3M and Axalta collaborate on new refinish training content

3M and Axalta are collaborating to introduce a new automotive refinish training content series. The series will feature five co-branded training modules, each intended to help technicians and bodyshops improve their understanding of repair process practices and drive “greater operational outcomes”.

The brand-agnostic and accessible educational video content produced by 3M and Axalta is said to set a new benchmark for how operational knowledge can be shared across the industry.

Refinish training content

The first three training modules from the series, centred on optimising process productivity, efficiency and quality in refinishing, are scheduled for release globally on 2 December 2024, and will be accessible through the 3M Collision Repair Academy and Axalta Academy platforms.

The training content will also be made available on 3M and Axalta’s social media channels. Additional training modules focused on safety and sustainability will become available in 2025.

3M and Axalta, in a rapidly changing industry faced with a critical shortage of skilled labour, recognised the need to collaborate for the continued support of refinish training and skills development for repair professionals. Leaning on core competencies and synergies from two companies with deep expertise in science, automotive refinish process and training solutions, the co-developed content is intended to teach industry-best practices in repair process in engaging, informative and clear procedural steps for shops to easily implement.

Benchmark for knowledge

Dave Gunderson, president of 3M Automotive Aftermarket Division, said of the new refinish training content:

“At 3M, we believe training is an invaluable tool that should be considered a reinvestment into the health of a business. Our commitment is to be an industry resource for training solutions that continue to empower shop productivity, efficiency and quality. This new training content series with Axalta is a testament to that commitment.”

Troy Weaver, president of Global Refinish at Axalta, added:

“We are proud to work with our long-time collaborator, 3M, on this initiative. This effort sets a new benchmark for how operational knowledge is shared across the industry, ensuring that everyone benefits from the latest best practices to improve operational efficiency and safety. Our commitment to supporting workforce development is strengthened through strategic partnerships and shared access to training resources. Together, we’re not just building a better future for our company, but for the entire industry.”

The five training modules will be available in English, Dutch, French, German, Italian, Polish and Spanish.

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