Bar none, this is the most rewarding—and difficult!—issue of FenderBender that we produce every year. And the reason for that is a good one: In this annual issue, the FenderBender Awards issue, we get to formally recognize some of the most talented, dedicated and inspiring industry professionals who set the bar for everyone else in the industry.
If you’re new to FenderBender or just need a refresher, the FenderBender Awards recognize peer-nominated collision repair professionals in five categories: executive, management, shop worker, administrative support, and wild card (open to individuals in or outside of the shop who do not fall into the other categories). Anyone can nominate by filling out a form at fenderbenderawards.com that asks for details on business achievements, industry and community contributions, personal influence and any other relevant information.
After nominations close, that’s when the editorial team takes on the task of reviewing every entry, selecting finalists, interviewing nominees, and choosing winners. This year, we were lucky enough to be flooded with nominations, making the work of choosing the winners all the more arduous. That’s because not only were there numerous to sift through, but it was also evident that the nominators poured a lot of time and effort into the process.
Reading nomination after nomination outlining the ways in which someone has made an impact in his or her workplace, industry and community is beyond inspiring, and often makes me tear up (that might just say more about how easily I cry, though). It’s impressive to see and reflective of all the good taking place in collision repair. It’s proof that this industry is full of hard working individuals dedicated to the future of this industry. From a Maaco shop owner busting industry stereotypes to an all-star estimator who was an industry newcomer a mere four years ago, this year’s crop of award winners is no exception.
I highly encourage you to read their profiles and, if you plan to be at the FenderBender Management Conference, to attend the award ceremony.
Congratulations to the 2019 FenderBender Award recipients!
Anna Zeck
Editorial Director
FenderBender
