Let me begin by stating I am a graduate of a high school technical program in Upstate New York (the Adirondacks, not Westchester) and have been involved in the collision repair industry in various capacities for more than 45 years. This article is not intended to dismiss high school programs, as they provide valuable training and instruction.
However, there are notable differences between the training provided in high school programs and post-secondary programs. Both have their place, but as a former manager and owner of collision repair businesses, I found hiring graduates with an associate's degree yielded the best return on investment for my business. Therefore, this article will focus exclusively on post-secondary programs.
Collision Repair Labor Shortage
The collision repair industry faces a significant challenge: a growing shortage of skilled labor. As experienced technicians retire, the gap between the supply of and demand for qualified professionals widens. This shortage is compounded by a lack of new entrants into the field. Many young people are unaware of the opportunities available in collision repair, or perceive it as a less attractive career option.
Industry support of post-secondary education can play a pivotal role in addressing this shortage. By offering robust training programs, educational institutions can attract new talent to the industry. Clear career pathways, competitive salaries and opportunities for advancement can make collision repair an appealing career choice.
Additionally, partnerships between educational institutions and industry stakeholders can enhance the relevance and appeal of training programs. Internships, apprenticeships and on-the-job training can provide students with valuable hands-on experience, making them more attractive to employers upon graduation.
Advanced Technology Calls for Advanced Skills
The collision repair industry is at a crucial juncture, driven by the rapid evolution of automotive technology and the increasing complexity of modern vehicles. As cars become more advanced, the need for highly skilled professionals to repair and maintain these vehicles becomes ever more critical. Supporting post-secondary education for the collision repair industry is essential for ensuring safety and quality, keeping pace with technological advancements, addressing workforce shortages, and fostering economic growth.
Safety is the cornerstone of the automotive industry, and it extends deeply into collision repair. Modern vehicles are no longer just mechanical marvels; they are integrated systems combining hardware, software and sophisticated electronics. Features such as advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), autonomous driving capabilities, and electronic control units (ECUs) are standard in many vehicles today. The presence of these advanced systems means a simple repair is no longer straightforward.
The automotive industry is experiencing unprecedented technological advancements. The collision repair industry is no different; it is continuously evolving. Innovations in materials, repair techniques and diagnostic tools require technicians to adapt and expand their skill sets.
For example, the increasing use of lightweight materials like aluminum and carbon fiber in vehicle construction demands new repair methods. Traditional welding techniques may not be suitable for these materials, necessitating alternative approaches to complete a safe and quality repair.
Post-secondary education equips technicians with the necessary training to understand and work with these complex systems. Technicians learn to navigate the intricacies of calibrating ADAS sensors, repairing high-voltage systems in EVs, and ensuring software updates are correctly implemented.
This comprehensive training is essential to maintain the integrity of a vehicle s safety systems after a collision. Without such knowledge, improper repairs could lead to malfunctions, endangering lives. High-quality training programs ensure technicians adhere to the stringent standards required to preserve the safety and reliability of modern vehicles.
The rise of EVs, hybrid vehicles and autonomous driving technology has transformed the landscape of vehicle design and manufacturing. These changes also necessitate a corresponding evolution in the collision repair industry.
EVs and hybrid cars introduce new challenges for repair technicians. High-voltage battery systems, regenerative braking systems, and electric drivetrains require specialized knowledge. Technicians must be trained to handle these components safely and effectively. Similarly, vehicles equipped with ADAS and autonomous driving technologies rely on an array of sensors, cameras and radar systems that need precise calibration after repairs.
Post-secondary collision education programs are crucial for providing this specialized training. Institutions can update curricula to reflect the latest technological developments, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to handle the demands of modern vehicle repair. Continuous education and certification programs are also vital, allowing technicians to stay current with ongoing advancements in automotive technology.
An Economic Driver
The collision repair industry is a significant contributor to the economy, generating billions of dollars annually. Well-trained technicians are the backbone of this industry, enabling businesses to deliver high-quality services and attract more customers. Investing in post-secondary education ensures a steady supply of skilled workers who can meet the market's demands, supporting job creation and stimulating economic activity.
Businesses that employ well-trained technicians are more likely to succeed. High-quality repairs lead to satisfied customers, repeat business and positive word-of-mouth referrals. In contrast, substandard repairs can damage a company's reputation and result in costly legal liabilities. By investing in education and training, businesses can enhance their competitive edge, achieve higher profitability and contribute to the industry's overall growth.
High Cost of Collision Repair Education
Running a collision repair program in a post-secondary institution comes with significant costs, primarily due to the consumables required for educating students. These consumables include paint, primer, sandpaper, welding materials and various automotive parts necessary for hands-on training.
The high cost of these materials makes it financially challenging to conduct classes with fewer than 10 students, as economies of scale are not realized with smaller class sizes. Consequently, institutions may struggle to maintain the program's quality and accessibility without adequate enrollment and funding.
Post-secondary education programs can provide the flexibility needed to adapt to these changes. By staying abreast of industry trends and incorporating them into curricula, educational institutions can ensure graduates are prepared for the challenges they will face in the field. Moreover, ongoing professional development opportunities allow technicians to continually upgrade their skills, ensuring they remain competent and confident in their work.
Creating Standards to Ensure Quality
The collision repair industry benefits significantly from standardized practices and protocols. These standards ensure consistency, safety and quality across the board. Post-secondary education plays a vital role in establishing and disseminating these standards. Accredited programs follow industry-approved curricula, which include best practices for vehicle repair, safety protocols and ethical considerations.
Technicians who graduate from accredited programs are not only skilled in technical aspects but also understand the importance of adhering to industry standards. This uniformity is crucial for maintaining the trust of consumers and regulatory bodies. It ensures that regardless of where a vehicle is repaired, it meets the same high standards of safety and quality.
To effectively support post-secondary education in collision repair, collaboration between educational institutions, industry stakeholders and government bodies is essential. Such partnerships can help align educational programs with industry needs, ensuring graduates possess the skills and knowledge required by employers.
Industry stakeholders can provide valuable insights into current trends, emerging technologies and workforce demands. They can also offer financial support through scholarships, grants and funding for state-of-the-art training facilities. Government bodies can play a role by implementing policies that promote vocational training and by providing financial incentives for students and institutions.
Supporting post-secondary education for the collision repair industry is a multifaceted investment that yields significant returns. It ensures the safety and quality of vehicle repairs, keeps pace with technological advancements, addresses workforce shortages, and promotes economic growth.
As vehicles become more complex, the need for highly skilled technicians becomes increasingly critical. By prioritizing education and training, we can ensure a steady supply of competent professionals who are equipped to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving industry. This, in turn, enhances the overall safety, reliability and sustainability of the collision repair sector, benefiting consumers, businesses and the economy at large.
Douglas Irish holds a bachelor's degree in business management from Saint Leo University and brings nearly four decades of experience in the collision industry, with specialized knowledge in appraisal and claim technical development. He began his career as a repair technician, later owning a repair business and managing multiple dealer and independent collision repair centers. A licensed appraiser, Irish spent 20 years with MetLife Auto & Home, where he was responsible for estimatics, training and vendor solutions. With recognized expertise in operational leadership, he is now the president and CEO of AccuracyDriven4 and serves as the department chair for collision repair and refinish technology at Fayetteville Technical Community College in North Carolina.
