CREF Welcomes Frank Pickering to Board of Trustees

Created for Collision Repair Education Foundation

The Collision Repair Education Foundation (CREF) is excited to welcome Frank Pickering, Vice President, Physical Damage for GEICO, to its Board of Trustees.

“We are honored to welcome Frank Pickering to our Board,” shares Brenda Hogen, Chair of CREF’s Board of Trustees. “His extensive experience and dedication to the collision industry will be invaluable as we continue to advance our mission.”

Pickering began his career in the collision industry in 1998 as a sales associate for GEICO, but after several years, it was time for a change. “In my interactions with fellow associates, I heard the stories from our auto damage adjusters about being face to face with customers, and this appealed to me because I like to help people. In the adjuster role, you have direct contact with customers after a traumatic event, and I wanted to be part of the team that helped customers.”

He transitioned into Auto Damage in 2006, and over the years, he has held leadership roles across numerous claims operations, from first notice of loss, to special investigations, to physical damage and casualty claims. In 2022, he was promoted to his current position. With nearly three decades of industry experience, Pickering brings a broad understanding of the claims process and its relationship with collision repair. “My background allows me to help bridge the gap between insurers and repairers, fostering collaboration to enhance training and industry standards.”

A passionate advocate for workforce development, Pickering is eager to support CREF’s mission. “The industry faces a growing shortage of skilled technicians, and investing in education is critical to ensuring safe and efficient vehicle repairs. I look forward to working with CREF to strengthen partnerships and provide students with the resources they need to succeed. I am excited to help shape programs that prepare the next generation of collision repair technicians by aligning training with real-world industry needs and ensuring students graduate with the skills necessary to succeed in today’s rapidly evolving repair environment.”

Pickering is passionate about efforts to promote the collision repair industry to young people and support their growth. “Our industry is at a critical juncture,” he stresses. “Skilled technicians are the backbone of safe and effective vehicle repairs, yet the industry is facing a growing shortage of trained professionals. Investing in education and workforce development is the key to ensuring that repair facilities have the talent they need to meet the increasing demands of modern vehicle technology. The quality of repairs impacts vehicle safety, customer satisfaction and overall claims efficiency. Well-trained technicians not only restore vehicles to pre-accident condition but also play a crucial role in ensuring structural integrity, safety system functionality and long-term vehicle performance.

“Supporting CREF means investing in the future of the industry by helping students access the training, tools and resources necessary to build successful careers in collision repair,” he continues. “Ultimately, CREF’s efforts are focused on building a stronger, safer and more sustainable future for the collision repair industry. It’s an investment in people, equipping the next generation with the skills, knowledge and opportunities they need, and I’m proud to be a part of it.”

CREF is proud to have Pickering join its Board, leveraging his leadership and expertise to drive initiatives that support the next generation of collision repair professionals.

Industry members interested in getting involved and supporting the Collision Repair Education Foundation’s efforts to assist high school and college collision repair training programs can Contact Us to learn about the many ways to get involved. Monetary donations can be made online.

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The Collision Repair Education Foundation, founded in 1991, is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting collision repair educational programs, schools and students to create qualified, entry-level employees and connect them with an array of career opportunities. For information on how to donate to programs supported by the Education Foundation, visit us online at: www.CollisionRepairEducationFoundation.org.

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If you would like more information about this topic or any of CREF’s initiatives, please email [email protected].