MORE THAN REPAIRS

With all the changes in technology, repair practices, and business operations, it is easy to lose sight of what makes this industry truly remarkable—the people who built it and the vital role collision repairers play in the lives of their customers.

Recently, I was reminded of this at a magazine publishers’ conference. During a focus group discussion, I pointed out that collision repair professionals are often not given the respect they deserve as highly skilled business owners and operators. Afterward, Paul Gatti, a successful publisher in the pharmaceutical media industry, approached me to say how much my comment resonated with him.

Paul’s father had owned a collision repair shop after immigrating from Italy, and his first job was sweeping the floors. He told me that the lessons he learned from his father and the shop shaped his career. Today, he holds a PhD, is a nationally recognized scientist, and his publications guide medical professionals worldwide. Yet, it was in that repair shop that he first learned about hard work, integrity, and customer care—values that still guide him today.

This is a reminder to all of us: never forget the impact you have. You are the professionals who restore more than just vehicles—you restore confidence, security, and peace of mind for drivers during some of their most stressful moments. And beyond that, you are part of a legacy of hard work and innovation that has shaped this industry into what it is today.

That legacy, however, is not just about where we have been—it is also about where we are headed. The collision repair industry is in the midst of one of its most significant transitions, driven by rapid technological advancements. One of the most transformative changes we are seeing is the widespread adoption of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). That is why this issue of Collision Repair is titled All About ADAS—because its importance in the repair process today cannot be overstated.

ADAS has moved from being a luxury feature to a critical safety system found in nearly every new vehicle. Whether it is lane departure warnings, adaptive cruise control, or automatic emergency braking, these systems are designed to reduce collisions and improve road safety. But they also present new challenges for repairers. Calibrating ADAS components properly after a repair is not just an added step—it is a crucial requirement to ensure vehicles function as intended. A misaligned camera or sensor can mean the difference between a system that works correctly and one that puts drivers at risk.

For shop owners and technicians, this means investing in training, equipment, and processes that keep pace with these evolving systems. It also means educating customers—and insurers—on why proper ADAS calibration is not optional. Unfortunately, too many still see these repairs as simple part replacements, rather than intricate recalibrations that require precision and expertise. As always, the responsibility falls on repairers to do the right thing. And that is what makes this industry exceptional. Collision repair professionals have always adapted, always innovated, and always put safety first. It is not easy. It requires continuous learning, advocacy, and sometimes, standing firm against pressures to cut corners. But it is what separates true professionals from those who simply fix dents and scratches. So, as we move forward, let’s keep two things in mind: honouring the legacy of those who built this industry and embracing the technology that is shaping its future. The pioneers before us worked tirelessly to establish a profession built on skill, craftsmanship, and integrity. Today, it is our responsibility to uphold those values while mastering the complexities of modern vehicle technology.

ADAS is just one part of the bigger picture, but it represents the direction the industry is headed—toward smarter, safer, and more complex repairs. It is up to all of us to ensure that we are not just keeping up, but leading the way. Thank you for the work you do. It matters more than you may ever know.