#USA #Chicago #Crash Champions #Collision Repair #Champion It Forward

Champion It Forward: Shaping Careers in Collision Repair

In response to the pressing skills gap in America's skilled trades, Champion It Forward, a newly founded 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, has set out on a mission to rejuvenate and strengthen the future of the collision repair industry. Launched on October 27, 2026, this initiative targets the substantial workforce challenges currently plaguing the field.

The collision repair sector is grappling with a staggering 55% gap in unfilled auto body repair technician positions, leading to projections of a demand for nearly 100,000 technicians over the next five years. Recognizing this urgent need, Champion It Forward aims to fortify the pipeline of talent entering this vital industry.

A Strong Foundation of Support

The organization is already gaining momentum, thanks in part to generous backing from industry leaders. In September, Crash Champions, a prominent provider of high-quality collision repair services, raised $300,000 during its annual Champion Classic charity golf outing to support this initiative.
Matt Ebert, founder and CEO of Crash Champions, emphasized, "Champion It Forward is designed to unify the automotive and collision repair sectors in fostering a robust workforce. Our belief in this organization stems from its mission to bring diverse stakeholders together to invest in talent, broaden access to training, and empower the next generation."

Adding to its credibility, Champion It Forward's Board of Directors includes executives from esteemed companies such as LKQ and 3M. Dave Gunderson from 3M acknowledged the wide commitment across the industry to invest in the future. He stated, "The funds raised will help us transform that commitment into tangible action, creating opportunities that significantly improve lives while strengthening our industry."

Key Initiatives and Goals

Champion It Forward is gearing up to roll out numerous programs focused on expanding access to the collision repair profession. Initial priorities include:

• - Promoting Awareness: Building understanding of the collision repair industry as a rewarding career choice.
• - Financial Assistance: Reducing barriers to technical training and certifications through scholarship opportunities.
• - Collaborative Investments: Bringing together automotive insurance carriers, suppliers, and educators to foster the development of aspiring collision repair professionals.

These concerted efforts are pivotal as collision repair employers nationwide seek to recruit, train, and retain skilled technicians effectively. Champion It Forward's approach means not just filling positions, but achieving sustainable placements that can lead to long-term careers in the field.

Making a Difference

The establishment of Champion It Forward signals a critical step in addressing the needs of the collision repair workforce. The organization is committed to investing in education, apprenticeships, and mentorships, aiming to reduce the barriers for individuals entering skilled trades. By pooling resources and expertise from across the automotive and collision repair sectors, the initiative seeks to strengthen the workforce pipeline and ensure the long-term viability of the profession.

For anyone interested in supporting or joining this mission, more information is available at ChampionItForward.org. This initiative not only represents a hope for future technicians but also promises to enhance the standards and quality of service within the collision repair industry for years to come.

Conclusion

In an era where skilled labor is highly sought after yet critically underrepresented, Champion It Forward stands as a beacon of hope. Through its commitment to education, training, and mentorship, it lays the groundwork for success in collision repair while nurturing the next generation of professionals. This collective effort promises to benefit not only individuals but the industry as a whole.