On December 2, 2025, we had the privilege of hosting an exceptional group of collision repair students from Thornton Fractional Center for Science and Technology, led by their CTE instructor Jorge Navarrete. What unfolded was a 5½-hour, technology-driven, hands-on experience designed to show students the reality — and the possibilities — of a career in modern collision repair.
We kicked things off in our wash bay with fresh Amish donuts and chocolate milk, a small throwback to the morning breaks I enjoyed back in grade school — back when my "old self" was very young. It set a relaxed, fun tone for the day, and the students arrived with positive energy and curiosity.
Two groups, two deep-dive experiences
The paint team bringing up formulas with Samantha McCauley.The first group focused on color science and paint technology. Led by Samantha McCauley, our head painter, this session gave students a full start-to-finish look at how color accuracy is secured long before a vehicle reaches the booth. Students observed 3D color imaging on a new C8 Corvette, learned about formula creation and paint mixing, sprayed test panels themselves, and watched a demonstration of the robotic infrared curing arm.
The second group dove into precision repair planning and real-world procedures with Repair Planning Manager Mike Kennedy. Students reviewed active repairs using a multi-screen workflow that included OEM procedure research, safety protocol integration, and real repair plan documentation. They also noticed a surprising number of Corvettes in the queue.
After one hour, the groups swapped so every student experienced both tracks fully.
Moving to the Advanced Center
We then moved over to our Advanced Repair, Alignment, EV, and Calibration Center where the rest of the afternoon unfolded with a catered lunch and hands-on immersion. Lunch transitioned into deeper technical sessions led by our team and partners. Students experienced 3D structural pre-measuring and observed fixture bench setup with Celette, led by Greg Fritz, whose dynamic, hands-on presentation earned multiple rounds of applause. The students also got the opportunity to operate the measuring system themselves.
3D measurements being taken with Greg Fritz from Celette.Additional sessions covered safety inspections on disassembled vehicles, laser wheel and tire diagnostics (including a look at severely damaged Corvette wheels), an EV-designated repair stall overview with battery table uses, and an ADAS calibration system demonstration.
A special acknowledgment goes to Bud Center and Jesus Guerrero from I-CAR for their outstanding support. They added meaningful direction throughout the afternoon, helped connect the technology to real-world career paths, and took the time to answer every student question with clarity and enthusiasm. Their presence elevated the experience and reinforced how vital education and continuous learning are in today's collision repair industry.
Why December 2nd mattered
Spending 5½ hours with these students wasn't just a shop tour — it was an investment in the future of our trade. Technician shortages aren't solved with talk; they're solved with exposure, mentorship, and opportunities that show students what excellence looks like.
These students showed up engaged, respectful, and eager to learn. If even one left inspired to pursue collision repair at a higher level, then the day achieved its purpose.
We look forward to continuing our partnership with Thornton Fractional Center for Science and Technology, CTE instructor Jorge Navarrete, and all programs committed to developing the next generation of collision repair professionals.
