The Auto Repair & Refinishing Technology program is a three-year program designed to prepare students for the Collision Repair/Refinishing trade. The complexity of the modern automobile has placed this trade in the category of highly skilled and much needed employment. Since almost every family in America owns and operates at least one if not two automobiles, a well trained Collision Repair/Refinish technician will have a wide range of employment opportunities.

This course emphasizes the practice of safety standards including methods used to protect the technician from any situation that may take place in the shop. Students will be presented the opportunity to repair automobile bodies. Instruction is given in the removal of dents and cuts in sheet metal, methods of refinishing, types of finishes, replacement of parts, repair and replacement of suspension parts, also the repair and installation of electrical and mechanical controls related to windows, doors, and air conditioning. Students will begin by learning basic tools and equipment as well as sheet metal welding and basic auto body skills. Computerized cost estimating, as well as frame diagnosis, measuring, and pulling is all a part of this collision repair program.

Students will learn the proper use of terms, oral communication, record keeping and other clerical work as related to the collision repair industry. They will learn the importance of proper liquid measurements for refinishing, detailing exterior and interior, body and frame alignment and installation of accessories, removing and installing glass, panel replacement and repair.

Each year, students repair collision damage and refinish a donated vehicle. This car then is awarded to an outstanding senior student based on grades and attendance.

Job outlook indications through 2015 reveal that employment potential for this occupation will be stable with continued steady growth expected.

Further education opportunities exist at technical schools, junior colleges, and Penn State Commonwealth Campuses.

Occupational Profile: For information on this occupation’s description, required knowledge, job tasks and related job titles, state and national wages, and employment trends, visit the U.S. Dept. of Labor’s site for this career field at:      http://online.onetcenter.org/link/summary/49-3021.00