In the detailing world, we all start with grit, hustle, and a love for cars. But brilliance alone can only take you so far. Real success comes when you stop thinking like a detailer and start leading like a business owner, and that shift begins with The Detailer's LEAP.
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I was first introduced to APEAX Films through my connections with their sibling company, IGL Coatings. After hearing how strong and steady the market for PPF (paint protection film) was becoming, I knew I had to check it out. The idea of adding a high-value, low-cost service (aside from the plotter) to my shop that could really increase revenue was too good to pass up. I decided to attend a training at the SEMA Garage in Detroit, and that decision has already paid off in a huge way.
From the start, the experience exceeded my expectations. The trainers were knowledgeable, the information was practical, and once we got hands-on with the product, I could immediately see how this was going to fit into my business. We learned everything from partial hoods, A and B pillars, mirrors, door cups, and door sills, things you can literally start offering and profiting from the moment you walk out of training.
When I came back, I wasted no time putting what I learned into action. My very first job was a hood install on a C8 Corvette, and from there, I began advertising and locking in work. I’ve since partnered with a couple of body shops who call me for PPF installs on replacement panels, and I’ve been able to upsell customers on quick add-on installs consistently. To give an example, on just a $1,000.00 roll of film, I made $3,200.00, clearing $2,200.00 in profit. That alone more than covered all of my training and travel expenses.
APEAX Films has been an absolute game changer for me and my company. The quality of the product, the support from the team, and the opportunities it has opened up have made this one of the best business decisions I’ve ever made. I’m excited to continue growing with APEAX and scaling my business in the years to come.

Chevy Frank
Recently our entire Cool Auto team had the privilege of hosting an APEAX training session led by Mike Karlen, one of the owners of IGL Coatings, along with one of APEAX's top trainers. The experience was nothing short of dynamic, transformational, and business-changing for our staff and our shop.
Comprehensive Skill Development.
We learned full front-end installations including hoods, bumpers, fenders, pillars, doors, door cups, door edges, and grills.
The team was trained in the removal of old PPF and window tint removal. In addition, excelling at the correct techniques for setting up and running the plotter for precision-cut templates.
For window tint we covered proper shrinking techniques, precision cutting methods, and PPF hands-on practice with APEAX cutting boards giving our team confidence before ever using blades on a customer’s vehicle.
Special emphasis was placed on proper preparation prior to PPF installation, ensuring panels are perfectly cleaned, decontaminated, and ready for flawless film application.
Advanced Techniques & Shop Integration.
From fine-tuned alignment to edge finishing, every detail of paint protection film installation was elevated.
Our staff refined their craft and added new layers of knowledge that directly enhance the overall detailing and ceramic coating services we’ve delivered for more than 33 years in the Tucson and surrounding communities.
Revenue Growth & Business Expansion.
This training opened the door to new revenue streams by increasing our menu of services for Cool Auto including:
Advanced PPF packages.
Ceramic infused nano technology window tint services.
Expanded dealership offerings and premium retail packages.
With these new skills, we can confidently grow our menu of services, increase average ticket sales, and meet the rising demand from both luxury vehicle owners and Tucson dealerships.
Team Camaraderie & Growth.
Beyond the technical skills, this three-day event brought incredible team-building and camaraderie. Working side by side with APEAX and IGL, our staff grew stronger as a unit, more confident in their abilities, and more inspired to raise the bar for our clients. The sense of partnership with these two amazing companies has been invaluable.
Gratitude
We are truly grateful to APEAX and IGL Coatings for investing in our shop with this advanced training. Their commitment to innovation, excellence, and professional growth has given us the tools to elevate our business, better serve our clients, and expand our role as a leader in detailing, ceramic coatings, paint protection film, and professional window tinting in Tucson, Arizona.
In summary: The APEAX and IGL Coatings trainings have elevated our skills, expanded our service offerings, opened new revenue streams, and strengthened our team. We have built lifelong partnerships with likeminded companies to serve our clients to their highest good. We highly recommend APEAX and IGL to any shop looking to grow their expertise in paint protection film, ceramic coatings, and ceramic window tint.

Cassandra Mazur-Moreno



Is my shop too small or “too basic” to offer PPF and window tinting?
Not at all. Many successful PPF/tint installers started as one-person, part-time, or mobile shops. You don’t need a huge space or a fancy building, just a clean, well-lit area and the willingness to learn. Apeax USA training is built for detailers of every size and background.
What’s the real investment required to start?
Most shops get started for under $3,000, including training, basic tools, and enough film to land their first few jobs. Many pay off the investment in just a handful of installs. Start small, build your skills, and grow as demand increases.
How hard is it to actually learn PPF or window tinting?
There’s a learning curve, but if you have the patience and attention to detail for quality detailing, you have what it takes. Hands-on training fast-tracks your progress, what takes months (or years) to learn alone, you’ll master in days at Apeax USA.
Will my clients really pay for these services?
Absolutely. Consumer demand for protection and comfort is at an all-time high. PPF and tinting are among the top-searched automotive services. When you educate clients and show real results, they’ll see the value and gladly invest.
What if I make mistakes after training?
Mistakes are part of learning, and the best place to make them is in a supportive environment. That’s why in-person training is so valuable. Afterward, you’ll still have access to your trainers and a network of other installers for troubleshooting and advice.
Do I need expensive equipment or to renovate my shop?
No. Most shops get started with a few hundred dollars in tools and a clean, dust-free workspace. There’s no need to remodel or buy a ton of gear, focus on the basics and let your income fund future upgrades.
How long before I can offer these services to paying clients?
Many attendees at Apeax USA start booking jobs within days of finishing their course. Practice on your own vehicle or a friend’s right away to lock in your skills, then use before-and-after photos to market to your client list.
Can I afford to step away from my shop for training?
Think of training as an investment, not a cost. Missing a few days of detailing now can lead to years of higher-ticket jobs, better clients, and more freedom down the road. Most attendees say the lost time is paid back many times over.
What support is available after training?
You’re not alone! Trainers, fellow students, and the Apeax USA community are there to help with tough jobs, new products, and business advice. The learning continues long after the class ends.