(Crashed car image via Shutterstock)
WINNIPEG — A new automotive research and training centre in Winnipeg will teach the newest auto body repair techniques and technologies.
Manitoba Public Insurance is opening up the Centre of Excellence facility at its physical damage compound on Plessis Road.
“With an eye to the future, we all recognize that the auto manufacturing industry is going through significant change,” said Gord Mackintosh, minister responsible for MPI.
“The auto body repair industry must keep pace for the sake of its customers.”
The new centre will increase auto body apprenticeship opportunities and build on partnerships with Apprenticeship Manitoba, Red River College and Manitoba high schools.
MPI CEO Dan Guimond says the auto body industry is going to experience a shift in how repairs are carried out as vehicle manufacturers change their production materials.
“It’s expected that by 2018, half of the Manitoba fleet will represent vehicles with at least some complex materials. The auto body repair industry is going to experience significant changes in terms of its repair techniques, the need for special tools and body shops,” Guimond said.
Guimond added the centre will transition over the coming months to allow the facility to perform research and training on new vehicle design, repairability and technology.
