Hi,

I'm considering a career in auto-body collision repair and have a some questions regarding what it's like to work in the industry. I don't know any one who works in this industry so I figured I'd try to get some information online.

Is it physically demanding? I am 41 and wonder if I will be up to the physical demands or not. Is there a lot of people who get injuries to their joints, repetitive strain injuries ect, like you would see in the construction industry?

Can you earn a decent living at it?

How many hours a week would you work in a typical week?

Thanks in advance for your help.

Hi Todd- thanks for your interest. Depending on your province, there are grants and incentives that also might help you make a decision. Most provinces have trades certification and you may have some hours already in that could entitle you to sit the equivalency exam very soon. There are so many different possible job descriptions and positions within the industry to answer your question properly online. We can send you the CARS package that outlines each role or an industry cd-rom on the Art of Earning that detials the different roles in the trade. Similarly a job posting looking for work can be arranged free with us, job placement agencies or www.apprenticesearch.com We are a non-profit industry organization that might be able to assist. Please call us at 866 309 4272. Best wishes on your new chosen career. John Norris, ciia.com

Todd,

I'm always happy to hear that someone is considering a career in collision repair.

The work a body tech does can be physically demanding. It's not necessary to be built like Hercules, but I've heard it said that body techs tend to retire earlier than mechanics, simply because there is a fair amount of bending involved.

However, as John points out, there are many different possible careers in the collision repair business.

Please feel free to give me a call and we discuss things a bit further.

Mike Davey
Editor
Collision Repair magazine
416-628-8344

Hi Todd, It’s a good time to come into the auto collision industry. The fact of the matter is there are not a lot of new people entering the industry, however this would give you a world of opportunity to get the experience and certifications required and place your self in a position of demand.

My comment are based on the assumption your interest is in auto collision production work such as (body, prepper detailer) technician, but keep in mind there’s lots of other areas that make up the collision repair industry.

As a technician you could make your self a decent living but it could always be better… the hours you work depends on the company you work with and their compensation structure. On average hourly 40 to 50 hrs per week – Flat Rate average 50 to 70 hrs, now keep in mind there are fluctuating variables that impact your wages.

Don<br><br>Post edited by: Dontek, at: 2008/02/11 20:39