Future of Collision Repair Workforce Study Reveals Next Generation Eager to Work with New Technology

CCC Intelligent Solutions Inc. has released key findings from its Future of Collision Repair Workforce Study, published in partnership with the Collision Repair Education Foundation. The study surveyed 475 high school and college students, technical/vocational students, and recent graduates considering careers in collision repair.  

The study reveals a positive perception of the collision repair industry among the next generation of professionals. It also highlights their eagerness to pursue a career that combines hands-on work with advanced technology in a field they view as stable and rewarding. 

“To build a strong future for the collision repair industry, we need to understand how the next generation views our field,” said Andreas Hecht, SVP, head of OEM partnerships for CCC Intelligent Solutions and member of the CREF board of trustees. “By raising awareness of collision repair as a dynamic career path and providing training on the cutting-edge technology used by professionals, we can build a steady influx of talent for years to come.” 

Key Findings from the Future of Collision Repair Workforce Study 

Career Stability and Longevity: 

• 95% of respondents are confident that collision repair is more stable than traditional college-degree jobs 

• 74% believe a collision repair career offers higher earning potential than traditional college-degree jobs 

• 31% are influenced by the promise of work-life balance and the flexibility and variety in tasks 

Balance Between Hands-On Work and Technology: 

• 81% of respondents want a career where they can work with their hands 

• 82% of respondents want a career where they can use technology  

• 95% said knowing they would regularly use advanced software and AI tools would increase their interest in a collision repair career 

Career Awareness and Misconceptions: 

• 69% of respondents thought collision repair work was mostly done with manual tools 

• 30% have concerns over the high physical demands of collision repair 

• 29% expressed concerns about social stigma of trade work  

“It’s rewarding to see that incoming students view collision repair as a stable profession offering long-term career advancement opportunities,” said Brandon Eckenrode, executive director, CREF. “By continuing to collaborate across the industry, showcasing success stories, and providing scholarships, funding and technological training to students and schools, we can effectively raise awareness and create opportunities for students eager to join the profession.” 

Since 2011, in partnership with CREF, CCC has donated more than $75 million through in-kind donations of its CCC ONE Estimating software to hundreds of schools, enabling students to gain real-world training on the type of technology they will utilize when they enter the workforce. Recognizing the appetite incoming professionals have for using advanced technology, CCC has announced it will provide access to CCC ONE to every CREF member school – both current and future.  

Schools interested in joining CREF, receiving access to CCC software, or viewing the study findings, can visit the CCC website here. 

CCC engaged Hanover Research, a leading provider of custom market research, to conduct this survey. Respondents were U.S. residents, 16 years old or older and included high school juniors and seniors, community college/two-year degree students, technical/vocational students and recent high school graduates currently in the workforce. All were open to considering a career in collision repair or already planning to apply to a collision repair program.