“Technology is playing a bigger role in our industry, and that means we need well-trained technicians who can deliver safer, higher-quality repairs,” says Don Shearer, AkzoNobel Technical Service Manager, Automotive Coatings. “Through our path-yielding partnership with I-CAR, we are supercharging the successful education of our present and future collision repair technicians. At the end of the day, it’s about helping create a better tomorrow.”
The Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR) is an international not-for-profit organization providing industry training.
AkzoNobel’s core principles of safety, sustainability and integrity are evident in the company’s commitment to providing quality collision repair education. Its training centers make sure technicians are prepared and equipped with the best and latest technology and tools, so they can repair the cars in the most efficient and state-of-the-art way.
AkzoNobel’s well-known and industry-leading tools include Automatchic™ and MIXIT™, advanced digital color tools that help give customers the perfect color match, as well as Carbeat™, a digital process control solution that improves communication to help increase body shop efficiency and growth.
In addition, AkzoNobel has established a Service Group, comprised of 16 highly trained industry experts, to consult with shop customers on processes, financial metrics and goals, and to help alleviate one of the industry’s biggest challenges – hiring, identifying and retaining talent.
AkzoNobel provides expert training on the following topics:
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Preparing for a process-centered environment
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Implementing the 5S
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Principles of continuous improvement
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Optimizing repair planning
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Standardization and visual management
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Color evaluation and selection, including the AkzoNobel digital color process
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Paint system and equipment selection
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Paint mixing and application techniques
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Surface cleaning and preparation process
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Health and safety review
“The Sustaining Partner program was created to help control the cost of training for collision repair technicians and career and technical school students” says Nick Notte, I-CAR’s Senior Vice President, Sales. “It makes I-CAR training more readily available and affordable for collision repairers and schools. We appreciate AkzoNobel’s support for this important initiative, and look forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship.”
AkzoNobel’s world-class portfolio of vehicle refinishes brands in North America includes Sikkens, Lesonal, Wanda, Modern Classikk, Sikkens Autocoat BT, U-TECH and Sign Finishes.
For more information, visit the AkzoNobel Sustaining Partner webpage: https://www.i-car.com/Home/Solutions/Sustaining-Partners/AkzoNobel-Coatings,-Inc.
