04/30/2018 by Kimberly Owens
The 2018 Collision Repair Education Foundation Career Fair events have seen record registration numbers this spring. This is the third year the CREF Foundation has held annual career fairs across the country, and the events have had increased attendance among students and supporters. The fairs include vendors from collision repair facilities, insurance companies and suppliers nationwide. These repair partnerships bring together students from various parts of the industry, including collision, heavy-duty, diesel and auto service. Businesses have opportunities to seek entry-level candidates, and students have the chance to scout additional career paths beyond collision repair technicians, receive interview experience and even submit employment applications to companies.
This year’s career fairs were held in Texas, California, Illinois, Arizona, Colorado, North Carolina, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts and Tennessee. “The Career Fairs are key components of our mission to support collision repair educational programs, schools and students to create qualified, entry-level employees and connect them with an array of career opportunities,” said CREF Director of Development Brandon Eckenrode. I-CAR has long actively supported the Collision Repair Education Foundation and its efforts. This year, I-CAR held its annual Volunteer & Instructors Conference in San Antonio, Texas, in early March. At the event, I-CAR presented CREF with a check to continue supporting the organization’s work.
In addition, many local I-CAR Committees are involved with the supporting these events within their respective areas. The Phoenix I-CAR Committee stated, “Our industry needs your involvement,” thanking those within the area who supported and attended the event. “Behind every great achievement is a story of education, training, practice, discipline and sacrifice.” For more information on the Collision Repair Education Foundation, please visit: www.collisioneducationfoundation.org.