Collision repair starts simulated workforce

For 14 years Steve Watts has taught collision repair at Franklin County’s Career Technical Center, but recently the program has introduced something new to help students: a simulated workplace.

Every day students attend Watts’ class, they have to clock in and out like they would in the actual workforce.

“Everything that they do comes through my computer, and I can see it. It holds them accountable and prepares them for future work,” Watts said.

They also have a shirt they wear in class each day of the week, like they would a uniform at a job.

Watts said he teaches his students a wide variety of skills because “each job is a process.”

“We take each project from start to finish – old paint to new paint,” he explained.

That includes fixing dents, hubcaps, fenders, bumpers and doors. The students also learn how to sand, weld and mix paint.

“They all try to jump straight into the paint because that’s the fun part, but I have to show them all of the steps that come before that,” Watts said.

While the students are getting all of the hands-on learning, they are also doing book work and modules. Watts explained there are 14 modules students have to complete, and once they finish those they become credentialed. After each module that they complete, they also receive a certificate.

“It’s all about getting them ready to go to work and preparing them for the workforce,” he said.

Several of the students said this is the type of work they wish to pursue after high school, but that even if they don’t, it’s useful information to have regardless. They also said they enjoy the opportunity for hands-on learning.

“I learn more from doing hands-on work than I do just sitting in the classroom,” student Kyler Blackburn said.

According to Watts, the class is a different experience than the students think it’s going to be when they start the class – but it’s a basic learning stage on which they can continue to build.