By Christopher Gerics
Peterborough, Ontario — March 31, 2016 — Solid knowledge of repair techniques can only come with hands-on practice. That’s part of the reason behind I-CAR’s newest courses, Rivet Bonding (RVT01) and MIG Brazing (BRZ02). They are the first offerings in I-CAR’s new Hands-On Skill Development curriculum.
Steven Hudey is the National Welding Qualification Coordinator for I-CAR. He stresses the importance of these new programs.
“With the implementation of smaller classes, the instructor is able to give a detailed hands-on approach in regards to proper equipment use and maintenance,” says Hudey. “It isn’t just going through a manual or class, but by having hands-on training the workers will be better prepared to repair vehicles efficiently, and that can’t be done through a book.”
The goal of these programs is to not only educate technicians on how to properly implement the training, but to educate them about the newest advancements in automotive technology.
The two new courses are characterized by small class sizes and a relentless focus on practicing necessary techniques.
Rivet Bonding will feature a maximum total of four people per course. Hudey says that if the classes were any larger, it would “take away from retaining the knowledge that is presented.”
In short, rivet bonding is the process of fastening two metals together with structural adhesive, creating a stronger join than with just rivets alone. The group will have an aluminum frame to work on, with a variety of rivets. The overall goal of the course is to not only properly train technicians in the technique, but educate them as to why these courses are important.
“Repair techs need to learn how to keep up with technology and this hands-on training allows them to hone their skills,” Hudey says.
MIG brazing is a big advantage when it comes to high-strength steel, as the low temperature don’t cause damage to the steel’s structure.
The MIG Brazing course from I-CAR will hold a total of two to three techs per welder. The relatively low number of techs per welder is so they all have a chance to practice the techniques.
“Normally a shop has one welder, although if they do have a second welder they would be able to bring in another two or three techs to practice. The techs will be completing four welds in two different positions, along with coaching from an instructor while also teaching new techniques,” Hudey says.
The new courses will begin in April with Winnipeg, Vacouver Island and North Bay, Ontario being the first cities to run the course.
Andrew Shepherd, Executive Director of I-CAR Canada, spoke to Collision Repair magazine regarding the importance of these training programs.
“The normal training set is eight hours a year, but that is woefully low,” says Shepherd. “Training for shops is the absolute priority, so we are trying to increase the annual amount of hours these techs are being trained. If the customer knows their car is being repaired efficiently, properly and with correct training they will feel a lot more at ease with the process.”
For more information, please visit i-car.ca.
