I-CAR increases engagement in ISAC program

I-CAR® has announced that it has expanded its original Collision Repair Industry Segment Advisory Council (ISAC) program. Originally designed as a multi-member national council, the program now includes councils in each of the six I-CAR Regions, plus a national level Council formed from reps of each of the regional councils. Each regional council consists of 10 to 12 collision repairers. I-CAR’s ISAC approach originated in 2008 to gain perspectives directly from collision repairers related to improving I-CAR services and programs, and ultimately better serving the collision repair segment. Jeff Peevy, I-CAR Senior Director of Field Operations and Segment Development stated, “The original single national Collision Repair ISAC played an important role in repositioning I-CAR to better serve the industry, including inputs to the Professional Development Program. Looking back at the contributions that this program has made, it was evident that further engagement using this process would be valuable.” Barry Dorn, ISAC Member and Shop Owner of Dorn’s Body and Paint stated, “I-CAR stepping up and listening closely to its clients is the right thing to do and adding more groups to increase overall feedback is the correct step. The value is clearly there,” He continued, “Planning sessions and high level meetings are beneficial, but listening to what is happening at the ground level allows I-CAR to stay flexible and clearly understand the needs of the entire repairer community.” Each of the council members has varying views on training and the individuals selected represent all size businesses, including independents, dealers, and multi-shop operations. “I commend I-CAR for organizing six different advisory councils to seek input from repairers from all over our country and truly believe that this can only result in I-CAR becoming more responsive, effective, and relevant to the needs of our industry,” added Darrell Amberson, ISAC Member and Vice President of Operations at Twin Cities Finest Certified Collision Center. Councils are being facilitated by an independent third party with I-CAR personnel available when requested and will meet twice a year. I-CAR also has Industry Segment Advisory Councils for the other segments it serves, but currently maintains only national councils in these other segments. I-CAR, founded in 1979, is an international not-for-profit training organization dedicated to improving the quality, safety, and efficiency of auto collision repair for the ultimate benefit of consumers. www.i-car.com