YOUR GIFT = THEIR FUTURE
TRANSFORMING DREAMS INTO LIFELONG CAREERS
The CREF scholarship program isn't just about helping students pay for school; it's about empowering talented young people to develop the skills and knowledge they need to achieve rewarding and lucrative careers in the collision repair industry.
Our “Where Are They Now?” campaign showcases the remarkable journeys of past recipients, illustrating the impact your generosity can have on students and the industry. When you support CREF scholarships by donating below, you help instill passion, skills, and knowledge into a new generation, shaping their lives and fueling a better future for the collision repair industry.
Where are they now?
Fueling the promise of a brighter future!
Olivia and Robert showcase the impact that collision repair scholarships can have on students, businesses, and the future of the industry. Your year-end donation empowers others to pursue their dreams and push forward the advancement of the collision repair industry.
From Student to Trainer
I-CAR Instructor for
Specialty Training
After graduating in 2022, Olivia Peterson began as a technician at Gerber, the very same company that sponsored her CREF scholarship while she was in school. She spent years as a highly skilled technician before recently moving into her current role as an Instructor for Specialty Training at I-CAR.
A former SkillsUSA Gold Medalist, Olivia now serves on the comptetition committee. As a professional and a volunteer, she is helping push forward the future of collision repair.
"I am confident that I would never have reached these heights in my career without the support that CREF has provided me.”
Converging Pathways
ADAS Calibration Technican
for Protech
Robert Davis, a veteran and 2019 CREF scholarship winner through 3M's Hire Our Heroes Program, graduated from Forsyth Tech's Collision Repair & Refinishing Technology program in 2020. He pivoted to automotive repair, spending time with both Toyota and Nissan between 2021 and 2024.
Robert has now blended his experience in collision repair and automotive service, joining national ADAS Calibration provider Protech as a technician earlier this year.
"The Collision Repair Education Foundation gave me a head start in the industry by providing me with tools to get started.”
How Your Donation Impacts the Industry
The CREF “Where Are They Now?” campaign presents undeniable proof of the incredible impact your donation can have in supporting the future of collision repair students across the nation. With your help, we're aiming to raise $20,000 that will fund scholarships for 20 future industry professionals.
Have questions about donating? Get in touch with us!
Donate to Scholarships;
Develop the next generation;
Drive the industry's future.
Your 2025 donation will directly and immediately benefit students in collision repair programs, facilitating much-needed funding for tuition, tools, and additional training. By supporting their educational expenses, you empower students to learn, grow, and succeed.
Your Year-End Opportunity
Give Back to Collision Repair Students
and Create Lasting Change
There’s never been a better time to support collision repair students ready to jumpstart their careers!
There are many ways to support these aspiring technicians. Subscribe to our monthly newsletter to stay up to date on all CREF programming and volunteer opportunities.