Current Program

Today's technicians skilled in Automotive Collision Repair use the latest sophisticated devices to straighten frames (laser), mix paint (computer), and smooth paint (vacuum tools for dust control contamination). Upon successful completion of this program, students are proficient in MIG welding, parts replacement, body repair, repair of unitized bodies and alignment using laser/computer equipment. Students enroll in courses for personal enrichment, for retraining or upgrading employment skills, to obtain a degree or a certificate, and to meet transfer requirements. Several factors have affected course offerings in recent years, including changes in the environment, economic conditions, population, students' basic skill levels and interests, college budget conditions, and technology. Facility needs also have affected curriculum.

Degrees and Certificates - An Associate in Science degree and a Certificate of Completion are available in Automotive Collision Repair.

Personnel - At this time the program employs one full-time faculty member.

Teaching Methodologies - Teaching methods used most often in the program include lecture/lab, lecture/demonstration, lab, and some self-paced, computerized instruction using e-mail and web pages.

Technology - No classes are offered online at this time.

Equipment - At this time several items of equipment need repair or replacement, including welding equipment, air tools, computers, a frame machine, spray booths, spray guns, a dust extraction system and a pressurized spray booth with fresh breathing air system. A computer is needed for estimating.

Facilities - Labs, classrooms and computer rooms are not centrally located. Air and water lines need to be upgraded and drainage needs to be improved. The lab needs to be expanded to separate paint from body work.

Future Program

To keep pace with industry needs, the program will need to change and adapt to keep up. Modern equipment will be needed to meet changing needs in curriculum development, technology, teaching methods, student academic preparation and facilities. In both the mid term (five years) and the long term (ten years), enrollment in the program is projected to increase at the same rate as overall college enrollment due to the demand of older workers needing to retrain with the new technologies. See Program Projections.

Degrees and Certificates - No additional degrees or certificates are planned.

Personnel - See Projected Faculty and Staff Needs.

Teaching Methodologies - Teaching methods may change as more specialized classes and computerized instructional materials are introduced, although both hands-on and online learning need to continue to be offered.

Technology - The automotive industry provides up-to-date training and resources online, and the program needs the technology to take advantage of this.

Equipment - Within five years the following pieces of equipment will be needed: spray booth, spray guns, computers, and a pressurized spray booth with fresh breathing air system.

Facilities - Labs, classrooms and computer rooms need to be centrally located. Air and water lines need to be upgraded and drainage needs to be improved. The lab needs to be expanded to separate paint from bodywork.

Staff Development - Developing partnerships with industry would be a useful Staff Development activity.