Like any high demand career these days, positions in the auto body repair field require extensive training. Don't be fooled by people telling you that you do not need to go to college or a trade school excel in this field. Yes it is true that you can probably find a job being a lot attendant and sweeping the floors, but to land the highest paying jobs in this field you need experience. Experience is not easy to get if you have never worked in the field so there is really only one other option: The Auto Body Repair School.
It is simple for us as quality auto body repair schools can be found nationwide with very little effort. Some are college programs that last for two years and include all the traditional college core courses, while others are technical schools dedicated solely to the auto body repair field. My choice would be going with a dedicated trade school as it gives much more hands on training time. Most of the institutions will split the courses time between book learning and working in the shop applying what was just learned. Ignorant people will argue that hands on training will be plenty for this career and the truth is in fact the opposite. If you choose not to learn the theory you can put you and others in serious danger. Complicated circuits, air bag components, and high voltage hybrids are just some of the cutting edge technology you will experience in the field, and learning from your mistakes is definitely not a good idea. A much better method of learning is to hit the books first, and later apply what you have learned in the field. For reference we have given you a few options to consider in Auto Body Repair Schools.
Lincoln Technical College is my primary choice for a school. I can say this because I have attended there and can attest for the quality that they provide. LTI has campuses across the country and has a very good collision repair program. Using a systems approach they will break down different parts of the automobile in the classroom, and later use that knowledge in the shop. They have agreements with the giant auto manufacturers as they will train you to work on a certain make or model if you would like. With affiliations with major tool companies they can provide students discounted rates. They also go by Nashville Auto-Diesel College and Lincoln College of Technology.
A second option to consider is Wyotech. With a name with deep ties to motor sports they have been branded the official school of the NHRA. They have famous graduates including Jessi Combs, former tv host of Xtreme 4x4. Upon completing the core curriculum students will then choose which area they would like to major in. They include Trim and upholstery, shop management, chassis fabrication, and street rod building.
In addition to the trade school route, you should also look into community colleges offering auto body repair or collision repair courses.
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