
Registration open for 2024 IDEAS Collide at SEMA; intent to challenge industry with innovative thought
By onAssociations | Collision Repair | Education
The Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) will feature six new speakers during the IDEAS Collide Showcase, known for providing a platform for innovative ideas during multiple fast-paced presentations.
IDEAS has been moved to a new day, Wednesday, Nov. 6 during the SEMA show in Las Vegas, according to a SCRS press release.
According to the release, the sessions challenge speakers and stimulate the audience with concepts that rattle the status. It also explores ambitious ideas that could have a transformative effect on the industry and businesses within it.
“I’ve always felt this is a really special program because it fosters forward-thinking discussions that push beyond the norm,” said Michael Bradshaw, SCRS vice chairman, in the release. “As a past presenter and attendee, I find the unique benefit in presentations designed to challenge existing practices. I had the opportunity to participate as an IDEAS Collide presenter last year, and the challenge of collecting my thoughts around a topic that I am very passionate about, and finding a way to communicate it succinctly in such a limited timeframe was both exciting and professionally challenging.
“It’s a place where fresh ideas come to life. For me, IDEAS represents a rare opportunity to engage with groundbreaking insights that inspire both personal growth and industry-wide transformation. It’s not just about fixing cars; it’s about envisioning the future of how we work and operate. I fully understand why many people say it is one of their favorite programs of the year.”
The 2024 program will feature the following speakers and topics:
The Era of the Single-Store Generalist Body Shop is Coming to an End
Cole Strandberg, FOCUS Investment Banking LLC managing director
The topic will discuss the opportunity arising in the collision repair industry because of the disruption of the increasing complexity of vehicles.
“Depending on their financial resources, skills, and strategic vision, operators have three viable paths forward: specialize, scale, or sell,” the release says. “Each choice comes with its own set of advantages and challenges, but the one option that’s not on the table: doing nothing.”
UN-Divide and Conquer
Jill Tuggle, Auto Body Association of Texas executive director
Tuggle will discuss how state associations are taking proactive steps to bridge divisions that have hindered collaborations and education in the collision repair industry for decades. This includes fostering communication, sharing best practices, and advocating for higher industry standards.
“Collision repair businesses can play a vital role in reshaping the industry’s future, ultimately promoting unity and driving positive change for everyone,” the release says. “The answer is found in engaging with local associations and participating in collaborative initiatives. Together we can overcome divisiveness and build a stronger, more resilient collision repair community.”
Sustainability’s Role in Every Layer of Collision Repair
Christian Ruecker, DEKRA North America Mobility Sales vice president
The topic will explore how sustainable practices are intrinsic to important and successful businesses.
“We will highlight examples showcasing how sustainable practices contribute to longevity and profitability and how sustainable business practices benefit every stakeholder in the industry,” the release says.
Peak Blue-Collar: The Evolution of Collision Repair Shops into White-Collar Enterprises
Bill Park, Crunchit Financial Services founder
Park will explore a generational shift in the collision repair industry that is creating a loss of traditional expertise and anticipated succession causing leadership gaps.
“The future workforce is balancing a white-collar transformation with technology-driven desires, a focus on flexibility and purpose and demand for continuous learning,” the release said. “Peak blue-collar is a launchpad to embracing the future and understanding how to navigate the divide.”
IDEAS will be held in the Education Hallway of Upper South Hall from 2:30-4 p.m. The showcase is a part of SCRS’ Repairer Driven Education series. IDEAS can be registered for as an individual session or purchased as a part of the Full Series Pass. Register by visiting www.scrs.com/rde
Earning a Return on Capital Spending
Jeramy Holloway, Spanesi-Americas Aftersales director
“Investing in facility and equipment is a necessary aspect of delivering high-quality repairs,” the release said. “The ongoing process of reinvesting back into the business makes it equally important to understand how to earn a return on equipment purchases by properly implementing the equipment into the repair process.”
The Fine Print of REPAIR Politics
Wayne Weikel, Alliance for Automotive Innovation State Government Affairs vice president
Weikel will discuss the importance of understanding the motivations influencing policy at the state and national level.
“Without the logic and the input from informed members of the community, policy has the potential to be shaped by other vested interests and voted on by individuals who lack the specific understanding of the industry and the economic influences that put pressure on proper repairs,” the release says. “Learn where and how your participation in the political process, and your individual voice, can be impactful in advocating for change, for common sense, and for your consumer.”
Building the Future Together: Uniting Education, Industry and Community
Molly Mahoney, Collision Engineering National Marketing & Engagement director
The topic will explore how the Collision Engineering program creates a collaboration between education, industry, and local communities to fill the growing demand for skilled collision repair technicians.
“Explore how our vision combines hands-on training, innovative educational models, and industry collaboration, we can pave the way for a brighter future—one where skilled technicians thrive, communities grow, and industries adapt to new challenges,” the release says.
To see past presenters from the IDEAS Collide Showcase visit www.youtube.com/scrscollision.
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Photo courtesy of SCRS.