Collision Repair Technician Programs in Long Beach, California
Becoming a Collision Repair Technician in Long Beach, California
If you’re considering a career as a Collision Repair Technician in Long Beach, California, you’re on the path to joining a dynamic and rewarding industry. Collision Repair Technicians are skilled professionals who restore vehicles to their original condition after accidents. This guide will walk you through the educational paths, local opportunities, and certifications needed to succeed in this field.
About Long Beach
Long Beach, California, is a bustling coastal city known for its diverse culture and rich history. Located within the Los Angeles metropolitan area, Long Beach boasts attractions like the Queen Mary, the Aquarium of the Pacific, and the scenic Shoreline Village. For more information about the city, visit the official Long Beach website.
Auto Body Repair Programs in Long Beach, California
Long Beach offers several reputable Auto Body Repair Programs for aspiring Collision Repair Technicians:
- Universal Technical Institute (UTI) – Long Beach Campus
- Located in the Signal Hill neighborhood, UTI offers a comprehensive Collision Repair & Refinish Technology (CRRT) program. This program, developed in conjunction with I-CAR, spans approximately 51 to 54 weeks and provides hands-on training in collision repair. For more details, visit the UTI Collision Repair Program page.
- Long Beach City College
- Situated in the Lakewood Village area, Long Beach City College provides an Auto Body Repair program that covers various aspects of vehicle restoration and refinishing. The program emphasizes practical skills and industry-standard techniques. Learn more on the Long Beach City College Auto Body Program page.
- Cerritos College
- Although located a short drive from Long Beach in Norwalk, Cerritos College offers a robust Auto Body Repair program. The curriculum includes courses in collision repair, painting, and refinishing. Details can be found on the Cerritos College Auto Body Program page.
Collision Repair Employment Opportunities in Long Beach
Long Beach is home to several major auto body repair shops and collision centers:
- Caliber Collision
- Located in the Zaferia neighborhood, Caliber Collision is a leading provider of collision repair services. They offer various career opportunities for skilled technicians. Visit their employment page for more information.
- Fix Auto Long Beach
- Situated in the East Village Arts District, Fix Auto Long Beach is known for its high-quality repair services and customer satisfaction. Explore job openings on their official website.
- Gerber Collision & Glass
- Found in the Wrigley area, Gerber Collision & Glass provides comprehensive collision repair services. They are always looking for talented technicians to join their team. Check out their careers page.
Prerequisites for Auto Body Repair Programs
To enroll in an Auto Body Repair program in Long Beach, you typically need a high school diploma or GED. Most programs require students to be at least 18 years old. Some schools may also conduct entrance exams or background checks. Physical stamina and dexterity are important, as the work can be physically demanding.
Certification Options for Collision Repair Technicians
Certification is crucial for advancing in the collision repair industry. In Long Beach, California, you can pursue several certifications:
- I-CAR Certifications: UTI graduates can earn certifications such as Non-Structural Technician Level 1 and Refinish Technician Level 2. More information is available on the I-CAR website.
Additional Certifications: Other valuable certifications include Axalta Cromax Pro Certified Refinisher and EPA 609 A/C Certification. These credentials enhance your skills and employability.
ASE Certification: The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) offers certifications that are highly regarded in the industry. Visit the ASE website for details.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a Collision Repair Technician in Long Beach, California, is an exciting opportunity. With the right training and certifications, you can build a successful career in this field. Reach out to local schools to learn more about their programs and take the first step toward your future today.
For more information on the job outlook for Automotive Body and Related Repairers, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.