Qualified collision repair technicians now have the opportunity to upskill with a new, specialist training programme launched by MITO. The New Zealand Certificate in Collision Repair (Structural Repair) (Level 5) provides experienced non-structural collision repairers with the skills and knowledge required to advance their career to structural repair positions.
MITO has worked closely with industry experts to develop this programme. Learning outcomes include compliance with legislative and company requirements in a collision repair workplace, evaluating damage and selecting appropriate repair methods, and repairing structural damage to an acceptable industry standard.
“It is fantastic to be able to launch such a specialised qualification for the collision repair industry,” says MITO Chief Executive Janet Lane. “This programme will give qualified technicians a great opportunity to extend their skills and deepen their knowledge of the trade.
“We look forward to supporting learners as they complete the qualification, honouring our ongoing commitment to workforce development and the long-term future of the collision repair industry,” says Ms Lane.
Collision Repair Association General Manager Neil Pritchard commends the launch. “MITO have engaged with industry every step of the way to develop an innovative programme that meets our specific training requirements,” he says. “Our industry is suffering from a considerable skills shortage and it is incredibly important that we give our tradespeople a pathway that enables them to progress – the New Zealand Certificate in Collision Repair (Structural Repair), does just that.
“It’s great to see innovation and improvements from MITO during a time of such change within vocational education,” says Mr Pritchard. “For the collision repair industry, it’s business as usual, and the release of this training programme very much emphasises that.”
The training programme includes a mix of practical training and assessment, undertaken in the workplace, and eLearning, allowing learners to complete theory elements of their programme at their own pace. Learners will have access to videos, interactive simulations, and theory assessments, which can be easily accessed at any time and from any device – mobile phone, tablet, or PC.
This Level 5 programme is made up of 90 credits and is expected to take 14 months to complete. Technicians entering this programme must have completed the New Zealand Certificate in Collision Repair (Non-Structural Repair) (Level 4) or provide evidence of equivalent skills and knowledge.
