In the Classroom: What to Expect as a Collision Technology Student
The aftermath of an accident is a collision repair technician’s time to step up to the plate. These trained automotive experts are responsible for testing and restoring the structural integrity of a vehicle. The best collision repair specialists can make it look as though the car was never in an accident in the first place.
Those with a passion for restoring vehicles may be excited by the prospect of being a part of these transformations. Today, we’re going to step into Automotive Training Center’s (ATC’s) digital classroom to discuss what you can expect as a Collision Reconditioning Technology student.
Learn the ABC’s of Vehicle Structure
Studying collision reconditioning technology starts where many automotive programs do, learning about the mechanics and systems that allow a vehicle to run safely and efficiently. However, one major aspect that sets a collision students’ curriculum apart is focusing on a car’s materials and how each element responds to different levels of impact.
Knowing about these properties is key when evaluating a vehicle that comes into the shop, whether it has a bent fender, a nick in the paint job, or a crunched-in front end.
Study Frame Repair & Welding Basics
In order to restore a heavily damaged vehicle back to its manufacturer’s specifications, practicing collision specialists rely on the processes of frame repair and welding.
- Frame repair machines, like ATC’s laser frame measuring and Chief E-Z Liner frame straightening bench equipment, enable collision repair professionals to accurately measure the frame of a car, truck, or SUV and securely pull the underlying structure back to its original dimensions.
- Using a welder is a crucial part of replacing vehicle panels or fusing a new piece of metal in place of a damaged one for a strong, OEM-level bond.
Want to learn more about the tools technicians use to restore vehicles? You might be interested in checking out this resource on five unusual tools used in today’s body shops.
Take Pointers from Professional Auto Painters
With the vehicle’s body soundly back intact, the final surface collision repair technicians focus on perfecting is the paint job.
Students enrolled in collision reconditioning technology will learn best practices for paint mixing, matching, and application. But, whether a scratch needs to be filled in or full coverage is required, practicing safe procedures for working with paint is just as important.
Keep Fueling Your Interest in Auto Collision Repair
Professional collision repair technicians diagnose and repair damaged vehicles so that they’re aesthetically pleasing, structurally sound, and internally efficient. If you enjoyed learning about the topics that Collision Reconditioning Technology students come to understand and practice in their training, we have another peek into pursuing collision repair for you!
Check out this free ATC eBook about the roles and responsibilities of collision repair professionals to see a day in the life of a technician in a collision center and learn about the skills needed for the job.
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