Staying Static Isn’t an Option

by Kris Burton, WMABA President

Time sure does fly. In just a few weeks, it’ll be time to head to Las Vegas for the SEMA Show. Where regional events keep us informed at different times throughout the year, it’s the SEMA Show that is THE ultimate place to go to really stay on top of the changes happening in our industry at breakneck speed.

Modern vehicles are no longer simple combinations of stamped steel and mechanical linkages; they are highly complex, computer-driven ecosystems. Successful, safe repairs require continuous learning, hands-on exposure to new resources and an up-close look at cutting-edge innovations.

And SEMA is the ultimate destination to get all that and more! SEMA is so much more than a show; it’s an experience like no other.

Seeing tools, scanning devices and repair equipment in a brochure or video is one thing; experiencing them up close on the SEMA floor – paired with instruction on how to integrate them into your workflow – is entirely another. Then of course there is the educational component courtesy of the Society of Collision Repair Specialists’ (SCRS) Repairer Driven Education (RDE) series. It’s an absolute necessity for forward-thinking shop owners, technicians, and industry leaders. This is more than just taking classes, you are investing in the safety, capability and longevity of your repair business.

Whether you are looking to refine shop operations, master advanced repair methodologies or explore state-of-the-art tooling, the expanded offerings deliver actionable insights straight from top subject-matter experts. This year, SCRS’ programming will give particular focus to ADAS, which is now a standard in every vehicle segment.

Missteps in handling these safety systems carry severe safety implications for vehicle owners and significant liability for shops. Education takes on so many forms in this series from the classroom lectures to the IDEAS Collide Showcase and of course the OEM Technology Summit. Check out page 22 for more details about the SCRS RDE series.

In conjunction with SEMA will be the Collision Industry Conference taking place at the Westgate – another absolute necessity in keeping your finger on the pulse of the industry. While you’re at it, make it a point to attend the Collision Industry Red Carpet awards. This is a great opportunity to network and celebrate the achievements of your peers.

Make the plans, secure your pass and prepare to lead your team into the future of collision repair. In today’s collision repair climate, staying static is simply not an option.

Want more? Check out the October 2026 issue of Hammer & Dolly!