Just about everyone needs a car. And the downside to that is that accidents happen—and repairs (and repairers) will be required to get those vehicles up and running again.

If you’re thinking about going back to school but you’re not sure if an auto collision repair degree is too hard to pursue, we’re here to set your mind at ease. We have seen time and again how much going back to school can help students pursue their passions and create a new career in the collision repair industry.

Here’s a glimpse into what you’ll learn and where you’ll work after completing your degree!

As a student in an auto collision certificate, diploma, or associate degree program, you can learn all the skills you need to ensure success as an auto repairer or service technician. You’ll be able to work on cars and trucks and to repair, rebuild, or restore them. Get the training to inspect vehicles, assess damages, and prepare cost estimates. Prepare to perform realignments, repair damage, replace parts, refurbish exteriors, and more.

Plus, you’ll get a chance to familiarize yourself with the most common tools and processes you will use on the job. Many programs also include brand-specific training to help you prepare to work with some of the biggest names in the collision repair industry.

Like many automotive careers, auto collision techs can expect to work in crowded, noisy, and messy spaces—or even offsite as needed. Many repairers work in repair shops, for auto dealers, or as self-employed workers, and they may work standard business hours, nights, weekends, holidays, or overtime depending on the needs of their customers.

And as a mechanical job, collision repair will certainly include the use of hand tools, diagnostics equipment, some cramped positions, automotive paint, and a collaborative team. You’ll also get the chance to keep up with on-the-job training—or even additional certifications as required by your employer—as technology evolves and best practices change. The learning doesn’t stop!

Auto collision programs can be completed in as little as a year, meaning that pursuing a new career as an auto repairer could be just months away!

Are you ready to find the perfect auto collision program for you?

IAF is proud to work with partner institutions like Universal Technical Institute, who offers training programs in a variety of technical fields—including collision repair.