Collision Repair and Refinishing Technology

The Collision Repair and Refinishing Technology curriculum provides training in the use of equipment and materials of the auto body repair trade. The student studies the construction of the automobile body and techniques of auto body repairing, rebuilding, and refinishing.

Coursework includes auto body fundamentals, industry overview, and safety. Students will perform hands-on repairs in the areas of non-structural and structural repairs, MIG welding, plastics and adhesives, refinishing, and other related areas.

Graduates of the curriculum should qualify for entry-level employment opportunities in the automotive body and refinishing industry. Graduates may find employment with franchised independent garages, or they may become self-employed.

Learning Outcomes

  • Understand non-structural panel makeup for both steel and aluminum and automotive plastics to be able to determine damage analysis, repair vs. replace decisions; glass repair or replacement determinations for both stationary and moveable glass.
  • Understand and be able to write auto body repair estimates based on industry standards and understanding of estimation procedure pages and nomenclature for both hand-written and computer-generated estimates.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of vehicle construction and frame damage types; the ability to set up a vehicle on a frame machine and then use computerized frame readouts to analyze potential frame damage.
  • Demonstrate an understanding and use of shop safety involving Material Safety Data Sheets, product labels, handling of hazardous materials, personal protective equipment, and repair equipment safety. Show an understanding of surface preparation corrosion protection, color theory and detailing.

Contact Information

Image of Jamie Reavis
Jamie Reavis, AAS
Chair of Transportation Technologies/Lead Instructor of Collision Repair
Phone: 336-838-6192
ljreavis691@wilkescc.edu

Pathways

This part of the website is currently undergoing maintenance. Please refer to the WCC Catalog for program information.

Technical Standards

The Collision Repair and Refinishing Technology program technical standards have been developed to inform students of the nonacademic essential functions of the program and profession. Examples are not all inclusive.

Standard Essential Function Examples
Communication
Oral / Written
  • Skills sufficient to communicate information and ideas so others will understand
  • Communicate procedures for repairs to coworkers and customers
  • Write work orders
Mobility / Motor Skills
  • Motor skills sufficient to move the hands and use hands to grasp and manipulate
  • Ability to safely operate in and around machinery
  • Mobility sufficient to perform physical activities that require considerable use of arms and legs and moving the body
  • Make repairs
  • Assemble parts
  • Operate machines
  • Physical activities may include:
    • Crawling
    • Bending
    • Stooping
    • Reaching
    • Lifting
    • Climbing
Physical Strength and Stamina
  • Ability sufficient to lift and carry
  • Lift car parts
Sensory

  • Sight
  • Sound
  • Taste
  • Touch
  • Smell
  • Visual skills sufficient to see details at close range
  • Ability to distinguish colors, shades, and textures
  • Listening skills sufficient to communicate with others
  • Visual skills to inspect or assess for safety
  • Identify defects and make repairs
  • Match car colors
  • Listen to customer’s assessment of problem
  • Inspect an area or piece of equipment for potential failures or safety issues
Environmental / Occupational Exposure
  • Possible exposure to extreme temperatures
  • Possible exposure to dust, chemicals, and fumes
  • Work outside or inside of a non-climate-controlled shop
  • Paint fumes
Field or Industry Professional Standards

Disability Services Statement

Wilkes Community College is an ADA compliant institution. WCC does not discriminate based on a disability in the admissions process or in access to its programs, services, and/or activities for qualified individuals who meet eligibility requirements. WCC will provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with documented disabilities who are eligible to receive or participate in college programs, services, and/or activities. If a student believes that he/she cannot meet one or more of a program’s essential functions without accommodations, the student is encouraged to disclose this to Disability Services as soon as possible.