The Gulf States Collision Association (GSCA) is working hard to make inroads into the collision repair industry in Louisiana. It fosters collaboration, training and education for shop owners, technicians and students.
Along with serving as executive director of the GSCA Josh Kent leads the Carolinas Collision Association and Tennessee Collision Repairers Association.
Led by Executive Director Josh Kent, GSCA carries out its mission to elevate the collision repair industry through advocacy and education. It remains a vital resource for collision repair businesses navigating today’s complex market challenges.
The association is dedicated to preparing shops for success amid rapid technological advancements in automotive repair. In support of that goal, GSCA’s upcoming highly anticipated virtual training will help bridge the knowledge gap for collision professionals.
A December Focus on Training and Development
The upcoming virtual training, scheduled for Dec. 12, is part of the association’s quarterly meeting. Titled “From Claims to Solutions,” it will focus on negotiating proper repairs confidently, giving attendees the confidence to handle every claim with expertise and professionalism. Registration is open.
Kent emphasized the importance of continuous education in the field. As technology evolves faster than ever, he said GCSA is committed to equipping its members with the skills and knowledge they need to stay competitive while maintaining safety and quality in their repairs.
Championing Louisiana’s Trade and Technical Schools
The GSCA's impact is key to its partnerships with local trade and technical schools. In Louisiana, institutions like Bossier-Parish Tech School, Baton Rouge Community College and others serve as members, helping to shape the industry’s future. These schools offer robust collision repair programs, and GSCA supports their efforts by providing resources, mentorship and opportunities for students to engage with professionals.
Through its work with schools, GSCA also encourages young talent to explore careers in collision repair.
Advocacy and Support for Collision Professionals
GSCA’s influence extends beyond training and education. As an advocate for the collision repair industry, the association works closely with policymakers and insurance companies to address challenges that shops face, from fair compensation to regulatory compliance.
This advocacy is vital in Louisiana, where shops often navigate unique market conditions. By serving as a unifying voice, GSCA ensures collision professionals have the resources and representation they need to thrive.
Why Membership Matters
Membership in GSCA offers collision repair professionals access to exclusive training, industry updates and a supportive network of peers. Whether a small independent shop or a large-scale operation, members benefit from the association's collective strength and knowledge.
In addition to training events, GSCA provides online resources, monthly newsletters and opportunities to engage with industry leaders. The association also attends national events like SEMA as part of its commitment to staying at the forefront of industry trends.
Looking Ahead
With its December training just around the corner, the GSCA is poised to end the year on a high note. For 2025, it plans to have a training event April 5 in New Orleans. Event details, training topic and registration will be coming soon.
As GSCA continues to grow and adapt to its members’ needs, its mission remains clear: to empower collision repair professionals and foster a thriving industry for generations to come.
For more information on the GSCA's upcoming training event and how to get involved, visit GSCA’s website. In a related topic, check out the value of state organizations and regional trade shows in this episode of The Collision Vision podcast from Autobody News.
Leona Scott