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Automotive Collision Repair and Refinishing Technology

Idaho LAUNCH Eligible Program

Program Description

Automotive Collision Repair and Refinishing technicians repair damaged vehicle bodies and body parts from complete body off-frame repair to the smallest door dent in the body and then refinish the color to make it look new again.

 We examine and determine the type and extent of damage, then teach the best way to repair that damage. We teach how to replace and repair all welded, bolted and adhesive style panels, grilles bumpers and all plastic parts. We replace glass and remove exterior trim and moldings. We teach MIG and MAG welding, resistance spot welding and the safety and use of all welding equipment. Frames and unit-body vehicles are measured and straightened using the Chief Impulse frame Bench Rack System and Meridian Live Mapping measuring system. We teach dent repair and the proper use of body fillers as well as electrical diagnosis for power window locks and lighting.

Refinishing starts by feather-edging of paint and then priming with a good corrosion and rust inhibiting material; filling of micro low areas; blocking, masking, sealing and then top-coating with a quality, single-stage or using a two-stage base coat paint followed by a high gloss clear coat. The ultimate finish is a tri-coat, pearl type paint that is very popular in this day of high-tech products. We mix our own paint colors and teach the application of solvent based basecoat and the new Water based basecoat systems.

Chrome In The Dome  Car and Bike Show

Each year students from the Automotive Technology and Automotive Collision Repair and Refinishing programs organize southeast Idaho's largest car show Chrome In The Dome.  This event provides funds for personal and professional skill building through the SKILLsUSA student organization.

Graduates Employed or Continuing Education Five-Year Average

100%

Average Idaho Income

$39,760 - $53,400

ASE NATEF Certified Program

Program Overview:

  • Program accepts students in August and January
  • Typical classroom hours are Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
  • Program admits 20 students each year
  • Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certified
  • Program located in the Eames Complex, Building #96, 1999 Alvin Ricken Drive

Certificates & Degrees

Career Opportunities

  • Auto body repair shops
  • Motor vehicle manufacturers
  • Motor vehicle dealers
  • Paint Companies - Sales and Service
  • Marine boat manufacturers and repairers
  • Insurance claims adjuster
  • Heavy truck and equipment repair
  • Glass Replacement Shops


Minimum Test Scores

SAT Math: 310
ACT Math: 12
ALEKS Math: 8

Financial Aid and Scholarships

ISU offers financial aid and scholarships.  Additional opportunities include state-sponsored scholarships; examples include the Idaho Opportunity Scholarship for first time students and for returning students the Idaho Opportunity Scholarship for Adult Learners.

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Student working in the Computerized Machining Technology Lab