Training for a Career in Collision Repair

Today's vehicles are made of more than just ordinary steel. Many auto manufacturers now use high-strength steel, aluminum and plastic, which present special challenges for the repairer. Few people realize that collision repair technicians work with computers and high-tech equipment. Additionally, vehicles must be repaired according to factory specifications. With all the advances in technology and repair standards today, a collision repair professional must be highly skilled and appropriately trained.

Over 1400 high schools, vocational schools, private trade schools and community colleges around the country offer collision repair training. While most high schools only offer introductory or basic repair courses, there are some that provide as much in-depth technical training as a post-secondary or vocational school. It all depends on the institution's budget, how many students enroll from year-to-year, the amount of work space available, what type of equipment and supplies are on hand and whether it's a one-semester course or a two-year program.

Interested students should have good reading and basic mathematical skills as technicians are required to make very precise measurements, and often refer to technical manuals. Additionally, advances in technology in recent years have greatly changed the structure, components and materials used in automobiles. As a result, students must have good problem solving skills.

Students who are seeking a quality collision repair program should find out if the program is certified by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), whether the curriculum meets the National Automotive Technical Education Foundation (NATEF) standards and what the institution's graduation and placement rates are. First, try contacting the institution directly to get this information. If unsuccessful, other good sources to try are the State Department of Education, the I-CAR Education Foundation, NATEF or ASE.

Some students enter the collision repair profession right out of high school while others pursue additional training from a post-secondary institution before starting their careers. In either circumstance, they are usually hired as entry-level technicians, doing basic repairs or detail work.

It is recommended that students pursuing a collision repair profession have some kind of formal training at the secondary or post-secondary level. However, some employers do hire individuals with no collision repair training as helpers; usually persons with basic knowledge of hand tools. The helpers pick up skills and learn the trade on the job from experienced technicians. They start by learning to remove small dents and making other minor repairs. Then, progress to more difficult jobs, such as straightening body parts and returning them to their correct alignment.

Generally, it takes about 2 to 3 years of on-the-job training to be considered a "productive" technician. This is when the technician is experienced enough to handle the most complex repairs with little or no supervision. Though, formal training can significantly increase ones chances for advancement and higher wages.