Petra Schroeder, widely known in the industry simply as “Petra,” brings nearly five decades of experience in the collision repair world, with a career spanning Germany and more than 30 years in the United States. From her early days in chemistry to leadership roles in product management, marketing, and brand development,

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Petra has built a lasting legacy as a trailblazer in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Even after retiring in 2016, she remains deeply involved under her self-created title, “Collisionista,” continuing to mentor, advocate, and contribute to organizations that support and advance the industry.

In this conversation, Petra shares insights from her remarkable journey, including her time working with major global brands, her leadership experiences, and her passion for building meaningful relationships.

She highlights the importance of networking, mentorship, and community, emphasizing how these elements have shaped both her career and the industry as a whole.



The discussion also explores key challenges facing the collision repair space today, including technician shortages, the evolving workplace culture, and the increasing complexity of modern vehicles.

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A central part of the conversation focuses on Petra’s involvement with the Collision Industry Foundation (CIF), the charitable organization dedicated to supporting collision repair professionals and their families during times of crisis. She speaks to the powerful role CIF plays in uniting the industry, providing financial relief after disasters, and reinforcing a culture of care and connection. Ultimately, Petra underscores the importance of raising awareness about the industry and inspiring the next generation to see collision repair as a meaningful, technology-driven career path.​​​