The Collision Repair Education Foundation has added three new trustees to its Board of Trustees – David J. Brunori, Matrix System Automotive Finishes; James A. Fichera; and William Lawrence, LC Automotive Investments, LLC.
Dave Brunori has more than 29 years of industry experience, currently in the role of executive vice president/general manager with Matrix. He has grown the company from a start-up to more than $60 million in revenue. Prior to Matrix, he was with PPG Industries for nine years and Lilly Industries for two years, all in vehicle refinish. He currently serves on the Oakland County Technical Advisory Committee in Southwest, Mich. He holds a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and a master’s degree in operations management.
Jim Fichera brings more than 40 years of industry experience to the board, including 23 years with Steel Center A.V.T.S. in Jefferson Hills, Penn. as a collision repair instructor. Steel Center A.V.T.S. won the Collision Repair Education Foundation’s Ultimate Collision Education Makeover Grant in 2009. The school program was one of the first in the state to complete NATEF certification. He is an I-CAR welding instructor and holds a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. He believes that education is key to fill the workforce needs of our communities.
Bill Lawrence has more than 43 years of industry experience, currently in the role of owner and president of LC Automotive Investments, LLC, a position he’s held for eight years. He previously was with Allstate Insurance for 28 years and has spent the remaining 15 years in the collision repair side of the business. He previously served on the foundation board and as foundation chair and the advisory boards of CCC, Keystone, Nationwide, Safeco, Allstate, and VeriFacts. His company supports various local charities as well as OxFam and World Vision. He holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing.
"The Collision Repair Education Foundation is fortunate to have these three individuals joining the Board of Trustees," said Chris Northup, chairman. "Their individual and combined experience will provide a diverse background and knowledge base for our board. We have an impressive group of industry leaders in our trustee group. It’s reassuring and humbling to participate with this high level of individuals who graciously give of their time and resources to our worthy cause."
