PPF Competition Winners: PPFMag chats with Neil Moran, Nick Abaro and Challen Yost about their background in PPF
This year’s International Window Film Conference and Tint-Off™ attracted competitors from around the world to compete across five categories, including Paint Protection Film (PPF). When the competition concluded, three stood above the rest: gold medalist Neil Moran, from CGS Vinyl in Alabama; silver medalist Nick Abaro, from Genesis Window Tinting in California; and bronze medalist Challen Yost, from Midwest Tinting in Kansas. PPFMag caught up with the three and asked them about their backgrounds in PPF, what they enjoy about it, the challenges they face, and more.
Q1: What got you interested in PPF, and how long have you been doing it?
Moran: Honestly, I got pushed into PPF. In Birmingham, there were a few people offering it. I’ve been in the wrap industry since 2008, and as client requests for PPF grew, I decided to offer it. I started in 2016 after getting trained and certified. It quickly became about 50% of the business, and other local shops took notice.
Abaro: I already knew how to do automotive tint and flat glass. PPF was the only skill I didn’t know. I realized I could be more valuable to the company if I mastered all three and potentially increase my income. I’ve been installing PPF since 2013.
Yost: I became interested in PPF by watching my co-workers install it. I was already tinting automotive and flat glass windows and always looking to expand my skill set. I’ve been installing PPF for about 10 years now.
Q2: What do you find most enjoyable about working with PPF?
Moran: I love the challenge! Since the film is clear and shows any imperfections or debris underneath, it really pushes you to focus on quality. PPF demands your absolute best, constantly pushing you to improve and hone your skills. There’s no room to get comfortable—you’re always striving for that flawless install.
Abaro: I love the detailed and challenging nature of PPF, especially when installing on a difficult vehicle. It’s the challenge that makes you better.
Yost: I enjoy the challenge of difficult installs and seeing the great results and customer satisfaction once the job is done. I’m always trying to make the next install better than the last.
Q3: What is the most challenging aspect of working with PPF?
Moran: PPF is very reactive to its environment. How the film behaves can change with the seasons, and even throughout the day, depending on temperature, humidity, water, slip solution, and tack solution. The characteristics of the film also vary based on the paint, as
some paints are more “grippy” than others. You have to constantly read both the film and the environment.
Abaro: Difficult contours and paint color can make installations more time-consuming and challenging. These factors contribute to the tedious nature of PPF installation.
Yost: For me, the most challenging part is finding a small fiber in a panel after it’s been on for a few minutes, then trying to remove it without leaving any marks on the film or adhesive.
Q4: What attributes does someone need to be successful at PPF?
Moran: For me, being able to quiet my mind, have a steady hand, and read the film is key. Some of my vinyl wrap experience transfers to PPF, but reading the feedback the film gives you is the most important skill.
Abaro: To be a successful PPF installer, you need strong attention to detail, good problem-solving skills, and patience. Attention to detail is the most critical.
Yost: To be successful at PPF, you need strong attention to detail and the desire to
always improve.
Q5: What advice would you give to someone looking to start in the industry?
Moran: Practice, practice, practice. Like any other industry, success comes from being familiar with your work and having confidence in yourself. There are a lot of subpar film brands out there, all claiming to be the best. Don’t just follow the hype—do your research
on the film and the brand you’re associating with. You want a quality product that lasts and a company that will support you.
Abaro: Take a training class from a company or instructor with a solid reputation for developing skilled PPF installers. Pay close attention to every aspect of technique and tool use. Ask plenty of questions to gather as much information as possible. I asked three teammates,
and the consensus was the same: proper training is key.
Yost: Prep, prep, prep! A good PPF install becomes great if the vehicle is thoroughly prepped and cleaned. If you think the car is clean and ready, clean it again and clay bar it, especially around body seams where dirt loves to hide.
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