5 Reasons to Consider Specializing in Plastic Repair as an Auto Body Technician

If you’re thinking of pursuing a career in the auto body industry, you’d do well to think about what area you’ll specialize in after graduating from auto mechanic school. Though it’s a great idea to be well-rounded and develop a variety of skills, specialization can open many doors in your career as it positions you as an expert in a particular area. With time, you could become the go-to technician in your field. 

When it comes to auto body specialization, plastic repair is an excellent option. Below, explore five reasons to consider specializing in plastic repair as an auto body technician. 

1. You’ll Have a Consistent Stream of Work 

Introduced in car design in the 1960s, both structural and non-structural plastics are used in numerous parts of a car’s body. When you specialize in plastic repair, you’ll never have any shortage of repairs on your hands. In the event of an accident, most car owners would rather have the plastic components of their vehicle’s body repaired rather than replaced. When you have this skill in your arsenal, you’ll make an invaluable member of any auto shop team. Plastic repair reduces overall costs to the customer, which increases their satisfaction and can potentially bring more business to your shop.

2. Plastic Repair Requires a Level of Expertise that Many Don’t Have 

When researching auto body repair career information pertaining to plastic repair specialization, you’ll find that it requires lots of valuable expertise. For example, in order to maximize recycling and safeguard the environment, plastic blends are widely used for vehicle parts. It’s important for plastic repair specialists to be familiar with the various blends out there and which materials they should use to repair them. Many other moving parts are involved in plastic repair, and when you have the necessary skills, you’ll always be busy.

3. Reduce Cycle Times During Your Career in Auto Body Repair

Cycle times refer to the amount of time a customer’s vehicle spends in an auto shop. When cycle times are shorter, the shop is more available to new business, which can mean higher revenue. During your career in auto body repair, reducing cycle times should be a priority and expertise in plastic repair can help you accomplish this as you can avoid replacements when possible. 

4. Reduce Landfill Waste 

By preserving the original car part with plastic repair, you will contribute to a reduction of plastic waste. This is especially the case with polyurethane bumpers. Though they are no longer widely used, they cannot be recycled and must be discarded when they’re damaged. When you have the skills to restore these parts, you will prevent these plastic parts from affecting the environment. 

5. There’s Plenty of Opportunity for Training 

If you’re intrigued by the prospect of learning how to repair plastic auto body parts, you’re in luck! There are plenty of opportunities to gain the knowledge and skills you need at ATC Surrey. When you take our Auto Body and Refinishing Prep Technician Course, you’ll receive training in the field and prepare to earn as you learn as an auto body apprentice. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore the many specialization options at your disposal while earning a competitive wage. 

Ready to become an auto body technician? 

Contact ATC Surrey for more information!