Auto Collision
Meet the Instructor
Jeff Smith, Auto Collision Instructor
jeff.smith@jonesboroschools.net
(870) 933.5891 ext. 28252
Office Hours: 2:25pm - 3:05pm
Rev up your imagination and grab your paint brushes because Mr. Jeff Smith is here to guide you through the world of Auto Collision at NEACTC! With 11 years in the education field, he's the ultimate car artist.
From local shops to the classroom, Mr. Smith’s journey is like a collision of passion and expertise. With 26 years spent in the trenches of the auto world, he still dives under hoods on his part-time adventures. But what made him steer towards NEACTC? A desire to give back and become a mentor, nurturing young minds in the high school arena.
And the accolades? Oh, he's got 'em! Mr. Smith's the proud owner of an ASE master certification and an Associate's in general technology. But the cherry on top? Seeing one of his students snatch a national championship title in automotive refinishing.
What's it like having Mr. Smith as an instructor? He's not just about teaching; he's all about genuinely caring for his student’s well-being. His classroom is like a safe pit stop where you're not just a student, but a part of his automotive family.
Expectations? Simple: TRY! Mr. Smith's philosophy is as straightforward as a torque wrench – if you're willing to show up and give it your all, he's got your back. His goal? Introducing you to an industry that's as exciting as a race to the finish line.
About Auto Collision
Get ready to rev up your career with Automotive Collision Repair! This field is all about unleashing your passion for cars and turning it into an exciting and fulfilling profession. Get ready to dive into a world of endless opportunities and boundless potential.
Here's the deal: Our Auto Collision program isn’t like any other Auto Collision program—it's nationally accredited by the prestigious National Automotive Technicians' Educational Foundation (NATEF). And that's just the beginning. We are also home of the current reigning SkillsUSA National Champion! We encourage you to embark on a two-year journey that will equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the auto collision industry. Plus, by successfully completing the program, you'll have the chance to obtain ASE certification in auto collision repair through testing for free! Imagine holding a certification that will open doors to a thriving career.
Now, let's talk about demand. Brace yourself for some mind-blowing statistics. According to the TechForce Foundation's 2021 Supply & Demand Report, the demand for technicians has nearly doubled in the past year alone, skyrocketing from 136,503 to a whopping 258,000 in 2021. That's a staggering increase! In fact, the demand now outpaces supply by an estimated five to one. And guess what? You have the opportunity to fill this talent gap and secure an in-demand profession. But wait, there's more! According to FenderBender Magazine, between 2022 and 2025, the industry will require more than 60,000 new collision repair technicians. Just last year, over 18,000 technicians were needed. Can you imagine the incredible career prospects that await you?
AT NEACTC, we provide comprehensive training in a range of areas, including automotive refinish, nonstructural repair, structural repair, damage analysis and estimating, and welding. Get ready to develop essential skills, learn industry procedures, and become familiar with the terminology associated with all types of automotive collision repairs.
So, if you have a deep love for cars, a desire to make a difference, and a passion for hands-on work, Automotive Collision Repair is the perfect path for you. Get ready to transform your enthusiasm into a successful and rewarding career. Buckle up and join us on this thrilling ride!
What You'll Learn
AutoCollision_CurriculumMap.pdf
Concurrent Credit
Articulated college credit is available at no cost to students through UAPTC, University of Arkansas-Pulaski Technical College. Enrolled students have the opportunity to receive up to 10 hours of college credit through our Auto Collision. The current available college credit courses are the following: Painting 1 (6 hours) and Intro to Collision Repair (4 hours). Concurrent credit goes alongside the student's classroom work which means no extra work!
Certifications
The certifications that we currently offer in our Auto Collision program are the following: ASE student certifications in Painting and Refinishing, Structural Analysis and Damage Repair, Non-structural Analysis and Mechanical and Electrical.