Over 250 participants gathered alongside the Northeast trade show on Thursday, March 17, at the Meadowlands in New Jersey for the spring Collision Industry Conference (CIC) meeting. The meeting showcased many of the current industry issues and highlighted others through several special presentations and panel discussions.
The Governmental Committee invited guest speaker was Ms. Deborah Craig, the Compliance Assistance Coordinator for EPA Region 2. Craig delivered a presentation on the National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) rule and how repair facilities can utilize various resources to be in compliance. Attendees also learned more about the specific compliance requirements and reporting details in the regulations.
Several committees updated the attendees on their work toward their 2011 objectives. The Insurance Relations committee hosted a panel discussion on several of the Trade Practice Proposals, focusing on two related to insurer referral program qualifications and practices.
Technical Committee chair Toby Chess gave an insightful presentation on Vehicle Electronic Stability Control, showing videos of vehicles with and without the system engaged and explaining the importance of proper calibration of the system following repair.
Another highlight of the meeting was the update on the progress of the I-CAR Professional Development Program and industry integration given by I-CAR marketing director Bill Stage .
Given the recent catastrophes in Japan, Toby Chess requested the body "pass the hat" throughout the attendees. The body raised a total of $1,649.00 for the Japanese Red Cross, which will be donated through the Collision Industry Foundation.
CIC Chairman Michael Quinn of 911 Collision Centers also gave a "sneak preview" of the upcoming July meeting in Salt Lake City and the November meeting alongside SEMA.
In July, the theme will be "Meeting The Future Training Needs Of Our Industry". CIC will host a panel presentation and town hall discussion focused on this critical topic. Gene Lopez of I-CAR will host this panel discussion on how various industry segments will ensure the technological advancements in vehicle construction and electronics training will be met.
The theme for the November CIC meeting will be "Advanced Vehicle Technology and Reparability – Coming to a Shop Near You." Multiple presentations on various technologies including Telematics, On-Star, Crash Avoidance and others that will impact all aspects of the claims process and collision repair. Panel discussion to follow. Scott Biggs of Assured Performance Network will host this discussion.
"We had a strong turnout and are excited about our future meetings. We invite all industry stakeholders to attend these valuable meetings. If you believe the work we are doing to be important, come attend, get involved to know the full story," said Quinn.
More information:
All meeting presentations and future meeting information are available on the CIC website
