The Inter-industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR) has reduced staff at two locations, but says that technicians and other members will not notice a difference. “Our customers will not be impacted by any service received from either location,” says Joyce Kasmer, I-CAR director of marketing. I-CAR Board Chairman John Edelen says the group’s revenue level still is respectable, but its growth has been outpaced by the rate of escalation in its operating expenses. “As with many businesses during these difficult economic times, I-CAR has had to re-evaluate its operating performance and its strategic position in meeting the training needs of the industry,” Edelen says. “Through this work, I-CAR has identified changes that must take place to ensure that I-CAR remains a viable organization and is positioned to be successful in the future.” The Tech Centre is responsible for product development, specialty training and material fulfillment, according to Kasmer. The Training Support Center handles customer care, technology, human resource services, accounting, data processing, marketing and corporate administration. “Through the most recent review of the needs of the organization and its staffing levels we have found it necessary to consolidate some roles and activities, reduce resource levels in some areas, and to eliminate some roles,” Edelen says. “This has resulted in the reduction of the overall staffing needs of the organization, and the release of the employees affected by these decisions. We want to acknowledge the years of service and contributions of these employees.” |
