Ottawa, Ontario--August 6, 2010--I-CAR US has announced that it will be moving toward a new Professional Development Program (PDP) over the next three years. They will be implementing these changes during in a three-year transitional period during which both businesses and individuals can adjust their Gold Class standing.

For Canadian I-CAR training, AIA has the choice of adopting the new American program or making its own variation on it. If you have strong feelings on this issue, they'd like to hear from you. You make your voice heard by sending an e-mail to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

The US PDP system establishes core competencies, role descriptions and required training courses for major professions within the sector including:
auto physical damage appraiser, refinish technician, electrical/mechanical technician, non-structural technician, aluminum structural technician, steel structural technician and estimator.

Changes will be made to both the Platinum and Gold Class programs to reflect these adjustments. For a facility to get the Gold Class designation they must have at least one platinum certified individual in each of the four roles:

• estimator
• non-structural technician
• steel structural technician
• refinish technician

Keep in mind one person holding multiple designations counts. Technicians who are not pursuing the Platinum certification must achieve at least two training points per year.

Details on a new program specifically for businesses that are not directly related to physical repair such as insurance will be revealed in the coming months. Until December 2011 these businesses can continue to qualify for Gold Class recognition under the old rule. Their new program will also be role specific and therefore any new training should be done under the role-specific menu of courses.

For more information on the US program visit I-CAR.com