What It takes to Become a Collision Repair Mechanic
Collision repair mechanics is becoming very sophisticated and prospective employers are seeking out employees who have formal training in collision repair. While it's possible to obtain on the job training in some rural areas, most urban auto body repair shops will only interview and employ a collision repair mechanic who has been formally trained and holds a national certification.
Collision repair mechanics are encouraged to start their training in collision repair in high school, if possible. In addition to taking vocational courses in auto body repair and paint, students are encouraged to also take classes in science, math, and computers. Collision repair mechanics must have basic reading, math, and computer skills to meet their job requirements. Repairing and restoring autos requires that mechanics are able to read, follow, and understand written instructions and diagrams, as well as make three dimensional measurements, mix chemicals, and more. Students planning to pursue mechanic school education are also encouraged to work part-time in auto body shops while they pursue formal auto body training after high school.
On-the-job experience and high school vocational and general education classes will serve as a strong foundation for students planning to enter collision repair programs after graduation. However, students who have no high school vocational training, or who hold a GED, are still eligible for enrollment in community colleges and technical schools to study collision repair.
Since most employers require their collision repair mechanics to obtain certification, it's advised that students seek out schools that have programs that are tailored toward giving students the education and skills they need to obtain certification through the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Students can take up to four ASE exams. Repairers who pass at least one of the exams and prove they have work experience in the relevant field can obtain certification as a collision repair technician. Students who take and pass all four of the ASE exams will obtain certification as an ASE Master Collision Repair and Refinish Technician. It should be noted that any certifications received expire after five years and the exams must be retaken, and passed, to maintain certification.
Professional auto body specialists earn $10 to $25 an hour, depending on their specialty, where they work, and the area in which they work. There are many ways that auto body and collision repair professionals receive their pay. Some businesses pay their auto body professionals a flat rate per job, and the flat rate will vary from job to job. Some auto body professionals are paid an hourly rate, others may earn a set salary per week, and still others may work on commission. Some auto body professionals own their own shops and can determine their own pay.
Schools Offering Automotive Courses:
New England Institute of Technology
Where is the New England Institute of Technology located?
Warwick, RI and London, ON, Canada.
What do they have to offer?
The lone NATEF Master certified post-high school learning facility in Rhode Island. Hands-on instruction is provided in internal engine theory and repair, electrical/electronics, heating and air conditioning, manual and automatic transmissions, braking and steering systems, and quite a bit more. Collision repair and refinishing includes repair and replacement of sheet metal, body damage, frame and unibody repair, installation of glass, and methods of paint finishing. Upon graduation, you will have already earned your first year's credit toward your ASE certification.
Associate, Bachelor
Associate in Science in Auto Body Technology, Associate in Science in Auto Collision Repair, Bachelor of Science in Automotive Service Management, Associate in Science in Automotive High Performance, Associate in Science in Automotive Technology, ..
Rhode Island
Arizona Automotive Institute
Where is it located? Glendale, AZ.
What programs are available?
AAI supplies the specialized training required to be successful in today's automotive industry demands, offering programs in Automotive Service Technology, Diesel – Heavy Truck, HVAC and Basic Refrigeration, Advanced HVAC and Basic Refrigeration, and Combination Welding. Classes are available during the day or in the evening, help in obtaining a job, and financing for qualified applicants is also available.
Associate, Diploma
Automotive Service Technician
Arizona
Westwood College
Westwood College conducts Automobile repair classes which include study in Automotive Electricity, Automotive Engine Rebuilding, Manual Transmissions and Drive Trains, Automotive Brake Systems, and several other courses. Repair and the automobile diagnostics are practiced by the students in these courses which enables them to solve such problems in the actual workplace. Students absorb knowledge and practice on industry standard tool allowing them to keep their training as leading edge as possible for the auto repair field.
Associate
Associate Degree - Automotive Technology
Colorado
