Fortador Exclusive Detailing Training

8:45 AM – 9:00 AM: Welcome and Introduction

• Introduction:
  • Overview of the 5-day training program, emphasizing the integration of technical skills with robust business management.
  • Importance of effective business practices for success in the car detailing industry.
• Icebreaker Activity:
  • Participants introduce themselves, share their business goals, and discuss their expectations from the course.

9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Building a Profitable Business Strategy

• Defining Your Business Model:
  • Types of Detailing Businesses: Exploring various models such as mobile detailing, fixed-location shops, and franchises.
  • Target Market: Identifying ideal customers and customizing services to meet their needs.
  • Competitive Analysis: Researching competitors to differentiate your services and stand out in the market.
• Creating a Business Plan:
  • Business Goals: Setting realistic short-term and long-term goals for growth and profitability.
  • Service Offerings: Designing a range of services to cater to different customer needs and budgets.
  • Pricing Strategy: Developing a pricing structure that reflects service quality while remaining competitive.

10:00 AM – 10:15 AM: Break

• Light Refreshments: Snacks and beverages provided.

10:15 AM – 12:00 PM: Mastering Financial Management

• Financial Fundamentals:
  • Understanding Financial Statements:
    • Income Statements: Analyzing revenue, cost of goods sold, and net profit.
    • Balance Sheets: Understanding assets, liabilities, and equity.
    • Cash Flow Statements: Tracking cash inflows and outflows to maintain liquidity.
  • Budgeting and Forecasting:
    • Creating a Realistic Budget: Estimating expenses, setting revenue targets, and planning for growth.
    • Revenue Forecasting: Predicting future sales based on historical data and market trends.
    • Expense Management: Identifying fixed and variable costs and finding areas for cost reduction.
  • Pricing Strategies:
    • Setting Competitive Prices: Pricing services based on market rates, cost of services, and perceived value.
    • Value-Based Pricing: Charging based on the value provided rather than just the cost of labor and materials.
    • Discounting and Promotions: Strategically using discounts to attract customers without eroding profitability.
  • Bookkeeping and Accounting:
    • Basic Bookkeeping: Recording transactions, managing invoices, and tracking expenses.
    • Accounting Software: Introduction to tools that simplify financial management.
    • Tax Compliance: Understanding tax obligations and maintaining proper documentation.

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Lunch Break

• Buffet Lunch: A selection of light meals provided.

1:00 PM – 2:45 PM: Marketing and Client Retention Techniques

• Building Your Brand:
  • Brand Identity: Developing a strong brand identity through logos, messaging, and service differentiation.
  • Online Presence: Creating an effective website and utilizing social media to attract and engage customers.
• Effective Marketing Strategies:
  • Traditional Marketing: Leveraging flyers, business cards, and local networking.
  • Digital Marketing: Using SEO, Google Ads, and social media campaigns to drive leads and conversions.
  • Customer Engagement: Creating engaging content and interacting with customers online.
• Customer Service Excellence:
  • Customer Satisfaction: How exceptional service drives repeat business and referrals.
  • Handling Complaints: Techniques for resolving issues and turning negative experiences into positive outcomes.
  • Building Long-Term Relationships: Implementing loyalty programs and personalized communication.

2:45 PM – 3:00 PM: Break

• Refreshments: Light snacks and drinks provided.

3:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Practical Workshop: Creating Your Financial Plan

• Workshop Overview:
  • Participants apply the concepts learned to develop a basic financial plan for their business.
• Hands-On Activities:
  • Building a Budget: Creating a tailored budget including projected revenue, expenses, and profit margins.
  • Setting Financial Goals: Establishing realistic short-term and long-term financial goals.
  • Cash Flow Management: Creating a cash flow statement and planning for various financial scenarios.
  • Pricing Strategy Development: Developing a pricing strategy that balances competitiveness with profitability.
• Group Discussion:
  • Sharing financial plans with the group, receiving feedback, and discussing challenges.
• Q&A Session:
  • Open floor for questions and clarification on business and financial management topics.

4:00 PM: Wrap-Up and Preparation for Day 2

• Review of Key Points:
  • Recap of the day’s essential business and financial management strategies.
• Preparation for Day 2:
  • Brief overview of the next day's focus on Introduction and Basic Cleaning Techniques.
• Closing Remarks:
  • Encouragement to review the day’s materials, finalize financial plans, and come prepared for the practical sessions on Day 2.

8:45 AM – 9:00 AM: Recap of Day 1

• Review of Business Management and Financial Planning:
  • Quick recap of the key lessons from Day 1, focusing on how to apply financial and business management strategies to your detailing business.
  • Open floor for any questions or discussions on Day 1 topics before shifting focus to technical skills.

9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Getting Acquainted with Fortador Products

• Introduction to Fortador Equipment:
  • Overview of Fortador’s range of steam cleaners, their features, and how they differ from traditional cleaning tools.
  • Detailed explanation of each product’s function and best-use scenarios.
• Demonstration of Fortador Steam Cleaners:
  • Live demonstration of how to use Fortador steam cleaners for both interior and exterior car cleaning.
  • Safety precautions and maintenance tips for Fortador equipment to ensure longevity and optimal performance.
• Hands-On Session:
  • Participants practice using Fortador steam cleaners under instructor supervision, with feedback provided on technique and efficiency.

10:00 AM – 10:15 AM: Break

• Light Refreshments: Snacks and beverages provided.

10:15 AM – 12:00 PM: Exterior Cleaning Techniques

• Introduction to Exterior Cleaning:
  • Importance of a thorough exterior cleaning as the foundation of any detailing job.
  • Overview of the basic steps: pre-wash, wash, decontamination, drying, and protection.
• Pre-Wash and Wash Techniques:
  • Pre-Wash: Use of snow foam and pre-wash products to break down dirt and grime before contact washing.
  • How to wash a car in under 15 minutes: Training on how to wash a car using Fortador Steamers in under 15 minutes.
  • Contact Washing: Proper use of wash mitts, brushes, and detailing tools to clean various exterior surfaces.
• Decontamination Techniques:
  • Chemical Decontamination: Use of iron removers and tar removers to safely eliminate contaminants.
  • Mechanical Decontamination: Techniques for using clay bars or clay mitts to remove embedded contaminants from the paint surface.
• Drying and Protection:
  • Safe Drying Techniques: Use of microfiber towels, air blowers, and drying aids to prevent water spots.
  • Applying Protection: Introduction to waxes, sealants, and ceramic coatings, and how to apply them for long-lasting protection.
• Hands-On Practice:
  • Participants work on demo vehicles, practicing the entire exterior cleaning process, from pre-wash to protection application, under instructor supervision.

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Lunch Break

• Buffet Lunch: A selection of light meals provided.

1:00 PM – 2:45 PM: Interior Cleaning Techniques

• Introduction to Interior Detailing:
  • Importance of interior detailing in enhancing the overall appearance and value of the vehicle.
  • Overview of key interior components: seats, carpets, dashboard, windows, and air vents.
• Cleaning Seats and Upholstery:
  • Fabric Seats: Techniques for shampooing, extracting, and removing stains.
  • Leather Seats: Cleaning, conditioning, and protecting leather upholstery to maintain its appearance and durability.
  • Hands-On Practice: Participants clean and condition seats in demo vehicles, applying the techniques demonstrated by the instructors.
• Dashboard, Panels, and Trim:
  • Cleaning Techniques: Safe methods for cleaning dashboards, door panels, and plastic trim without causing damage.
  • Protecting and Dressing: Application of interior dressings and protectants to enhance appearance and prevent UV damage.
• Carpets and Floor Mats:
  • Vacuuming Techniques: Effective vacuuming strategies to remove dirt and debris from carpets and floor mats.
  • Shampooing and Extraction: Techniques for deep cleaning carpets, removing stains, and extracting moisture.
  • Hands-On Practice: Participants practice interior cleaning on demo vehicles, with instructors providing personalized feedback.
• Glass and Windows:
  • Streak-Free Cleaning: Techniques for achieving streak-free windows using the right products and methods.
  • Window Tint Care: Special considerations for cleaning tinted windows without damaging the tint film.
• Final Interior Detailing Touches:
  • Odor Removal: Techniques for neutralizing odors, including the use of steam and ozone treatments.
  • Attention to Detail: Importance of addressing small areas like air vents, crevices, and cup holders for a complete clean.

2:45 PM – 3:00 PM: Break

• Refreshments: Light snacks and drinks provided.

3:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Q&A and Review

• Interactive Q&A Session:
  • Participants ask questions about the day’s lessons, with instructors providing detailed answers and clarifications.
• Review of Key Techniques:
  • Recap of essential exterior and interior cleaning techniques learned during the day.
  • Emphasis on the importance of attention to detail and following systematic cleaning processes.
• Group Discussion:
  • Open discussion on any challenges faced during the hands-on sessions and how to overcome them in real-world scenarios.
• Preparation for Day 3:
  • Overview of the next day’s focus on Car Preparation and Polishing, with a brief explanation of the topics to be covered.
  • Encouragement to review the day’s materials and practice the techniques on their own vehicles before Day 3.

4:00 PM: End of Day 2

8:45 AM – 9:00 AM: Recap of Day 2

• Review of Basic Cleaning Techniques:
  • Quick recap of the key lessons from Day 2, focusing on the importance of proper cleaning as a foundation for detailing.
  • Discussion on any challenges or questions from the previous day, with tips for improving technique.

9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Preparing the Car for Polishing

• Surface Assessment:
  • Inspection Techniques: How to inspect the vehicle’s paint for swirls, scratches, oxidation, and other defects.
  • Identifying Paint Types: Understanding different types of automotive paint (single-stage, clear coat, etc.) and how they affect the polishing process.
  • Assessing Contaminants: Identifying tar, tree sap, industrial fallout, and other contaminants that may need to be removed before polishing.
• Pre-Polishing Preparation:
  • Tape-Off Process: Demonstration of how to tape off sensitive areas (e.g., trim, emblems, rubber seals) to protect them during polishing.
  • Decontamination Process:
    • Iron Removers: Application of iron fallout removers to dissolve embedded metal particles.
    • Clay Bar or Clay Mitt: Hands-on practice using clay to remove bonded contaminants, creating a smooth surface for polishing.
    • Solvent Wipe-Down: Use of panel wipes or isopropyl alcohol (IPA) to remove oils, waxes, and any remaining residues from the paint.
  • Paint Thickness Measurement: Introduction to paint depth gauges and how to measure paint thickness to avoid over-polishing.

10:00 AM – 10:15 AM: Break

• Light Refreshments: Snacks and beverages provided.

10:15 AM – 12:00 PM: Polishing and One-Step Paint Correction

• Introduction to Paint Correction:
  • Understanding Paint Defects: Types of defects (e.g., swirl marks, scratches, oxidation) and how they can be corrected through polishing.
  • Polishing Compounds and Pads:
    • Overview of different types of polishing compounds (cutting, polishing, finishing) and how to select the right one for the job.
    • Explanation of polishing pads (foam, microfiber, wool) and their specific uses.
  • Polishing Techniques:
    • Machine Polishing:
      • Dual Action (DA) Polishers: Introduction to DA polishers, their safety features, and how they differ from rotary polishers.
      • Rotary Polishers: Explanation of rotary polishers, their advantages, and when to use them.
      • Polishing Process: Step-by-step demonstration of the polishing process, including pad priming, pressure control, and speed settings.
      • One-Step Paint Correction: Techniques for performing a one-step polish that balances cutting and finishing, ideal for enhancing gloss with minimal effort.
    • Hands-On Practice:
      • Participants practice polishing techniques on demo panels and vehicles, with instructors providing guidance on pressure, speed, and pad movement.
    • Finishing the Polished Surface:
      • Inspecting the Results: How to check for holograms, buffer trails, and missed defects.
      • Jeweling: Techniques for achieving maximum gloss and clarity on the paint surface.
      • Final Wipe-Down: Use of microfiber towels and finishing sprays to remove any remaining polish residue.

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Lunch Break

• Buffet Lunch: A selection of light meals provided.

1:00 PM – 2:45 PM: Continued Practice

• Hands-On Polishing Session:
  • Participants continue practicing the polishing techniques learned earlier, working on different sections of demo vehicles.
  • Instructors provide one-on-one feedback, helping participants refine their techniques and troubleshoot any issues.
• Spot Correction Techniques:
  • Isolated Defect Removal: Techniques for focusing on specific areas with deeper scratches or defects without over-polishing surrounding areas.
  • Edge and Corner Polishing: Safely polishing near edges, body lines, and tight areas where machine polishers may be less effective.
• Introduction to Multi-Step Paint Correction:
  • Overview: Explanation of multi-step correction, where multiple polishing stages (cutting, polishing, finishing) are used to achieve the highest level of defect removal and gloss.
  • Discussion: Understanding when to use a multi-step correction process versus a one-step approach.
• Group Discussion:
  • Participants discuss their experiences during the hands-on sessions, sharing challenges and solutions with the group.
  • Instructors provide additional tips and answer questions related to specific polishing scenarios.

2:45 PM – 3:00 PM: Break

• Refreshments: Light snacks and drinks provided.

3:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Q&A and Review

• Interactive Q&A Session:
  • Open floor for participants to ask questions about the day's lessons, with instructors providing detailed explanations and practical advice.
• Review of Key Polishing Techniques:
  • Recap of the essential polishing techniques learned during the day, emphasizing the importance of surface preparation and correct tool usage.
  • Discussion on the role of polishing in the overall detailing process and its impact on the final result.
• Preparation for Day 4:
  • Overview of the next day's focus on Advanced Techniques and Repetition, including advanced correction methods, coating applications, and more.
  • Encouragement to review the day's materials and practice the techniques on their own vehicles before Day 4.

4:00 PM: End of Day 3

8:45 AM – 9:00 AM: Recap of Day 3

• Review of Polishing Techniques:
  • Quick recap of the key lessons from Day 3, focusing on the importance of preparation and the nuances of polishing techniques.
  • Open discussion on any challenges faced during the previous day's hands-on sessions, with tips for improvement.

9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Advanced Paint Correction Techniques

• Introduction to Multi-Step Paint Correction:
  • Understanding Multi-Step Process: Detailed explanation of multi-step correction, including heavy cutting, polishing, and finishing stages.
  • Advanced Polishing Compounds: Overview of high-cutting compounds and finishing polishes, with a focus on selecting the right product for specific paint conditions.
  • Polishing Pad Selection:
    • Discussion on the use of different pads (foam, microfiber, wool) in a multi-step process.
    • Techniques for switching between pads and products efficiently.
  • Advanced Machine Polishing Techniques:
    • Rotary Polishing Mastery: Techniques for using rotary polishers to correct severe defects while minimizing the risk of holograms and burns.
    • Edge Work and Tight Areas:
      • Techniques for polishing around intricate areas such as body lines, edges, and emblems.
      • Introduction to smaller pad systems and specialized tools for tight spaces.
    • Hands-On Practice:
      • Participants practice multi-step paint correction on demo vehicles, focusing on achieving a flawless finish with minimal haze or swirls.
      • Instructors provide one-on-one guidance, helping participants refine their techniques for different paint types and conditions.

10:00 AM – 10:15 AM: Break

• Light Refreshments: Snacks and beverages provided.

10:15 AM – 12:00 PM: Coatings and Advanced Protection Techniques

• Introduction to Ceramic Coatings:
  • Understanding Ceramic Coatings: Explanation of ceramic coatings, their benefits, and how they differ from traditional waxes and sealants.
  • Coating Types: Overview of different ceramic coatings, including consumer-grade and professional-grade options.
  • Surface Preparation for Coating:
    • Importance of flawless paint correction and decontamination before coating application.
    • Use of panel wipes and inspection sprays to ensure a residue-free surface.
  • Application Techniques for Ceramic Coatings:
    • Step-by-Step Application:
      • Demonstration of proper application techniques, including layering, leveling, and curing times.
      • Techniques for avoiding high spots, streaks, and other common application issues.
    • Curing Process:
      • Explanation of the curing process, including the use of IR lamps and proper environmental conditions.
      • Discussion on post-application care and maintenance during the curing period.
    • Coating Maintenance and Longevity:
      • Post-Coating Care: Techniques for maintaining a ceramic-coated vehicle, including recommended washing methods and products.
      • Top-Up Products: Introduction to maintenance products like spray sealants and detailers designed to extend the life of ceramic coatings.
    • Hands-On Coating Application:
      • Participants apply ceramic coatings to demo panels and vehicles, practicing the techniques demonstrated.
      • Instructors provide personalized feedback, helping participants achieve a professional-grade finish.

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Lunch Break

• Buffet Lunch: A selection of light meals provided.

1:00 PM – 2:45 PM: Repetition and Mastery

• Advanced Detailing Techniques:
  • Wet Sanding:
    • Introduction to wet sanding for severe defect removal and paint leveling.
    • Demonstration of different grits, sanding blocks, and techniques to safely remove imperfections.
    • Discussion on when and how to use wet sanding as part of the correction process.
  • Spot Repair Techniques:
    • Methods for repairing isolated defects, such as deep scratches and bird etching.
    • Hands-on practice using sanding, compounding, and polishing to blend repaired areas seamlessly.
  • Continued Practice:
    • Participants work on demo vehicles, applying the advanced techniques learned throughout the day.
    • Focus on refining skills through repetition, with instructors providing guidance to ensure each participant reaches a high level of proficiency.
  • Final Detailing Touches:
    • Interior Advanced Techniques: Quick review of interior detailing for high-end finishes, including leather restoration and fabric protection.
    • Exterior Detailing Finishes: Application of final touches such as tire dressing, trim restoration, and glass coating.
  • Group Collaboration:
    • Participants work in pairs or small groups to tackle complex detailing tasks, sharing techniques and troubleshooting challenges together.
    • Instructors provide support and answer questions as participants work to perfect their skills.

2:45 PM – 3:00 PM: Break

• Refreshments: Light snacks and drinks provided.

3:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Q&A and Review

• Interactive Q&A Session:
  • Participants have the opportunity to ask in-depth questions about advanced techniques, tools, and products used during the day.
  • Instructors provide detailed answers, including tips for handling unique or challenging detailing situations.
• Review of Advanced Techniques:
  • Recap of the key advanced detailing techniques covered during the day, with an emphasis on their application in different scenarios.
  • Discussion on how to integrate these advanced techniques into the participants' own detailing services.
• Preparation for Day 5:
  • Overview of the next day’s focus on Evaluation, Final Examination, and Certification.
  • Participants are encouraged to review all materials and prepare for the final exam, which will cover both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

4:00 PM: End of Day 4

8:45 AM – 9:00 AM: Recap of Day 4 and Overview of the Day

• Review of Advanced Techniques:
  • Quick recap of the advanced detailing techniques covered on Day 4, focusing on any final questions or clarifications.
  • Overview of the day's schedule, emphasizing the importance of the final evaluation and certification process.

9:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Written Examination

• Introduction to the Written Exam:
  • Explanation of the format and types of questions (multiple choice, true/false, short answer).
  • Emphasis on the importance of applying knowledge gained from all five days of training, including business management, cleaning techniques, polishing, and advanced detailing.
• Written Exam:
  • Content: The exam covers theoretical knowledge from the entire training, including business practices, detailing products, tools, techniques, and safety protocols.
  • Duration: 60 minutes.
  • Assessment: The exam is designed to test understanding of key concepts and the ability to apply knowledge to real-world scenarios.

10:00 AM – 10:15 AM: Break

• Light Refreshments: Snacks and beverages provided.

10:15 AM – 12:00 PM: Practical Examination

• Introduction to the Practical Exam:
  • Explanation of the practical exam process, where participants will demonstrate their detailing skills on a vehicle.
  • Overview of the key areas to be assessed, including preparation, technique, attention to detail, and time management.
• Practical Exam:
  • Content: Participants will be required to perform a series of detailing tasks, such as:
    • Exterior Cleaning: Demonstrate correct washing, decontamination, and drying techniques and how to wash a car in 15 minutes.
    • Paint Correction: Perform a one-step or multi-step paint correction on a section of the vehicle.
    • Ceramic Coating Application: Apply a ceramic coating to a panel, ensuring proper technique and coverage.
    • Interior Detailing: Clean and condition interior surfaces, focusing on leather, upholstery, and trim.
    • Final Inspection: Conduct a final inspection of the vehicle, identifying any remaining defects or areas for improvement.
  • Assessment:
    • Participants are evaluated on their technical skills, ability to follow procedures, and overall quality of work.
    • Instructors observe and provide feedback throughout the process, with a final assessment at the end of the session.

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Lunch Break

• Buffet Lunch: A selection of light meals provided.

1:00 PM – 2:45 PM: Final Review and Feedback Session

• Review of Practical Examination:
  • Instructors provide detailed feedback on each participant’s performance during the practical exam.
  • Discussion on strengths and areas for improvement, with personalized advice on how to enhance detailing skills further.
• Group Discussion:
  • Open floor for participants to share their experiences from the practical exam, discussing any challenges they faced and how they overcame them.
  • Instructors facilitate a discussion on best practices and key takeaways from the training.
• Final Q&A Session:
  • Participants have the opportunity to ask any remaining questions about the techniques, tools, or business practices covered during the training.
  • Instructors provide in-depth answers, ensuring all participants have a clear understanding of the course content.

2:45 PM – 3:00 PM: Break

• Refreshments: Light snacks and drinks provided.

3:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Certification Ceremony and Closing Remarks

• Certification Ceremony:
  • Presentation of Certificates: Each participant receives a certificate of completion, recognizing their achievement in mastering the skills taught during the training program.
  • Special Awards: Instructors may present special awards to participants who demonstrated exceptional skill or improvement throughout the course.
• Closing Remarks:
  • Instructor Reflections: Instructors reflect on the participants’ journey throughout the course, highlighting significant milestones and achievements.
  • Participant Reflections: Participants are invited to share their thoughts and experiences, discussing how they plan to apply their new skills in their detailing businesses.
• Networking Opportunity:
  • Participants are encouraged to network with each other and the instructors, building connections that may support their future endeavors in the detailing industry.
• Next Steps and Continuing Education:
  • Instructors provide information on advanced courses, certifications, and resources for further skill development in automotive detailing.
  • Participants are encouraged to stay engaged with the detailing community and continue learning through practice and additional training.

4:00 PM: End of Training Program

Final Farewells: Instructors and participants say their goodbyes, with the opportunity to exchange contact information and stay in touch for future collaborations or support.