Instructors work toward graduating properly trained, entry-level staff for industry employment but continue to face limiting budgets.

“Now more than ever, local high school and college collision school programs need the industry’s assistance and investment, and a perfect time to help these instructors is as they begin their fall semester,” said Brandon Eckenrode, director of development for the Education Foundation. “If a company is not currently involved with a local school, we can help connect them. In addition to helping the collision program, the school administration seeing that local businesses are interested in their students goes a long way.”

Items in need for donation for collision school programs include (donations are tax-deductible through the Collision Repair Education Foundation):

• Supplies (sandpaper, masking tape, primer, paint, etc)

• Spare parts (fenders, bumper covers, etc.) for students to practice on

• Technician uniform sponsorship to promote professionalism

• Used laptops/tablets for estimating classes

• Safety equipment (respirators, safety glasses, etc.)

• Floor and wall paint sponsorship to help ensure the program looks professional for current and future students

Companies interested in donating and/or sponsoring items to local high school and college collision school programs should contact Eckenrode at Brandon.Eckenrode@ed-foundation.org or 847.463.5244.