Article Summary
Colin Brand rose from an entry-level detailer position to general manager of Performance Collision, where he now leads a high-performing team by investing in technician development, cutting-edge tools, and training for emerging vehicle technologies like ADAS and electric vehicles.
- Colin Brand started at Performance Collision as a detailer in his early 20s and advanced to general manager by 2023
- He focuses on technician morale, equipment investment, and supportive work environments as keys to leadership success
- His facility prioritizes manufacturer-specification repairs and ADAS/EV calibration training to keep pace with vehicle technology evolution
- Colin emphasizes that modern collision repair is complex technical work, not just traditional dent and paint procedures
- He believes collision centers must prepare now for self-driving and electric vehicles to succeed in the industry's future
“Like many individuals in this trade, I stumbled upon a great opportunity,” said Colin. “After relocating from the Ottawa area in my early 20s, I was hired by Performance Collision for an entry-level position as a detailer. Within a few months, I realized that this was the right career path for me.”
In the years that followed, Colin advanced quickly. He first started as an estimator, then became a repair planner and then became a general manager in 2023. His nomination came from Swav Pietras, a long-time colleague who has watched his career from day one. “Colin started in the company washing cars and now he’s the GM of the body shop,” said Swav. “He is breaking every record ever done, and the morale in the company is refreshing.”
Now leading a high-performing team, Colin credits his coworkers for inspiring him to raise the bar.
“I have numerous moments in my career that fill me with pride, but leading this amazing team of highly skilled individuals tops the list,” said Colin. “We have a fantastic group of technicians and employees who strive to be the best versions of themselves. Our goal is to be leaders in the industry.”
For Colin, great leadership begins with making sure his team has what they need to succeed. That includes fostering technician morale, investing in the best available tools and equipment and creating a work environment where people feel supported.
“Collision repair facilities are only as good as their technicians,” he said. “We aim to provide technicians with the best tools available and ensure that their work environment meets their needs effectively.” As vehicle technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, Colin has focused on training and education. With ADAS systems now standard in many models and EVs entering the mainstream, the technical side of collision repair has changed. Colin’s team has evolved with it.
“Our facility continuously reviews repair procedures to ensure we are repairing vehicles according to the manufacturer’s specifications, while also paying special attention to the calibrations and initializations required,” said Colin.
He hopes more young people come to recognize the complexity and opportunity within the industry.
“It is often thought that traditional collision repair techniques are still in use,” said Colin. “However, the reality is that collision repair involves much more than just filling dents with filler and then priming and painting the vehicle.”
Looking ahead, Colin sees that more shops should be preparing for self-driving and electric vehicles. He’s determined to keep his facility up-to-date in order to stay ahead.
“The collision centres that will succeed in this transition will be the ones that equip themselves to service these types of vehicles,” he said. Recognition on Collision Repair’s Top 30 Under 40 list feels like both a milestone and a motivator. While the acknowledgement is meaningful, Colin remains focused on what’s next. His sights are set firmly on growth and learning for his team, for the shop and for the evolving industry they’re helping to shape.
“Colin started in the company washing cars and now he’s the GM of the body shop. He is breaking every record ever done, and the morale in the company is refreshing.” - NOMINATED BY SWAV PIETRAS, COLLEAGUE
