Program Overview
Our program’s curriculum is approved by the National Automotive Training Education Foundation (NATEF), an affiliate of Automotive Service Excellence (ASE), and the Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (ICAR). In order to be certified by NATEF, we must meet strict guidelines that guarantee students receive training and hands-on experience in all the areas necessary to succeed in our industry. In order to maintain certification, our equipment, work areas, safety standards and instructor qualifications must meet tough criteria. Our students spend a large percentage of class time reaching levels of competence outlined in the NATEF guidelines.
Our facility covers approximately 17,000 square feet, has three frame benches and measuring systems, and three paint spraying areas. Our equipment meets current industry standards, and our classes are designed to get you involved in student projects that help you understand the most current practices in the industry. Our program features partnerships with several agencies, companies and training organizations, such as Chief Automotive, Inc.; national insurance companies; ICAR; and local repair centers, equipment, and materials manufacturers. These partnerships allow us to keep our training current and relevant to today’s repair standards.
Academic Overview
We put students on the fast track to employment in the auto collision repair industry. Our Auto Collision Repair program is designed to help you develop your skills in safety, basic mechanics, metal working, welding, damage analysis, structural and nonstructural repair, painting repaired automobiles, communication and mathematics. Our classes range in size from 10 to 20 students, providing the one-on-one attention students deserve.
Our program is comprehensive and current. In order to receive a two-year auto body certificate or associate’s degree, we require students to complete cooperative work experience , which often continues on to full-time employment. Our advisory committee, which includes shop owners, technicians and insurance company representatives, along with equipment and material supply representatives, assists PCC keeping the program up to date. An apprenticeship program is also available. For each participating student, a training agreement is developed with an employer. After a student gains new skills by meeting class requirements, the student is released from school to apply those skills with full-time paid work experience.
Course Planning
Program Costs
- Associate of Applied Science Degree: ACR estimate
- Two-Year ACR Certificate estimate
- Less than One-Year ACR Certificate estimate
- Less than One-Year Painting Certificate estimate
- Scholarships
Required Tools
Required Book
AutoBody Repair Technology, 5th edition, by James E. Duffy. ISBN: 9781418073534Available at the Rock Creek Campus PCC Bookstore and online at popular bookstore websites.