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Auto Collision Repair & Refinish

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Each year American drivers log millions of miles on the highways, and each year there are thousands of accidents that will require the service of a trained technician to repair these vehicles. This one-year program provides the students with the necessary skills and knowledge to repair major and minor collision damage.

Students in this program learn to examine the vehicle to determine type and extent of damaged parts, cosmetic and structural. The student learns to work with various kinds of materials that are used to make a modern-day vehicle, such as plastic components, metal, and high strength steels. During the year the student learns mig welding, straightening techniques, proper use of plastic fillers, surface preparation, and refinishing techniques. During the entire course, safety and the proper use of tools, equipment, and supplies are constantly stressed. Special emphasis is placed on the area of unibody repair, structure realignment, and the refinishing with state-of-the-art basecoat-clearcoat refinishing systems. Electronics and mechanics related to auto body work are covered.

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Career Opportunities
With an increase in the number and value of autos on the road, there is also an increasing need for graduates from this program. The following are some career possibilities:
  • Auto Body Technician: Repairs damage or replaces parts and then refinishes.
  • Frame and Alignment Technician: Straightens, welds, replaces, and aligns all types of frames and unibody structures.
  • Painting Technician: Paints vehicles or works as an industrial painter.
  • Auto Glass Replacement Specialist: Removes and replaces or repairs all types of glass or glass-related problems.
  • Estimator: Works in larger shops doing initial estimates and work schedules.
  • Custom Painter: Designs and applies custom paint and graphics.
  • Paint and Equipment: Works for distributor supplying products to repair facilities.
  • Insurance Adjustor: Works for insurance companies determining repair costs.
Is This Occupation for You?
Students entering the Auto Collision Repair & Refinish Technician Program should:
  • Enjoy working on all types of cars.
  • Work well with details and have good hand dexterity.
  • Have good communication and human relation skills.
  • Be able to lift 60 pounds and have good vision.
  • Like the challenge of fixing things.
  • Appreciate the beauty of returning an auto to pre-accident condition.
  • Be free from any respiratory problems.
Helpful Academic Background
  • Math, communications, and technical education courses.
  • Youth Apprenticeship (up to 6 credits of advanced standing)
Program Outcomes
At the completion of this program, graduates will be able to:
  • Repair damaged vehicles to pre-accident condition.
  • Comprehend the processes involved in auto collision repair and refinishing industry.
  • Operate auto collision repair and refinish equipment.
  • Possess an appropriate work ethic associated with the auto collision repair industry.
  • Be able to develop a repair plan for various auto collision damages.
  • Exhibit appropriate customer/interpersonal relations.
Program Basics
  • Technical diploma, requiring a minimum of one year to complete.
  • Day classes.
  • High school articulation courses accepted.
  • Financial aid available.
  • Classes start in the fall and summer.
  • ASE Master Certified program.
Program Admission Requirements
  • Complete required assessment testing.
  • Complete the application form.
  • Interview with counselor.
  • Pay a $30 nonrefundable application fee.
  • Submit high school and any post-secondary transcripts.
  • Students may re-apply to be admitted to a program for which they initially do not meet the Student Academic Achievement Plan (SAAP) criteria after they follow the additional courses and alternate program sequence prescibed for them.

Technical Skill Attainment

This TSA (Technical Skill Attainment) scoring guide will be used to document your attainment of technical program outcomes for the Auto Collision Repair & Refinish Degree. To meet the requirements on the scoring guide, you will be asked to draw upon the skills and concepts that have been developed throughout the program and are necessary for successful employment in your field. Results will be used to inspire continual improvement of teaching and learning in Wisconsin Technical College System. In addition, this assessment will provide feedback to you about your performance.

Program Fees

Please contact Student Services at 800.362.3322, Ext. 2354, or email student-services@swtc.edu for current fee information.

A Program Fee list is provided (please note the costs are approximate and based on the current academic year).

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