Program Overview
Learn automotive technology and repair with collision repair certification at one of Rhode Island’s largest auto body schools. Combine theory and hands-on training in all aspects of auto body repair, collision repair technology, and automotive refinishing.
Understand the fundamentals of electrical diagnosis, engine accessories, wheels and tires, drivetrain parts, and more as you prepare for skilled technician positions in the $40 billion auto body industry. According to Statista, by 2024, it is anticipated that general vehicle maintenance in the United States would generate revenues of over $58,7 billion.
Work with cutting-edge equipment while you learn collision repair techniques. You also have the opportunity to earn I-Car (Inter-Industry Conference on Automotive Collision Repair) certification in painting and refinishing, plastic repair, and structural and non-structural repair. Take this further with welding certification to repair steel and aluminum.
As you gain more work experience, you can take the learning further by enrolling in OEM-specific programs that follow all collision repair training standards.
Understand the theory and fine-tune skills needed in metal and plastic repair, unibody straightening, MIG welding, modern painting systems, and handling hazardous materials.
Read MoreFull Description
The Certificate in Automotive Collision Repair Technology offers an in-depth study of all aspects of auto body technology, collision repair, and refinishing. Students are provided theory and practice in sheet metal repair and replacement, repair of body damage, frames and unibody, glass installation, and paint refinishing techniques.
Students also learn the aspects of automotive technology (such as brakes, suspension, heating, and air conditioning) which are most useful for a thorough understanding of auto body and collision repair.
Graduates are ready to enter a range of technician positions in the auto body field.
Job Availability in Rhode Island
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, this is a rewarding career path with a promising future. The number of job openings in the sector was 173,500, growing at a healthy 6% faster than the average of all other professions. The state of Rhode Island employed 650 auto body repair technicians.
The border states of Connecticut and Massachusetts were among the highest automotive body repair employers in the area, with 1,720 and 2,640 active employees. Further out, in 2021, there were 7,380 and 4,290 employed people in New York and New Jersey, respectively.
NEIT Campus that Offers the Collision Repair Certification Program
The NEIT campus that offers the collision repair technician certification program is the Access Road Campus, located at 110 Access Rd #65, Warwick, RI 02886.
License Requirements in Rhode Island
The Department of Business Regulation, Rhode Island, regulates the licenses of all auto body industries in the state. They issue a license to any business, corporation, or individual meeting the qualification of automotive collision repair on paying the required fees.
Outlined in Section 2.12 of Regulation 230-RICR-30-05-2 are the minimum requirements for motor vehicle body repair technician certification.
Those who want to pursue their own automotive body repair shop must get a license by paying a fee of $300. This license remains valid for 3 years, after which you must apply for renewal. Businesses must also display their license with the number at the location.
Salary Data from Rhode Island
The annual mean wage for auto body repair professionals in Rhode Island in 2021 was $49,020 – $53,130 per year. Qualified applicants with the fundamental knowledge and proven skills get an annual mean wage of $53,130.
The neighboring states of Connecticut and Massachusetts employed 1,720 and 2,640 collision repair technicians in 2021 with annual mean wages of $51,500 and $54,850, respectively.
New York and New Jersey had annual mean wage statistics of $51,100 and $50,540 as of May 2021.
ACCREDITATION STATUS
NEIT’s Automotive Collision Repair Technology program has received Damage Analysis/Estimating/Customer Service Accreditation by the ASE Education Foundation, 1503 Edwards Ferry Rd., NE, Suite 401, Leesburg, VA 20176, (703) 669-6650 ● www.ASEeducationfoundation.org.
Potential Career Opportunities
Upon completing the program, graduates will gain skills for several exciting job openings. Individuals can pursue careers at car dealerships and automotive body or collision repair shops as:
Technician
Auto Body Painter
Truck Mechanic
Auto Insurance Adjuster
Automotive body and related repairers
Collision Auto Body Repair Instructor
Collision Estimator
FAQ
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What is a collision repair technician?
Collision repair technicians are responsible for making all repairs to a vehicle after it has been involved in a crash or collision.
These professionals should be able to assess damages sustained by the vehicle and communicate all details to the owners.
They will also use several specialty tools to perform minor dent repairs to complete rebuilds throughout their careers.
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How long should car repairs take?
Though timelines will vary, repairs will take anywhere from two to five days to complete.
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How Do I Get into the Collision Repair Training Program at NEIT, Rhode Island?
To apply for a collision repair certificate program at the NEIT Rhode Island campus, you must have a high school diploma or GED.Though timelines will vary, repairs will take two to five days to complete.
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Can I Get an Auto Body Technician Job Without Going to a School?
Yes, you can get an auto body technician job without going to school. But the automotive industry is increasingly becoming high-tech, with each OEM having its proprietary technologies and training requirements.
The certification will give you a good understanding of the industry requirements in a structured manner. The basic skills will help you enter the industry and rapidly advance your career.
Get the collision repair certificate and achieve automotive service excellence. Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is the national institute and professional certification group for automotive service tests and certifications.