NewsroomJuly 8 2026

Crash Champions Celebrates Latest Graduates of STEP Technician Development Program

Crash Champions, one of the nation's fastest-growing, founder-led collision repair providers, today celebrated the success of its Skilled Technician Education Program (STEP), recognizing 59 apprentices who have graduated from the program in 2026 as the company continues to invest in developing the next generation of collision repair professionals.

STEP combines paid, hands-on training, mentorship and real-world experience to prepare aspiring collision repair technicians for long-term high-earning careers. The Department of Labor-certified program reflects Crash Champions' commitment to developing skilled talent while helping address the industry's growing workforce needs.

Crash Champions STEP apprentices complete a structured I-CAR-based curriculum focused on repair quality, safety, technical proficiency and professional development while working alongside experienced mentors at Crash Champions repair centers nationwide. Upon graduation, participants earn I-CAR welding certification and are equipped with the real-world experience to launch their collision repair careers.

Today, Crash Champions has nearly 200 active apprentices training in the program and has achieved an 86% retention rate among graduates — reinforcing the company's commitment to developing and retaining top talent.

"Our people are our greatest strength," said Matt Ebert, Founder and CEO of Crash Champions, who started his career as a collision repair technician. "STEP is more than a training program. It is an investment in the future of our industry and in the talented individuals who will help shape it. We are proud to celebrate this year's graduates and look forward to watching them grow their careers as members of the Crash Champions team."

As demand for skilled collision repair professionals continues to grow, Crash Champions remains committed to expanding career pathways through STEP while investing in the people, training and resources that support long-term success across its nationwide network of more than 650 repair centers.

Learn more about career opportunities and the STEP program at step.crashchampions.com.

About Crash Champions

As one of the fastest growing and most exciting brands in the industry, Crash Champions is the largest founder-led multi-shop operator (MSO) of high-quality collision repair service in the U.S. The company, which also operates the growing Crash Champions LUXE | EV Certified brand of highline and luxury EV repair centers, services customers at more than 650 state-of-the-art locations in 38 states across the U.S. Crash Champions was founded in 1999 as a single Chicago repair center by industry veteran and 2023 EY Entrepreneur of the Year Midwest award winner Matt Ebert. For more information, and to locate a local repair center, visit www.crashchampions.com For career opportunities, visit careers.crashchampions.com