This article was first published in I-CAR’s Collision Reporter magazine. Go the the issue here!
Talk with any I-CAR® Platinum technician about the personal and professional merits of achieving this extraordinary training recognition, and it soon becomes clear why there’s been a 28% annual increase in active Platinum technicians (2019 compared with 2018).
One of I-CAR’s 9,300+ Platinum Refinish technicians is Leah Gatton, a 16-year industry veteran and employee of Glenbrook Dodge in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
“This industry changes so fast,” she said. “We need these I-CAR courses so techs like myself can stay relevant.”
The industry-recognized I-CAR Platinum designation is given to collision repair professionals who achieve and maintain high levels of role-relevant training that contributes to complete, safe and quality repairs. Training to Platinum keeps professionals current on vehicle technology, improves their job performance and assists with their career development.
Leah couldn’t agree more.
“Platinum recognition reflects not only my own personal commitment to growth and to be my best, but it also is confirmation that the collision repair shop I work for wants the best for me and is also committed to repairing cars correctly,” she said.
Core Curriculum update
I-CAR’s Professional Development Program™ curriculum has recently been updated to reflect the needs of today’s advanced vehicles, with many online and virtual courses – most which can be completed in an hour or less. New courses also are being delivered in ways that strengthen learning effectiveness and efficiency – all leading to a better learning experience that is more interactive and optimized for industry advancements as well as the technician’s role at the shop.
ALL partners find value in Platinum
Platinum designation extends beyond traditional body shop technicians. Key suppliers, as well as I-CAR Sustaining Partners, are finding great value in I-CAR’s new topical courses.
3M’s John Spoto, Heavy Duty Commercial Fleet Manager and an I-CAR Instructor, credits the designation with opening up new inter-industry career potential.
“Platinum certification is helping them identify relevant roles and then walk their path with a better understanding of where they can go career-wise,” he said. “And working with I-CAR has helped our own representatives at 3M better understand the practical aspects offered through the courses.”
Gatton attributes a novel high school course with affirming her chosen career path.
“One of my classes was on hands-on collision repair, and it just came naturally to me,” she said. “As I went on to technical school, I found out I liked to paint – a car would come in as a wreck, and by the time I clear-coated it at the end, it was so worthwhile! If you’re serious about your career in this industry, you have to be Platinum.”
