An Automotive Passion Becomes a Career
Now a trainer at Axalta, William Lalande found his career path through his passion for automobiles. His interest in cars—particularly his Nissan 300ZX Twin Turbo—led him to pursue a vocational diploma in auto body repair.
His professional journey has allowed him to explore several facets of the collision repair industry. From restoration and used-vehicle reconditioning to insurance-related repairs, each stage has helped shape his expertise.
Expertise Dedicated to the Next Generation
He joined Axalta last January as a Training Specialist (Americas). “My hands-on experience allows me to appreciate the quality of our products. I find them particularly effective because of their fast drying times, application speed and ability to reduce cycle time in repair shops,” says William.
He also emphasizes that “in a context where many experienced professionals are approaching retirement, passing knowledge on to the next generation is becoming essential.”
A Program Designed to Keep Pace with the Profession
To support industry professionals, Axalta’s training program first aims to certify users so they can apply products correctly and ensure quality repairs.
The company provides technicians with learning tools through the online Axalta Academy as well as in-person courses. Participants can earn various certifications, including the 201 series for foundational training and the 300 series for more advanced courses, including colorimetry, colour and specialty finishes. French-language webinars are also offered to address recurring issues observed in the field.
“Since the opening of the centre, and this is something new, we will be offering Master Applicator training. This will be the only location in Canada where this training is available,” William Lalande explains.
The Key to Staying at the Top
For William Lalande, continuing education is no longer optional—it is a necessity. In an industry where technologies, products and customer expectations are evolving rapidly, keeping knowledge up to date and sharing it with others helps maintain a high level of quality, avoid costly rework and ensure consistent results.
Picture credit : Axalta
