New Automotive Collision and Refinishing Foundation expands options for VCC students

Vancouver Community College (VCC) is pleased to introduce a new program option that will broaden opportunities for students in both the automotive collision repair and automotive refinishing prep industries.

VCC’s new Automotive Collision and Refinishing Foundation program combines learning that was formerly offered in two distinct programs: automotive collision repair (identifying damage, removing and installing parts, repairing, welding, and bonding parts), and automotive refinishing prep (restoring corrosion protection, paint repair and preperation).

VCC’s new harmonized foundation eliminates course overlap between the two programs and offers introductory training in both fields, allowing students to learn a wider range of skills before specializing in future apprenticeship levels.

According to VCC Automotive Collision and Refinishing department head Keith Mew, past students have often switched between programs or taken both. “I did it myself,” he said. “I wanted a deeper understanding of the trade, from welding to paint.”

In coordination with B.C.’s Industry Training Authority (ITA), VCC’s new Automotive Collision and Refinishing Foundation will now also be recognized across provinces, offering students greater flexibility to complete their apprenticeships wherever they may be working. 

“I wish I’d had a core program like this,” says Keith. “These students will have a better understanding of both sides of the trade and be more successful on any path they take.”

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Limited seats are still available in VCC’s Automotive Collision and Refinishing Foundation program for September 2021 and January 2022. Apply now >