I read with interest the Publisher’s Message in Vol. 7 # 4 of Collision Repair Magazine. Your message regarding diminishing structural repair competencies is one that this industry needs to hear. It seems that many collision repairers and other industry stakeholders have become stuck on waterborne coatings technologies. Indeed, this is a significant issue but the amount of time we have spent lounging in its wake is nothing more than self satisfied back slapping. Let’s get it done and move on.

For whatever unfortunate reasons, the repair business has become far more interested in providing untenable cost reductions than it is in delivering a product that is structurally sound. Far too often, I have seen many safety concerns delivered to the customer, albeit hidden in a shiny package that is quickly delivered. I hope that this subject will be discussed at the upcoming Montreal CCIF.

You also mentioned that by 2010, certain Japanese car manufacturers are going to be using significantly more carbon fibre in the makeup of their cars. Well, we don’t have to wait until 2010. Currently, the BMW M6 and BMW M3 models are equipped with carbon fibre roof panels – complete with their own unique repair characteristics and methodologies.

There are so many new technologies, materials and repair methods coming to the fore that the Canadian collision repair industry cannot afford to linger on just one of them.

when and if this business can ever be turned around to the point where quality repairs are expected,and paid for by the insurance companies,then you will see plenty of skilled people in and getting into this trade. the older tech's are so disallusioned with all the low quality/cheap parts they are forced to use,and the mediocre wages/times paid,it's no wonder that quality repairs are sometimes not there! myself as a shop owner feel the same way

I feel its not about the money or about the insurance. The shortage of workers is the age of computer. i have two sons that are in the early twenties and they have no interest in vehicles. All of there friends also have no interest. Its all about status with a vehicle or basic transportation. What we need to do is some how advertise a wow factor where there is a huge reward. Not money but achievement. We need to market the industry in order to have passionate employees. I have been in the industry since 1980. i have worked in every area from foreman,manager,insurance appraiser and now an instructor. I have noticed an increase in attendance however.