Mission
Support collision repair educational programs, schools, and students to create qualified, entry-level employees and connect them with an array of career opportunities.
Vision
A collision industry with a sufficient number of qualified, properly trained, and immediately productive entry-level employees to meet current and future Industry needs.
Who is CREF?
CREF is a 501c3 national nonprofit and tax-exempt charitable organization within the automotive collision industry which was started in 1991 by industry volunteers who even back then recognized a need for more students to be entering the industry to address the staffing shortage needs. CREF is committed to promoting excellence in collision education. The goal is that every collision repair technician student graduates accepting a job in a collision repair business, armed with the necessary skills, knowledge, and training to be productive and on their way to a rewarding career in the collision industry.
The Collision Repair Education Foundation is fortunate to have the generous support of over 1,000 corporations, businesses, associations, and individuals that support the mission and goals of the organization.
How does CREF help?
CREF builds awareness of the many collision industry career opportunities within local schools and communities representing many industry segments. Awareness includes social media, outreach events, additional educational materials and video resources that will inspire people to pursue career opportunities in the collision industry. In addition to awareness, CREF provides direct support through student scholarships, school grants, in-kind product donations and career fairs. CREF scholarships and grants remove financial barriers to education; promote opportunities for a diverse workforce; and reward dedication, achievement, and passion for their trade.
