Collision Repair Technician Programs in Columbia, Missouri
Becoming a Collision Repair Technician in Columbia, Missouri
Are you considering a career as a Collision Repair Technician in Columbia, Missouri? This guide will walk you through the steps to enter this rewarding field. A Collision Repair Technician specializes in assessing and repairing vehicles that have been damaged in accidents. This career offers several paths, including completing an Auto Body Repair program, gaining certifications, and on-the-job training.
About Columbia
Columbia, Missouri, is a thriving city known for its education and cultural appeal. Home to the University of Missouri, it’s a hub for young professionals and offers a wide range of opportunities in various sectors. Take a moment to learn more about this city by visiting the City of Columbia’s official website.
Auto Body Repair Programs in Columbia, Missouri
If you’re interested in pursuing a career as a Collision Repair Technician in Columbia, there are excellent educational options nearby:
State Technical College of Missouri (Linn, MO) – Located about a 45-minute drive from Columbia, this college offers an Automotive Collision Technology program that provides hands-on training in modern collision repair techniques. Explore their program.
East Central College (Union, MO) – Approximately 90 minutes from Columbia, East Central College offers a Collision Repair Technology program known for its comprehensive curriculum and opportunity to gain ASE Student Certification. Learn more about their program.
Ranken Technical College (St. Louis, MO) – Located about two hours from Columbia, Ranken offers a well-regarded Auto Collision Repair Technology program with state-of-the-art facilities. Check their program details.
Collision Repair Employment Opportunities in Columbia
Once you have completed your training, finding employment in Columbia is promising, with several reputable shops and facilities:
Schaefer Autobody Centers – With multiple locations, including nearby Jefferson City, Schaefer Autobody provides numerous employment opportunities for technicians. They focus on training and development for their employees. Visit their career page.
Joe Machens Collision Center – Located right in Columbia, this facility is part of the well-known Joe Machens dealership group. They offer a range of repair services and value ongoing education for their technicians. Explore job opportunities here.
Gerber Collision & Glass – Situated in Columbia, this national chain offers career growth and comprehensive training programs for its technicians. See available positions.
Prerequisites for Auto Body Repair Programs
To enroll in an Auto Body Repair program, you’ll typically need:
- A high school diploma or GED
- A valid driver’s license
- Basic physical ability to perform manual tasks
- Some programs may require an entrance exam or background check
Certification Options for Collision Repair Technicians
Certifications are crucial for career advancement. Consider the following:
- I-CAR Certifications: Pro-Level 1 & 2 Non-structural Technician certifications are valuable for skill enhancement.
- ASE Certifications: Certifications such as A6, A8, and L1 are required for the Missouri-Recognized Repair Technician (MRRT) status. Learn more about ASE certifications.
Additional information can be found on the Missouri Department of Natural Resources website.
Get Started Today
The field of collision repair offers stability and growth opportunities. If you’re ready to embark on this career path, reach out to a school offering Auto Body Repair Programs in Columbia, Missouri. Don’t wait—take the first step towards a fulfilling career as a Collision Repair Technician today!
For more information about the job outlook, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.