Gabriel Duran, an auto glass technician at Speedy Glass USA in Kennewick, Washington, will compete in the 2025 Auto Glass Technician Competition, a national event showcasing some of the industry’s most skilled professionals. The competition takes place during Auto Glass Week™ 2025, held September 9-11 in Reno, Nevada.
Duran was originally introduced to the trade while looking for steady work and a better future for his family. He turned the opportunity into a lasting career.
“I needed something stable,” says Duran. “Speedy Glass gave me that chance, and I’ve taken every opportunity they’ve given me to get better at what I do.”
Gabriel Duran was the first graduate of Fix Network’s Apprenticeship Program. Image provided by Fix Network/Speedy Glass USA.
Duran began his career at Speedy Glass USA as an apprentice, training from September 2022 to March 2024, and gained hands-on experience that helped him develop the skills needed to compete at a national level. As part of Fix Network, Speedy Glass USA technicians have access to the Fix Network Apprenticeship Program. Although the program had not yet officially launched when Duran began his training, he followed its preliminary framework and formally enrolled once it was established, later becoming its first official graduate.
Aspiring apprentices can learn from a program Fix Network officials say was designed to elevate technician training across the industry. This program provides a structured and efficient pathway to certification in auto glass repair and replacement services.
Apprentices are paid while they learn, and national and regional trainers provide instruction and hands-on training. According to Fix officials, apprentices also receive ongoing mentoring from skilled journeypersons. The curriculum covers key topics such as auto glass replacement and repair, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) calibration, safe installation practices, diagnostics and cost estimate preparation. To graduate, participants must pass the Auto Glass Safety Council’s (AGSC) technician certification exam.
Duran says his training laid a strong foundation for career development. He continues to refine his expertise in windshield repair, ADAS calibration and glass installation under the guidance and support of Speedy Glass senior trainers.
“The way they’ve trained and guided me has made all the difference,” he says. “Gaining hands-on experience early in my career gave me the foundation I needed to succeed in this industry. Being chosen (by the company) to compete at Auto Glass Week™ makes me feel like I’m on the right path. I’m proud to represent Speedy Glass USA and Fix Network when I compete in Reno.”
