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Auto design schools prepare students with the tools and
resources necessary to learn about the visual and engineering
components of the automotive industry. Automotive design schools
can be found as extensions of many arts and graphic design
school programs, and offer students a chance to gain hands-on
experience for auto detailing, engineering, design, and even
auto construction. Students learn how to use the latest computer
technologies, take part in production assembly and testing, and
work in various departments for clients. Attending an auto
design school can lead to many opportunities for a range of
careers.
Job Description and Responsibilities for Graduates of Auto Design Schools
Students can look forward to many
options in the field. While job responsibilities vary by position, the majority
of auto design professionals are involved with:
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Working with a team of
automotive specialists
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Replacing or repairing
specific auto body parts
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Working on an assembly line
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Learning about new automotive
technology
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Product development
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Working with automobile
dealers
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Learning how to operate
automotive detailing equipment
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Learning computer
technologies and applying design modules
Since technology in the
automotive industry is rapidly becoming more advanced, many auto design schools
prepare students with hands-on computer training throughout the course program.
Automotive body repairers in particular follow a training program through their
employer or at the headquarters of the vehicle manufacturer for basic skills and
product knowledge.
Career Options After Auto Design School
While automotive design careers
are plentiful, students learn hands-on technical skills
and experience from as many avenues as possible. Attending workshops and
seminars can help improve the quality of their work. Students may pursue a career as a:
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Electronic design engineer
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Design Quality Assurance
engineer
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Automotive body repairer
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Refinishing technician
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Collision repair technician
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Auto dealer
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Automotive engineer
Automotive Design
Schools: Courses and Training Programs
Auto design schools prepare
students with essential resources to use technology and other applications. The
typical courses for a training program include:
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Aesthetics
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Clay Modeling
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Design and Styling
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Design History
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Interior Car Design
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Computer Aided Styling (CAS)
Students may be involved with
projects that require the design of concept cars, production cars, or specialty
cars. Some schools offer design competitions where students
compete with their best designs and processes.
Common car design software
programs used at automotive design schools include:
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Rhino
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Alias Sketchbook Pro
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LightWave 3D
Certification in the automotive
field is dependent on the nature of the position. Students who are interested in
becoming automotive body repairers or supervisors can pursue certification from
the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). This
organization allows prospective repairers to take up to four different ASE
Master Collision Repair and Refinish Examinations, and certification is earned
by passing at least one exam and earning two years of hands-on experience in the
field. The examination must be taken at least once every 5 years. Students
interested in pursuing other options can look for certification through car
manufacturers and other product certification programs. Professional
certification can enhance the automotive professional's credentials. In
addition, specialization allows students to gain further experience in a
particular niche.
Accreditation of Auto Design Schools
Each automotive design school
and training program is accredited by the Commission on Higher Education, or
other accrediting body of the educational institution or tech school.
Auto Design School Graduates Earning Potential
and Employment Prospects
The demand for skilled professionals in the automotive industry is
rising as more people are looking for customized cars, trucks, and specialty
automotives. Automotive design careers offer students a chance to work with
leading car manufacturers, brands, and vehicle makers around the world. The
demand for qualified body repairers and technicians is expected to grow as fast
as average through 2014, as the need for replacing skilled body repairers
continues to increase. Formal training, hands-on experience, and specialized
skill sets can increase career opportunities in this field. Automotive body and
repairers earned approximately $16.68 in 2004. Auto design engineers' salaries
vary depending on experience, training, and certification.
Related occupations include:
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