HOFFMAN ESTATES, IL – July 12, 2012 – The Collision Repair Education Foundation announces the addition of three new Trustees to its Board of Trustees – David J. Brunori, Matrix System Automotive Finishes; James A. Fichera; and William Lawrence, LC Automotive Investments, LLC.
Dave Brunori brings over 29 years of industry experience, currently in the role of Executive VP/General Manager with Matrix. He has grown the company from a start-up to over $60M in revenue. Prior to Matrix, he was with PPG Industries for 9 years and Lilly Industries for 2 years, all in vehicle refinish. He currently serves on the Oakland County Technical Advisory Committee in Southwest, MI. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry and a Master’s Degree in Operations Management.
Jim Fichera brings over 40 years of industry experience, 23 years with Steel Center A.V.T.S. in Jefferson Hills, PA as a Collision Repair Instructor. Steel Center A.V.T.S. won the Collision Repair Education Foundation’s Ultimate Collision Education Makeover Grant in 2009. The school program completed NATEF certification (one of first in PA). He is an I-CAR Welding Instructor and holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. He believes that education is key to fill the workforce needs of our communities; educating our youth is vital to continue to meet the local and national needs.
Bill Lawrence brings over 43 years of industry experience, currently in the role of Owner and President of LC Automotive Investments, LLC, which he has held for 8 years. He previously was with Allstate Insurance for 28 years and has spent the remaining 15 years in the collision repair side of the business. He previously served on the Foundation Board and as Foundation Chair and the advisory boards of CCC, Keystone, Nationwide, Safeco, Allstate, and VeriFacts. His company supports various local charities as well as OxFam, World Vision, etc. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing.
Chairman Northup noted, “The Collision Repair Education Foundation is fortunate to have these three individuals joining the Board of Trustees. Their individual and combined experience will provide a diverse background and knowledge base for our Board. We have an impressive group of industry leaders in our Trustee group. It’s reassuring and humbling to participate with this high level of individuals who graciously give of their time and resources to our worthy cause.”
