“Upwards of 100 important vehicle technology changes are introduced every year on new and updated vehicle models,” said John Van Alstyne, CEO and president of I-CAR. “With the rapidity and expanse of technical change our industry is now seeing, it is safe to say that our industry is now fully engaged in the Technical TsunamiTM. Appropriate repair techniques must be properly applied and technicians must be equipped with the latest information, knowledge and skills to perform complete, safe and quality repairs. At I-CAR, we view our course schedule for NACE Automechanika Chicago as an opportunity for professionals to ensure their skills are up to the evolving challenges they face every day.”
I-CAR Courses at NACE Automechanika Chicago
The classes at the conference are drawn from I-CAR’s acclaimed Professional Development ProgramTM and count toward I-CAR PlatinumTM designation for repair professionals. I-CAR’s Platinum designation keeps professionals current on vehicle technology, improves job performance and assists career development. Attaining Platinum recognition is an important step toward improving key performance indicators in the collision repair work environment and toward attaining Gold Class® status for the businesses.
The courses, which I-CAR will offer in individual rooms at NACE Automechanika Chicago, cover a critical range of skills:
Wednesday, July 26
1-5 p.m.
Vehicle Trends & Diagnostic Overview 2017 (VT117L01)
Examining collision repair procedures for several 2017 models, with information on diagnostics and scan tools, electrical troubleshooting tools and options to ensure diagnostics are completed.
1-5 p.m.
The Art and Science of Estimator Interactions (ES045L01)
Reviewing key aspects of the estimator role, discussing practical applications of the estimator’s workflow and the soft skills required for effective communication with co-workers, customers and insurance company representatives.
2-5 p.m.
Refining the Team and the Business (PM145L01)
A class from I-CAR’s Production Management role, covering how to add the right staff to the team and how to effectively use and enhance the team in place. Topics include identifying staffing needs, scheduling employee vacation time, managing employee training and monitoring workplace safety.
Thursday, July 27
8 a.m.-12 p.m.
Vehicle Trends & Diagnostic Overview 2017 (VT117L01)
(See above)
8 a.m.-1 p.m.
Blueprinting Process and Damage Recovery (BLU01)
Minimizing supplements while increasing productivity. Learning damage discovery processes for uncovering hidden damage before the vehicle enters the production cycle for a more accurate damage report, resulting in reduced repair times and improved efficiency.
2-6 p.m.
Understanding the Cycle Time Process (GE001L01)
Discovering how to improve cycle time, perform more effective upfront damage analysis and more efficiently order and receive parts for a direct and positive impact on both the customer experience and the overall success of the business.
Friday, July 28
8 a.m.-12 p.m.
Automotive Foams (FOM01)
Understanding the uses and application procedures for automotive foam, structural foam considerations and curing methods. Identifying procedures for installing expandable foam, for choosing correct replacement materials and for working safely around foams.
8 a.m.-12 p.m.
Hazardous Materials, Personal and Refinish Safety (WKR01)
Identifying procedures that can prevent injuries, understanding correct methods for storage and disposal of hazardous materials and wastes, recognizing the role of proper personal protective equipment.
1-5 p.m.
Vehicle Trends & Diagnostic Overview 2017 (VT117L01)
(See above)
1-5 p.m.
The Art and Science of Estimator Interactions (ES045L01)
(See above)
Collisions Repair Experts Available
Beyond the scheduled courses and live demonstrations, I-CAR experts will be available in Booth #1775 to meet one-to-one to answer questions about I-CAR, the I-CAR Professional Development Program and collision repair processes.
For more information on I-CAR’s offerings at NACE Automechanika Chicago, visit the I-CAR training schedule on the NACE website.
I-CAR® today announced seven courses that its collision repair instructors will offer at the 2017 NACE Automechanika Chicago trade show and conference, July 26-28, in the West Hall of McCormick Place.
