From SkillsUSA to Collision Pro Assist: How Jason Bartanen Is Revolutionizing Technician Support

Introduction: A New Chapter in Technician Advocacy

In the latest episode of the ADAS Empowered Podcast, host Joel Adcock welcomes Jason Bartanen, a collision repair industry leader and the founder of Collision Pro Assist. From his early days competing in SkillsUSA to becoming a national advocate for technicians, Jason’s journey is a masterclass in industry leadership, innovation, and mentorship.

This episode goes deep on the future of technician training, the realities of ADAS calibration, and the game-changing launch of Back Bay—a Discord-based platform designed to deliver real-time, technician-first support.

SkillsUSA: The Launchpad for a Lifelong Career

Jason’s journey began as a high school student in Wisconsin, competing in SkillsUSA (formerly VICA). That spark led him into education, judging, curriculum design with I-CAR, and eventually to national leadership with SkillsUSA’s Collision Repair Technology competition.

Today, Jason helps guide over 100 students annually in national-level contests for collision repair, refinishing, and damage appraisal—shaping the next generation of hands-on professionals.

“SkillsUSA is like the FFA for the trades,” Jason says. “It builds talent, confidence, and connection.”

Collision Pro Assist: Bridging the Technician Support Gap

Technicians are often the least supported group in collision repair—despite being essential to quality repairs. That’s why Jason launched Collision Pro Assist, a technician-first platform built to provide:

• Real-time access to tool, product, and OEM experts
• Practical guidance on in-shop problems
• Peer-to-peer support without the noise of social media
• Career growth resources—from technical help to financial literacy

Back Bay: A Discord Community for Techs, Built by Techs

At the heart of Collision Pro Assist is Back Bay, a Discord-based microlearning community. It’s organized, searchable, and filled with verified experts from brands like:

• 3M
• Honda
• Toyota
• BASF
• Cam Auto and more

Technicians can ask questions, get OEM-backed answers, and search for common repairs or equipment issues—all without being judged or spammed.

🎟️ Try it free for 7 days (no credit card): whop.com/backbaytrial

Microlearning for the Modern Technician

Forget 3-hour webinars and weekend seminars. Back Bay delivers bite-sized, in-context learning when it matters most.

Whether it’s:

• A question about bumper sensor alignment
• Welder settings for a specific OEM
• Clarification on calibration after battery disconnection

Back Bay lets techs learn by doing—without leaving the vehicle.

“Training should be just-in-time, not just-in-case,” Jason emphasizes.

ADAS: A Growth Path for the Next Generation

With ADAS systems becoming standard in nearly every vehicle, Jason sees a major opportunity for tech-savvy younger technicians to lead the way. He urges shops to assign these roles to digital-native techs, not just veteran body pros.

ADAS knowledge isn’t optional—it’s critical across painting, frame, and non-structural repair roles. Whether doing the calibrations or understanding the impact of sensor interference, every technician must speak ADAS fluently.

Key Advice for Shop Owners

Jason delivers some hard truths and wise advice for those running shops:

• Invest in your technicians—training, tools, and time
• Be open to change—don’t default to “we’ve always done it this way”
• Rethink training—microlearning beats long sessions
• Support SkillsUSA and local schools—tomorrow’s techs are learning today

🎧 Listen & Watch the Full Episode

• 🔊 Podcast episode: ADAS Empowered Podcast
• 🎥 Watch on YouTube: Click here to watch
• 👥 Join the conversation: Revv Community Forum

Resources Mentioned

• ✅ CollisionProAssist.com
• ✅ Free Back Bay Trial (No Credit Card)