British Columbia’s vehicle insurer ICBC has announced $13.3M in funding for apprenticeship grants to prepare more workers for the field of collision repair. Employers can receive up to $56.5K in funding per automotive refinishing or auto body and collision repair technician apprenticeship to cover the costs related to their employment. A variety of grants are available, including grants based on the training level completed by the apprentice, grants for Indigenous or women applicants, and grants for alternative pathways to the field. Automotive Retailers Association Board Chair Rick Hatswell explained that there is a strong demand for skilled collision repair workers as vehicles become increasingly complex. ICBC President Jason McDaniel added that more collision repair workers will help reduce repair wait times for customers.
