The collision repair industry has voiced its opinion about the diminishing skill of welding. As vehicles continue to move to a multi-material construction, different attachments methods are being used and therefore technician are welding less than they have ever before. I-CAR Australia has listened to the industry and is committed to positive outcomes. These conversations have led to the development of a new training pathway for hands on welding programs.
New Program
I-CAR has launched a new course “Introduction to Welding Basics”. This program is a learning and skills development program. It is not a certification. The two day course has been designed to cater for technicians who do not undertake welding often, are near completion of an apprenticeship, or to build confidence prior to completing the welding certification program. This is an ideal program to learn and gain knowledge of the correct process of welding non-structural panels while gaining a better understanding of equipment settings. The program can be completed on a regular basis for those who are starting their welding learning journey.
Changes to the Welding Certification Program – WCSA3
After incorporating feedback from the industry and I-CAR members, the current welding training and certification program has been extended to two full days. The course will consist of one full day of structured upskilling to help assist with a positive certification outcome. On the second full day, technicians will complete the certification program. There has been a slight price increase to the program which covers allowances for the extra time and consumables used.
I-CAR Australia is confident that the changes to the Welding Certification Program will provide the collision repair industry with the extra knowledge and skills required to assist technicians in their welding certification.
Due to these changes, the certification program is no longer available for technicians still under an apprentice program and is not recommended for shop owners who do not perform repairs on vehicles daily.