Progress on I-CAR’s Registered Apprenticeship Program as Collision Repair Facilities Adopt a New Training Resource Launched Seven Months Ago

Seven months in, I-CAR is releasing initial enrollment data, and the early numbers are showing promising progress. Shops signed up fast, apprentices are actively enrolled, and the program has already reached across 35 states.

The initial numbers are in:

• 116 RAP Locations Served
• 95 Active Apprentices Enrolled
• 35 States Served Nationwide
• 36% of Participating Locations Are Independent Shops
• 62% of Apprentices Are Ages 16-24

A National Footprint

Across 116 locations, shops are enrolling apprentices, receiving tool kits, and standing up DOL-compliant programs with I-CAR's one-on-one guidance. The breadth of geographic reach underscores that the technician shortage is a national problem, and the industry's response to a national solution has been immediate.

Independent Shops Are In

More than a third of participating locations are independent collision repair shops. The collision repair sector is increasingly leaning on apprenticeships as workforce shortages deepen, with major multi -shop operators and OEMs launching formal autobody apprenticeship programs to rebuild the talent pipeline. In this environment, I -CAR's Registered Apprenticeship Program helps take the burden off shops by providing a DOL -validated framework and hands -on support, reducing the administrative lift while giving employers access to technicians trained through real -world, skills -focused pathways. The early data confirms that the program is doing exactly that: reaching shops of every size.

The Next Generation Is Showing Up

62% of current apprentices are between the ages of 16 and 24. As the collision repair industry works to bring younger workers into the trade, the RAP's two-year structure, paid on-the-job training, and nationally recognized DOL credential provide a clear, credentialed path into the profession.

About the I-CAR Registered Apprenticeship Program

I-CAR's Registered Apprenticeship Program is a two-year, structured training program that pairs paid, on-the-job learning with related technical instruction anchored by I-CAR Academy curriculum. Upon completion, apprentices earn a nationally recognized credential from the U.S. Department of Labor — placing collision repair on the same credentialing tier as other premier skilled trades.

To participate, a collision repair shop must hold I-CAR Gold Class® designation. I-CAR provides full one-on-one guidance on DOL compliance requirements and, while supplies last, eligible shops can receive incentive packages through the Apprenticeship Building America grant — on a first-come, first-served basis.

RAP-participating shops also gain access to enhanced job board listings on CollisionCareers.com and Apprenticeship.gov, connecting directly to motivated candidates actively seeking entry-level and apprenticeship positions.

Tool kit incentives are available while supplies last. Shops that move now get the full benefit of I-CAR's DOL grant support, hands-on onboarding, and first-mover positioning as a RAP-certified employer — a credential that will increasingly matter to young talent choosing where to start their careers.

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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.