AkzoNobel is revving up support for collision repair industry at NACE Automechanika 2018

AkzoNobel is a main sponsor and part of two popular events: the Career Connection Panel, and the I-CAR Rockin’ Rides Reception, which benefits the Collision Repair Education Foundation.

ABRN Wire Reports

Aug. 2, 2018

3 min read

Hundreds of companies and thousands of attendees in the collision repair industry are about to come together for the third NACE Automechanika, a major U.S. trade show for automotive service and collision repair shops and manufacturers. The show takes place in Atlanta, Georgia, from August 8 – 10, 2018. AkzoNobel, a leading global paints and coatings company, is a main sponsor and part of two popular events: the Career Connection Panel, and the I-CAR Rockin’ Rides Reception, which benefits the Collision Repair Education Foundation.

“Right now, there is a critical shortage of young professionals in the collision repair industry, and AkzoNobel is proud to support the mission to train the next generation of technicians,” says Doug Holmberg, AkzoNobel’s North America Business Director for Automotive & Specialty Coatings. “As an industry leader in paints and coatings, AkzoNobel has a passion for providing the tools for success in our industry. By being part of NACE Automechanika 2018 and actively supporting the Collision Repair Education Foundation year-round, we help make sure we have a solid and diverse workforce of trained professionals.” NACE Automechanika 2018 showcases the latest technology in the automotive aftermarket and brings together manufacturers, shop owners, technicians and distributors to explore new industry products and innovations. During the career connection panel on Friday, August 10, AkzoNobel will join other industry professionals to provide tips about entering and succeeding in the field as a technician and how to make the most of available training opportunities. About 500 students are expected to attend the panel presentation. AkzoNobel is also a Gala Party Sponsor for the I-CAR Rockin’ Rides Reception on Thursday, August 9 – a fun industry networking event that raises funds for the Collision Repair Education Foundation. The I-CAR Rockin’ Rides exhibit showcases custom sport cars, prototypes, antiques and classics, trucks, motorcycles and race vehicles. Attendees can meet the builders and network. The reception will feature music, food, drinks and cars. Vehicle awards will also be announced at the celebration.

Holmberg adds, “A significant portion of the existing collision repair workforce plans to retire or change jobs within the next few years. We want to inspire young people to pursue careers in the aftermarket industry. Both the career connection panel and the I-CAR Rockin’ Rides Reception provide fun opportunities to bring together automotive enthusiasts to network and find out about educational support in the collision industry.”

About the events

NACE Automechanika 2018 showcases the latest technology in the automotive aftermarket. It takes place from Wednesday, August 8, through Friday, August 10, 2018, at the Georgia World Congress Center. Access the full schedule here.

Show hours:
Wednesday, August 8, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Thursday, August 9, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Friday, August 10, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Show Venue Address:
Georgia World Congress Center
285 Andrew Young International Blvd NW
Atlanta, GA 30313

The I-CAR Rockin’ Rides Reception is on Thursday, August 9, from 4 to 7 p.m., on the exhibit floor. Admission is a $25 donation per person. All proceeds are donated to the Collision Repair Education Foundation to support local automotive schools.

The Career Connection Conference (Student Day) takes place on Friday, August 10, from 9 to 11 a.m., in the Thomas Murphy Ballroom. AkzoNobel will join other industry panelists, including auto parts suppliers, body shop owners and technician schools.

You can get more information about AkzoNobel at www.akzonobel.com.