Associate of Applied Science in Automobile Collision Repair and Refinishing Technology Montana State University - Billings, USA

The ever-increasing numbers of vehicles on the highways, coupled with the high cost of original purchase and replacement, have created a demand for trained collision repair technicians.  This demand is currently exceeding the supply, and future indications are that this trend will continue.  A student may exit this program after completing two semesters and receive an Automobile Collision Repair Technician or Automobile Refinishing Technician Certificate of Applied Science.  Graduates in our Automobile Repair and Refinishing program may find career opportunities with auto repair shops, auto parts stores, windshield repair shops and other automotive related businesses.

Automobile Collision Repair Technicians perform structural and cosmetic repairs on automobiles with unitized body construction in preparation for refinishing.  Responsibilities include minor sheet metal repair, welding of mild and high-strength steels, panel replacement, and measuring with laser and mechanical measuring systems.

Automobile Refinishing Technicians prepare and refinish vehicles.  Students perform panel and overall refinishing using the latest techniques and equipment.  Basic knowledge and skills in refinishing are developed with hands-on practice of current techniques.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:

• Perform demonstrations with basic tools in body damage repair situations, according to lectures and demonstrations shown.
• Perform welding operations using resistance and metal inert gas equipment.
• Disassemble multiple vehicle panels including hood, fenders, doors and bumpers, reassemble and align according to manufacturers’ recommendations.
• Identify and diagnose door hardware malfunctions, including latches, lock assemblies and window regulators.
• Apply gasket and adhesive methods to remove and replace stationary automobile glass
• Select and use proper safety equipment for personal and environmental protection against hazards from the refinish industry.
• Use appropriate application skills and correct maintenance procedures in refinishing equipment according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
• Apply automotive undercoat products per manufacturer’s specifications through proper application techniques.
• Select and apply correct automotive basecoat/clearcoat products per manufacturer’s specifications.
• Using the proper techniques and products, prepare a substrate by correctly cleaning and abrading the surface before the application of automotive undercoats.