A Guide to Auto Glass Training Programs
by Abby Bowman
Repairs, replacements and recalibration have become more complex as automotive technology develops. The demand for skilled, well-trained technicians has grown, too.
From hands-on academies to paid apprenticeships, today’s educational training programs strive to meet that demand by offering pathways for everyone, from first-time entrants to seasoned professionals looking to sharpen their skills. Here’s a closer look at several leading programs shaping the next generation of talent in the auto glass industry.
Each program listed provided the information below to AGRR upon request.
Auto Glass Academy
From Equalizer Industries
WHO can attend?
The Academy is open to anyone interested in learning the trade of auto glass repair, replacement and recalibration, including industry newcomers, entrepreneurs and old hats.
WHAT classes does the academy offer, and what do they cost?
Auto Glass Core Essentials (AGCE) is a five-day, hands-on class designed for beginners or anyone looking to improve their skills in removing and replacing auto glass. Cost: $2,495
Calibration Core Essentials (CCE) is a three-day, hands-on class. It covers recent Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) technology and is designed to help students understand the systems and the basic process for calibrating modern vehicles. Cost: $1,995
Glass Repair Core Essentials (GRCE) is a two-day, hands-on class. It teaches students specialized techniques and applications necessary to perform successful auto glass repairs. Cost: $995
The Academy also allows students to bundle certain classes to save money on tuition. Cost Range: $2,495–$4,995
The Academy also offers the Ray Asbery Scholarship on a case-by-case basis. Potential recipients write a short description of their experience and why they want to be a part of the industry, along with a short video.
WHAT role does the Automotive Glass Replacement Safety Standard™ (AGRSS) play in training?
“The AGRSS Standard is the core foundation for training and is heavily referenced, discussed and applied during each module,” says Eric Asbery, CEO of Equalizer.
WHEN was the Academy founded?
1992
WHEN are classes offered?
Classes are held monthly, sometimes twice per month.
WHERE is the program held?
The primary campus is in Round Rock, Texas. Auto Glass Academy also offers remote training.
WHY was the academy founded?
Equalizer operates the Auto Glass Academy, which originally trained technicians to use Equalizer tools. The Academy eventually formalized its classes and, in 2016, added a specific focus on dedicated hands-on training.
WHY should students attend?
“The training programs have been designed using over three decades of global research, innovative product development, and hands-on instruction across diverse environments, ensuring students receive the highest-quality education to build a strong foundation for success,” says Asbery.
Auto Glass Safety Council (AGSC) Company Training
WHAT programs does AGSC offer, and what do they cost?
Company training. All attendees must be employees and/or subcontractors of the company. Cost: $3,000 for AGSC members and $5,000 for non-members, plus the trainer’s travel expenses (airfare, hotel and incidentals) for the first day. $500 for members and $2,000 for non-members, plus the trainer’s expenses, for each day thereafter. The cost includes up to 15 trainees. There is a $49 fee per additional trainee.
At the end of a training session, technicians can take the certification exam at no additional cost.
Each session is customizable to the company or sponsor who commissions it. Training options include replacement certification training and testing, repair certification training and testing, ADAS recalibration certification training and testing and CSR certification training and testing.
WHAT role does the Automotive Glass Replacement Safety Standard™ (AGRSS) play in training?
AGSC created and maintains the AGRSS Standard, so all programs train technicians to follow the standard.
WHERE is the program held?
AGSC’s headquarters are in suburban Washington, D.C. Companies from anywhere in the continental United States can request the training at their location.
WHY does AGSC offer training?
“AGSC strives to instill proper auto glass repair, replacement and recalibration practices throughout the industry,” says president Jacques Navant. “While AGSC offers training at Auto Glass Week™ and regional glass shows, this provides a resource for companies that want to provide training at a time and location most convenient for them.”
Auto Glass University
WHO can attend?
The University is open to beginners, experienced technicians and any technician seeking certification.
WHAT classes does the program offer, and what do they cost?
Auto Glass University offers a one-week core class that focuses on proper installation instruction according to three major guidelines: Original Equipment Manufacturer standards, Federal Motor Vehicle Safety standards and the current AGRSS Standard. Cost: $1,600
WHAT role does the Automotive Glass Replacement Safety Standard™ (AGRSS) play in training?
Beranek says his time on the Auto Glass Safety Council (AGSC) Board and as AGRSS Committee Chair led him to prioritize the Standard in the University’s training program. All graduates can take the online AGSC certification exam for free.
WHEN are classes offered?
Every other month.
WHERE is the program held?
The University is based in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, but it holds classes around the country. It also offers local or customized training for individual companies.
WHY was the University founded?
It began as an online training course that provided skilled installers with the supplemental knowledge needed to become AGSC certified.
WHY should students attend?
“Auto Glass University offers a comprehensive overview of the auto glass industry with a hands-on experience that lets new people ‘do’ and not just be shown,” says Beranek. “What makes our class special is that we explain why procedures need to be followed properly, not just how to follow them.”
Fix Network Apprenticeship Program
WHO can attend?
The program is open to anyone interested in pursuing an automotive glass repair and replacement career who can report for training at a participating Speedy Glass USA location. Apprentices aren’t required to have prior automotive experience, but they must be at least 18 years old and hold a state-issued driver’s license or be able to obtain one. Apprentices must pass a criminal background check and a motor vehicle records check. A high school diploma or GED is preferred, but not required.
WHAT classes does the program offer, and what do they cost?
It is an apprenticeship program, rather than a traditional training program or academy. The program is currently only available at Speedy Glass USA locations.
Core training areas include: automotive glass repair and replacement; ADAS awareness and calibration fundamentals; safe glass installation practices; tools and technologies; troubleshooting and diagnostics; and cost estimate preparation.
The apprentices are paid employees of Speedy Glass USA and receive a minimum of 2,000 hours of training, a stocked toolbox and a benefits package.
WHAT role does the Automotive Glass Replacement Safety Standard™ (AGRSS) play in training?
“Industry safety standards play a central role in the program,” says Kelli Laski, Fix Network senior communications manager. “After completing all state-required training hours and a rigorous internal assessment process, apprentices must pass standardized testing through AGSC. Successful completion results in nationally recognized certification aligned with AGRSS standards.”
WHERE is the program held?
Speedy Glass USA is in Saint Paul, Minnesota. The apprenticeship launched in Washington State and has since been approved in Oregon, Montana, Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, and Alaska.
WHY should students attend?
“The program aims to improve workmanship and safety standards, attract new talent to the skilled trades and create sustainable career opportunities through paid, hands-on training,” says Laski. “At this time, the program is offered exclusively through Fix Network’s Speedy Glass locations.”
www.fixnetwork.com/en/apprenticeship-program
Kaizen Glass Solutions
WHO can attend?
Kaizen Glass Solutions offers open enrollment with no prior experience required. Its training is designed for a range of participants.
WHAT classes does the program offer, and what do they cost?
Auto Glass Installation Training offers hands-on training covering full-vehicle assessments, removals, installations and OEM procedures. Cost: $2,495
ADAS Calibration Training covers static and dynamic calibrations, troubleshooting, system diagnostics and documentation. Cost: $1,795
Windshield Repair Training teaches hands-on chip and crack repair. Cost: $500
Headlight Restoration teaches the process and shows how it can be a high-margin add-on service. Cost: $500
Wheel Restoration Training covers refinishing, repairs and advanced techniques, including CNC machining and straightening. Cost: $3,500–$5,000
Flat Glass Glazing Training covers frameless shower doors, commercial storefronts and residential applications including repair, replacement and reglazing. Students learn cutting techniques for laminated glass, work with patterns and templates, and practice proper installation practices for flat glass applications. Cost: $2,295
WHAT role does the Automotive Glass Replacement Safety Standard™ (AGRSS) play in training?
The AGRSS Standard is a foundational component of Kaizen’s auto glass curriculum. Training emphasizes proper installation procedures aligned with AGRSS, safe drive-away times (SDAT) and adhesive handling, vehicle assessment and retention system integrity, documentation and liability awareness and ADAS requirements.
WHERE is the program held?
Kaizen is based in Hutto, Texas, and also offers training in Allen, Texas; Garner and Raleigh, North Carolina; and Ontario, Canada. Kaizen will also soon offer training in Houston.
WHY was Kaizen founded?
“I started Kaizen to elevate the auto glass industry through hands-on, real-world training that prioritizes safety, OEM awareness and technician confidence,” says president and owner Shauna Davis.
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