CREF partners with Montana Collision Repair Association to support state’s lone collision program

Montana State University – Billings in the only school providing pre-employment training in the state.

Sept. 3, 2019

2 min read

The Collision Repair Education, the 501(c)(3) charity dedicated to supporting collision repair educational programs, schools, and students to create qualified, entry-level employees and connect them with an array of career opportunities, is partnering with the Montana Collision Repair Association (MCRA) to support the state’s lone collision repair training program.

Montana State University – Billings in the only school providing pre-employment training in the state. Through the partnership, the MCRA and the Education Foundation will raise funds to provide the school and its students with:

Hand tools
Aluminum repair tools/equipment
New frame rack
Student scholarships
Epoxied program floors
Student work uniforms

Steven Wodrich, the collision instructor at MSU-Billings, said, “When I took over the program, most of the tools were in need of repair, replacement, or were obsolete. It has been a struggle to get all the tools I have needed to make my program current. I have worked very hard at finding donations and grants and have been able to update many of our tools but still have a long way to go to be completely current.”

“Through our the generous support of sponsors and the local collision industry we hope to help MSU-Billings students receive the education they need to succeed in the collision industry,” said Collision Repair Education Foundation Director of Development Brandon Eckenrode.

“MCRA is proud to team with Collision Repair Education to enhance the future of collision repairers in the state of Montana. Programs such as this are a lifeline to the repairers, schools, trainers, and students supporting the collision repair industry. Thank you for your hard work and dedication,” said Paul Flores, owner/general manager of Rick’s Auto Body in Missoula and president of the MCRA.

Individuals and companies interested in supporting the Montana fundraiser should contact Education Foundation Director of Development Brandon Eckenrode at (312) 231-0258 or [email protected].