Collision Repair Technology
Collision Repair Technology
Hone the Skills Needed for Success in Today's Advanced Collision Repair Industry
Program Overview
Are you interested in mastering the art and science of collision repair and refinishing? College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Collision Repair Technology program is tailored for those aspiring to excel in this dynamic industry. Expert-level instruction, taught by industry professionals, will provide you with hands-on training in welding, minor repair, polishing, panel replacement, plastic-bumper repair, estimating, and both structural and non-structural repair using state-of-the-art equipment.
This program offers you multiple training options from a Basic Technical Certificate to an Associate of Applied Science, each with extensive training, including classroom, lab work, and internships, with a focus on refinishing, color matching, custom painting, and advanced repair techniques. Successful completion of all collision repair classes qualifies you to earn I-CAR certificates in ProLevel 1 Non-Structural Repair and ProLevel 1 Refinishing.
Learning Opportunities
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Train on industry-standard equipment for real-world readiness.
- Hands-On Training & Internships: Apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- I-CAR Professional Development Program: Graduate with ProLevel 1 certifications, aligning with industry professional standards.
- Student Toolkits: Prepare for immediate industry work with required toolkits.
- Specialized Skills Development: Master techniques in waterborne and solvent-borne paint systems, blending, and custom painting.
Areas of Study
Degrees & Certificates
Collision Repair Technology – Associate of Applied Science Degree
Cost:
$16,038
Collision Repair Technology – Intermediate Technical Certificate
Cost:
$13,553
Collision Repair Technology – Basic Technical Certificate
Cost:
$9,764
Prior to registering for major-specific classes, admitted students must participate in a program orientation covering program expectations and requirements.
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Career Opportunities
Repair and refinish automotive vehicle bodies and straighten vehicle frames.
13
Annual Openings*
$
22.88
Hourly Median Wage*
$
47,590
Annual Median Salary
13.59
%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Set up, operate, or tend spraying or rolling machines to coat or paint any of a wide variety of products, including glassware, cloth, ceramics, metal, plastic, paper, or wood, with lacquer, silver, copper, rubber, varnish, glaze, enamel, oil, or rust-proofing materials. Includes painters of transportation vehicles such as painters in auto body repair facilities.
10
Annual Openings*
$
22.00
Hourly Median Wage*
$
45,760
Annual Median Salary
18.59
%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Appraise automobile or other vehicle damage to determine repair costs for insurance claim settlement. Prepare insurance forms to indicate repair cost or cost estimates and recommendations. May seek agreement with automotive repair shop on repair costs.
$
40.65
Hourly Median Wage*
$
84,552
Annual Median Salary
4.43
%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Replace or repair broken windshields and window glass in motor vehicles.
$
24.59
Hourly Median Wage*
$
51,147
Annual Median Salary
14.83
%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
*Data sourced from Lightcast™ (2023), a global leader in labor market analytics, and limited to the state of Idaho. Contact CWI Institutional Research for questions regarding this data. Career pathways may require further education beyond CWI.
"The equipment we have in the autobody shop is top of the line. It is incredible what we have to work with. From lifts to paint booths, even well-established autobody shops don’t always have those. You can only work with the tools you know, and to have such quality materials throughout our education sets us up for success." Read More >
Admissions
Step 1
- Apply to CWI.
- Choose Collision Repair Technology as your major.
Step 2
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
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Cost & Aid
As a student in this program, you may be eligible for financial aid and scholarships.
Enrichment Opportunities
Enhance your academic experience, expand your knowledge, reach your goals, and celebrate your achievements.
Advising
Already a student? We are here to help you navigate your educational journey, connect you to academic and support resources, and achieve your academic or career goals.
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Clubs
SkillsUSA
College of Western Idaho is proud to compete in SkillsUSA, a nationwide organization seeking to improve the quality of our nation's future skilled workforce through personal, workplace, and technical skills training.
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