I-CAR 2025 LEADING FORWARD NATIONAL CONFERENCE CELEBRATES INNOVATION, INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP, AND MILESTONE ACHIEVEMENTS

Mike Anderson awarded I-CAR's 2025 Chairman's Award, joining an esteemed group of recipients who have had a remarkable impact on the collision repair industry

HOFFMAN ESTATES, Ill., March 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The I-CAR 2025 Leading Forward National Conference wrapped up on Saturday, having brought together over 400 automotive and collision repair industry advocates for a three-day event focused on innovation, education, and collaboration. Held at the Hyatt Regency Hotel Downtown Houston, the conference featured a dynamic lineup of keynote speakers, engaging breakout sessions and industry milestones that underscored I-CAR's technical leadership and continued impact on advancing education, training, related industry credentialing, and workforce development.

Recognizing Industry Leadership

I-CAR CEO & President John Van Alstyne kicked off the conference with a warm welcome, setting the stage for a dynamic and inspiring event. As part of the conference's recognition of industry leadership, Mike Anderson, President of Collision Advice, was honored with the esteemed I-CAR Chairman's Award. Selected by the Executive Committee of the I-CAR Board of Directors, this award recognizes individuals or organizations that have made outstanding contributions to I-CAR's mission and the advancement of the collision repair industry.

Anderson, a highly respected industry speaker, author, and consultant with over 40 years of experience, has been a steadfast advocate for training and education in the collision repair industry. Through his research and consulting business, Collision Advice, he has provided invaluable insights to professionals nationwide. The award was presented by Jennifer Goforth, Chair of the I-CAR Board of Directors, and Executive Director of North America Customer Care & Aftersales - Sales and Marketing at General Motors.

During the Chairman's Awards ceremony, Van Alstyne was also recognized by the Board of Directors for his outstanding commitment and leadership in the industry with the I-CAR True North Visionary Award. This special honor celebrated Van Alstyne's tireless efforts in advancing I-CAR's vision and mission, and his dedication to strengthening the industry by advancing technical education, and industry collaboration.

"I am truly honored to receive this recognition from the I-CAR Board of Directors," said Van Alstyne. "The progress we've made as an organization is a direct result of the dedication and hard work of our entire I-CAR team, our partners, and the incredible professionals who make up this industry. Together, we continue to drive excellence and innovation, all directed to repairing cars right for the benefit of the consumer."

Main Stage Highlights and Breakout Sessions

Attendees engaged in insightful main stage sessions and specialized breakout tracks focused on the latest advancements in collision repair technology, business strategies, and industry trends.

Former NASA Astronaut José Hernández shared his inspiring journey from migrant farmworker to NASA astronaut, emphasizing perseverance, adaptability, and the importance of continuous learning. Larry McReynolds, NASCAR crew chief and current racing analyst on Fox Sports, delivered an impactful session offering valuable insights into leadership, teamwork, and the keys to long-term success.

Breakout sessions offered in-depth discussions on critical topics, including leveraging the I-CAR Gold Class designation, exploring the upcoming launch of I-CAR's Department of Labor Registered (National) Apprenticeship Program, utilizing I-CAR Academy's entry-level curriculum for success, providing expert guidance on navigating equipment needs in collision repair, and developing strategies to attract and retain top talent. Led by both I-CAR and industry experts, these sessions provided collision repair professionals with essential knowledge and skills to thrive in an evolving landscape.

NABC Recycled Rides^® Event: Giving Back to Those Who Serve

A highlight of the conference was the NABC Recycled Rides^® event, where a refurbished 2021 Chevy Trailblazer was presented to U.S. Navy veteran and single mother of four, Clydesley Shepherd. Made possible through the generosity of I-CAR, Travelers, Caliber Collision, and the NABC Recycled Rides^® program, and other industry participants, the donation provides Shepherd with much-needed reliable transportation, allowing her to regain independence and stability for her family. The emotional vehicle presentation reinforced the collision repair industry's commitment to giving back to those in need and the important role reliable vehicle access plays in Americans' lives.

Celebrating Volunteers and Instructors

Saturday's events concluded with Volunteer, Instructor, and Assessors programming, tailored to the dedicated professionals who support I-CAR's mission of training the next generation of collision repair experts and building stronger schools. The capstone annual awards ceremony celebrated their invaluable contributions, acknowledging those who continue to elevate industry education, collaboration, and mentorship.

I-CAR Gold Class Milestone: 10,000 Shops Strong

During the event, I-CAR proudly announced that the organization has reached a significant industry milestone—10,000 Gold Class shops nationwide. This achievement highlights the increasing commitment of repair facilities to ongoing education, ensuring safe and quality repairs for today's complex vehicles. The Gold Class designation is the industry standard for collision repair training and consistent baseline expertise.

As the conference came to a close, attendees left energized and equipped with new knowledge, connections, and inspiration to drive the industry forward. The I-CAR 2025 Leading Forward National Conference once again reinforced the power of education, innovation, and collaboration in shaping the future of collision repair.

Learn more about I-CAR and how it's leading the collision repair industry by visiting www.i-car.com.

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.

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SOURCE I-CAR