HAPPENS IN THE CLASSROOM AS MUCH A S ON THE SHOP FLOOR
BY SARAH PERKINS
For Chris Chinn, Network Operations Manager
at Consolidated Collision Services (CCS) and professor at Centennial College, educating is similarly an effort to create connections within the industry and spark interest for an industry that is constantly evolving.
Being an educator and repairing a vehicle—while perhaps not immediately related on paper—involve a foundation of shared characteristics. Both are a process of care, community and an attention to detail that inspires both creativity and passion. For Chris Chinn, Network Operations Manager at Consolidated Collision Services (CCS) and professor at Centennial College, educating is similarly an effort to create connections within the industry and spark interest for an industry that is constantly evolving.
Bodyworx Professional sat down with Chris Chinn to learn more about what initially brought him into the industry, and what continues to keep him passionate day-to-day.
When asked about his initial journey in collision repair, Chinn highlighted how he— like so many who find their footing working on vehicles—has always had a love of cars. “I’ve always loved cars and the challenges that fixing them presents. I started working in the collision repair industry in 1982 when my father was able to put me in contact with a bodyshop that he was familiar with.” “From there, I just continued to explore the industry. I’ve worked at dealerships and independent shops, and I’ve been the owner and manager of my own shop.”
However, it was in 1996 that Chinn formed his first connection with CCS—a decision that would set him on the path to his current role. “In 1996, I got into the paint side of things and started working with CCS as a paint tech rep, which ultimately led me to where I am today. I had a desire to get into the front-end side of the business, and it was through this process that I also discovered my love for teaching.”
When asked about what it’s like to be an educator in today’s industry, Chinn emphasized that his main challenge is trying to help overcome the ongoing technician and talent shortage. “I first began working with Centennial as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. During the pandemic, many colleges had to reduce their class sizes and needed additional professors. A friend of mine who works with Centennial contacted me and asked if I would be interested in teaching.”
“In 1996, I got into the paint side of things and started working with CCS as a paint tech rep, which ultimately led me to where I am today. I had a desire to get into the front-end side of the business, and it was through this process that I also discovered my love for teaching.”
— Chris Chinn, Network Operations Manager at Consolidated Collision Services (CCS) and professor at Centennial College
“I had attended Centennial as a student in the 80s, and so I really see the opportunity now as a chance to try and give back to the community that has supported me.”
Despite the ongoing challenges in advertising the industry to youth, for Chinn, he sees his unique position as the chance to “try and bring a different perspective to students as someone who is still closely involved in the industry, and who can provide real world case studies.”
He also frequently volunteers at women in the trades events to try to bring interest in the industry across a diverse range of prospective students.
And, when asked what his biggest achievement has been so far, Chinn was quick to comment that it’s all about seeing his students succeed.
“The best part, for me, about being an educator is seeing my students get jobs within the industry. That’s one of the benefits of my position. As someone who still works closely with the collision repair industry, I am able to help students make those vital connections needed to get their first start.”
In order to do this, Chinn further noted that it’s vital for those already well-established in the industry to continue to stay educated. “I want to keep students aware of the constant changes within the industry—especially when it comes to vehicle technology—and to do this, I also take courses and work on achieving I-CAR Platinum standards in all categories. Learning is a constant journey. My advice for educators, or for those in a similar position, ‘always strive to be a better and more informed version of yourself than you were the day before.’”
Finally, when asked how CCS University—a platform that aims to share information and education between members—helps in maintaining a strong knowledge base, Chinn outlined how it’s all about creating integration.
“CCS University offers recorded training— well over 100 videos on different topics—that can help members stay up-to-date on industry trends and repair knowledge. Members are able to dial in from all over the country and in doing so, are able to more easily network together to share what they’ve learned, or what they’re experiencing in their section of the industry.”
“I believe,” Chinn concluded, “that I have been fortunate to have had many people in my career that have helped me, guided me, and annoyed me enough to help me succeed. CCS has encouraged me and allowed me the flexibility to share my time and experience with students to contribute to the sustainability of our trade. If you’re in the industry, no matter in what capacity, be a mentor.
Share your knowledge and experience with the next generation. We all play a part in the future. I have yet to see a computer or any type of artificial intelligence that can fix a collision damaged vehicle, we still need people! Let’s all try to do what we can where we can.”
