AkzoNobel Hosting PCE Boot Camps at DCR Systems
AkzoNobel has created and launched a series of in-depth “Boot Camp” training events to support its Process Centered Environment (PCE) program. PCE is a set of management tools designed to bring practical, definable and measurable processes to improve efficiencies specifically within collision repair centers. Keeping with the “real world” focus of the program, the
TECH FEATURE: Power with Plasma
The plasma cutter may be mysterious to many, but its functions are undeniable, especially when it comes to cutting heat-treated alloys like boron steel.
DuPont Renews Agreement with Pennsylvania College of Technology
DuPont has extended for five years an agreement to serve as a major corporate sponsor of the Collision Repair Technology Program at the Pennsylvania College of Technology (Penn College). Under the renewed agreement, DuPont will donate liquid coatings and its patented technology Color Proofing system for instructional use in Penn College’s collision repair labs. DuPont
Mercedes-Benz USA is Newest SCRS Corporate Member
The Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) announced that Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) is its newest corporate member. MBUSA’s interest in becoming a SCRS corporate member was heightened at the International Autobody Congress & Exposition (NACE) 2009 during informal conversations with a number of SCRS members, including SCRS Chairman Gary Wano and Joe Skurka, manager,
AAPEX Registration Now Open
Registration is now open for the Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX), slated for Nov. 3-5 at the Sands Expo Center in Las Vegas, Nev. This year’s event will feature a live, multimedia AAPEX Demo area on the show floor, electronic interactive “You Are Here” kiosks, a record number of seminars and many more new additions.
AMI Accepting Applications for NACE and CARS Scholarships
The Automotive Management Institute (AMI) is offering several scholarships for collision and mechanical technicians. Scholarship money will be put toward attending the 2009 International Autobody Congress & Exposition (NACE) or the Congress of Automotive Repair & Service (CARS) in Las Vegas Nov. 4-9. To request an application for any of the following scholarships, call AMI
READER’S CHOICE: Attracting New Talent
“How do we draw more technicians into this business? We’re making less profit and doing more work for the insurance companies. The insurance companies are going to force themselves into a situation where they won’t have qualified shops.” – Bob Showers, body shop manager, Bentley Pontiac-GMC, Huntsville, Ala.
Overcoming Resistance to Change in a Lean Environment
With change comes resistance and pushback. But here are some ways, when implementing lean, to get everyone to trust that what you’re
doing is a better way.
2009 Recycled Rides Registration Deadline is April 15
The National Auto Body Council’s (NABC) Recycled Rides – a vehicle donation event meant improve the image of the industry – is gearing up for its third year with the goal of donating more vehicles to working poor families. All segments of the industry assist collision repair shops in this unique program, which has a
Missouri Considering Opening Salvage Sales to Public
Missouri’s House of Representatives and Senate are simultaneously considering bills that would allow all residents of the United States to attend salvage pool or salvage disposal sales, rather than just licensed salvage dealers. Hearings were held in mid-February for the bills, H.B. 539 and S.B. 177. Opponents of the bills fear that opening salvage sales