#United States #Apprenticeship #Hoffman Estates #Collision Repair #I-CAR

I-CAR Launches Registered Apprenticeship Program

I-CAR (Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair), a leading name in technical education and services within the collision repair industry, has announced the launch of a national Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP). This initiative aims to address the pressing technician shortage affecting the sector and elevate the collision repair trade among other skilled occupations. Previously, I-CAR was designated as a National Apprenticeship Hub and received a grant from the U.S. Department of Labor under the Apprenticeship Building America initiative.

Background on the Program

The new apprenticeship program is designed as a structured two-year training regimen. It consists of paid, hands-on learning coupled with related technical instruction, ultimately leading to a nationally recognized credential conferred by the U.S. Department of Labor. This comprehensive apprenticeship model is validated by the Department of Labor and is grounded in the I-CAR Academy curriculum.

As a National Apprenticeship Hub, I-CAR will facilitate a streamlined process for collision repair facilities to implement the RAP. In addition, eligible shops can access incentive packages provided under the Department of Labor grant, available on a first-come, first-served basis until the resources are depleted.

Kyle Thompson, President and CEO of I-CAR, remarked, “The launch of the I-CAR Registered Apprenticeship Program signifies a monumental achievement in our efforts to resolve the talent shortage within the collision repair industry. This program provides a solid framework for shops to develop skilled technicians, fostering a sustainable future for our industry and enhancing repair quality.”

Tackling Technician Shortage

The collision repair sector has been grappling with substantial challenges, particularly a lack of qualified technicians. Contributing factors include the growing complexity of modern vehicles, an aging workforce nearing retirement, and diminishing public interest in trade careers. The new I-CAR program directly tackles these issues, offering a structured pathway for businesses to cultivate apprentices trained to meet industry standards and equipped for the high-demand roles available in collision repair centers.

Dara Goroff, Vice President of Planning and Industry Talent Programming at I-CAR, commented, “The introduction of the Registered Apprenticeship Program marks a crucial turning point for the collision repair industry, providing equal opportunities for large and small employers to engage in a program approved and validated by the Department of Labor.” Moreover, employers participating in the program will gain improved recruitment outcomes via access to an enhanced job board on CollisionCareers.com which connects job seekers to available entry-level and RAP positions at participating Gold Class shops.

The Collision Careers platform is dedicated to attracting and inspiring the next generation of collision repair professionals, dispelling outdated perceptions of the industry, and outlining clear pathways to success. Participating shops will have the opportunity to list available apprenticeship roles directly on the CollisionCareers.com job board and Apprenticeship.gov, thereby linking motivated candidates with real job opportunities to kick-start their careers.

Qualification and Support

For a collision repair shop to qualify for this Registered Apprenticeship Program, it must achieve an I-CAR Gold Class® designation, which reflects a commitment to quality training and adherence to industry standards. Once enrolled, these shops will be expected to comply with Department of Labor mandates. I-CAR will provide tailored guidance and training on meeting all DOL requirements while outlining any potential incentives.

This initiative further cements I-CAR’s commitment to alleviating the technician shortage in the collision repair industry. Together with I-CAR Academy and Collision Careers, the Registered Apprenticeship Program is a significant stride in advancing a more adept workforce through comprehensive education and innovative talent development initiatives.

About I-CAR

Founded in 1979, I-CAR is a not-for-profit organization focused on education, resources, and solutions aimed at supporting the evolving circumstances within the collision repair industry. Recognized by IACET (The International Accreditors for Continuing Education and Training), I-CAR emphasizes enhancing both the quality and safety of auto collision repairs, ultimately benefiting both the trade and consumers. For further information, visit www.i-car.com.