The Collision Repair Technology program will provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform tasks of an entry-level technician in the collision repair industry. You’ll learn about industry safety, and you will learn to demonstrate shop safety in your daily tasks. The program includes damage cost estimating and analysis, and the terminology used in the collision repair industry. You will learn metal and surface preparation that includes dent repair, filling, grinding and sanding using power and hand tools, priming, block sanding, and feathering. Painting, color matching, mixing and spraying techniques using methods using current technology will also be covered. You will learn the different types of welding and cutting methods and the use of cutting tools and machinery. The program also includes paint reconditioning, buffing, and detailing; removal and replacement of body parts, glass, hardware and trim; suspension and steering parts replacement; and repair and refinish of different types of plastics and composites used in automotive collision repair. Adhesive bonding techniques are also introduced. Other aspects include electrical systems, restraint systems, anti-lock brake systems operations, unibody/frame damage analysis, and measuring and repair procedures using frame pulling equipment.
If you are
· adaptive
· practical
· analytical
· patient
· self-motivated
If you have
- good eye-hand coordination
- the ability to distinguish color
- good vision either natural or with correction
- patience in time consuming tasks
- tolerance for noise, fumes, dirt, and grease
- some understanding of automotive construction and operation
- good physical stamina
If you like to
- fix and repair objects
- work indoors
- work with new technology
- solve problems
- work cooperatively with others
You will need
- work shoes
- cover-alls – dark blue
- notebook
- personal safety equipment and basic hand tools
- welding shirt and leather gloves
If you think
- these qualities and characteristics describe YOU
This may be the program you are looking for!
Nature of the Program: Collision workers usually work by themselves indoors. They usually work in automotive repair shops, automobile and truck dealerships specializing in body repairs and painting, insurance companies, or are self-employed. As technology advances, so does the requirement for qualified technicians. Most collision repairers work a standard 40-hour week but some that are self employed work as much as 60-hours a week. Most of the work is strenuous noisy, and dirty. Most shops are well ventilated to aide in the exhaust of paint and dust fumes. Self-satisfaction is the reward received when a job is successfully completed.
Completion of the Program: Upon completion of the collision repair technology program, students should have the qualifications to continue their education or start a career as an entry-level technician in a collision repair shop, assembly plant, trucking company, or their own repair shop. As a skilled repairer, opportunities are available as an insurance adjusting estimator, specialty painter, structural damage technician, collision repair estimator, or metal shop operator. About one out of six collision repairers are self-employed. This program also prepares students for post-secondary education in collision repair technology. Once a student gains experience, they may also be eligible to complete I-CAR training programs or take the ASE certification exam.
Related Occupations: Auto/diesel technician, painters and body customizers, insurance estimator, auto glass installer, parts person, automotive repair service estimator, welder, auto body designer, frame repairer, or sales representative.
