Automotive Refinishing: Academic Certificate (CTE)

Certificate of Completion CTE

School of Technical and Professional Specialties

Program Overview

Automobile refinishing technicians restore damaged motor vehicles to "look like new" appearance. These skilled technicians repaint vehicles that have lost the luster of original paint and the repaired portions of vehicles damaged in accidents. The technician prepares the vehicles to receive the new finish. A spray gun then is used to apply under coats to the substrate surface. After the primer coat dries, the surface is prepared for top coats.

Before painting prepared portions of the vehicle, the technician may mix paints or colors to match the existing color of the car. The spray gun technique is vital and must be handled skillfully so the paint is applied evenly. A knowledge of the various materials, supplies and equipment used in the refinishing process is vital. The program requires manual dexterity, average scholastic ability and an appreciation and understanding of color. General Education and elective courses provide training in effective oral and written communication and human relations skills. Students may only start every Fall semester in AR classes.

What You Will Learn

  • Gain entry level employment skills in Surface Preparation and application of undercoats.
    1. I-CAR WKR 01 Worker Protection. General shop safety and working with potentially hazardous materials found in the industry.
    2. I-CAR REF 04 Detailing
    3. I-CAR REF 01 Refinishing Equipment And VOC Regulations
    4. I-CAR REF 02 Surface Preparation and Masking
  • Gain entry level employment in the Application of Topcoats. Theory and lab courses in advanced refinishing procedures and techniques including color matching and multi-stage finishes.

Career Outlook

Some careers shown require further education beyond this program.

Additional Information

Specialized Accreditation

The Automotive Technology program is accredited by Automotive Service Excellence Education Foundation (ASE-EF): https://aseeducationfoundation.org/.

Program Entry Requirements

Students may only start every Fall semester in AR classes. The Automotive Collision Refinishing courses are taught during the day.

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