The Oklahoma Auto Body Association (OKABA) hosted its quarterly meeting Aug. 3 at the Choctaw Casino & Resort in Durant, OK. This gathering drew 50 attendees, including shop owners, employees and vendors from across Oklahoma for the vital opportunity to learn, network and discuss the future of their industry, according to Ementi Coary, executive director of OKABA.
Insightful Educational Opportunities
The highlight of the OKABA quarterly meeting was the two main presentations by industry experts Mike Anderson and Tony Adams.
Adams kicked off the event with his session, "Contemporary Workforce Dynamics: What Does the Data Say and How Do History & Human Biology Play a Role?" He provided a deep dive into the current state of the workforce, offering valuable insights into how historical trends and human biology affect today’s work environments. This session set the tone for the day.
Following Adams, Anderson, a well-known figure in the collision repair industry, delivered a comprehensive presentation, "Success Today, Success Tomorrow." His talk spanned several critical topics, including the transition to a four-day workweek, OEM insurance trends, certifications, DRP versus non-DRP programs, and the implications of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) criteria.
Anderson also discussed the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on scheduling, looking at state-by-state average labor hours per repair order, warning of the dangers of prioritizing profit over quality. Attendees left with actionable strategies to implement in their shops, focusing on improving processes and ensuring safe and proper repairs.
Jeff Lee, estimator at AAA Frame and Body in Tulsa.
Jeff Lee, an estimator at AAA Frame and Body in Tulsa, OK, attended the event and had several key takeaways from Anderson’s class. He learned that between 2023 and 2024, the average repair order went up from $4,900 to $5,400 in his area, but the labor hours went down. Why is that? Lee said Anderson explained the importance of taking time and doing good, detailed estimates so work would not be overlooked.
Another helpful tip Lee learned is to put a vehicle in service mode before beginning repairs. That way, customers don’t receive endless emails or push notifications notifying them their car isn’t working correctly, which can be disruptive.
Lee also appreciated learning the importance of appreciating staff and valuing your team. “People don’t leave a job due to benefits. They leave because they are not valued. When your staff does a good job, praise them so they are affirmed and you build a positive culture in your shop,” he said.
Of the high-caliber training, Coary said, “Anytime you can get education through your association, it is always a big win to the shops. Because all it takes is one thing out of a meeting that you did not know to end up helping you or your shop grow.”
Networking and Vendor Showcases
The meeting also provided ample networking opportunities, which Coary emphasized as a vital benefit of these quarterly gatherings. “Our goal is always to bring value to shops to help them grow in the industry and to turn around and help the consumer with safe and proper repairs,” Coary said. “Of course, we do hope that shops that have not joined and attend our meetings see the value and join.”
Spanesi and many other vendors showcased the latest products and innovations at the quarterly meeting.
The networking aspect of the meeting was enhanced by the presence of various vendors who showcased the latest products and innovations in the auto body repair industry. These interactions allowed attendees to explore new tools and technologies that could improve their shop’s efficiency and effectiveness. For many, these face-to-face connections are invaluable, providing insights and ideas that are difficult to gain through other means.
Legislative Advocacy and Awareness
While educational and networking opportunities were at the forefront, the meeting also discussed legislative issues. The current legislative environment is quiet, yet OKABA remains vigilant.
“This board has done so much for fighting for all the shops in Oklahoma on legislative issues on their own time and dime,” Coary said. “They gave so much time to fight for every shop in the state to stop a couple of bills that would have had a major impact on them.”
Looking Ahead
Looking to the future, OKABA has planned several essential events for the remainder of the year. The next quarterly meeting will take place Oct. 12, 2024, in Enid, OK, featuring Josh Dorris from Collision Safety Consultants of Oklahoma, who will discuss critical topics like diminished value, right-to-appraisals, post-repair inspections and vehicle valuations.
OKABA’s biggest annual trade show event will be at the Oklahoma City Convention Center on Feb. 7-8, 2025. This event will feature seven hours of vendor time, six breakout sessions, training classes for technicians, and a Friday social event culminating in a comedy show with nationally known comedians. Vendor registration is now open, while attendee registration will open in early January 2025.
As the industry continues to evolve, OKABA remains committed to supporting its members, helping them navigate the challenges ahead, and ensuring the safety and quality of repairs across Oklahoma. To learn more about OKABA, including upcoming events, visit the website.
Leona Scott