Events

CCIF Montréal

Date

September 19, 2024
to September 20, 2024

Time

Location

Montreal Airport Marriott In-Terminal Hotel
800 Place Leigh-Capreol
Dorval
, Quebec
, H4Y 0A4

About this event

The Canadian Collision Industry Forum is Canada’s largest gathering of collision industry stakeholders. CCIF Montréal offers collision repairers, insurers, suppliers and service providers, original equipment manufacturers and dealers a unique opportunity to connect in one central location to network and attend professional development sessions.

Schedule

Thursday, September 19, 2024 

Reception 6:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Friday, September 20, 2024 

Conference sessions 7:45 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Schedule is subject to change.

Event registration

Registration for this event is now closed. 

Regular rate

  • $249.00 (at a quantity of 6 tickets or less)
  • $229.00 (at a quantity of 7 tickets or more)

All registration fees are subject to GST and QST.

Please note that speakers at this event will present in both official languages (English and French). AI-powered simultaneous interpretation will be available to attendees in text or audio. To use the interpretation services during the event, you must bring your own device (mobile phone, laptop, or tablet) with compatible headphones. To access the session from your device, simply click the URL that will be provided to join. No sign in will be required. 

Agenda

Full schedule coming soon.

7:45 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. Breakfast
8:45 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. Opening remarks
9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Panel—Navigating the Evolution of Automotive Construction: Insights from OEMs and Suppliers

In the automotive industry, the transition to bonded construction presents both opportunities and challenges for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and suppliers alike. Key considerations include impact strength variances, gap tolerances, and design for assembly factors, all of which influence the choice between bonded panels and traditional welding. Suppliers face hurdles in meeting OEM specifications, from consistency in gap tolerances to other concerns. Repair procedures must align closely with OEM guidelines to preserve structural integrity, emphasizing the importance of proper sectioning, surface preparation, and adherence to bonding protocols. This shift underscores the need for collaboration and adherence to best practices to ensure quality and safety across the automotive supply chain.

Panelists: 

  • Matt Bannister, Owner, Titanium Tools and Equipment
  • Brian Chiu, Category Manager, Collision & Wholesale, Nissan Group of North America
  • Vince Filice, President, Les Équipements & Services Filco Inc.
  • Rene Levy, Senior Field Sales Manager, Henkel Canada Corporation
10:00 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. Empowering Workforce Evolution: Navigating Skills Development and Future Trends

Join us at CCIF Montréal to gain insights into Innoviste’s initiatives in addressing skills gaps in the motor vehicle industry.  

Explore how the company diagnoses industry needs and collaborates with partners to customize intervention strategies. Discover Innoviste’s innovative training platform and other intervention methods and learn about their impact measurement approach and commitment to helping businesses succeed in a constantly evolving industry. 

Speaker: Renaude Poirier, Training Coordinator, Innoviste 

10:45 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. Networking break
11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Organizing an industry in the face of challenges

Join us to explore the key players in the Quebec market and their distinct roles within the industry. Delve into the various types of training offered through CPCPA’s program, with a focus on the body shop sector and the specific requirements at each stage. Gain insights into the collaborative efforts between CPCPA and I-CAR Canada, including our shared goals and the significance of these partnerships. We will also discuss the introduction of I-CAR Canada training to the Quebec market, its growing recognition, and the available certification courses and ongoing projects.

Speaker: Philippe Bussières, Director of Training, CPCPA, Program Manager, Compétences VÉ, CPCPA

12:15 p.m. to 1:15 p.m. Lunch
1:15 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. Sustainable Estimatics

Sustainability has emerged as a prominent issue within the collision industry. Our global research findings indicate that 75 per cent of drivers would switch to an insurer that offers greener policies. However, tracking and management of emissions data is proving problematic for insurers. 

To address this, Solera is launching Sustainable Estimatics, which allows insurers to measure and use data to reduce carbon emissions. One interesting side-benefit of opting for green repair choices is the cost-effectiveness for consumers. By adopting environmentally conscious repair methods, consumers can save on vehicle repair expenses. 

Speaker: Bill Brower, Senior Vice President of North America Claims and Global Industry Relations, Solera

1:45 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. The future of collision repair

The future of collision repair is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by advancements in technology and a growing emphasis on sustainability. Automakers are increasingly integrating advanced materials into vehicle designs, necessitating specialized skills among repair technicians. As autonomous vehicles become more commonplace, repair strategies are also evolving to meet the unique challenges posed by their complex systems. The integration of data-driven diagnostics is enhancing the precision and efficiency of repairs, while there’s also a notable shift towards environmentally conscious practices, including the use of eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient processes. These trends underscore the need for businesses in the collision repair industry to stay adaptable and forward-thinking, as they navigate this dynamic landscape to meet evolving customer demands and industry standards. 

Speaker: Benjamin Perrier, Strategic Account Manager – Canada, BASF Canada Inc

2:30 p.m. Closing remarks

Speakers

Matt Banister, Owner, Titanium Tools and Equipment 

Matthew Bannister has been involved in the Collision Industry for over 25 years, initially supplying and installing paint booths. In 2013, he started Titanium Tools and Equipment, a company specializing in equipment for OEM certification, which supplies tools and equipment across Canada. He is responsible for bringing the Miracle System to North America, the famous panel repair system from Japan. 

In January 2024, Titanium Tools and Equipment took a significant step towards fostering industry excellence by opening Area22, a state-of-the-art training center. Under Matthew Bannister’s leadership, this center provides CCC-certified welding courses and comprehensive equipment training, reflecting his commitment to education and skill development in the industry. 

Bill Brower, Senior Vice President of North America Claims and Global Industry Relations, Solera 

With over 30 years of experience, Bill is a highly regarded leader in the Insurance P&C Industry, having led claims teams for renowned companies such as Nationwide Insurance, Liberty Mutual Insurance, LexisNexis Risk Solutions and Solera. 

Prior to joining Solera, Bill served as VP & Head of U.S. Auto Claims Strategy for LexisNexis Risk Solutions, where he played a pivotal role in developing data solutions for claims automation. During his tenure at Liberty Mutual, he held key positions including Head of Auto Physical Damage Claims and VP of Strategic Partnerships. Notably, in 2011, Bill collaborated with Solera to create the industry’s first photo estimating app, laying the groundwork for today’s Qapter AI solution. 

Before his time at Liberty Mutual, Bill enjoyed a successful 18-year career at Nationwide Insurance Company, where he held progressively advancing leadership roles. Bill earned his bachelor’s degree in organizational leadership from Franklin University in Columbus, Ohio and went on to obtain his MBA from Shorter University in Rome, Georgia. 

Philippe Bussières, Director of Training, CPCPA, Program Manager, Compétences VÉ, CPCPA

An automotive mechanic by trade, he began his career in 2000, while completing his DEP in automotive mechanics. A two-year leap into the heavy vehicle industry enabled him to acquire new knowledge. Passionate about challenges, Philippe continues to perfect his skills in different technologies while working.

With the need to take on new challenges, it was at Uni-Select, as a technical and management instructor, that his career took off. He transferred his knowledge to technicians and shop owners across Eastern Canada.

When the Uni-Select training center closed its doors in 2020, Philippe joined the CPCPA team as Senior Training Advisor and now Training Manager. He plays the role of trade specialist with the help of collaborators, working on updating training manuals and exams. Many other projects, such as Compétences VE, are overseen by the team.

Brian Chiu, Category Manager, Collision & Wholesale, Nissan Group of North America

Brian Chiu has been at Nissan Canada for over seven years and in industry at the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) level for 13 years. He has held various roles at OEMs including with a focus on delivering positive customer experience, and field technical support. For the past three years he has been working as a Collision & Wholesale Parts Category Manager at Nissan. Also, a former racecar mechanic, he is a fan of F1, Lemans Endurance and WRC racing. A Mechanical Engineer from Carleton University, he has built his career around the processes of releasing safe and reliable vehicles. 

Vince Filice, President, Les Équipements & Services Filco Inc 

Vince Filice, president of Les Équipements & Services Filco Inc. cumulates over 35 years experience in the automobile industry.  His company specializes in selling, installing and servicing  bodyshop and mechanics equipment. Vince’s global travels enable him to bring cutting-edge equipment and accessories to the North American Market, while also providing astute consulting services to help clients boost productivity and profits. He has lectured on insurance impacts on shop profitability. 

Between 2006 and 2018, his avant-gardist approach towards rapid technological changes and environmental conformity in the industry led him to introduce 3 training centers across the island of Montreal, including one at their head office. Customers learn how to use purchased equipment effectively and refine their skills.  In 2023, he expanded and renamed the head-office training center to ATRA ACADEMY (Automotive Technology & Repair Academy), which offers accredited welding courses recognized by the Commission des partenaires du marché du travail and by CCC (Certified Collision Centre).  

An electro-mechanic by trade, F1 enthusiast, and entrepreneur at heart, Vince combines technical expertise and business know-how to help shop owners optimize efficiency, profitability and competitive edge. 

Benjamin Perrier, Strategic Account Manager – Canada, BASF Canada Inc

Benjamin Perrier, now based in Montréal, Quebec, joined BASF Canada’s expert team in the Automotive Refinishing division in 2022 as a Strategic Manager. Formerly National Sales and OEM Relations Manager for the French market, Ben started his career 20 years ago. He first worked in the electrical power supply solutions industry, then in different markets around the world on behalf of a leading global company specializing in automotive spare parts. His favourite subjects are the influence of new vehicle technologies in repair, environmental responsibility among stakeholders in the sector and attracting future talent to our industry.

Renaude Poirier, Training Coordinator, Innoviste

Renaude Poirier, joined Innoviste, the Automotive Workforce Sector Committee, in 2023. Vocational and continuous training falls under her purview. The aim of her role is to enhance the quality, accessibility, and appeal of the training program to prospective and present employees as well as employers. She does this by enlivening areas for conversations amongst industry participants. 

Accommodation and travel discounts

Accommodation

*Please note as of August 12, 2024, the group block is sold out. Please contact the Montreal Airport Marriott In-Terminal Hotel to inquire about additional availability. Group discounts may not apply.* 

CCIF is pleased to offer special rates starting at $235 plus tax at the Montreal Airport Marriott In-Terminal Hotel. To book a hotel room, please contact:

Phone:  514-636-6700

Block Name: Canadian Collision Industry Forum Montreal 2024

Rates are eligible until Friday, September 13, 2024. Guestrooms will be subject to availability on a first come, first served basis.

Air Canada
Book online at www.aircanada.com and enter promotion code GVX846H1 to receive a 10 per cent discount on eligible fares*. The travel period begins Thursday, September 12, 2024, and ends Friday, September 27, 2024. *5 per cent discounts will apply to standard fares, 10 per cent flex fares and up for North America travel.

WestJet
Book online at www.westjet.com/conventions and enter promotion code 2A8M7IB to receive a 5 per cent discount off Econo, 10 per cent discount off EconoFlex and Premium base fares for guests travelling to Montréal, Quebec only. The travel period begins Thursday, September 12, 2024, and ends Friday, September 27, 2024. No discount will apply to Basic or Business class bookings. Travel Agents GDS promotion code: YBI17.