Mastering Automotive Collision Repair Technology: Program Overview

Becoming a skilled professional in Automotive Collision Repair Technology offers a respected and rewarding career path. A dedicated program can put individuals on the fast track to employment in this dynamic industry. Focus on comprehensive training ensures graduates are equipped with the most current industry practices and skills needed for success in automotive collision technology technician roles.

The job market for skilled technicians in this field shows positive trends. For instance, the Oregon Employment Department forecasts Portland area employment for auto collision repair technicians will grow 7.3% through 2027. This indicates a strong demand for qualified professionals versed in Automotive Collision Repair Technology.

Industry Insights and Career Prospects

Salaries in the auto collision repair field reflect the value placed on skilled technicians. The Oregon Employment Department reports Portland area auto collision repair technicians earn from $18.33 to $29.42 per hour. The average annual salary is $61,186. This competitive compensation makes automotive collision repair technology a potentially lucrative career choice.

Hands-on Learning and Program Excellence

Many reputable automotive programs emphasize real-world repair experience. Students often have the opportunity to work on public vehicles needing repair, providing invaluable hands-on practice with current industry practices. Since its establishment in 1970, programs like the one at Portland Community College have grown into large and reputable options, focusing on class projects that help students understand modern techniques. Small class sizes, typically ranging from 10 to 20 students, ensure ample one-on-one attention.

State-of-the-Art Facility

A key component of quality training in automotive collision repair technology is access to modern equipment. Facilities covering significant square footage, such as 17,000 square feet, house equipment meeting current industry standards.

Student welding a collision repair part in a well-equipped shop facility

Such facilities are typically equipped with:

• Four frame benches and computer measuring systems
• Two state-of-the-art downdraft paint booths
• One prep booth
• Resistance spot welders
• MIG welders

Industry Partnerships and Co-op Opportunities

Solid industry connections are vital for educational programs in pcc automotive technology and similar fields. Many programs conclude with a co-op class where students work in a collision repair shop under the guidance of a master technician for a significant period, like 300 hours. This often transitions into full-time employment. Students also typically earn I-CAR credits and Non-Structural Pro-Level 1 certification. Partnerships with agencies, companies, and training organizations, including I-Car, local repair centers, equipment and materials manufacturers, Chief Automotive, Inc., and national insurance companies, keep the curriculum relevant and aligned with the demands of modern automotive collision repair technology. Program curriculum is often approved by organizations like the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (ICAR).

Degrees and Certificates

Programs offer various pathways to enter the field of automotive repair technology. Common awards include:

Comprehensive Curriculum

Instruction is streamlined to provide students with the skills and knowledge to become skilled repair technicians or painters. A comprehensive program in automotive collision repair technology develops skills in various essential areas, including:

• Repair (structural and nonstructural)
• Damage analysis
• Welding
• Metalworking
• Painting repaired automobiles
• Mechanics
• Safety
• Mathematics
• Communication

More information regarding program costs, tools, and textbooks is typically available on the program’s dedicated pages.

Typical Job Duties

Graduates of automotive services technology programs focusing on collision repair perform a variety of duties depending on their employer. These responsibilities may include:

• Bolt-on parts replacement
• Weld-on parts replacement
• Auto frame measuring and repair
• Repair damaged body panels
• Damage analysis
• Refinishing damage
• Estimating repair cost
• Welding (steel MIG, silicon bronze MIG, aluminum MIG welding)

Employment Opportunities

Graduates are prepared to enter a large industry encompassing numerous sectors. Potential employers and fields include:

• Auto collision repair shops
• Car restoration / hot rod shops
• Equipment and supply companies
• Insurance companies and appraisers
• Aircraft repair and refinishing
• Fleet maintenance
• Truck and heavy equipment shops
• Product manufacturers
• Sales and technical reps
• Yacht and boat repair

Graduates have been hired by businesses such as Artistic Auto Body, Beaverton Honda, Gerber Collision & Glass, ABRA/Caliber Collision Repair, Kuni Collision Repair, Fix Auto, Mackin’s Auto Body, Central Auto Body, McCollum Auto Body, and Precision Auto Body and Paint of Beaverton, demonstrating the wide range of opportunities available upon mastering automotive collision repair technology.

Getting Started

Applying to programs like these is often a simple and free process, taking only a few minutes. Potential students are encouraged to apply to begin their journey in automotive collision repair technology. For those not quite ready to apply, program representatives are available to provide necessary information and guidance.