Change is no stranger to the automotive body shop industry. Year-to-year changes in vehicle models and technologies at the OEM level necessitate frequent changes in how those vehicles are repaired. In fact, vehicles are changing so fast, it’s difficult for the average body shop to keep up.
One option that has become increasingly popular in recent years – especially during the COVID-19 pandemic – comes in the form of virtual on-demand training. By allowing a student to take training anytime, anywhere using a computer and an internet connection, virtual on-demand training can significantly reduce the learning time and costs associated with off-site refinish training.
Shops or individual paint technicians interested in virtual training have a number of sources to call upon. Most, if not all, major refinish paint brands offer such courses, as do a number of third- party providers. An important first step, however, is to learn about some of the basics of this time- and cost-effective learning solution.
One person very familiar with the benefits of online training is Robb Power, PPG senior manager, refinish solutions. Power was the driving force behind the development and implementation of the PPG Knowledge College online learning system. For the benefit of ABRN magazine readers, he has provided answers to frequently asked questions about virtual learning.
What are the advantages of virtual on-demand training for shops looking to minimize training costs?
When you consider all the costs associated with traditional, off-site, refinish training, you must factor in travel expenses (airfare, hotel, meals, etc.) and, more importantly, the cost of losing the productivity of a paint crew member during the travel and training. These costs can become quite significant when you multiply them across your entire team.
Generally speaking, what curriculum is offered through virtual learning?
I think major pant brands across the board offer similar learning options with respect to the paint side of a refinish operation. A well-rounded virtual learning program like the PPG Knowledge College system will cover many different areas of need for customers. This would include recertification courses, 6H area source rule training, videos covering standard operating procedures (SOPs), and possibly tutorial videos featuring live spray sessions to educate students on how to use a brand’s products. Also, it’s not uncommon to see information on things like how to set up a spray gun, along with tips and tricks for getting the best possible finish. This is especially beneficial for those that are new to a product line.
On the business side, I believe there’s a higher degree of differentiation among brands. For example, PPG’s MVP Business Solutions provides PPG customers with virtual learning on everything from the fundamentals of estimating to advanced repair planning techniques. This includes an exceptional series on understanding collision center financials and how to drive improvement to profitability. I’m not sure if this is something every paint brand provides.
