Collision Repair Technology

The Collision Repair Technology program is designed to develop knowledge and skills necessary for employment in the collision repair industry. Students will have the opportunity to learn the proper use of tools and equipment, automobile design, drive train systems, front wheel suspension, metal straightening techniques, repair of plastic body panels, repair and replacement of moveable and stationary glass, MIG welding and body panel replacement, measuring and straightening of unibody and conventional frames, paint refinishing and color matching, final detailing and basic mechanical repairs that relate to collision work. Students will learn removal and installation of electrically operated components and repair such as windows, dash equipment, seats, and radios. Students also have the opportunity to participate in the program’s Collision Repair Club.

Program Instructors               

Luke Thomas, Assistant Professor

TOOL KIT

Tools will be required once you enter the program. Your adviser will advise you on which tools to purchase. Check out the following link for the Tool Kit .

Job Outlook

Job opportunities are abundant throughout the nation. Upon graduation, the students are considered advanced apprentices. There are many opportunities for employment in collision repair and other businesses, especially with the expanding technology and growth. Work may be found in auto repair shops, paint shops, dealership service centers, RV shops, and boat manufacturers.

Work Setting

Typically work is inside shops. Collision repair workers are often unsupervised; therefore, employers stress good work habits, especially time spent on task. Those who are conscientious and able to work quickly will earn the best wages.

Aptitudes

This program has physical requirements that may affect the student’s ability to perform in the collision repair field. These requirements can be found on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website or at O-Net OnLine.  Necessary aptitudes include the ability to visualize two and three dimensional objects and color, manual dexterity, average hand-eye coordination, ability to work in a noisy environment, ability to use math in estimating and calculating materials, and good physical condition.

Wages

The average beginning wage in this area is approximately $10.00 to $15.00 per hour, but rises depending on the level of training. An average rate for experienced workers is $23.50 per hour. Larger metropolitan areas pay higher wages.

Entrance Requirements

• Program is Fall semester admittance only
• The prospective students must have a current valid driver’s license while enrolled in the program and have had no DUIs in the past 12 months
• Enrollment priority is on a first-come, first-serve basis as determined by the student’s faculty advising date
• Aleks score in Math of 14 or higher, Writing Placement Exam of 2 or higher, or qualify for Math (PT) 103 and English 101

learning outcomes

• Use of proper safety procedures with hazardous materials and operations according to federal, state, local and OSHA guidelines
• Inspect, remove, replace, and align various outer body vehicle parts (ex: hood and hood hinges, deck lid and deck lid hinges, tailgates and tailgate hinges, fenders, doors and related hardware, latches, bumper bars, and various hardware)
• Application of various techniques to repair damaged body panels
• Able to inspect, remove, and replace or adjust moveable and non-moveable glass
• Perform vehicle clean-up; complete quality control using a checklist
• Ability to work with customers and provide quality customer service
• Analyze damage to determine appropriate methods for overall repairs
• Provide customer estimates using written and computerized estimation tools
• Identify type of vehicle construction and recognize the different damage characteristics of space frame, unibody, and body-over-frame vehicles
• Measure and diagnose structural damage using a tram gauge and three-dimensional measuring systems
• Identify different methods of attaching structural and non-structural components
• Apply various MIG welding techniques to attach structural/non-structural components
• Inspect and prepare surfaces for refinishing
• Demonstrate an understanding of the operation of pressure spray equipment and apply finish using appropriate spray techniques
• Accurately match paint to color of vehicle and apply properly
• Determine causes of paint defects and find appropriate cures

class requirements

Please see catalog for a complete list of classes: LCSC Catalog

ACCREDITATION

Tags

• Automotive
• Collision
• Repair