Kevin Ellison Westway Ford kellison@vtaig.com (972) 584-9033
Brandon Gillespy Park Place BodyWerks bgillespy@parkplace.com 214-443-8250 Chad Kiffe Berli's
ABAT FEATURE by Chasidy Rae Sisk & Alana Quartuccio
Mandatory RTA Achieved! ABAT Celebrates Big Win for Texas Consumers
LADIES OF COLLISION by Alana Quartuccio
Danica M. Williams, Sherwin-Williams
ASK THE EXPERT by Robert L. McDorman
Texas Mandatory Binding Right to Appraisal Rights Becomes Law
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
SPECIAL CONTRIBUTORS: Burl Richards / Jill Tuggle Robert L. McDorman / Mike Anderson
www.grecopublishing.com
President’s Message Keep Your Junk!
LLately, it seems like insurance companies are insistent on shops buying nothing but junk!
Here in East Texas, it’s not at all unusual to get an insurer estimate which indicates they located a needed part in some random location, states away, often from a junkyard. For example, we recently needed a running board for a job, and they wanted us to obtain it from some vendor we’d never heard of in some random state like Ohio. Well, I have a couple issues with that, but the main problem is how often those parts are complete garbage.
In my experience, once we receive the part, it is damaged, in poor condition or just not at all how it was described around 90 percent of the time. We used to be able to order the part and pay cash on delivery – after we inspected it – but these days, no one wants to do business that way; they require payment over the phone before they’ll dispatch the part…which we cannot even use. Then, we have to invest administrative time and energy into processing a return and trying to get a refund. Most of the time, we end up with a credit for these vendors halfway across the country, vendors that seem to have a propensity for lower quality parts which is why we requested a refund in the first place.
And even though the insurance company directed us to use the vendor, complaining to them is useless – they’ll tell you that it’s not their vendor; it’s not their problem. Of course, they’ll claim that we can purchase the part from whichever vendor we choose…but they will only pay that specific amount. Well, good luck finding a quality running board, which typically costs $400, for $70. Although the insurer selected that part and that vendor, they wash their hands of the situation as soon as an issue arises. Because they aren’t concerned with the quality, just the cost. It’s a game, and insurance companies play that game well – a little too well.
They don’t want to allow markups, and they don’t care about the administrative time and additional costs associated with dealing with these junky parts. It’s ridiculous! The situation is putting a lot of pressure on shops and their bottom lines in an economy where we’re already feeling the squeeze. The whole situation is so
continued on pg. 22
Burl Richards ABAT President
Executive Director’s Message
There’s No Party Like a Texas Auto Body Trade Show Party!
FFrom the buzzing exhibit hall to the legendary after parties, the Texas Auto Body Trade Show is hands down the most fun you’ll have all year in collision repair. Whether you're here to learn, network, compete or just blow off some steam with your crew –we’ve got something for everyone.
The exhibit hall is much more than a trade show. We take an empty concrete room and fill it with excitement! Browse the aisles filled with full-sized equipment and noisy demos, or head to the competition ring in the center of the action! At the BIG SHOTS Competition, you can show off your skills in glue pull repair, bodywork, estimating and paint precision – compete for fun, or go for the grand prize of $1,000! During our happy hours, grab a cold beer, and enjoy complimentary apps at select booths while catching up with friends, old and new. It’s our version of shop talk – with snacks! While you're at it, snap a pic in our giant magazine cover box to see yourself on the front of Texas Automotive
One thing we are GREAT at is bringing you education that doesn’t feel like school. And back by popular demand: The Industry Over A Pint! A laid-back happy hour meets real-world
collision repair discussion, this time diving into calibrations. And don’t miss Mike Anderson’s always-epic seminars – expect high energy, chants and maybe even someone singing “I’m a Little Teapot” if they’re late!
When the show floor closes, the real party begins! This year's after party will be a Texas-meets-Hollywood bash to celebrate ABAT’s huge legislative win. Think high-tech photo ops, a roaming champagne skirt and big-time celebration vibes. On Saturday, our ladies’ event will return! We’ll be creating a cool, private space just for women in the industry to connect, relax and beat the Texas heat in style.
Whether you're coming to grow your business, expand your knowledge or just have a blast with your fellow auto body pros, this show delivers it all.
See y’all there – boots optional, good times guaranteed!
Jill Tuggle ABAT Executive Director
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 ever y day and finally, will the company making the booth provide solid training and reliable customer ser vice?
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 industr y 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 ever yone and asked a lot of questions We knew that this was going to be a ver y 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 ver y 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 ”
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 ever ything 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!”
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 ever y month, so
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 ver y 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 industr y 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 ”
ABAT Feature
Mandatory RTA Achieved! ABAT Celebrates Big Win for Texas Consumers
Winners never quit, and that certainly stands true for the ABAT community – June 21, 2025 will go down in history as the day the ABAT community saw their fight for mandatory appraisal rights for consumers come to a close as Senate Bill 458 was adopted into the Texas Insurance Code and made into law!
SB 458, which seeks to ensure that all Texas insurance policies “must contain an appraisal provision” and specifies that this appraisal provision “is intended to provide a type of dispute resolution process solely to determine the amount of loss when that amount is in dispute between the policyholder and the insurer,” will go into effect on September 1, 2025. (Read the bill in its entirety at bit.ly/SB458text.)
ABAT leaders are thrilled to have seen this legislation go all the way to the finish line.
“They say ‘the harder the battle, the sweeter the victory,’ and that is so true about this long-awaited win for Texas consumers,” exclaims ABAT Executive Director Jill Tuggle. “It certainly was not an easy road by any shape or means. Many obstacles stood in our way, but no matter how many times we got knocked down, we stood right back up and kept pushing forward with our quest to get this mandatory Right to Appraisal, so consumers have a fair shot toward getting reimbursed fairly. We are so grateful to our amazing team for putting in countless hours, blood, sweat and tears into getting this law passed.”
It was a group effort to get this law passed; however, there was one man whose battle cry was heard far and wide – Robert McDorman, founder of Auto Claim Specialists, whose devotion to ensuring the safety of roadways in the Lone Star State inspired him to take up a slingshot in this iteration of the classic “David versus Goliath” showdown with ABAT standing beside him the whole way.
The war against the Appraisal Clause began in 2015 when State Farm removed this vital consumer protection from their Texas policies. McDorman took up the mantle and began sounding the alarm through meetings with the Texas Department of Insurance (TDI) to alert them to the potential dangers that such an action presented to drivers and their roadways. Bills proposing mandatory appraisal rights were presented in the 2021 and 2023 sessions, but
both times, the session ended before a conclusive vote; however, the third time was the charm!
McDorman is ecstatic that all Texas policyholders will soon have access to the vital protection of Right to Appraisal, and he “looks forward to the next step, working with TDI to establish guidelines and appropriate time triggers.”
Over the years, ABAT has stood shoulder to shoulder with McDorman, providing pecuniary support and volunteering time and energy to promote all three iterations of the proposed mandatory appraisal legislation. In addition to significant personal financial contributions, ABAT President Burl Richards joined McDorman in several meetings with TDI and appearances before legislative committees to express the significance of this undertaking. Consumer advocacy watchdog Texas Watch also offered valuable support throughout the process through its efforts to generate public awareness, help educate legislators and the compilation of Impact of Auto Appraisal (available online at bit.ly/TXW-RTA), a report that demonstrated the monetary effect that Right to Appraisal typically has on claim settlements.
“We are so excited about the passage of this bill,” proclaims Richards, who added that it came down to the diligence of everyone involved. “It was an eight-year process with a lot of people involved. It was a collaborative effort between the entire ABAT association, along with Robert McDorman, our lobbyist Jacob Smith and Texas Watch. We couldn’t have done any of this without the ABAT members who donated and contributed their time and efforts, and I especially acknowledge the work of the ABAT Board of Directors who were a really big part of this.
“I remember leaving that meeting with TDI all those years ago stating we need to get a bill passed, but it was everyone combined who made it happen,” Richards continues. “There would not be a bill if just one person was involved. We were determined; we put our heads down and kept on learning about the whole legislative process to get it done.”
SB 458, the 2025 iteration of this legislative initiative, was fasttracked through the process, obtaining unanimous approval from both the Senate and the House during every review.
That’s a far cry from eight years ago when “legislators didn’t believe there was a need for mandatory appraisal rights,” McDorman recalls. “They hadn’t heard anything about it and couldn’t be convinced that it was a problem that needed their attention.”
Legislators’ disinterest did not dissuade him from this mission. McDorman continued to beat the drum for mandatory appraisal, meeting with TDI five times and appearing before various legislative committees a total of eight times to educate them on the impact of the Appraisal Clause. “Every time someone told me ‘no,’ I pushed forward. I refused to believe it was a waste of time.”
His efforts did not go unheard as it led TDI to acknowledge the need for legislators to “establish policy form appraisal guidance” in its 2022 Biennial Report, and in its Report to the 88th Texas Legislature, the Office of Public Insurance Counsel
(OPIC) expressed increasing concern that “restrictions on appraisal in policy forms filed by top insurers [which] can adversely impact consumers, who buy insurance to make sure damage to their property will be repaired or replaced” and that without appraisal, consumers may be forced to pay out-of-pocket or take on “costly and time-consuming burden of going to court.”
OPIC reiterated those concerns in its Report to the 89th Texas Legislature, listing appraisal as its first recommendation and urging legislators to “amend the Texas Insurance Code to require personal auto and residential property insurers in Texas to preserve the insurance consumer’s right to invoke appraisal in disputes regarding the cost to repair or replace covered property.”
McDorman also humbly credits the passage of SB 458 to Joe Collins, whose experience with the appraisal process yielded a large settlement from State Farm. (See bit.ly/CollinsvSF.) Recognizing how detrimental a similar under-indemnification situation might be for others, especially those who do not have the protections provided through the Appraisal Clause, Collins donated his entire settlement to the fight for mandatory appraisal rights. (See bit.ly/Collins4RTA.) “Many people helped us get to where we are, but Joe’s donation was instrumental to building that momentum,” McDorman insists. “I’m gratified by the passage of the bill which demonstrates that I was a worthy steward of his trust.
“The devil is in the details," he adds. “Every time I shared information, I had the evidence to support it. The insurance industry tends to be a little less transparent with their reporting, which provides the opportunity for dishonesty and undervaluation; I put a microscope on that practice and demonstrated how often policyholders get cheated. Now, all of our legislators understand how this provision protects their constituents, and I commend them for doing what’s right for all Texans, to help ensure safe roadways. The fact that the vote was unanimous from the House and the Senate – across both sides of the aisle – proves what a great job we did educating them on how the Appraisal Clause is a vital mechanism to ensure vehicle owners are reimbursed for all the operations required to safely repair their cars.”
He equates this legislative victory with the concept of slaying a giant. “We went up against really big odds; the insurance industry has deep pockets which enables them to walk all over people most of the time. Often, that happens because we are afraid to fight them; we’re afraid to lose. But when you’re doing the right thing for the right reason, it’s worthwhile to keep going, to continue the fight to make a difference. That’s what we did, and our efforts paid
by Chasidy Rae Sisk & Alana
off – this was the people’s fight…and the people fought and WON!”
ABAT’s achievement is not only a win for consumers but for the collision repair industry, as well, Richards says. “We get calls from people asking why they should join the association and what the association can do for them. The auto body association got legislation passed on behalf of body shops in the entire state, so this is a really big deal for us.” TXA
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Ladies of Collision
Danica Williams, Sherwin-Williams
When ABAT’s Jill Tuggle first suggested a regular feature dedicated solely to the ladies of the collision industry, the Texas Automotive team jumped at the chance to highlight the many females who make the Lone Star State’s auto body world shine. Our list of ladies to profile just grows and grows, clearly proving there is no shortage of women in collision repair. This month, we sat down with Danica Williams, who got her start in a body shop and is now a strategic account manager for Sherwin-Williams.
Texas Automotive: How did you get into this industry? What role do you play?
Danica M. Williams: Over a decade ago, I stepped into the collision repair industry, unsure of my long-term path, fresh out of college with a business degree and a
willingness to learn. My journey began in Abilene, where I took a customer service role at a local body shop. What started as an entry-level position quickly evolved –within six months, I was helping support an expansion into West Texas and moving into estimating, a role I taught myself through hands-on experience. As the business grew, so did my responsibilities. In Lubbock, I wore many hats: CSR, estimator, office manager and even parts coordinator. I learned every side of the shop, eventually stepping into a production management role after we were acquired by Gerber Collision. I later took the reins as general manager and led our team through a period of transition and growth. But life changed when I became a parent. Long hours in the shop no longer aligned with the balance I wanted at home. That’s when Sherwin-Williams approached me with a new opportunity – a chance to bring my industry knowledge into a sales role. After a year and a half on the sales team, I transitioned again, this time into a national role. Today, I serve as a strategic account manager, partnering with Caliber Collision and helping drive performance and relationships on a much broader scale. My story is one of adaptability, self-driven growth and a deep understanding of this industry from the ground up.
TXA: What are some of the biggest challenges women in the industry face?
DW: Working my way up in the collision repair industry wasn’t just about learning the business; it was also about challenging deeply rooted perceptions. Early on, I encountered customers who assumed I wasn’t in charge, often asking to speak
to ‘the man in charge,’ despite my role as the manager. Inside the shop, it wasn’t much different. I had to prove myself to colleagues who questioned my authority simply because I didn’t fit the traditional mold. One of the toughest moments came when a colleague told me, bluntly, that while he liked me as a person, he didn’t believe I belonged in a leadership role. He openly admitted he wouldn’t respect me as a manager. That was a defining moment. Rather than back down, I stayed committed, focused on performance and let my work speak for itself. It took several months, but eventually, I earned his respect and that of the team. What helped tremendously was my hands-on experience in every part of the shop, including my time as production manager at Gerber Collision. Knowing the back-end processes, understanding the pressure of timelines and working side-by-side with techs allowed me to build credibility the right way through action. That experience shaped my leadership style and made me stronger, more empathetic and more driven than ever to lead with purpose.
TXA: What about this industry do you love the most?
DW: Once I found my footing in the body shop and eventually stepped into the role of general manager, I genuinely didn’t think I’d ever leave. I loved the environment: the fast pace, the sense of accomplishment when a job was completed and the pride that came with turning chaos into order. There’s something incredibly satisfying about watching a vehicle go from wrecked to restored, knowing you helped make that happen. What surprised me most was how
Danica Williams, strategic account manager for Sherwin-Williams
by Alana Quartuccio
“
A career in this industry is absolutely worth it. There are many paths to get where you want to go; you just have to be confident, persistent and willing to prove your knowledge and capability.
much I came to enjoy the atmosphere. I never minded being one of the few women in the shop. If anything, I learned to navigate and even laugh at the occasional shop-floor drama (honestly, sometimes the guys have more of it than the women!). But beneath all that, I found real camaraderie and connection. This industry turned out to be far more rewarding than I ever expected. The relationships I’ve built, both in the shop and now in my national role, are what make it meaningful. Today, I’m fortunate to be part of an incredible team that truly collaborates. We challenge and support each other in all the right ways, and to me, that is the best part of the job.
TXA: What’s life like outside the body shop? Do you have any interesting hobbies?
DW: When I’m not working, I’m usually chasing my two-year-old son around – my full-time adventure buddy. He loves being outdoors, especially out at my mom’s place where he’s completely in his element. We spend weekends riding four-wheelers, checking on the cows, feeding the chickens and just soaking up the simple joys of farm life. It's become a special kind of escape for both of us. Beyond that, I love hunting, fishing, traveling and spending quality time with friends and family.
TXA: What encouraging words would you give to other women interested in entering the world of collision?
DW: Don’t give up!! Keep pushing toward what you truly want. A career in this industry is absolutely worth it. What surprised me most is how many women are out there doing incredible things in this space. Organizations like the Women’s Industry Network (WIN) opened my eyes and reminded me that I’m not alone, and there’s a growing community of strong, capable women building their careers
”
in collision repair and beyond. It’s not impossible. There are many paths to get where you want to go; you just have to be confident, persistent and willing to prove your knowledge and capability. Don’t wait for permission. Show up, speak up and lead like you belong, because you absolutely do!
TXA
THE LEADER IN QUALITY FOR 40 YEARS
Deep Rooted in Education:
Texas Auto Body Trade Show Branches Out
ABAT’s Texas Auto Body Trade Show has grown exponentially since it began in 2016, and its success can largely be attributed to the association’s willingness to branch out and try something new. This has been the case each year, and 2025 is certainly no different!
Taking place September 12-13 in its new location, at the Marriott Dallas Allen Hotel and Convention Center in Allen, the 2025 Texas Auto Body Trade Show promises to deliver the same high-energy education presentations that attendees have come to expect from the event, but as always (in true Texan fashion), it just keeps getting bigger and better as ABAT strives to offer the training that shops need most.
ABAT Executive Director Jill Tuggle is “incredibly excited about this year’s educational lineup! We are branching out and trying some new things, including a special presentation with motivational speaker and leadership expert Amy Pecachek, while still offering hard-hitting sessions on practical topics, presented by the nation’s top-rated industry favorites.”
A new addition to this year’s agenda is the inclusion of two sessions that will be delivered in Spanish. “When I was approached and asked why we didn’t offer classes in Spanish, I felt about 10 inches tall and realized this is Texas; the Spanish-speaking community is a huge part, not only of our state but also of the collision industry. We want the trade show to serve ALL collision repairers in our region, so it was a no-brainer to offer some options to eliminate possible language barriers and serve a broader audience.”
The opportunity to learn kicks off on Friday morning with How to Create and Achieve Your Post Shop Life, presented by Laura Gay (Consolidation Coach) and Matt DiFrancesco (High Lift Financial).
“Every shop owner will exit their business at some point, and they should be planning their succession from the moment they open up shop,” insists DiFrancesco. “From day one, you should be building value in the business and in your personal assets, so you’re ready to transition when the time comes.”
“Every shop owner will eventually leave their business –whether they plan to or not,” Gay agrees. “The question isn’t if they’ll transition, but how well they’ll be prepared when the time comes. Unfortunately, most owners are so focused on day-to-day operations that they don’t take the time to think strategically about their future. As a result, they risk leaving significant value – and peace of mind – on the table. The earlier an owner begins to plan – building value, organizing finances and aligning their business with personal goals – the more options they’ll have and the better outcomes they can expect. We want to empower shop owners to take control of that process, rather than leaving it to chance.”
DiFrancesco promises that attendees will walk away from their session with three things: recognition of the importance in planning ahead for their eventual transition, a better understanding of ways they may be neglecting to build value in their business and a general knowledge of how to build value, not just revenue.
Gay adds an additional takeaway: “A clearer roadmap for building a successful future – both for their business and their personal life after the shop. Whether they’re thinking about selling in the next year or just starting to plan, they’ll gain practical
by Chasidy
strategies to increase the value of their shop, prepare for a sale and transition on their own terms. They’ll also better understand what today’s buyers are really looking for, how to position themselves in a competitive market and how to avoid common pitfalls that can derail a deal or reduce a payout. But most importantly, they’ll learn how to align their exit strategy with their personal vision –so they’re not just stepping away from the business, but stepping confidently into what comes next. This session isn’t just about selling – it’s about setting up a fulfilling, secure post-shop life.”
At 10:15am, attendees can choose between Leveraging Body Shop KPIs to Drive Profit with Taylor Moss (OEConnection), From Dent to Delivery: AI Tools and Strategies to Reduce Cycle Time presented by Tom Zobelein (Capture the Keys) and Overcoming Information Overload, taught by Danny Gredinberg (Database Enhancement Gateway and Collision Advice) and Kyle Motzkus (subject matter expert).
Whenever Gredinberg and Motzkus team up, one can be certain they’ll be providing valuable information while having a ton of fun! Motzkus is particularly passionate about helping shops understand the dangers of information overload. “In the repair, we have four parties – technicians, estimators, customers and insurance companies – and none of them are on the same wavelength. Estimators think the repair should be done one way, and technicians view it differently, while insurers and customers just don’t want to pay the bill. The information should come from the repair planner, but they often don’t know how to explain what is needed. We all need to learn to communicate better, which starts with listening to understand instead of listening merely to respond. Understanding your audience and adapting to their needs is a key component to overcoming information overload.”
“You need to have buy-in from all the involved parties,” Gredinberg adds. “Help them understand why certain operations are required by the manufacturer. It can be overwhelming to apply all that information at once, but by breaking it down and making it digestible, it’s easier to effect meaningful change. Start with small changes and then progress to the next thing.”
The dynamic duo will seek to infuse attendees with confidence and an improved ability to tackle chaotic situations. “We want to help reduce the emotional stress that weighs on estimators,” Gredinberg says, and Motzkus agrees, “Being able to remove opinion from fact and embracing a calmer understanding of the situation is the main objective,” though he warns that attendees should be prepared to “listen, learn and don’t be afraid to drop your expectations of handling the repair from start to finish. Let the outcome be what it is, and let it go.”
From 11:30am-1:30pm, during Beyond the Wreckage: Proactive Leadership, Better Communication and Less Stress, keynote speaker Amy Pechacek (Alpstra & Co.) will explore how proactive leadership, emotional intelligence and clear communication can turn chaos into clarity.
“For many shops, stress (or chaos) has become the norm,” Pechacek observes. “Shops are fast-paced by nature – parts don’t arrive on time, color matches are off, customers are frustrated, and communication breaks down between departments. These
Rae Sisk continued on pg. 18
continued from pg. 17
challenges aren’t unique to one shop but rather are systemic across the industry. And while technical skills are vital, the real difference between a shop that’s simply ‘surviving’ and one that’s thriving often comes down to leadership and communication. Instead of reacting to problems all day long, shops can learn how to lead proactively, communicate more clearly and build a culture of accountability and calm.
“Learning how to lead with emotional intelligence and structure can reduce turnover, improve morale and boost profitability,” she continues, promising that attendees can expect to walk away with practical, real-world strategies they can apply the moment they return to the shop floor. Whether someone is a technician tired of unclear expectations, a painter frustrated by last-minute changes or a manager overwhelmed by putting out fires all day, attendees will leave with tools to help fix the ‘people’ part of their jobs. Because when a shop runs better, everyone wins – the team, the customers and the bottom line!”
Friday’s educational lineup will conclude with The Industry Over a Pint: A Calibration Conversation, beginning at 4pm. “A false narrative has been established that anyone can do in-house calibrations, and that’s simply not true; it’s setting some people up for failure,” facilitator Tommy Ames (1Source ADAS and Automotive Electronic Solutions) explains the concept for this happy hour seminar. “A lot of shops just don’t have the space or the knowledge to bring calibrations in-house. It requires a controlled environment, and without clearly understanding everything that’s involved, shops cannot make the right decision for their businesses.”
To help shops better understand everything involved, this panel will consist of shop owners who have successfully brought calibrations in-house, as well as those who choose to sublet the work. Ames has also invited a calibration company to explain how they do things, along with a tool vendor who will address how it is approached on that side of the equation. “Attendees will hear about all angles of this topic so they can judge for themselves: ‘Is this right for me? Can I do some of it or all of it, or should I sublet calibrations?’ Rather than exploring the possibility of bringing calibrations in-house from someone who is merely trying to sell them equipment and winding up in a situation where they are way over their head, they will learn about the challenges and possibilities from people who have actually done it so they can make an informed decision.”
On Saturday morning, beginning at 9am, ABAT invites repairers to Rise and Grind with an OEM panel offering insights on expectations for safe, efficient repairs, scanning and parts hot topics. During the same timeslot, Ricardo Garcia will tackle some of the industry’s most pressing topics in ABAT’s first Spanish-language seminar; a second class en español is planned but has not yet been finalized.
Three sessions are scheduled to commence at 10:45am, providing attendees to learn about Building the Office Team You've Always Wanted with Chuck Baldridge, Collision Center Director at Mike Calvert Toyota; Unlocking Repairability Beyond Traditional Repair Techniques with Danny Hacker (KECO Body Repair Products); or Growing the Future: A Conversation
Between Future Technicians and Body Shops with Raven Luna, collision repair instructor at Collin County College (Allen).
“For years, the collision repair industry has been grappling with a shrinking talent pool, often recycling the same estimators or facing challenges in hiring skilled personnel,” Baldridge shares. “It's crucial for shop owners and managers to shift their focus from solely evaluating candidates based on their estimating skills to prioritizing personality, values and work ethic. By developing a structured training plan, we can attract talented individuals who may not have traditional estimating experience but possess the potential to excel in our field. This approach not only empowers shops to make better hiring decisions but also fosters a new generation of skilled professionals in the industry.
“Attendees will gain valuable insights as I outline the components that contribute to the success of our training program, including the online learning modules, role-playing sessions and live-action training,” he states. “Participants will learn about the resources and platforms that can facilitate their own training initiatives and how to create a comprehensive training format that resonates with their teams. Ultimately, this session will equip them with the tools and knowledge to effectively onboard and train their ‘perfect hire’ in just 90 days!”
Luna will tackle the workforce shortage from a different angle by helping shops understand a bit more about the “new generation of technicians joining the workforce. I want to introduce that group to the industry by sharing what new technicians are looking for in an employer and what they can contribute to your shop. I also want to highlight what shops can do to accommodate these new technicians.”
Since it’s highly likely that most shops will need to hire an entry-level technician within the next five years, Luna recommends this session for anyone interested in learning “new strategies for recruiting, retaining and training entry-level technicians.”
The final educational session this year will feature industry icon Mike Anderson of Collision Advice as he delivers an enigmatic and energetic presentation that repairers won’t want to miss focused on trends regarding customer pay increasing and how collision repairers need to Stay Humble, Stay Hungry in all aspects of their business including customer interaction and repair plans.
The educational agenda isn’t the only area where the 2025 Texas Auto Body Trade Show will be branching out this year. While attendees can look forward to the return of crowd favorites – like the BIG SHOTS Competition and annual car show – ABAT has a few surprises planned for the exhibit hall floor, which will be open 1-8pm on Friday and 10am-6pm on Saturday. And this year’s After Party may look a little different as well as ABAT celebrates the recent legislative victory on mandatory Right to Appraisal by scaling up the jubilee with a champagne toast and more.
Stay tuned for additional updates on the 2025 Texas Auto Body Trade Show in next month’s Texas Automotive. To learn more about the show and to register, visit abat.us/trade-show. TXA
Industry Update
An Investment in Success: Wieländer+Schill Welding Equipment Provides Precision, Peace of Mind
What makes an elite collision repair facility? Expert technicians, impeccable attention to detail, unwavering adherence to OEM repair procedures and top-notch customer service. Just as important is the facility’s investment in cutting-edge, quality equipment. Wieländer+Schill’s full range of welders available through Reliable Automotive Equipment (RAE) helps leverage a shop’s investment into efficient, accurate repairs, elevating the overall customer experience while ensuring the vehicle is restored as close to preaccident condition as possible.
W+S welders help repairers performing a wide variety of welding repairs with simple, self-explanatory, intuitive operation and the highest safety standards. The InvertaPuls IP7-2 offers 2-button handling, dual 3G torches, ergonomic torch removal and narrow housing construction for ease of use in any size shop performing steel and aluminum welding, while the InvertaPuls IP6-2 uses Automatic Cold Transfer technology for a user-friendly MIG brazing experience. Just select your material
thickness!
The InvertaPuls IP4-3 is your go-to for steel, brazing and aluminum welding with automatic torch recognition, parameter retention and a 4-roller wire feed for seamless results. With 90 memory spots and 240A current, pulse and double-pulse welding procedures can be performed effortlessly. And shops looking for inverter technology need look no further than the MIG/MAG IM240-I,
a powerhouse featuring a 4-roller drive with trim adjustment and D300 wire spool compatibility for ensured precision. Dynamic pulse adjustment guarantees impeccable results on thin sheet metal as thin as 0.6mm.
For more information on the full line of Wieländer+Schill welders and all available equipment, service, training and support through Reliable Automotive Equipment, visit raeservice.com
Wieländer+Schill MIG welders ensure quality welds, every time.
Ask The Expert Texas Mandatory Binding Right to Appraisal Rights Becomes Law
Dear Mr. McDorman,
by Robert L. McDorman
I own and operate a collision facility in East Texas. I, like many readers, have been closely following the editorials on the Texas Mandatory Appraisal Bill journey, and I appreciate everyone’s hard work on this important consumer protection issue. I saw over the weekend that the Mandatory Right to Appraisal Bill SB 458 was approved to become law in Texas. Can you expand on this for me and the other readers? Also, what are the next steps?
Thank you and the many other readers so much for keeping up with the campaign for mandatory appraisal rights in Texas for all motor vehicle policies and for everyone’s support in this long but worthwhile journey. Yes, SB 458 was e-filed and passed into law on the afternoon of Saturday, June 21. The passing of SB 458 will amend the Texas Insurance Code to require each auto policy in Texas to have a binding Appraisal Clause for loss disputes. This requirement will apply to any insurance policy delivered, issued for delivery or renewed on or after January 1, 2026.
The next step in the process will be for Commissioner Brown to adopt rules mandating an appraisal for total loss and delineating property damage subject to the appraisal and the period of appraisal. Also, Commissioner Brown must consider the qualifications and selection criteria for appraisers and umpires for the appraisal. There is still much work to be done, and we all know that the devil is always found in the details. Everyone should remain vigilant and keep a close eye on how the mandates of SB 458 get implemented.
The passing of SB 458, ensuring that all Texas motor vehicle insurance policies will have a binding Appraisal Clause, is a wonderful step forward for consumer rights. I applaud lawmakers for passing this bill into law during the 89th legislative session. Our position at Auto Claim Specialists has always been that the Right to Appraisal should be a mandatory contractual right in every policy, and we are thrilled with the successful passage of SB 458.
Auto Body Association of Texas’ (ABAT) lobbyist, Jacob Smith, has done a wonderful job working with lawmakers and lobbyists over the years to get us where we are today. Our lobbyist at Auto Claim Specialists, Andrew “Drew” Graham, has also done an amazing job educating and working with law makers and other lobbyists on the importance of mandatory appraisal rights in motor vehicle policies in Texas. I cannot say enough good things about these two men and their desire to help the insured citizens of our great state to achieve mandatory appraisal rights. I love them both
Robert is a recognized Public Insurance Adjuster and Certified Vehicle Value Expert specializing in motor vehicle-related insurance claim resolution. Robert can be reached by phone at (800) 736-6816, (817) 756-5482 or via email at AskTheExpert@autoclaimspecialists.com.
and commend their dogged determination to watch over and protect the insured Texans’ interest relating to a covered loss.
The under-indemnification in repair procedure claims in Texas is rampant. Most of the estimates and supplements we see for repair claims have many overlooked (by design) safety and OEM-required operations needed to restore the loss vehicle to its pre-loss condition to the best of one's human ability. Now, with the passing of SB 458, when a dispute arises over the loss on a motor vehicle claim, there will be a binding Appraisal Clause in the policy allowing these disputes to be turned over to industry professionals to determine the loss.
The spirit of the Appraisal Clause is to resolve loss disputes fairly and to do so in a timely and cost-effective manner. Invoking the Appraisal Clause removes inexperienced and biased carrier appraisers and claims handlers from the process, undermining their management’s many tricks to undervalue the loss settlement and under-indemnify the insured. Through the Appraisal Clause, loss disputes can be resolved relatively quickly, economically, equitably and amicably by unbiased, experienced, independent third-party appraisers as opposed to more costly and time-consuming methods such as mediation, arbitration and litigation.
In today’s world, regarding motor vehicle insurance policies, frequent changes in claim management and claim handling policies, and non-standardized GAP Addendums, we have found it is always in the best interest of the insured or claimant to have their proposed insurance settlement reviewed by an expert before accepting. There is never an upfront fee for Auto Claim Specialists to review a motor vehicle claim or proposed settlement and give their professional opinion as to the fairness of the offer.
Please call me should you have any questions relating to the policy or covered loss. We have most insurance policies in our library. Always remember that safe repair is a quality repair, and quality equates to value. I thank you for your question and look forward to any follow-up questions that may arise.
Sincerely,
Robert L. McDorman TXA
President’s Message
continued from pg. 4
frustrating that many shops just throw their hands in the air and eat the cost.
The other option is to bill the difference to the customer, and though we’re all programmed to take care of the people who entrust their vehicles to us, sometimes the best way we can do that is by explaining the situation to the customer, educating them on why the right part is going to cost a little more out of pocket and having them pay the difference or deal with their insurance carrier since it’s their contract. I understand that we want to remove the burden for them, but insurers make that incredibly difficult. After all, just
like we didn’t choose the vendor that the carrier wants us to use, we didn’t choose the policy that the customer selected, so sometimes, there’s only so much we can do.
But I’m sure that’s not the only way to address this situation. I’d be curious to know how other shops are dealing with it, especially those who have had success with it. Are you seeing this problem with junkyard parts in your shop? How do you deal with the return process? Have you been able to convince the insurer to step in?
As an association, ABAT is here to bring problems like this to the forefront, but we don’t have all the answers. We’re a sounding board for the Texas collision repair industry, but ABAT is only as good as our members and others who are willing to contribute their thoughts to help us come up with valuable solutions, so we can arm Lone Star shops with the information they need most.
That’s also the goal of the Texas Auto Body Trade Show each year, and this year’s event is shaping up to be a doozy! It’s a great opportunity to connect with your collision peers, visit vendors to learn more about the products they offer and learn from some of the best respected trainers in the industry. Mark your calendars for September 12-13, and learn more about the 2025 educational agenda on page 16. Updated information will be posted at abat.us/trade-show becomes available.
burl.richards@proton.me TXA
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