TechForce Aims to Bring Young People into Collision Repair

In partnership with Caliber Collision, TechForce Foundation created a video designed to educate young people about the opportunities and benefits a career in collision repair offers.

TechForce's annual Supply and Demand Report revealed that among the transportation sectors, collision is suffering the most from the technician shortage. The ratio of demand to supply with collision technicians is 7.9 to 1. That is nearly eight job opportunities for every one collision tech graduate, company officials said.

Caliber is at the forefront of addressing collision technician shortages with its technician apprentice program (TAP). Through TAP, Caliber is attracting, training, and employing the next generation of auto body technicians.

TechForce interviewed dozens of students currently enrolled in collision engineering programs and apprenticeships to craft a message in a video that will be shared across its social media platforms. The message shares that the career is in demand, hands-on, and deals with the high-tech, emerging technologies.

"Rather than seasoned adults telling young people about their options, we engage with GenZ to share their own words and journey with their peers,” says Angie Babin, president of TechForce's board of directors and vice president of supply chain for Caliber Collision. "This is also why TechForce has invested in the TechForce Network, a gamified, online career hub and app where students can find all the resources needed to explore and pursue technical education and careers.

TechForce plans to continue delivering its educational video series across other technician sectors, ranging from collision and automotive to diesel, motorsports, heavy equipment/machinery and emerging technologies, including electric and autonomous vehicles.

"Most young people aren't even aware the collision tech option exists or they think it's just replacing bumpers and paint,” said Jennifer Maher, CEO of TechForce Foundation. “But with advancing technologies, it's much more of a 'new collar', technology-centric profession today.”