It’s Not Just a Job; It’s a Family

by Kris Burton, WMABA President

I hope this issue finds you at SEMA in Vegas for industry events. I had an opportunity to attend Automechanika in Frankfurt, Germany a few weeks ago. It is said to be the largest automotive show in the world. To say I was in awe would be selling it short. It was a true gathering of our industry worldwide. There were many takeaways from the show.

There were a vast number of companies that we never see here in the US, selling all types of equipment and tooling. In some ways, we are ahead, while other ways showcase how behind we are. We have access to a multitude of resources that many other countries do not.

One of the coolest things we were able to do was visit a couple of area collision repair centers. Something that jumped out at me was how shops there are mostly specialized in certain OEMs. There’s more of a focus on specialization, which, in my mind, shows that technology is pushing us in this direction. It also shows the transition of the market as it moves away from trying to fix all makes and models. Over the next few years, I believe we will continue to see shops focus on their niche and get really good at a few OEs. 

For those of you not attending events like SEMA or Automechanika, I strongly encourage you to participate in every local and national opportunity you can. The insights into incoming technology, specialization, tooling and equipment advancements – and even networking opportunities – will change your perception of how you see your business. Especially, into the future. 

If you’re attending SEMA, come find me! I’ll be attending the Repairer Driven Education classes put on by the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), going to the Collision Industry Conference (CIC) and hanging out at the SCRS booth in the South Hall of the SEMA Show. 

Other fun things happening during SEMA week are the Collision Industry Red Carpet Awards. Think “Hall of Fame” for collision repair. It’s a really great time on Tuesday night! Then, Thursday night, we all get together for the SCRS After Party in the Sky Villa at the Westgate Hotel. This party is not just a fun hangout; it’s a family reunion where many of our industry brothers and sisters let their hair down and enjoy being a part of our special community.

Collision repair isn’t just a job; it’s a family. How my relationships have grown with those I’m serving with – to make our industry better – is one of the most important aspects of why I do it. I want to help make our industry better, but it’s never something I can do alone. We all pull together, and because we do, all of the great accomplishments are shared, not just by those who have their hand to the plow, but by all!

Want more? Check out the November 2024 issue of Hammer & Dolly!