Texas Automotive January 2026

The official publication of the Auto Body Association of Texas (ABAT)

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HEAT RISING: ABAT’S NEXT CHAPTER

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Contents

JANUARY 2026

on the

cover

Official publication of the Auto Body Association of Texas

ABAT BOARD OF DIRECTORS

HEAT RISING:

ABAT's Next Chapter Learn how ABAT is bringing the heat for Texas repairers in 2026!

by Chasidy Rae Sisk

16

DEPARTMENTS PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE by Burl Richards 4 Ringing in the New Year with New Appraisal Rules 5 ABAT MEMBER APPLICATION DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE by Jill Tuggle 6 EXECUTIVE 2026 in Full Throttle 8

NATIONAL NEWS Women’s Industry Network Seeks Nominations for Inaugural Founding Mother Award

10

LADIES IN COLLISION by Alana Quartuccio Amber Alley, Barsotti’s Body and Fender, CA

15

NATIONAL NEWS Funds for Collision Schools and Students! CREF’s 2026 School Benchmark Awards and Student Scholarship Applications Now Open

20

ASK THE EXPERT by Justin Petty RTA Is Coming – and Why This Column Is in New Hands

President Burl Richards White Sands Collision Center burl.richards@proton.me (903) 392-0047

Chairman of the Board Greg Luther

Vice President Eric McKenzie Park Place Dealerships emckenzie@parkplace.com (214) 443-8250

Treasurer David Osburn “Ozzy” David McDavid Ford ozzy6384@gmail.com (817) 648-5759

Helfman Collision gluther@helfman.com (713) 574-5060

Executive Director Jill Tuggle jill@abat.us (817) 899-0554

ABAT BOARD MEMBERS Chuck Baldridge Mike Calvert Collision cbadridge@mikecalverttoyota.com (713) 558-8282

Logan Payne Payne & Sons Paint & Body logan@paynescollision.com­ (214) 321-4362

Larry Cernosek Deer Park Paint & Body lcwrecker@comcast.net (281) 930-1539

Anthony Palomo West Texas Auto Color japalomo3@yahoo.com (806) 831-7765

Chevy Corn Corn’s Collision chevy@cornscollisioncenter.com (979) 279-3310

Corey Pigg S&W Expert Collision Repair coreyp@swcollision.com (936) 634-8361

Brandon Gillespy Park Place BodyWerks bgillespy@parkplace.com 214-443-8250

Manuel Rubio Miracle Body & Paint manuelr@miraclebp.com (210) 843-9564

Chad Kiffe Berli's Body & Fine Finishes chadk@berlisbody.com (512) 251-6136

Darrell Smith McDaniel’s Quality Body Works Inc. darrell-mcdaniels@sbcglobal.net (903) 753-5391

Published by: Thomas Greco Publishing, Inc. 244 Chestnut Street, Suite 202, Nutley, NJ 07110 Corporate: (973) 667-6922 / FAX: (973) 235-1963 PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER Thomas Greco / thomas@grecopublishing.com VICE PRESIDENT/SALES DIRECTOR Alicia Figurelli / alicia@grecopublishing.com EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Alana Quartuccio / alana@grecopublishing.com SR. CONTRIBUTING EDITOR Chasidy Rae Sisk / chasidy@grecopublishing.com PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Joe Greco / joe@grecopublishing.com OFFICE MANAGER Donna Greco / donna@grecopublishing.com

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX 1SourceADAS........................................................ 4

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All Clear Diagnostics & Calibration.................. 14

Petty Details........................................................... 18

Auto Claim Specialists........................................ 21

Reliable .................................................................. 12-13

CAR-O-LINER Southwest................................... 7

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USI............................................................................ 9

Empire Auto Parts................................................ 11

Womens Industry Network................................ 8

FindPigtails.com.................................................... 18 North........................................................................ 6 3 January 2026 Texas Automotive

SPECIAL CONTRIBUTORS: Burl Richards / Jill Tuggle Robert L. McDorman / Mike Anderson @grecopublishing

www.grecopublishing.com TEXAS AUTOMOTIVE is published monthly and is sent to ABAT members free of charge. Subscriptions are $24 per year. TEXAS AUTOMOTIVE is published by Thomas Greco Publishing Inc., 244 Chestnut St., Nutley, NJ 07110. The editorial contents of TEXAS AUTOMOTIVE are copyright © 2026 by Thomas Greco Publishing Inc. and may not be reproduced in any manner, either in whole or in part, without written permission from the publisher and/or editor.

Articles in this publication do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Thomas Greco Publishing Inc. or the Auto Body Association of Texas (ABAT). Stock Images courtesy of istockphoto.com.

President’s Message

Ringing in the New Year with New Appraisal Rules

A

Although we’re now celebrating the arrival of 2026, ABAT is still celebrating last year’s legislative victory – which went into effect back in September and now mandates that all personal auto and homeowners insurance policies issued, delivered or renewed on January 1, 2026 and after must contain an appraisal provision!

That means that all new policies being written and any renewals from this point forward must include the Right to Appraisal, which is a huge win for shops and Texas drivers. One lingering question remains: will the rules established preserve the sanctity of the appraisal process?

The Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) drafted rules late last year and solicited feedback which they received from several individuals and organizations. (Be sure to check out grecopublishing.com/txa1125coverstory to learn more.) ABAT

also responded to TDI’s solicitation for public commentary by stressing the Burl Richards ABAT President importance of independent appraisers being allowed to determine valuations without undue influence being exerted, and while we expressed the need for the rules to prevent either side from pushing their agenda, I think we all know that these pressures most often come from the other side of the table with insurance companies frequently informing independent appraisers that they won’t pay for certain items.

That type of influence cannot be permitted since it really compromises the spirit of the appraisal process, and ABAT remains hopeful that TDI will address this concern in the rules they adopt.

By the time this issue reaches readers’ hands, the final adopted

4 JANUARY 2026 Texas Automotive

continued on pg. 8

5 January 2026 Texas Automotive

Executive Director’s Message

2026 in Full Throttle

A

As we look ahead to 2026, one thing is clear – ABAT is moving forward at full speed.

The past few years have been challenging, to say the least. And honestly, the last six months gave us an important opportunity to pause, reflect and listen closely to what our members need most right now. The answer became clear: training matters more than ever.

In 2026, ABAT will bring hands-on education and inperson events to every region we serve. These aren’t just classroom discussions – we’re focused on real, tangible training that helps shops operate more efficiently and correctly, bring more operations in-house and get paid for the work they do. Planned topics include panel repair, estimating, glass repair (including a urethane certification) and more. These trainings are designed to leave you with practical skills, certifications and action items you can implement immediately.

We’re also reimagining what the Texas Auto Body Trade Show can be. Through new partnerships, we’re expanding the show floor with an entire new aisle – welcoming a whole sector of the industry that’s eager to engage, collaborate and grow alongside

our traditional exhibitors. It’s an exciting evolution that will take the show to a whole new level. You’ll have to wait and see what it is, though, so be sure you are following us on social media and have subscribed to our Jill Tuggle mailing list!

ABAT Executive Director Last year was a milestone for ABAT with the passage of the Right to Appraisal law, and we’re not letting that momentum fade. In 2026, we’ll continue educating shops – and consumers – on what that law means and how repair disputes can be settled using this policy provision. Knowledge is power, and we’re committed to making sure our members are equipped with both.

Despite the challenges our industry continues to face, I’m incredibly optimistic. ABAT is focused, energized and ready to meet you where you are by bringing education, advocacy and opportunity directly to your door.

Buckle up. 2026 is going to be a big year! jill@abat.com

TXA

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National News Women’s Industry Network Seeks Nominations for Inaugural Founding Mother Award The Women’s Industry Network (WIN) is accepting nominations for its inaugural Founding Mother Award.

This award intends to honor the women who are shaping the future of the collision repair industry – women who demonstrate passion, perseverance and purpose every day. This award has been created and presented by the WIN founding mothers: Frederica Carter, Geri Kottschade, Gigi Walker, Patricia Serratore, Kathy Mello and Marcy Tieger. It intends to celebrate women making their mark in their shops and communities while advancing WIN’s mission of supporting and connecting women in collision repair.

The Founding Mother Award is intended to become an annual presentation.

The deadline to nominate a deserving woman for the inaugural Foundation Mother award is January 19. Nominations can be made at bit.ly/WINNominateFM. The award will recognize a woman in collision repair who: • Demonstrates clear alignment with WIN’s mission • Submits a personal statement that shows genuine passion for the industry • Receives a statement of support from a shop owner or manager

• Has been working full-time in a repair shop for a minimum of two years as a technician or painter • Acts as a mentor to coworkers and fosters a supportive shop environment • Shows commitment to long-term career growth in the collision repair field • Submits a letter of recommendation from an industry professional • Is willing and able to attend the WIN Conference in Tucson, AZ from May 4-6.

More information about the Founding Mother Award can be found at bit.ly/FoundingMother.

WIN was founded in 2006 by six pioneering women who saw a need for connection, mentorship and opportunity in the automotive collision industry. Their vision built the foundation for WIN’s mission to empower women across all levels of the trade. For this award, Founding Mothers Geri Kottschade, Frederica Carter, and Marcy Tieger are actively providing input – continuing their legacy of leadership and inspiration. TXA

President’s Message continued from pg. 4

Why Join WIN? WIN offers education, mentoring and leadership development opportunities to build critical skills for success in the collision repair market.

• Local/Regional Networking Events • Annual Education Conference • Educational Webinars

• Scholarship Program • School Outreach Program • Most Influential Women (MIW) Award

rules should be available on TDI’s website (tdi.texas.gov/rules/ index.html), and I encourage everyone to keep an eye out for this update to remain educated on the best ways to help our customers.

Education in this aspect and many others is vital to our businesses and their success, which is why ABAT has lots of training and networking events planned for 2026 (see the details on page 16, and be sure to mark your calendars)! I look forward to seeing everyone at our meetings across Texas and especially at the Texas Auto Body Trade Show in September. The only way our industry can grow and get stronger is by coming together to learn more, discover new ways to confront the challenges we face and continue developing our collision community in this great state. Together, we can achieve anything.

Lastly, I want to wish everybody a very happy and prosperous New Year…it’s going to be a great one!

• Mentoring Opportunities burl.richards@proton.me

womensindustrynetwork.com

TXA 8 JANUARY 2026 Texas Automotive

Russell & Smith Logging Big Paint Hours with USI Booths & Prep Station Buying a paint booth is a huge investment, and there are many factors to carefully consider before selecting one. Will the booth work well in a region where there’s a ton of humidity and with drastic changes in the weather? How long do you think the booth will last and will it require a lot of maintenance? Will your painters be comfortable using it every day and finally, will the company making the booth provide solid training and reliable customer service?

To answer these questions before acquiring two Chronotech spray booths and a prep deck from USI ITALIA back in 2004, Collision Center Manager Kevin McIllveen at Russell & Smith Body Shop in Houston, TX spent six months studying the market. He was looking for the best booths that matched his needs to use in a brand-new 36,000 sq. ft. facility that the company built from the ground up.

Mcllveen, age 56, entered the industry more than three decades ago as an estimator and has worked for Russell & Smith Body Shop since 1993.

His goal with his new spray booths was to improve the efficiencies in his paint department and to accommodate his production, he said, while simultaneously saving time and energy if possible.

The vetting process was arduous but worth it in the end. "We did our research so that we could make an educated decision," he said. "I went to NACE two years in a row and talked to literally everyone and asked a lot of questions. We knew that this was going to be a very significant investment, so we took the time to perform our due diligence to cover all our bases. We invested in their prep stations as well, which was another good decision, because my guys can work so much faster and effectively with five different places where we can spray. We put a curtain up in the prep booth that provides us two additional spaces that are heated and properly ventilated. So, when we are really jammed, we can handle the workload and maintain our cycle time without interrupting or slowing down our production."

After using them for a very short time, Mcllveen could clearly see that his Chronotechs were more than capable as they quickly became a centerpiece in his new, high-end, modern shop.

"We have four paint teams here, consisting of a painter and a painter’s helper and we consistently log approximately 600-700 paint hours weekly,” he said. “We switched to waterborne paint when we opened this facility because we want to provide a healthier climate for our employees and the community as a whole.”

Why was Mcllveen able to improve his numbers by simply adding two USI booths? “In the end, it all comes down to their airflow because we never need blowers or additional air to cure these vehicles. The fans in these Chronotechs are exceptional because they feature variable speeds, so we can switch depending on the parameters of each job. Our painters are producing an impressive product day after day, so these booths are saving us both time and money. We paint an average of 400 cars every month, so

we push these booths and they never let us down.”

Any issues that Russell & Smith Body Shop have encountered with their USI ITALIA booths have been rare and far between. But Mcllveen feels good knowing that if called upon, the company will respond and find solutions promptly. “If you do your scheduled maintenance and keep everything clean, these booths will last you 30 years and maybe even longer. The issues that we have encountered with the Chronotechs have been minor and quickly solved, which is impressive when you think that we have been using these booths daily for the last 16 years. I tell people that these booths will be here long after I’ve retired!”

After training provided by USI ITALIA, Mcllveen’s painters were able to start spraying after one day, he said. "The Chronotechs are designed to work with waterborne paint, which makes it easier for our painters to do their work.

After a very short time, all of our guys were comfortable and the results were consistently exceptional.”

Mcllveen is also impressed by the Chronotech's sturdy construction and durability.

"Some booths are just a box, but these are wellbuilt," he said. “I know, because I've seen them all and there isn't anything like a USI ITALIA booth."

His career in collision repair industry has been a great experience and products like his USI ITALIA spray booths and prep station are a part of that, he said. “We haven’t had to furlough anybody here and that’s because we value our people and, in the end, our Chronotechs are part of the team.”

USI of North America | 565 Commerce Street Franklin Lakes, NJ 07417 | 201-405-7761 | s.moretto@usius.com | www.usius.com 9 January 2026 Texas Automotive

Ladies in Collision

Amber Alley, Barsotti’s Body and Fender, CA This month, we take our Ladies in Collision feature all the way to the West Coast.

Chances are you already know Amber Alley (Barsotti’s Body and Fender; San Rafael, CA), who is known throughout the industry for her work with the Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS) and the Collision Industry Conference (CIC). Most recently, she has been appointed to serve on the Collision Industry Foundation’s (CIF) Board of Trustees.

She has also been the general manager of a California body shop for the past 17 years.

Alley loves challenges and has great passion for this industry. Read on to learn more about her journey into collision repair and national association work.

Texas Automotive: What was your first introduction to the auto body industry?

Amber Alley: It started with the need to get a job. I began working in an office at a shop, answering phones, while I went to school at night. I was going to school for business finance with an economics minor. Collision was not on the bingo card. The owner would have me shadow him inspecting customers' damaged vehicles and I would go back to the office and look up the labor times from these big Mitchell estimating books and fill in the estimate form by hand.

It was meticulous, but fun. I learned so much that year. After I left that shop, I tried to work in retail, but quickly found myself back in the collision space. I look back on that time in my life and smile; it really turned out how it was supposed to.

something positive is amazing.

TXA: What led you to become general manager?

AA: I didn’t want the general manager role, at first. The company needed someone to fill the role, and they approached me about it. I had been serving as a pillar, holding the company up between managers, but I did not intend to put my name in for the position. When they approached me about it, I initially said no. It’s a challenging business. Turnover in that role is pretty common at many organizations, especially back in the '90s and 2000s. I think nowadays we’re seeing more poured into the management glass in terms of training and professionalism to grow that role.

But back then, there wasn’t really a game book about it. I thought about the six impressive people who did the job prior and asked myself if I could do it. I was not in it for the title. I just wanted a good life and to be able to put food on the table. I didn’t want the pressure, but ultimately, I decided to do it. I’ve been the general manager for 17 years now. We’ve grown from 12 employees to 41 since I started. We expanded from one small building to four,

TXA: What made you decide to devote your career to collision repair?

AA: I think most people are here in this industry because they like a challenge… and there is always a challenge. I love a challenge; I also love working with a team to create something meaningful.

Helping people in their time of need is very rewarding. Being able to turn a very bad, stressful situation for someone into

Amber Alley, Barsotti’s Body and Fender, CA 10 JANUARY 2026 Texas Automotive

and we now have 28 OEM certifications.

I do a lot of travelling these days, but I’m still happiest when I’m in the shop with my team, dealing with negotiations to get paid for something or figuring out how to do something better. I love that part of my job.

TXA: How did you get involved at the national level?

AA: Mark Allen of Audi pushed me to get involved. My shop was among the first to become certified with Audi and Porsche.

Feeling stuck in my own bubble at the local level, I reached out to him about an issue involving aluminum repairs. One day, he happened to make a spot visit to my shop, where he filled me in on a related aluminum repair discussion that went on at a CIC meeting he just returned from. He suggested that I get involved with SCRS because he believed that I’d make a great asset to the industry. He gave me contact information for Ron Reichen and Aaron Schulenburg. I wound up contacting them, and I attended a couple of SCRS meetings and found everyone was very supportive.

At first, it felt like it was out of my league. I was intimidated hearing them talk about things I hadn’t been aware of. I asked myself, ‘Have I been in a hole here, or what?’ (laughs) But I was also really intrigued. I like challenges, so I found it really interesting. I bought into OE certifications and doing it right for the customer very early on. The more time I spent with people at SCRS meetings, the more I realized they weren’t any different from me. We’re all the same, whether we had a small shop, big shop, whether we are OEM certified or not. I really felt like I had found my people. Shops can feel very alienated at times, but we all deal with the same frustrations. I ran for a position on the SCRS board and didn’t get voted in that first time but was later appointed. Now, here we are 11 years later, and I am the immediate past chair. So, we took it all the way through.

by Alana Quartuccio TXA: Your work with SCRS has you travelling all over the country. Hopefully, we will see you at the Texas Auto Body Trade Show at some point.

AA: I love the people in the industry. I love my team. My focus has been to make the industry better for the people in it and bringing everybody up with us. I do travel a lot, and I have a lot of obligations. I'm also a mother of two daughters and run my shop. Jill has invited me to attend the show and the Ladies Night event in the past; I was unable to attend due to other obligations, but I hope to make it to the Texas Auto Body Trade Show soon. I hear it’s a great show!

TXA: What are some of the biggest challenges women in the industry face?

AA: I've been in the industry 32 years now, so there's not much I haven't seen. But I don’t think challenges are necessarily due to being a woman. Especially with young women, I feel it’s more about confidence.

I think confidence grows over time. I remember being in that SCRS room for the first time, and although I had 20 years of experience by then, I still didn’t feel like I necessarily belonged. I have since found out that every new board member feels that way.

It was easy for me to attribute that to being a woman, but the truth is, that had nothing to do with it. I think it can be a challenge for any man or woman in any role to be confident, own their space and not hold themselves back. I’ve had a great experience.

I worked at two shops before this one, and both owners poured a ton of time and energy into helping me be successful. They also treated and paid me well. I am also very aware that this is not the reality for some and my intentions aren’t to ignore that fact.

I’ve interviewed young men and women who’ve shared their frustrations about why they haven’t been hired at other shops or why they are looking to leave their current shop. Whether they are male or female, none of those scenarios are right.

It’s not a gender-bias issue, but rather an industry problem. I also think society tends to look down on young people, and many

don’t believe they can contribute much.

It’s about perception. Yes, it may appear to be a male-dominated field, and some think that’s a reason to leave the industry, but if they do that, it’s their loss. I do believe there are still some challenges, but it’s gotten way better than it was when I first got into the field. There are endless possibilities now for women. You just have to be confident and not take crap from anyone.

TXA: What about this industry do you love the most?

AA: I love the people in it. I meet a lot of real-salt-of-the earth folks. When I went to college, I thought I’d probably wind up going into banking, finance or interior design, which was something I was interested in then. As I look back, I think maybe I could have made money in finance, but I could have lost a lot, too.

Would I have been happy in a cubicle with a bunch of people in suits all day? Hell, no!

I chose a path that gave me a very happy life surrounded by great people. I reach out

to industry people outside the shop several times a day. I consider them friends. In other industries, you just don’t have that kind of network. I love being able to call Jill here in Texas if I need something, and she’ll stop what she is doing and find you an answer or connect you with someone. I’ve heard people outside the industry comment that we have an amazing industry full of people who really care. I think that reflects on all of us with our quality of life. When you are at industry events, the people on the collision side seem genuinely happy to be there. I just don’t think you see that elsewhere.

TXA: What’s life like outside the body shop? Do you have any interesting hobbies you’d like to share?

AA: My daughters are in college. I spend time with friends and travel a lot. What I do requires a lot of work and does absorb a lot of my time. The industry has been good to me, and I want to leave it a little better continued on pg. 18

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14 JANUARY 2026 Texas Automotive

National News Funds for Collision Schools and Students!

CREF’s 2026 School Benchmark Awards and Student Scholarship Applications Now Open For years, collision repair shops have been lamenting the need for more talented help to address the ongoing workforce shortage, yet educating the next generation of collision professionals presents challenges. Many schools’ collision programs are underfunded, and post-secondary students seeking to enhance their skills and knowledge often struggle to afford tuition and tools.

The Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF) helps overcome those hurdles through the annual distribution of its Benchmark Awards and Student Scholarships, thanks to support from many generous industry donors and sponsors.

In 2025, CREF broke its previous yearly records with $726,500 in Benchmark Awards distributed to 104 schools, benefitting over 5,300 students training in these programs this year alone. The Benchmark Awards recognize programs that excel at educating students but which require additional financial assistance due to constrained school budgets, providing funds to purchase the tools, equipment and supplies necessary to enhance their students’ learning experience and elevate the caliber of their graduates.

The 2025 Student Scholarships benefitted 163 students with over $275,000 awarded in financial assistance to ensure those students were able to continue their education, preparing them to pursue a successful career in body shops around the country.

Applications for CREF’s 2026 Student Scholarships to open January 8 at bit.ly/CREFstudents, with a deadline of March 6.

Applications for CREF’s 2026 Benchmark Awards open on January 20; the deadline is June 30. Apply at bit.ly/CREFschools.

To learn more about supporting CREF’s efforts to promote the industry to future generations, visit CollisionRepairEducationFoundation.org. TXA

15 January 2026 Texas Automotive

Cover Story

HEAT RISING:: RISING ABAT’S NEXT CHAPTER

To start a fire, it starts with three elements: fuel, oxygen and heat.

ABAT originated in 2014 when pressures – from insurers, rising costs and advancing technology – fueled a need for shops to come together and create a community focused on solving the problems that Texas collision repair facilities face each day.

Since then, the association has found myriad ways to oxygenate Lone Star repairers. From hosting training and networking events to advocating for legislation promoting consumer safety, ABAT has dedicated efforts to refreshing and sustaining repairers through the ups and downs in their businesses.

And now it’s time to bring the heat! With last year’s huge legislative victory, which mandated that all Texas insurance policies “must contain an appraisal provision” (more info available at grecopublishing.com/txa0725abatfeature), it’s time for the association to “turn our sights back on keeping the home fires

burning,” according to ABAT Executive Director Jill Tuggle.

“We’re incredibly proud of our legislative success, but that’s not all we have to stand on; the real magic behind ABAT is in the basics of what a trade association stands for: identifying the challenges that our local shops contend with and finding ways to come together as a community to address them.

“As we move into the new year, it feels like a lot of our hard work is coming to fruition, and we’re ready to get back to our roots,” she continues. “There are a lot of entities in the industry that provide training and offer different ways to help shops solve their problems, but associations operate a little differently. What’s unique about ABAT is our local community and our ability to put boots on the ground around the state to develop a sense of camaraderie amongst local shops and inspire them to reach new heights while safeguarding them from the burnout that often comes from being denigrated and repeatedly told they’re the

16 JANUARY 2026 Texas Automotive

by Chasidy Rae Sisk

‘only one’ even though they’re not. That’s where we excel – in the service we can provide to our local industry. Shops are hungry for education, and we’re going to stoke that fire.”

While ABAT will continue offering regular webinars to kindle a desire for knowledge in all who are willing to tune in, the bulk of the association’s efforts in 2026 will focus on “continuing to build momentum in our local chapters,” Tuggle reports.

Although collision repairers can obtain training through various platforms and organizations, ABAT hopes to see all of its members participate and to engage other shops through its selection of topics. “It’s easy to pick an available speaker who has something to say, but we want to weed through what’s available to find the topics that have real-world value, that will spark a bright flame that allows repairers to implement what they’ve learned to better their businesses. We want to ignite real change for Texas shops.”

Those efforts will begin this month on January 22 with a hands-on training session taught by BETAG Innovation at the Technology, Exploration and Career Center (TECC) in Louisville.

“Attendees will spend a few hours in the classroom before experimenting with tools in the shop,” Tuggle explains, promising an intimate, low-pressure setting focused on education.

ABAT has its sights set on the Houston area. “We want our Houston shops to know that we’re still here for them,” Tuggle says. Acknowledging that after ABAT absorbed the Houston Auto Body Association (HABA) in September 2019, they lost momentum during the pandemic, but “we’re still coming back stronger than ever! Our Houston area shops are an incredibly important part of our membership, and we’re going to demonstrate that by bringing industry icon Mike Anderson (Collision Advice) down to Houston,” alongside CCC’s Craig Stevens to present “Unleashing the Power of CCC.” Attendees can expect to discover valuable new knowledge of the many tools available via CCC One that are likely being underutilized, which they can take advantage of for all pre-repair, repair and post-repair needs.

Although ABAT is still working out all the details for the education inferno planned for Texas shops in 2026 – including meetings in Austin, San Antonio and Lubbock – Tuggle has been working with Kaizen Glass Solutions to offer training that will allow those in attendance to earn their urethane certification.

“It’s hard for shop owners and technicians to take time away from the shop, so it’s vital that ABAT offers training that can really make an instant difference or that gives them something to show for the time invested,” Tuggle stresses. “Our goal is to be forwardthinking and forward-moving as we explore different opportunities and try new things to deliver real, tangible training that ends with certifications, action items and strategies to make more money.

We’ll explore practical ways for shops to bring more operations in-house, better utilize their teams during slower times and capture every possible billable item on repair plans.”

And while the Texas Auto Body Trade Show certainly isn’t a new thing, anyone who has attended in the past already knows that ABAT will be lighting things up in 2026 with innovative education, exhibition and networking opportunities that will reignite attendees’ passion for collision repair! Mark your calendars

for September 11-12 for this year’s event, being held again at the Marriott Dallas Allen Hotel and Convention Center in Allen, and stay tuned to abat.us/trade-show for more information as it becomes available. “We know how hard it is to step away from your business, even for a couple of days, and your presence is what makes this event the premier gathering for our industry,” Tuggle reminds.

Networking serves as the kindling that bridges the gap between a spark and a flame, so you can bet your boots that ABAT’s social calendar will be brimming with opportunities to connect with your fellow repairers as well. “Education is at the heart of everything ABAT does, but we also want to offer opportunities for repairers to have a little fun along the way!”

Tuggle insists, noting that the association is excited for the return of its Ladies Night of Honor in Lubbock next month, plus plans are underway for an East Texas golf tournament and ABAT’s Annual Skeet Shoot – “with more to come.”

Of course, ABAT’s groundbreaking efforts would not be possible without support from the vendors who volunteer to offer training, donate funds and promote the association’s events in various ways. “Their support, engagement and energy fuel the momentum that keeps ABAT moving forward,” Tuggle expresses her gratitude and encourages member shops to “shop with them first if you're in the market for something!”

Mixing innovation with “business as usual” is the name of the game. “We’re not trying to burn anything down, but our industry is constantly changing, and we need to change with it to bring value to our members.

“Our industry is struggling,” Tuggle acknowledges, referencing the market downturn (addressed in last month’s cover story, available at grecopublishing.com/txa1225coverstory).

“But we’re struggling together, and by sticking together even in tough times – by continuing to show up, support our vendors and lift each other up – we’re proving that we are stronger than the challenges in front of us. Nothing can extinguish the light in this industry; collision repairers are some of the most dedicated, passionate professionals out there, and when we work together, we can turn mere embers into an inferno brightly guiding us all to a better future…a future filled with the community that we’re building together.”

Tuggle expresses optimism that 2026 will be a great year for Texas collision repair professionals. “This is going to be an innovative year for ABAT. We have plans to rekindle our sense of community in every chapter across the state, and we’re coming to your town with hands-on education, advanced training and certification opportunities that will stoke the flames of raising the bar for our industry! But to make this year truly impactful, we need to hear from you – the shops, the technicians, the owners and the managers. Tell us what training, topics and support you want most. ABAT is here, we’re listening, and we’re ready to get back to work, across Texas.

“Together, we’ll keep building an industry that continues to burn bright even in the dimmest times,” she adds. “Get ready!

ABAT is bringing the heat in 2026!” TXA

17 January 2026 Texas Automotive

Ladies in Collision continued from pg. 11 than I found it. Sometimes, I wonder if it’d be different if I didn’t have such amazing people to mentor and support. There’s so many people I have met over the years who I still keep in touch with like they are family members. People have commented to me that it seems like a lot of work and it’s all volunteer work, but it makes life a lot more fulfilling.

TXA: What encouraging words would you give to other women interested in entering the world of collision?

AA: Don’t be intimidated. Listen to your gut and don’t underestimate your ability. One thing I tell a lot of people who work here – men or women – is ‘don’t second guess yourself.’ You have to learn something well enough to be confident about it. A painter, for example, should get really good at prep first. It’s like cross-training. Never feel like a job is below you. For young women, it’s especially important to know you can learn the most in the parts department. It’s literally the heart of the shop. In a lot of shops, that can be dusty and dirty, but just roll up your sleeves.

It’s not going to be easy, but you have got to learn, master and get confident before you move on to the next thing. If you do that, you will continue to grow. It can be intimidating for women in a male-dominated industry, but you’ve got to get in there and weld, paint or write estimates to feel confident about it. There are still some things that make my eyes glaze over, but my technical ability has gotten pretty sound at this point of my career. It’s not something that excites me like education or training does. You have to find what makes you passionate. You don’t have to be an expert at everything to have a seat at the table. TXA

18 JANUARY 2026 Texas Automotive

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19 January 2026 Texas Automotive

Ask The Expert

by Justin Petty

RTA Is Coming – and Why This Column Is in New Hands Dear Readers, Before I get to this month’s question, I want to start with a heartfelt note of appreciation and respect for my colleague, Robert L. McDorman.

Many of you know Robert through this “Ask The Expert” column and through his tireless work championing appraisal rights for Texas consumers and collision professionals. Robert has decided to pass the baton to me so this editorial can continue without placing an additional burden on the litigation work that now demands so much of his time. As Robert explained to me, he is increasingly pulled into active lawsuits where his published analysis can be cherry-picked or twisted by opposing counsel during depositions or trials. Rather than allow that risk to complicate the cases where he is fighting for fairness, he made the wise and selfless choice to step back from the column and focus on the legal battles that need him most.

I want to be very clear: Robert’s decision is not a retreat from the cause – it’s a strategic step deeper into it. He has carried this torch with integrity, patience and courage for years, and I’m grateful for his mentorship and trust. The foundation he built in this column helped bring Texas to the threshold we are standing on today: mandatory Right to Appraisal (RTA) for motor vehicle repair and total loss disputes. Last month’s article summarized the status of SB 458 taking effect and the ongoing Texas Department of Insurance rulemaking phase.

So with respect to Robert and a sincere commitment to the readership, I’ll do my best to continue the straight-talk, consumer-first approach you’ve come to expect here. Let’s get into this month’s question.

Dear Mr. Petty, I operate a collision center in Central Texas.

We’re already hearing from customers that carriers are telling them, “Appraisal isn’t ready yet,” or “That new RTA law doesn’t apply to repair procedure disputes.” Some adjusters are also saying the shop has no standing in appraisal and that it’s only for total losses.

My questions are: 1. When the RTA requirement becomes mandatory for policies issued or renewed after January 1, 2026, will it cover repair procedure and supplement disputes the same way it covers total loss disputes?

2. What should a shop do when a carrier shortpays and the customer wants to invoke appraisal?

3. How do we protect the customer from getting stalled out by the “rules aren’t final yet” excuse?

Thank you, A Central Texas Collision Center Owner Thank you for the question – and you’re not imagining things. What you’re hearing from some carriers right now is exactly what typically happens when a new mandatory consumer

protection law is moving into enforceable rules. There is always a period where some insurers test the boundaries and try to preserve old habits. That is why consumer and shop education will be so critical over the next several months.

Let’s take your questions in order.

1. Does mandatory RTA apply to repair procedure disputes and supplements?

Yes. The intent of SB 458 is not limited to total loss. It mandates an appraisal process for both repair and total loss disputes between insurer and policyholder. Robert addressed this directly last month, confirming that with SB 458, every Texas motor vehicle policy must contain a binding RTA process for repair and total loss disagreements.

Put simply: if the dispute is about the amount of loss – whether that loss is a total-loss valuation or the cost to properly and safely repair the vehicle – appraisal is the designated remedy.

Carriers may try to re-label a repair dispute as a “coverage issue” to avoid appraisal. But a disagreement over what it takes to return the vehicle to pre-loss condition is a loss-amount dispute, not a coverage dispute. When OEM procedures, calibrations, structural operations or safety-related steps are omitted or underpaid, that is precisely the kind of under-indemnification the Appraisal Clause is meant to correct.

2. What should a shop do when a carrier short-pays and the

20 JANUARY 2026 Texas Automotive

continued on pg. 22

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21 January 2026 Texas Automotive

Ask The Expert continued from pg. 20 customer wants to invoke appraisal?

First, remember who invokes appraisal: the policyholder.

Shops don’t “stand in the shoes” of the insured unless they have a valid assignment of rights that fits within Texas law, and sometimes even that remedy is not available. So, your role is to support and document, not to substitute. Here’s the practical playbook: ● Document the dispute clearly and professionally.

Provide the customer with a clean, itemized blueprint/repair plan showing what operations are required and why (OEM position statements, scanning/calibration requirements, procedures, safety documentation, etc.). ● Make the gap simple for the customer to understand.

A short summary helps: “At this point, the carrier has refused to pay for X, Y, Z operations required by the manufacturer; and without them, the vehicle cannot be safely restored.” ● Advise the customer of their Right to Appraisal.

You’re not giving legal advice by pointing them to their policy remedy. Tell them appraisal exists to resolve exactly this kind of dispute, and that it is binding once invoked properly under the policy. ● Encourage the customer to seek an experienced appraiser.

They can hire a qualified independent appraiser to represent their side of the loss. This is where professionals who understand repair procedure disputes matter. Unfortunately, many employees of insurance companies have not been trained on proper repair procedures and are trained to believe that certain required procedures are not actually required. ● Stay in your lane, but stay helpful.

You can continue repairing if the customer authorizes, or you can pause depending on their decision – but avoid becoming the messenger in a carrier-insured conflict. Your power is in the repair facts.

Appraisal exists to remove the biased, non-technical decisionmakers from the loss-amount dispute and put it into the hands of qualified industry professionals. That is the spirit of the process and why SB 458 is such a shift for Texas.

3. How do we respond to the “rules aren’t final yet” stall tactic?

This is the most important issue right now, and it’s where carriers will try to buy time. A few key points: Justin is a former All Lines and Public Adjuster who is now President and Co-Owner of Petty Details, LLC. He is a recognized subject matter expert/auto property damage claim consultant nationwide. He can be reached at (214) 227-2154 or at admin@pettydetailsllc.com.

● The law is in effect.

SB 458 became effective September 1, 2025. Policies issued or renewed on or after January 1, 2026 must include mandatory RTA language. ● Rulemaking doesn’t suspend rights.

The Texas Department of Insurance is working through appraiser/umpire qualification criteria and timelines. But the statute’s purpose and direction are already set. In other words, carriers don’t get to pretend appraisal is optional just because they don’t like the coming rules! ● Your customer should use writing, not phone calls.

When the customer invokes appraisal, it should be in writing.

A simple certified letter or email that states: “I am invoking my Right to Appraisal under my policy due to a dispute over the amount of loss.”

That single sentence matters. It frames the dispute correctly and makes any refusal look exactly like what it is. ● Delay is a refusal in slow motion.

If a carrier responds with “not ready,” “not applicable” or “we’ll get back to you,” that is effectively a denial of process. Once the rules are finalized, stalls like that will have consequences. Robert noted last month that stronger penalties for rule violations will make appraisal fairer and more efficient. ● Don’t let them redefine the dispute.

Carriers may try to shift the conversation to “shop choice,” “negotiation” or “we don’t pay for that.” The response stays the same: “This is a dispute over loss amount and repair scope. Appraisal is the policy remedy.”

Closing Thoughts Central Texas shops — and really every Texas shop — are entering a new era. Mandatory RTA is a structural correction to years of systemic under-indemnification on repair and total loss claims. If we educate consumers on how and when to invoke appraisal, the market will start to normalize around safe, proper repairs instead of carrier-driven shortcuts.

Robert McDorman helped get us to this doorstep. My goal is to help you walk through it with clarity and confidence.

If you have follow-up questions, keep sending them in. The more real-world scenarios we put into print, the harder it becomes for anyone to mislead Texas policyholders about their rights.

22 JANUARY 2026 Texas Automotive

Sincerely, Justin Petty Petty Details, LLC TXA

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