TROY, Michigan – High-quality training is increasingly critical for the collision repair industry, and AkzoNobel – a global leader in automotive and specialty coatings – is going the extra mile to provide top-notch industry training by being one of the first paint suppliers to become an I-CAR® Sustaining Partner™.
“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:
- Preparing for a process-centered environment
- Implementing the 5S
- Principles of continuous improvement
- Optimizing repair planning
- Standardization and visual management
- Color evaluation and selection, including the AkzoNobel digital color process
- Paint system and equipment selection
- Paint mixing and application techniques
- Surface cleaning and preparation process
- 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.
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About AkzoNobel:
AkzoNobel has a passion for paint. We’re experts in the proud craft of making paints and coatings, setting the standard in color and protection since 1792. Our world class portfolio of brands – including Dulux, International, Sikkens and Interpon – is trusted by customers around the globe. Headquartered in the Netherlands, we operate in over 80 countries and employ around 35,000 talented people who are passionate about delivering the high-performance products and services our customers expect. For more information please visit www.akzonobel.com.
Follow AkzoNobel Vehicle Refinishes on social media:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AkzoNobelRefinish/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/akzonobelrefinish/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/AkzoNobel_AACNA
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/AkzoNobelCR
About I-CAR:
Founded in 1979, I-CAR is a not-for-profit education, knowledge and solutions organization designed to support the evolving needs of the Collision Repair Inter-Industry. I-CAR is focused on improving the quality, safety and efficiency of auto collision repair for the ultimate benefit of the consumer.
