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Tag: Newsletter 5th Article

  • Crash Champions creates new Technician Training Program

    Crash Champions creates new Technician Training Program

    Crash Champions, one of the nation’s fastest-growing founder-led collision repair providers, recently announced the launch of its new Technician Training Program. Chris Sandoval, a body technician from its Eagle Ranch, New Mexico location, is the first program participant to become Level 1-certified.

    The new Technician Training Program was designed and developed by Crash Champions’ Collision Technology department to offer its team of I-CAR Gold Class technicians real-time access to a growing digital training catalog covering the automotive industry’s latest tools, products, and vehicle advancements – available directly at their stall. Crash Champions also partnered with industry leaders such as 3M, Pro Spot, Car-O-Liner, and KECO to develop many of the training modules available to technicians.

    “As the automotive industry continues to evolve and become increasingly complex, it’s essential that we stay ahead of the curve with the latest innovations and training programs for every member of our team,” said Matt Ebert, Crash Champions founder and CEO. “The Technician Training Program empowers our technicians with material that’s always current, comprehensive, and easy to access.”

    Through the program, Crash Champions body technicians can immediately access over 100 exclusive technical videos, achieve three certification levels (Level 1-Skilled, Level 2-Advanced, Level 3-Elite), and gain direct support from Crash Champions’ Collision Technology team — all available through the company’s internal software platforms and conveniently accessible via mobile devices at the stall level to support technician growth. 

    The program supplements Crash Champions’ lineup of training programs, including its body technician apprenticeship, STEP (aimed at aspiring technicians entering the trade), and its Associate Service Advisor Program.

    Sandoval, Crash Champions’ first Level 1-certified technician in the program, was recognized last month by Ebert and senior leadership at the company’s Chicago headquarters. 

    “During my time at Crash Champions, I’ve learned that the company’s belief in ‘Championing People’ is practiced every day in ways big and small,” said Sandoval. “This program perfectly encompasses that vision, as it has allowed technicians like me the ability to stay on the cutting edge of collision repair technology. Better said, the program’s easily accessible resources and training have set us up for successful, long-term careers while ensuring we’re in the best position possible to help our customers with the knowledge and confidence to fulfill the trust they put in us during their time of need.”  

  • Free engine management webinar Feb. 7

    Free engine management webinar Feb. 7

    An hour-long webinar titled Understanding Engine Management will be offered at 6 p.m.Eastern Feb. 7 by Motor Age Training.

    The webinar will be pesented live in the shop by TST’s “G” Jerry Truglia and Pierre Respaut. It offers a quick overview of PCM functions, covering inputs, outputs, and how sensors and actuators regulate engine performance. This class will discuss sensors, actuators, fuel trim, ignition systems, and O₂/Air Fuel sensors essential for efficient engine operation.

    Attendees will learn how to:

    • Explain the primary functions of the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), including how inputs, outputs, sensors, and actuators interact to control engine performance
    • Identify key engine management components—such as fuel trim systems, ignition systems, and O₂/air-fuel ratio sensors—and describe their role in efficient engine operation
    • Apply a foundational understanding of PCM logic to interpret sensor and actuator behavior during real-world diagnostic and performance scenarios

    The free webinar is sponsored by Duralast. You can register here.

    Founder/President of Technicians Service Training (TST), G. Jerry Truglia has extensive experience in the automotive field as a technician, service manager, shop owner and technical writer. He is a senior curriculum developer who provides training programs for automotive and truck inspection and repair programs. He has provided on-board diagnostic system, OBDII and automotive training all over the country. He is the owner, curriculum developer and instructor for Automotive Technician Training Services (ATTS) in Mahopac, New York.

    Pierre Respaut has been in the automotive industry for over 55 years as a Master ASE Certified Technician & L1, diagnostician, shop owner and as part of the BIMRs.org, STS and TST among others.

  • New CAT AI Assistant can be a technician’s ‘partner’ while making repairs

    New CAT AI Assistant can be a technician’s ‘partner’ while making repairs

    Caterpillar Inc. recently unveiled Cat AI Assistant, an AI-based solution that allows Cat customers to engage with Caterpillar’s equipment and portfolio of digital applications in new, powerful ways.

    With Cat AI Assistant, Caterpillar said it is making it easier for customers to buy, maintain, manage and operate their equipmen no matter where they are. The launch marks a major step forward for Industrial AI, redefining how work gets done by combining data, AI and heavy equipment to help customers improve productivity, efficiency and safety, according to a statement from CAT.

    Caterpillar said it plans to bring the off-board Cat AI Assistant live in the first quarter of this year and is in the final stages of validation for in-cab applications, which will help machine operators work more safely and efficiently. Caterpillar demonstrated these capabilities on the mainbstage of CES 2026 in Las Vegas recently.

    Built on more than a century of Caterpillar innovation, Cat AI Assistant unifies Caterpillar’s portfolio of digital applications and vast amounts of high-quality data into one simple, conversational experience. It operates against the entire Caterpillar knowledge base and serves as a proactive partner for customers, providing personalized data and insights and enabling faster, smarter decisions, according to the company.

    “Caterpillar’s strong digital foundation, including our Helios data platform that manages over 16 petabytes of data, is helping us move fast and deploy new AI capabilities to help our customers succeed,” said Ogi Redzic, Caterpillar Chief Digital Officer. “Cat AI Assistant is a major leap forward in how Caterpillar supports customer success through best-in-class digital solutions, whether they’re working from corporate headquarters or at a remote jobsite.”

    With industries facing talent and skills gaps, and customers managing increasing jobsite complexity, Cat AI Assistant can help a less experienced operator improve productivity, or help a Cat dealer provide better, more tailored insights to customers.

    For technicians
    For a technician, Cat AI Assistant is a dependable partner that can, with a simple voice command, and without interrupting the task at hand, quickly access the right section from a library of thousands of instruction manuals. It provides step-by-step guidance on repairs, highlights common issues and suggests additional parts needed to complete the job, saving valuable time and resources.

    For fleet managers & owners
    For business owners, Cat AI Assistant is an extra set of eyes on their equipment — evolving alongside their operations, continually refining insights and recommendations to help turn unplanned incidents into planned maintenance and to match the pace of their growing businesses.

    For machine operators
    For an operator, Cat AI Assistant connects every step of the workday — from machine startup to shift handoff. It’s a coach in the cab, providing operators with information to work smarter and safer without switching screens, returning to the yard or losing focus. Cat AI Assistant leverages the NVIDIA Jetson Thor platform to run speech recognition and advanced AI models and can even assist with directing the machine — at the edge, where work is done.

  • 150th class graduates from Peterbilt Technician Institute

    150th class graduates from Peterbilt Technician Institute

    The Peterbilt Technician Institute (PTI) recently announced the graduation of its 150th class since the program’s launch.

    The milestone achieved at the Irving, Texas campus underscores PTI’s ongoing commitment to developing highly skilled service technicians prepared to support today’s advanced vehicle technologies, the company said in a statement.

    “Reaching our 150th graduating class is more than a milestone, it highlights our steady support in preparing the next generation of qualified service technicians,” said Danny Landholm, Peterbilt director of Dealer Network Development. “Our graduates are trained not only to service and maintain today’s most sophisticated trucks but also to adapt as technology evolves.”

    PTI was established to meet the growing demand for skilled technicians across Peterbilt’s dealer network, becoming a leading diesel technology training program for aspiring technicians throughout North America. The program features an immersive curriculum combining classroom learning, real-world
    experience, factory-level certification and advanced instruction on the latest Peterbilt technologies, including alternative fuels, electric powertrains, diagnostics and telematics.

    Upon completing the program, students earn factory-trained technician credentials that can help fast-track their careers at more than 430 Peterbilt dealerships across the United States and Canada.

    Interested students can learn more about the PTI program by visiting https://peterbilt.tech/institute.html.

  • Revv launches Organization dedicated to ADAS professionals

    Revv launches Organization dedicated to ADAS professionals

    Revv, a leading vehicle calibration operating system, recently announced the launch of the United ADAS Collective (UAC), the first professional organization exclusively for the ADAS calibration community. Designed as an industry-wide hub, the UAC provides a center for shared standards, education, events, and peer-to-peer collaboration, according to a statement from Revv.

    The UAC includes over 1,000 active members, spanning collision repair shop owners and managers, ADAS and calibration technicians, diagnostic professionals, and auto glass and windshield specialists. Its launch comes as ADAS has become standard across nearly all new vehicles. With 90% of U.S. car sales now featuring these systems and the average vehicle containing more than 100 sensors, routine repairs like a cracked windshield, damaged bumper, or broken side mirror often require precise calibration before a vehicle can be safely returned to the road.

    The UAC’s programming is centered around education, events, and community, with tiered training and certification launching soon. Users will be offered a mix of free and paid membership options based on the level of involvement and resources they’re seeking. Members gain access to industry news, a job board, original equipment (OE)-specific technical discussions, peer-to-peer collaboration, and hands-on learning opportunities. The UAC will also host its first ADAS Industry Event in May 2026, with additional details to be announced.

    The UAC is guided by Executive Director Joel Adcock, Revv’s Director of Strategic Partnerships, and an advisory board of industry leaders.

    “ADAS calibration has quickly become a critical part of modern vehicle repair,” said Adi Bathla, CEO and Co-founder of Revv. “The United ADAS Collective is an important step forward for the industry, bringing calibration professionals together around shared standards, practical support, and a stronger sense of community as the category continues to grow. This is a natural extension of Revv’s role in helping shape the emerging ADAS category.”

    Interested shops, technicians, or industry professionals can join for free at www.unitedadascollective.org.

  • Registration open for work truck week March 10-13

    Registration open for work truck week March 10-13

    Work Truck Week 2026 combines a packed exhibit hall with three days of commercial vehicle industry training and education.

    Work Truck Week 2026 runs March 10–13, 2026, at Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis. It encompasses The Work Truck Show, Green Truck Summit, NTEA Annual Meeting with keynote speakers, Work Truck Week Ride & Drive, educational program and more. Green Truck Summit is March 10, educational sessions run March 10–12, and Work Truck Show exhibits are open March 11–13.

    You can register at worktruckweek.com.

    The 2026 Work Truck Week educational program equips companies with strategies to strengthen operations and prepare for what’s ahead. A mix of in-depth special sessions and shorter breakouts are divided into eight tracks:

    • Advanced Fuels & Vehicle Technology
    • Chassis Update
    • Dealership Training
    • Fleet Management
    • Government Regulations & Advocacy
    • Market Data & Industry Trends
    • Vehicle Design & Certification
    • Workforce Development.

    “Whether you’re a fleet operator, transportation manager, truck dealer, upfitter or distributor, Work Truck Week can help you grow professionally, stay on top of industry trends and improve your operation,” said Jennifer Mitchell, NTEA senior director of content development. “In an industry that is constantly evolving, the Work Truck Week educational program offers an unmatched opportunity to learn from the best and brightest about the topics that matter to your success.”

    Work Truck Week educational sessions are eligible for continuing education units through NTEA’s accreditation by International Accreditors for Continuing Education and Training. Learn more at ntea.com/iacet.

    For the full Work Truck Week 2026 educational program schedule, session descriptions, speaker bios and more, visit worktruckweek.com/education.

    Contact NTEA (info@ntea.com or 248-489-7090) with questions.

  • Atlanta Tech breaks ground on new transportation & logistics facility

    Atlanta Tech breaks ground on new transportation & logistics facility

    Atlanta Technical College (ATC) recently broke ground on its Center for Transportation and Logistics (CTL), which the college calledc a transformative facility designed to meet the growing workforce demands of Georgia’s transportation and logistics industry.

    The ceremony took place on Dec. 12 and featured Dr. Victoria Seals, President of Atlanta Technical College; Greg Dozier, Commissioner of the Technical College System of Georgia; and Robb Pitts, chairman of the Fulton County Board of Commissioners.

    The CTL is located on 25 acres that was donated by the Fulton County Board of Commissioners. The development includes a one-acre CDL testing course, the first of its kind in Metro Atlanta that is accessible to the public and serving as the only CDL testing site within the city.

    The new center will increase enrollment capacity fivefold, introduce Class B box truck driver training, and offer expanded day and evening class options. Programs will include these:

    • Commercial Truck Driving
    • Diesel Mechanics
    • Supply Chain Management
    • Warehousing
    • Logistics Operations
    • Procurement
  • SEMA supports bill that allows aftermarket businesses to calibrate advanced driver assistance systems

    SEMA supports bill that allows aftermarket businesses to calibrate advanced driver assistance systems

    The Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) is praising the U.S. House of Representatives introduction of the ADAS Functionality & Integrity Act by Rep. Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.) and cosponsored by Rep. Gabe Vasquez (D-N.M.), Rep. Jay Obernolte (R-Calif.), and Rep. Norma Torres (D-Calif.).

    SEMA said it worked closely with lawmakers from both parties to secure bipartisan support for the legislation, which ensures that aftermarket businesses have the information needed to properly calibrate advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) after vehicles are modified. SEMA said this legislation is critical to being able to safely make common modifications, including installing bike racks, wrapping a vehicle, installing larger wheels and tires, or installing a winch or aftermarket bumpers, without compromising the functionality of ADAS.

    SEMA said the bill is timely, because a forthcoming federal mandate that new, model year 2029 vehicles feature automatic emergency braking, bringing important safety systems to all new vehicles sold in the U.S.

    The ADAS Functionality & Integrity Act would require the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to establish ADAS guidelines to create modification ranges and tolerances for new vehicles starting in model year 2028. The bill also requires NHTSA to create guidelines that establish ADAS test procedures that aftermarket businesses can properly test and validate that the vehicle systems have been properly calibrated.

    “SEMA thanks Rep. Harshbarger for her leadership and Reps. Vasquez, Obernolte, and Torres for their strong support for ensuring vehicles with ADAS can be modified without compromising the integrity of these important safety systems, said Jim Moore, SEMA vice president of OEM and Product Development. “The introduction of the ADAS Functionality & Integrity Act is a landmark moment for anyone who owns, repairs, or modifies a vehicle.

    “Americans deserve confidence that those critical systems will work as intended for the entire life of their vehicle, even after repairs or customization. Currently, the industry lacks clear standards governing ADAS calibration, and aftermarket businesses and vehicle owners need access to the necessary calibration information and procedures needed to keep modern safety features functioning. This bill marks a critical step forward in the name of vehicle safety and is a major step forward in protecting the American people’s right to modify the vehicles they own.”

  • Kriete expands Milwaukee presence with Badger Acquisition

    Kriete expands Milwaukee presence with Badger Acquisition

    Kriete Truck Centers, headquartered in Milwaukee with 11 locations across Wisconsin, recently announced it has acquired Badger Truck & Auto Group (Badger Truck Center) in Milwaukee.

    The newly acquired nearly nine-acre facility doubles Kriete’s Milwaukee market presence. The site’s location — one exit west of the Milwaukee Zoo Interchange — offers easy accessibility for the company’s growing customer base and supplier partner network.

    The expansion enables Kriete to offer customers a full line of Class 3–8 trucks, including Mack, Volvo, Hino, Isuzu, and Autocar, from its new Milwaukee location. This will be the company’s third Milwaukee-based location since its founding in 1951.

    Kriete Truck Centers, founded in 1951, has locations in Green Bay, La Crosse, Madison, Mauston, Sheboygan, Stevens Point and Tomahawk.

  • ASE certification Testing deadline is at end of the month

    ASE certification Testing deadline is at end of the month

    The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence reminds service professionals to register for ASE certification testing by Dec. 31.

    Those who register by the deadline will have 90 days to schedule an appointment to take their selected ASE certification tests.

    Individuals who want to be certified or recertified in the following areas must register and take these specific tests by Dec. 31:

    • Test E1 – Truck Equipment Installation and Repair
    • Test E2 – Electrical/Electronic Systems Installation and Repair
    • Test E3 – Auxiliary Power Systems Installation and Repair
    • Test P4 – General Motors Parts Consultant
    • Test X1 – Undercar Specialist Exhaust Systems.

    Earlier this year, ASE announced the discontinuation of these five tests as of Dec. 31.

    To register, visit ASE.com, click on “register” and sign in. Once logged in, users can click on “orders” and then “store” where they can locate the tests they want to take. After adding those tests to the cart, they can check out and registration is complete.

    ASE provides three certification options:

    1. In-Person Testing: All tests can be taken in person at over 450 secure, proctored Prometric test centers, available year-round on weekdays, evenings and weekends.
    2. ProProctor Remote Testing: This online option allows individuals to take ASE recertification tests remotely. In addition, the auto maintenance and light repair (G1) initial certification test can be taken remotely through ProProctor.
    3. ASE Renewal App: For those who have been certified in the automobile certifications (A1-A9) series, the renewal app offers a streamlined way to manage recertification on a mobile device. If automotive service professionals have expired A-series tests, they can still use the app, but it will take at least eight months to get certified that way.

    To help with test preparation, ASE provides free study guides that include test overviews, sample questions and study tips and are ideal for assessing readiness and focusing preparation efforts.

    For assistance, registrants should contact ASE customer service at 800-390-6789.