As long as there are cars on the road, there will be the need for collision repair technicians, which is great news for aspiring techs. But since damage is unique to the vehicle and the circumstances of the crash, becoming comfortable and experienced in the ways to approach a rebuild or repair requires lots of hands-on practice.
Those interested in pursuing an opportunity in the collision repair field used to work their way up from the assistant or apprentice level with nothing more than a high school diploma.
Today, employers seek applicants who won’t need this extra time to build their skills from scratch. They’re looking for technicians who already have at least a year of hands-on experience and preferably a certificate of completed coursework from a two-year post-secondary training school with a focus on the collision subfield.
Required Skills for Collision Repair Technicians
Doing well in the collision repair technician role demands a wide-ranging skill set. Let’s review the most important skills required for career growth and advancement.
People Skills and Professionalism
Executing quality repairs in a timely manner is a critical part of a collision technician’s duties, but it’s not the only part. Being able to discuss damages and cost estimates with insurance companies and customers at the onset of and completion of the job is also required.
The aftermath of a car accident is a sensitive time for all involved. At times, collision repair technicians might be tasked with being the bearer of bad news when reviewing the extent of work required for a job with a customer. Because of this, the most successful collision repair specialists are excellent communicators and caring, empathetic, and understanding individuals.
They should also display a growing knowledge of the insurance industry, know how their work fits into the process, and be comfortable speaking that lingo with the customer’s insurance company representatives.
Attention to Detail and Vision
The most effective collision repair technicians apply a supreme level of detail to every facet of their work. Whether hammering out a dent, applying a coat of paint, or ensuring that no imperfections remain before moving on to the next step, undoing damage is truly in the details.
Collision repair techs must be able to not only continually reevaluate their work but also visualize how it’s coming together at different key stages of the restoration. Early on, this could involve being able to see and interpret 2D drawings as 3D parts and objects.
Mechanical Knowledge and Dexterity
With such a wide range of specialty tools and equipment at a collision repair technician’s disposal, knowledge of proper usage and techniques is incredibly important.
Repair technicians have foundational knowledge of a vehicle’s build and an in-depth understanding of key underlying elements and systems, like the frame integrity, powertrain, or suspension. They also possess extensive experience working with different materials, such as plastic, fiberglass, and sheet metal.
Physical Strength and Mental Sharpness
Moving or lifting large, heavy parts with ease is a routine part of a collision repair technician’s daily tasks. While repair techs get a workout in the shop, their minds also need to be sharp to comprehend complex work documents and quickly tally costs to arrive at projected repair estimates.
Collision Repair Training at ATC
In a dealership collision center or specialty body shop, a collision repair technician wears several hats and has even more tools at the ready. For individuals with an artistic sense, a passion for cars and new automotive technology, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, shop-based environment, being a collision repair technician is both challenging and gratifying.
Getting on course for a career as a collision repair technician begins with finding a quality training school that offers program-specific training that will help you thrive in the field.
Taught by industry professionals certified by both organizations in charge of setting the standard in the automotive and collision fields (ASE and I-CAR), enrolled students can be confident that their combined shop and classroom time at ATC will lead them to exciting opportunities.
Interested in learning more about Collision Reconditioning Technology at ATC? Contact us today to put your future in high gear!
Q&A
What skills are important for a collision repair career?
Collision repair technicians need strong mechanical skills, attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and good communication skills.
Why is hands-on training important?
Hands-on training helps students develop practical repair skills and prepares them for the
Training provides classroom instruction and shop experience to help students build the skills needed for entry-level collision repair careers.
