"My hobby in high school was doing custom paint jobs on my friends' cars. After I came to Ranken I discovered that I could turn that interest into a much broader career. Now I've learned all the latest techniques for getting damaged cars back on the road, and I've also learned more about paintwork. I spend my days doing work I love."
Operating in 20,000 square feet of shop space, Automotive Collision Repair Technology (ACR) students work on the following state-of-the-art equipment:
Body and frame machines
Computerized electronic measuring systems
Mig welders
Pro-spot resistance welders
Down-draft spray booths
Prep stations
Hunter four-wheel computerized alignment machine
Throughout the program, students learn to replace, repair and realign auto bodies, write estimates,work with a variety of materials, including sheet metal, plastic and fiberglass, perform welding and cutting operations, diagnose electrical and electronic problems and repair vehicles to factory specifications.
Check out this video of Ranken students repairing a wrecked vehicle for use at the College!
Graduates of the program also have the potential to earn 70 I-CAR Gold Class Points, four ASE certifications and certain graduates will qualify for a Sikkens certification.
Graduating with either an associate’s degree or a certificate of technology, graduates are qualified for positions as collision repair technicians and automotive refinish technicians, with the option to pursue careers in management, estimating and sales. Three to four years after graduation, salaries average $40,000 to $50,000 per year.
