Collision Repair Technology
Collision Repair keeps pace with the fast-moving auto body/collision repair industry and covers all aspects of body repair and refinishing with an emphasis on the most up-to-date methods. The program is nationally certified by NATEF/ASE in four areas of instruction. The Collision Repair program is designed to provide students with hands-on, work based learning. To facilitate this, the college acquires late model, damaged vehicles, providing a platform on which student may learn and develop skills. The Collision Repair curriculum is reviewed by an advisory board composed of local and regional industry members.
Career Opportunities
- Auto Body Repair Technician
- Custom Painter
- Motor Pool Maintainer
- Automobile Manufacturer
- Shop Supervisor
- Body Shop Owner
- Insurance Appraiser
- Auto Detailer
- Auto Body Supply Representative
- Paint and Equipment Manufacturer Representative
Mission Statement
The mission of the Collision Repair Technology program is to provide high quality technical instruction in all aspects of body repair and painting with a solid foundation of the basics and exposure to the most current technologies and methods. This is accomplished through the provision of instruction in a simulated actual body shop environment and industry experienced instructors.
Degree Options
Students may earn an Associate in Applied Sciences Degree in Collision Repair Technology, upon completion of a two-year program of study. A Collision Repair Certificate is available upon completion of the first year of study in the program.
Students who earn their AAS in Collision Repair Technology may also earn a dual degree in Automotive Repair Technology after one additional year of instruction. Please speak with your instructor about the required and specific classes needed.
Program Outcomes
- Update Collision Repair Technology program curriculum in accordance with current industry skill standards and I-CAR standards.
- Prepare graduates to enter the collision repair industry with the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful.
- Articulate the Collision Repair Technology program horizontally with other WWCC programs and vertically with regional high schools and tech centers.
Entrance Requirements
It is recommended that the student contact the lead instructor regarding appropriate program placement. Students may enter the program fall, winter or spring quarter, however, due to course sequencing it is recommended to begin in the fall. In order to start this program, the placement process, including a mechanical reasoning test, must be completed through the Testing Center. Visit wwcc.edu/placement for more information.
Scholarships Available
Frank Brotherton Memorial Scholarship in Automotive
Technology Students interested in a career related to automotive technology are encouraged to apply. Preference is given to Walla Walla area students. The award is for $500.
Dayl and Doris Graves Automotive Technology Scholarship Funds are provided by the Blue Mountain Area Foundation for a student from the Walla Walla area interested in automotive technology. A minimum 2.5 GPA is required. The $1,000 award may be shared with more than one applicant.
Certification
Walla Walla Community College is nationally certified by ASE in all four areas of instruction, as well as supporting classes. WWCC is the only collision repair program in the state of Washington to have this certification.
Industry Description
There is a high demand for skilled collision repair technicians. Automotive manufacturers have made revolutionary changes in automobile designs. These changes have brought new concepts to the field of collision repair, requiring proper training to restore damaged vehicles to their factory specifications in both body repair and painting. The technology of the automobile has changed faster in the past five years than it had in the previous two decades, ensuring that the future looks great for skilled people in the collision repair field. Auto manufacturers constantly refine and change their products in response to customers' demands and governmental regulations. This means all new designs, new products/materials, advanced manufacturing processes, hi-tech systems, and safety features are being incorporated into each new automobile. Skilled technicians will be required to repair modern vehicles.
Other Information
For additional information including regional employment data, completion rates, student characteristics, and employment see http://www.careerbridge.wa.gov.