Mohave Community College

What kind of specialized skills will I master? You will master all facets of external body work from dents and scratches to surface preparation, refinishing and repainting. You will learn frame repair, glass replacement, airbag replacement, panel replacement, metal straightening, metal cutting, inert gas welding, plastic and fiberglass repair and suspension realignment, as well as damage appraisal and repair estimating.

What skills, traits or preparatory classes would be helpful for the Automotive Collision Program?

  • Positive attitude
  • Manual dexterity
  • Mechanical aptitude
  • Basic computer skills
  • Ability to work accurately
  • Good color identification ability
  • Ability to evaluate and make decisions
  • Good reading, writing and basic math skills
What kind of career can an Auto Collision Technician expect? Auto collision technicians are hired by auto dealerships and independent collision centers. As an experienced technician, the student may also choose to open a business, work as an insurance adjuster, or become a factory representative for industry suppliers.

Is there a demand for Auto Collision Technology? Opportunities for employement, high wages and career advancement have never been better in the auomotive field and Arizona Job openings for collision technicians are increasing. Many current technicians are at retirement age but because of an unfilled need for skilled labor, older employees are being asked to stay on and are offered extra incentive to meet demands. Placement is high because light vehicle registrations continue to increase and because of the technical skills nrequired to implement repairs.

Who can participate in this program? The Auto Collision Repair Technology program is open to everyone. Both men and women can be successful in this profession.

What are actual working conditions like in the Automotive Collision field? Most automotive technicians work a standard 40-hour week, but many self-employed technicians work longer hours. Auto collision technicians typically work in well-ventilated, well-lighted repair facilities.

How well are Automotive Collision Technicians paid? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there is a shortage of skilled technicians nationwide today. A high-tech career in this field offers mobility and job security. The starting wage can start at $9 to $15 per hour. Journeyman wages can reach as high as $60,000 to $120,000 annually. Many technicians are paid on a commission rate based on total hours spent on each vehicle.

How many students are accepted into the program each year? Sixteen students will be accepted each fall semester.

Where will the Automotive Collision Repair Technology Program be offered? All of the Automotive Collision Repair Technology courses are offered on our Bullhead City campus in Building 1000.

How long will it take to complete this program? The Automotive Collision Repair Technician Program takes 24 months to complete. The program will take four semesters with full-time credit hours. Upon successful completion, technicians will receive an Associae of Applied Sciences degree.

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