Automotive Collision Repair & Refinishing

Collision repair people love the challenge of repairing, restoring, refinishing the wide variety of automobiles. Each new job calls on your problem solving abilities plus a little creativity and imagination. You also have to know a variety of different skills—from welding and metalworking to electrical, mechanical and plastic repair to refinishing and structural analysis. This is the kind of training NSCC delivers.

• This program is a first step towards Journeyperson Certification in the Motor Vehicle Body Repairer (Metal and Paint) trade. To work in this trade, certification is compulsory through Nova Scotia's Department of Labour and Workforce Development. Graduates of this program are eligible for transfer credit upon registration in the Provincial Apprenticeship Program.


• NSCC gives you hands-on experience applying I-CAR technology and industry standard collision repair and refinishing techniques. Graduates are able to return a damaged vehicle to its pre-accident condition.

• Graduates may find employment as automotive collision repair apprentices with automotive dealerships or independent collision repair or refinishing centres. Opportunities may also exist with truck fleet owners and bus companies.


• Learn more about labour market information - visit Career Options.

• High School Graduation Diploma or equivalent.

• Red Seal – Motor Vehicle Body Repairer (Metal and Paint) is a designated trade that qualifies for the Interprovincial Standards Red Seal Program. The Red Seal allows qualified tradespersons to practice the trade in any province or territory in Canada where the trade is designated without having to write further examinations.


• You're expected to develop a portfolio of your work as part of this program of study. A portfolio is a powerful and convincing way to demonstrate your achievements to future employers over and above a standard résumé.


• The School of Trades and Technology has specific requirements for health and safety practices and procedures for all shops and labs. Students practice 5S+S quality system throughout the entire program and wear specified personal protective equipment when training in designated shops or labs.


• Students are required to maintain a work record book or journal.


• Co-operative Education (Co-op) – This program is eligible for an optional Co-op credit course. Co-op provides an opportunity for paid employment between the first and second year of your program. Employers, as co-educators, provide learning opportunities beyond the bounds of the classroom giving you a well-rounded education enriched by practical application.