For many in the collision repair industry, AAPEX is an invaluable opportunity to explore cutting-edge technologies and network with peers. For educators like Raven Luna and Jordan Short, it’s a way to bring real-world advancements back to the classroom.
The instructors shared how their experiences at AAPEX have influenced their teaching and revealed what’s on their holiday wish lists to enhance their schools’ collision repair programs.
AAPEX Insights: Staying Ahead of the Curve
Both Luna and Short understand the value of staying up to date in an industry that evolves quickly.
Raven Luna.
For Luna, a discipline lead and professor at Collin College’s collision technology program in North Texas, attending AAPEX is an annual tradition. While she didn’t attend specific sessions this year, she spent significant time in Joe’s Garage, an area renowned for its hands-on demonstrations.
“We go to see what new equipment, software, and tools are available,” Luna explained.
This year, a standout find was an EV/hybrid safety package from JohnDow, a mobile solution perfect for the lab environment where Luna’s students train on electric and hybrid vehicles.
Short, an instructor at Meridian Technology Center in Stillwater, OK, took a different approach, diving into specific sessions.
“I attended Electric Vehicles 101, Management Essentials for Leaders by Dale Carnegie, and all three OEM Summits hosted by SCRS,” he shared.
Jordan Short.
Short’s focus on emerging technologies like EVs reflects his belief that instructors must lead by example in embracing innovation.
“Collision repair is changing faster now than ever before,” he said. “Without industry-led continuing education, instructors will fall behind and lose relevance.”
One of Short’s most memorable takeaways from AAPEX was witnessing a laser welding demonstration by a former SpaceX engineer. The potential of laser welding to revolutionize panel replacement in collision repair left a lasting impression.
“Welding with photons of light, not electricity or a heat source, is hard to wrap your head around,” Short said.
Bringing AAPEX Lessons to the Classroom
For these educators, attending AAPEX is about personal growth and equipping their students for the future. Luna emphasized the practical application of insights gained at the show.
“The topics I learn about directly impact our courses,” Luna said.
For instance, the EV/hybrid safety package she discovered will allow her students to train with cutting-edge tools next semester, making lessons relevant and engaging.
Short, too, has already incorporated lessons from AAPEX into his teaching.
“I’ve used some of the leadership tools from the Dale Carnegie session to better manage my classroom,” he said.
He also involved his students in brainstorming sessions to evaluate tools and technologies showcased at the event.
“Students enjoyed the activity and gave their input for next year’s equipment requests,” he added.
Educators’ Holiday Wish Lists: Tools to Transform Learning
With the holiday season here, Luna and Short are focused on items that could significantly enhance their programs.
For Luna, the JohnDow EV/hybrid safety package tops her wish list. The package’s portability and comprehensive design make it ideal for her program’s needs.
“Since we teach EV/hybrid safety, it’s a convenient tool for us to train with,” she explained.
Short’s wish list is equally practical but geared toward maximizing efficiency. He’s hoping for UV primers and putties for his lab.
“Student mistakes can cost them a whole class period with product dry times, but UV products could drastically shorten those times and allow students more time to complete their projects,” he said.
Another coveted item is a grate lifter from Garmat, which would simplify booth maintenance and improve workflow in the lab.
Why AAPEX Matters to Educators
Both Luna and Short agree that AAPEX is an indispensable resource for collision repair educators. While SEMA may have its appeal, AAPEX’s focus on networking and hands-on learning makes it particularly valuable for instructors.
“Exhibitors at AAPEX are more excited to see instructors,” Luna noted.
Short added that staying connected to the industry is crucial for educators. “If we don’t stay current, we risk teaching outdated techniques, widening the skill gap for the next generation of technicians,” he warned.
Preparing the Next Generation
As Luna and Short reflect on their experiences, their dedication to their students clearly extends far beyond the classroom. Attending AAPEX ensures their teaching remains relevant, their programs are cutting-edge and their students are ready to excel in a competitive industry.
With their holiday wish lists, these instructors are poised to make an even greater impact in the coming year -- one tool, technique and class project at a time.
Interested in helping out these instructors with their wish lists? Contact Raven Luna at RLuna@collin.edu and Jordan Short at jordans@meridiantech.edu.
Leona Scott