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Student in shop shirt buffing tailgate in collision lab, others working in background

Collision Repair & Refinish Technology

Associate Degree Program - 65 Credits

Collision Repair and Refinish Technicians restore, refinish and replace vehicle bodies and frames. They are the cosmetic surgeons of the automotive industry! As a top repair technician, you will repair damaged vehicles, give estimates, refinish auto bodies and provide vehicle alignment.

In this industry, no two jobs are alike. Are you detail-oriented? Your focus on the details will shine through on the finished product. In just two years, you’ll be on the job with an Associate Degree. 

Your other duties as a top collision repair and refinish technician might include: 

  • Fitting and welding parts
  • Reviewing damage reports / planning work
  • Sanding and priming work surfaces
  • Applying new paint / finish
  • Assessing structural damage 

Job Placement Rate

100%

Southeast Tech's Collision Repair and Refinish Technology program boasts a 100% job placement rate among its 2023 graduates.

* View details and methodology of the Graduate Outcome Report.

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Program Video and Virtual Lab Tour

 

Why STC? 

When a vehicle is damaged, the results can be more than cosmetic. Your STC faculty teach you how to determine what repairs are needed and how to do it in our high-tech collision repair and refinishing lab located in the Ed Wood Trade and Industry Center. As a top Collision Repair Technician, you might restore autobody parts or reconstruct entire sections of the vehicle. Your classes also help you: 

Know your Tools: Collision repair technicians use pneumatic tools and plasma cutters to remove parts. You also will become adept at using hydraulic jacks and hammers as well as hand tools, including wrenches, pliers, hammers, screwdrivers and files.

Problem Solve: Your critical-thinking skills will be valuable. As a repair technician, you will need to be methodical in your work: identify the problem, evaluate options, estimate results, identify best response, prioritize work, and implement solution.

Be a Valuable Team Member:  As a talented repair and refinish technician from Southeast Tech, you will know how to interact with customers and co-workers, as well as demonstrate a strong work ethic and professional behavior. 

Work Opportunities

In Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and across the nation, you will be in high demand as a collision repair and refinish technician. Your field is also a great place to start as an entrepreneur! 

Explore Classes

Southeast Tech’s curriculum for Collision Repair and Refinish Technology includes classes in Auto Body Welding, Wheel Alignment, Auto Body Electrical Circuits/Air Conditioning, Surface Preparation, Computer Essentials, Auto Collision Estimating, Color Theory, Blending and Stationary Panel Replacement and Frame Measuring. 

View Curriculum   View Admission Criteria

Job Outlook

Cost

Costs are calculated based on a charge of $255 per credit hour, plus applicable fees.

Total Costs  Cost and Fee Breakdown

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Faculty

Tracy Nielsen

Lab Specialist
Collision Repair and Refinish Technology

John Wendell

Instructor
Collision Repair and Refinish Technology
Wood Center 407

Dana Davis

Instructor
Collision Repair and Refinish Technology
Wood Center 407

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If you’re interested in a career in the auto industry, you might also be interested in these other programs at Southeast Tech: 

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