Oct. 30, 2012 — 3M Automotive Aftermarket announced the launch of a new campaign geared to help both military personnel returning home and to fill a major void in the collision repair industry.
In partnering with the Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF), the National Auto Body Council (NABC) and Operation Comfort, 3M’s Hire Our Heroes campaign will work to support troops with rehabilitation and training to help pursue careers in the collision repair industry.
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In a statement from 3M, Dale Ross, the company's U.S. marketing operations manager for its automotive aftermarket division, said the industry “needs qualified repair professionals” with the skills required to contribute to a repair facility.
“The men and women who have served our country bring excellent training and skills, a commitment for doing the job correctly, a passion for intellectual achievement and a strong work ethic—all tremendous attributes for employment in today’s collision repair industry,” Ross said.
The goal for 3M is to donate $250,000 to this cause, beginning in January.
The program will provide funding for education through CREF and help with their rehabilitation process.
In 2013, 3M plans to engage its industry alliances, channel partners and collision repair shops in building awareness for this program.
“These men and women will receive instruction in collision repair, estimating, vehicle refinishing and other related topics toward the goal of preparing them for reentry into the civilian workforce, namely our industry,” said NABC executive director Chuck Sulkala.
