
Tanner Kemna
Owner & Operator at Kemna Collision Repair, Inc. | Automotive Collision Expert | Industry Advocate
Tanner Kemna is the owner and operator of Kemna Collision Repair, Inc., a family-owned business based in Jefferson City, MO. Growing up in the collision repair industry, Tanner spent much of his childhood around the shop where his parents, Greg and Kristi Kemna, founded the business in 2006. With a deep understanding of both the technical and business sides of the industry, Tanner has worked in nearly every aspect of the shop—from vehicle prep and estimating to management and now ownership.
Tanner graduated from the University of Central Missouri with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and returned to Jefferson City to help lead the family business. He previously gained valuable experience working at Collision Leaders (formerly Warrensburg Collision), where he developed a broader perspective on shop operations and management. Now, as an owner of Kemna Collision, Tanner combines his passion for the industry with his commitment to customer service, continuously striving to improve both the quality of repairs and the customer experience.
Why Tanner Chose the Collision Industry:
Although Tanner didn’t initially plan on working in collision repair, his career path evolved over time as he realized how rewarding and dynamic the industry could be. From working on cars to engaging with customers, Tanner enjoys the variety of tasks and challenges collision repair offers. One of the most rewarding aspects of his work is helping people through difficult situations. He believes that while you can’t always control what happens to a vehicle, you can control how you treat customers and how you respond to challenges—providing exceptional service and care every step of the way.
Industry Evolution & Tanner’s Role:
Tanner has worked in various roles throughout the shop, from a blueprint disassembly technician to an estimator, parts coordinator, and manager. This hands-on experience across all areas of the business has allowed him to understand the challenges faced by each team member and ensure the shop runs smoothly. As the industry continues to evolve, Tanner remains committed to staying on top of new technologies and repair methods. From the increasing complexity of vehicles to the shift toward digital communications with insurance companies, he understands the need for continuous adaptation in both the technical and business aspects of collision repair.
Challenges and Opportunities in the Industry:
Tanner is passionate about addressing some of the key challenges in the collision repair industry, including the growing shortage of skilled technicians, the need for ongoing education, and the pressure of working with insurance companies. He believes that shops need to prioritize proper education and training—both for technicians and for shop owners and managers. He advocates for shops to be confident in charging appropriately for the repairs required to restore a vehicle to its pre-collision condition. As vehicles become more complex, it’s essential that repair shops have the knowledge and tools to handle the evolving technologies in modern cars.
The Role of Associations in Moving the Industry Forward:
Tanner believes that industry associations, such as the Missouri Autobody Association, are key to fostering change in the collision repair industry. These organizations offer valuable resources for training, networking, and advocating for necessary legislative changes. By attending workshops, webinars, and industry events, shop owners and technicians can share knowledge and implement best practices. Additionally, associations can help build connections between repair shops and vocational schools, ensuring that the next generation of technicians is properly trained and ready to take on the challenges of an ever-evolving industry.
Looking Ahead:
Tanner is a firm believer that change needs to happen now. Whether it’s through education, legislation, or increased support for vocational training, the collision repair industry must embrace modernization. He believes that change starts with shop ownership and management—being willing to accept and implement new practices will ensure the industry continues to grow and thrive. Tanner is dedicated to helping make the collision repair industry a more attractive and sustainable career path for future generations.
Personal Life:
Outside of work, Tanner enjoys spending time outdoors. Whether it’s cooking on the smoker, playing golf or pickleball, hunting, fishing, or enjoying time on the river or lake, Tanner loves activities that allow him to connect with nature. He and his wife, Erin, who have been married for over five years, also enjoy traveling and exploring new parts of the country, with a special fondness for trips to the mountains. They share their home with two dogs, Finn and Stella.
Positive Message:
“I believe that no matter what happens, you always have a choice in how you respond. In this industry, and in life, it’s about how we treat others and how we face challenges. The collision repair business is more than just fixing cars—it’s about helping people through tough situations and making sure they feel supported every step of the way.”
Certifications & Expertise:
- Full spectrum of collision repair experience—from vehicle prep to management and ownership
- Expertise in customer relations and repair process management
- Strong advocate for continuous education and training in the collision repair industry
- Active member of the Missouri Autobody Association and other industry organizations
- Serves on advisory boards for State Technical College of Missouri’s Auto Collision Program in Linn, MO and Nichols Career Center in Jefferson City, MO

Jared Nicholson
Regional Manager at Collision Leaders | Automotive Collision Expert | Industry Advocate
With over two decades of experience in the automotive collision industry, Jared Nicholson has built a reputation as a skilled technician, manager, and advocate for excellence in vehicle repair. After graduating from LaMonte High School and earning an associate’s degree from State Technical College of Missouri in 2001, Jared began his career at a Ford dealership in Sedalia, MO, as a porter. His passion for the craft quickly propelled him into more advanced roles, and he became a combination body and refinishing technician.
Jared’s journey continued at a Ford dealership in Lee’s Summit, MO, where he was hired as a Body Technician in 2009. By 2016, he was promoted to Manager of the Collision Center, overseeing operations and ensuring quality repairs. In 2021, Jared joined Warrensburg Collision, which later rebranded as Collision Leaders. Under his leadership, the company expanded into a regional brand with collision centers in Missouri and Kansas. Today, Jared serves as the Regional Manager, where he continues to drive the company’s growth and maintain its reputation for excellence in the industry.
A passionate advocate for industry advancement, Jared has earned numerous certifications and accolades, including the prestigious 2024 Jeff Silver Award, presented by I-Car at the SEMA Red Carpet Awards. He holds PPG Master Level certifications in multiple refinishing systems and is an ASE Master Certified technician, with certifications in welding, estimating, ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems), structural and non-structural repairs, and more. Jared’s commitment to professional development is exemplified by his I-Car Platinum Individual status since 2015, showcasing his ongoing dedication to staying at the forefront of evolving technologies and repair techniques.
Jared’s expertise spans all aspects of collision repair, including production management, mechanical and electrical diagnostics, auto physical damage appraisal, and estimating. He actively mentors young professionals entering the industry, collaborating with local schools and participating in advisory boards to support future generations of technicians. Through hands-on training sessions, job shadowing programs, and educational events, Jared fosters the growth of the next wave of automotive collision professionals.
Outside of his professional commitments, Jared resides in Lee’s Summit, MO, with his wife, Sara, and their daughter, Ava.
Certifications & Achievements:
- 2024 Jeff Silver Award, presented by I-Car at the SEMA Red Carpet Awards
- PPG Master Level Certifications in Global, DBC, and Envirobase refinishing
- Multiple OEM Certifications, including Toyota, Nissan, Ford, Subaru, Honda, and Acura
- ASE Master Certified (including Collision Repair Estimating)
- I-Car Welding Certifications in steel, sectioning, STRSW-Spot Welding, MIG brazing, and aluminum welding
- I-Car Platinum Individual since 2015 with 9 Platinum certifications in areas such as:
- Structural Repair
- Non-Structural Repairs
- Refinishing
- Production Management
- ADAS
- Auto Physical Damage Appraisal
- Estimator
- Electrical/Diagnostic
- Mechanical
Why the Industry?
Jared’s passion for the collision repair industry grew after his older brother’s car accident, sparking his fascination with transforming damaged vehicles back to life. His love for cars, hot rods, and motorcycles further fueled his commitment to the field.
Industry Evolution & Leadership:
From his early days as a porter to his current leadership role managing multiple collision centers, Jared has gained a well-rounded skill set. Inspired by visionaries like Henry Ford and Elon Musk, he believes in mastering all facets of the business to positively influence every department and employee, ensuring long-term success for the organization.
Commitment to Industry Progress:
Jared is dedicated to shaping the future of the collision repair industry through education, advocacy, and mentorship. He believes that associations play a vital role in ensuring technicians stay ahead of technological advancements, promoting fair industry practices, and facilitating knowledge-sharing among peers.
Jared Nicholson’s commitment to excellence, professional development, and his passion for the automotive repair industry make him a respected leader and advocate for the future of collision repair.

Kristen Shackelford
Treasurer of the Missouri Auto Body Association, brings a unique blend of experience and dedication to the collision repair industry. Kristen transitioned into the industry in 2021 when she and her husband opened KC Auto Center in Grain Valley, Missouri. She currently focuses on accounting and human resources, ensuring smooth business operations.
Before joining the collision repair industry, Kristen spent 16 years in education as a teacher and an instructional coach. In this role, she honed her skills in planning and facilitating training, onboarding new staff, curriculum development, and data analysis. These experiences provided her with a strong foundation in leadership, organization, and fostering collaboration—skills she now applies to her work in the collision industry.
As Treasurer, Kristen leverages her experience to maintain the financial health of the association. She is committed to supporting initiatives that drive workforce development, innovation, and the overall well-being of employees and their families.

Kyle Motzkus, Founding Member and Secretary
Kyle is the manager at Hunter Auto Body. St. Louis, born and raised holds many accolades in the world of repair planning from sitting on many committees in the industry ranging from education to legislation to holding numerous OEM certifications for repairs. Kyle is also well versed in AIC-30, which is essentially the bible of claims handling.

Casey Lund, Past President
Casey is the owner of Collision Leaders (formerly Warrensburg Collision), a new 8-shop MSO located in Missouri and Kansas. After finishing his Business Management degree from UCM, he began his career as a Development Officer but was thrust into the family business in 2004 when his father had a heart transplant. By 2012, frustrated with the industry, he drew a line in the sand. The business was either going to have to be drastically different or he was going to have to move on. Deciding to stay, Casey transformed the culture of the shop, engaged employees to help transform the business, incorporated lean practices and began working on earning multiple OEM certifications. The streamlined processes have allowed the business to grow tenfold within the same four walls utilizing only one paint booth and one shift at the original store. The shop is now something business leaders from around the Midwest bring their teams to see. Their successes have been recognized with the 2016 Missouri Chamber of Commerce ‘Fast Track’ Award, they were included in Ingram’s Magazine’s Corporate 100 as one of the KC Area’s Fastest Growing Companies four times (2014, 2015, 2016, and 2021), and have won numerous local awards, from ‘Chamber Business of the Year’ to ‘Best of the Burg’ multiple years.
The importance of serving the community and involvement is encouraged with employees and Casey absolutely leads by example, serving on various boards and committees. Casey is the former Mayor of Warrensburg, Past President of the Whiteman AFB Base Community Council, Past President of the Greater Warrensburg Area Chamber of Commerce and Past President of the Warrensburg Economic Coalition. He is the current President of the MABA (Missouri Auto Body Association), a Warrensburg City Councilman, Planning and Zoning Commissioner, Board Member for Johnson County Economic Development Corporation, the Warrensburg Schools Foundation, and the Western Missouri Medical Center Foundation. Casey was a 2018 graduate of Leadership Missouri, was included in Ingram’s Magazine’s 40 Under 40 in 2018 and named as a “50 Missourians to Know” by Ingram’s Magazine in 2022. Casey also mentors students, speaks to local groups and emcees many local events.

Teresa Shriver -Replacement Rental Sales Manager for the Replacement Leisure Division at Enterprise Mobility.
She also oversees the Commute with Enterprise team for the Kansas City & surrounding area.
Teresa has been with Enterprise for twenty-nine years. She began her career in Kansas City area after graduating with a BA in Public Relations from Northwest Missouri State University.
Today, she is responsible for the direction of the Group’s sales efforts with local business segments of rental reimbursement, leisure rentals and ARMS® technology that links Enterprise with its business partners.
She has been married to Gary Shriver for 23 years and has two sons, Braeden (19) and Josh (17). The Shriver family lives in Liberty, MO. Teresa & Gary have been long-time supporters of the United Way in Kansas City, Community LINC and Boy Scouts of America. Teresa served on the Board for Community LINC from 2016 through 2021. In 2025, she is beginning a term on the Board with the Missouri Auto Body Association.

Curtis Goacher, Board Member. Curtis is the Senior Solutions Specialist for Mitchell and resides in Northwest Missouri, Easton. He has worked in the Auto Body field in one form or another for 35 years. Curtis started painting when he was 14. He has worked in several independent shops, dealerships, and MOS over the years. Curtis has done just about everything in a shop, from being a tech all the way to General Manager. He has been ASE and I-Car Certified. He is also a former I-Car instructor. Curtis has worked for Mitchell since 2007.

Brian Sinnett, Vendor Member.
Brian has 20+ years in the collision industry with experience in sales, sales management, business development, and ADAS. Have held positions at CCC Intelligent Solutions, B Street Collision Centers, Repairify, and currently a Senior Solutions Specialist with Mitchell International.

Gina Cotton, Executive Director.
Gina is a graduate of the University of Nebraska with a BA in Psychology and a minor in Political Science. She has had a varied career in running her own business, working in non-profit fundraising, TV advertising, advocating for four-lane expressways, and now working with the Missouri Auto Body Association. Association building, collaborating, and advocacy are Gina’s strengths. Gina understands that a strong association can greatly benefit the industry, from much-needed legislation to public awareness and especially education. She understands there is strength in numbers. In her spare time, Gina enjoys golfing, traveling, and most importantly spending time with friends and family.
Herby Fessler
Kevin Bopp
Teresa Shriver