I-CAR Announces Mixed Reality Repair Planning Training Series for Estimator/Repair Planner Role
May 01, 2026
New learning experience builds repair planning confidence and helps to improve accuracy and shop efficiency ahead of 2027 renewal requirements
HOFFMAN ESTATES, IL, May 1, 2026 - I-CAR®, the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair, today announced the upcoming launch of Mixed Reality Repair Planning Training Series, a new learning experience designed for Estimators/Repair Planners pursuing ProLevel® 2 recognition. This new series will provide essential repair planning process skills and support high-quality repair outcomes. It will be a requirement for Gold Class® and Platinum™ recognition renewals beginning July 2027.
Mixed Reality Repair Planning, scheduled to be available for enrollment in early 2027, places learners in an interactive environment to practice and apply key repair planning process skills that can impact repair quality, shop efficiency, cycle time, and customer satisfaction. Part of I-CAR's multi-year investment in advanced learning technology, this series is delivered through a mixed reality experience that offers practical, immersive training. Learners may engage using virtual reality (VR) goggles for the full experience or access the series on a tablet or computer in accordance with I-CAR's mission to deliver accessible, relevant education.
“As vehicles and repair procedures grow increasingly complex, effective repair planning has never been more important,” said Kyle Thompson, I-CAR CEO & President. “The Mixed Reality Repair Planning series demonstrates I-CAR's commitment to evolving our curriculum to meet the needs of today's repair planning professionals.”
Guided by the Industry Knowledge and Skills Protocol, and informed by pilot testing and industry feedback, repair planning is foundational to a repair process with estimating accuracy, comprehensive damage analysis, and in alignment with OEM repair procedures. Combining modern technology with effective training, the series is intended to help estimators/repair planners to build confidence, enhance estimating accuracy, and complete quality repairs, in alignment with I CAR's vision “for the ultimate benefit of the consumer.”
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About I-CAR
Founded in 1979, I-CAR is a not-for-profit education, knowledge, and solutions organization designed to support the evolving needs of the Collision Repair Inter-Industry. I-CAR, which is accredited by IACET (The International Accreditors for Continuing Education and Training) is focused on improving the quality and safety of auto collision repair for the ultimate benefit of both the industry and the consumer. For more information, please visit www.i-car.com.