BEDFORD, TEXAS — The Automotive Management Institute (AMI) has been selected as the first beneficiary of the new Collision Industry Advancement Initiative (CIAI) sponsored by Akzo Nobel’s Car Refinishes North America. CIAI was established to aid in the growth, advancement and perception of the collision industry in North America by providing financial assistance to organizations and individuals possessing specific needs and/or goals they are unable to meet on their own.

AMI, a not-for-profit organization, provides continuing education tailored specifically for the business needs of the automotive service industry. The Institute offers the Accredited Automotive Manager (AAM) designation, the first business management accreditation exclusively for the automotive service professional.

As a beneficiary to the program, AMI received a $50,000 contribution to continue its efforts to create and distribute educational and personal development programs for individuals pursuing career advancement in the automotive industry. The money was presented to AMI during the Automotive Service Association’s Celebration of Excellence event held Nov. 5, in Las Vegas.

Jim Rees, general manager for Akzo Nobel Coatings car refinishes division in North America, commented on AMI’s receipt of the CIAI grant. “Businesses throughout the world daily scrutinize investment choices. The choices are often difficult and frequently the options are greater than the resources,” said Rees. “Akzo Nobel has chosen as part of our investment decision criteria to allocate funds toward industry stewardship, giving something back so others may grow.”

For more information about the Institute, its curriculum, or EXCEL, visit: www.amionline.org.

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