Addressing the Talent Gap in Collision Repair with Brandon Eckenrode
Attracting and retaining talent is a persistent challenge in the collision repair industry, and industry engagement plays a critical role in overcoming this issue.
The struggle to find skilled technicians and support technical education programs leaves many shop owners feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to bridge the workforce gap. Without a steady pipeline of trained professionals, the industry’s future is at risk.
Join Matt Di Francesco and Brandon Eckenrode, Executive Director of the Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF), as they discuss the power of local industry involvement, offering practical strategies for shop owners to mentor students and secure a sustainable future for the collision repair industry.
Matt and Brandon also talk about:
(01:54) Why is finding talent in the collision repair industry such a challenge?
(03:14) The crucial role of combining iCAR and ASE training with ADAS advancements
(05:21) How can we shift the negative perception of being a “grease monkey”?
(07:06) What initiatives is CREF taking to tackle the talent shortage
(08:47) How CREF recruits students and connects them with shops after graduation
(10:53) How can shop owners engage with local schools to attract talent?
(14:35) Can young hires’ fresh ideas create a mutually beneficial learning environment?
(17:35) How can educators, industry leaders, and recruiters collaborate to attract your techs?
(19:07) What’s the best way for a shop owner to get involved in supporting new talent?
Connect With Brandon Eckenrode
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-eckenrode-9b51107/
Email: brandon.eckenrode@i-car.com
Website: https://collisionrepaireducationfoundation.org/
Connect With Matt DiFrancesco:
(814)201-5855
LinkedIn: Matt DiFrancesco
LinkedIn: High Lift Financial
Facebook: High Lift Financial
About the guest:
Brandon Eckenrode began his career in 2002 with I-CAR’s marketing department before joining CREF in 2009.
Since then, he has been dedicated to supporting collision programs at high schools and colleges across the U.S., helping to train and develop the next generation of technicians.
As Executive Director, Brandon is committed to promoting the collision repair industry as a viable career path and addressing the workforce shortage by attracting new talent.
Under his leadership, CREF is focused on strengthening educational initiatives and ensuring a sustainable future for the industry.
Brandon is a familiar face at industry events and shows, where he actively engages with stakeholders to advance CREF’s mission.
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