The Collision Repair Technology program provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the tasks of an entry-level technician in the ever-changing collision repair industry. Students will learn safety precautions and demonstrate shop safety in their daily tasks. Instruction will include damage cost estimating, its analysis, and the terminology used in the collision repair industry. Emphasis will be placed on metal and surface preparation, which includes dent repair, filling, grinding, and sanding using power and hand tools, priming, block sanding, and feathering. Students will be trained in paint safety, painting, color-matching, mixing, and spraying techniques using methods that are currently used in the collision industry. Students will learn the different types of welding, including aluminum welding and cutting methods, and the use of cutting tools and machinery. Instruction will include paint reconditioning, buffing, and detailing; removal and replacement of body parts, glass, hardware, and trim; suspension and steering parts replacement; repair and refinishing of different types of plastics and composites used in automotive collision repair. Adhesive bonding techniques will be introduced. Training is given on electrical systems, restraint systems, anti-lock brake systems operations, Unibody-frame damage analysis, and measuring and repair procedures using pulling equipment. Students will prepare themselves for the industry by learning how to write a resume and create a portfolio.
Topics of Study:
Shop and Paint Safety
Preparing Equipment, Paint Area, and Refinish Materials
Principles of Auto Body Design and Construction
Applying the Finish
Non-Structural Repair Preparation
Blending
Panel Replacement and Alignment
Solving Paint Application Problems and Defects in Finishes
Working with Trim and Hardware
Detailing
Straighten and Finish Metals
Estimating and Analyzing Damage
Using Body Fillers
Creating a Damage Report
Movable Glass and Hardware
Plastic Repair - Identification and Repair Decisions
Structural Repair Damage Analysis
Adhesive Repair - Plastics
Straightening Structural Parts
Demonstrate Knowledge of Mechanical Repair
Full or Partial Panel Replacement
Electrical Systems
Stationary Glass Replacement
Brake Systems
Restoring Corrosion Protection
Heating and Air Conditioning
Welding and Cutting - MIG (GMAW) Welding
Drive Trains
Cutting and Heating Processes
Fuel, Intake, and Exhaust Systems
Refinishing - Safety and Environmental Practices
Restraint Systems
Understanding Automotive Finishes
Preparing Surfaces for Refinishing
Career Opportunities:
Auto / Diesel Technician Painters and Body Customization
Insurance Estimator
Auto Glass Installer
Parts Person
Automotive Repair Service Estimator
Welder
Auto Body Designer
Frame Repairer
Sales Representative
Post-Secondary Options:
Pennsylvania College of Technology, Offers courses in Collision Repair Technology and Automotive Restoration Technology. Also offered is The Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree offers students the opportunity to gain the technical and occupational skills needed for employment. Many four-year colleges accept all or a substantial portion of A.A.S. degree credits toward a bachelor's degree. Universal Technology Institute, Collision Repair and Refinishing Technology Ohio Technical College, Automotive Collision Technician Program and Custom Paint and Graphics Wyotech, Collision Refinishing Technology Applied Service Management
