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Letter to the Editor

911 Collision Center's Ron Ratzlaff Named 2005 Mentor of the Year

The “Mentor of the Year” award is presented each year at the National Autobody Congress and Exposition (NACE) to the individual who has shown exceptional skill and prowess in teaching and training new technician talent for the collision repair industry.

Ratzlaff manages the company’s metal department teams to ensure the 5 locations will meet customer and insurer expectations for today and into the future. He enjoys sharing his knowledge and experience with the next generation of technicians.

“Sometimes I feel more like a football coach than a body tech,” said Ratzlaff. “Long ago I was mentored back in Oklahoma, and now it’s my turn. I just never imagined I would help so many young people.”

Ellery Pettit, a technician who has worked with Ratzlaff for almost two years, stated, “Ron makes it very clear what is important and always takes the time to answer my questions. In just 2 years I’ve learned so much from him. It would have probably taken me five years or more on my own to get this far. I also like the way Ron approaches a problem, and I’ll use his approach when I work with my own team.”

Matthew O’Neill, field operations manager of 911 Collision Centers, further stated, “Ron is very patient and committed to making a difference with these young guys. When we decided to implement teams to ensure our future staffing, Ron was the first person who came to mind. He is an excellent craftsman who is understanding but can be strong when necessary.”

“It’s very difficult to train younger people. They can be immature. Ron has shown tremendous patience when it comes to their attendance. He understands when uncontrollable issues arise and employees may need time off, but he doesn’t tolerate unexcused absences. He’s teaching these people about responsibility and how a bad decision can be costly,” commented Marea Turnbull, 911’s Human Resource Director.

“It makes me proud to see these people move forward, to know that I have helped shape their future. I’m proud of them all!” said Ron.

Founded in 1998, with headquarters in Tucson AZ, 911 Collision Centers currently operates five locations in the Tucson community.

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