Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Generic

CRAIG VAN ETTEN

Summary

Accomplished autobody technician and instructor with an abundance of experience managing, leading, and training staff in quality and efficient autobody repairs. Adept at evaluating vehicle schematics to assess required parts and order accordingly, securing best vendor pricing. Skilled at maintaining and recording costs of materials and supplies to assist with job costing and revenue projections. Proven track record in developing and designing comprehensive autobody repair best practices and procedures curriculum and delivering instruction in classroom settings. Exemplary talent for recruiting, developing, coaching and mentoring staff.

Overview

34
34
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Autobody Instructor

Paducah Area Technology Center
01.2022 - Current
  • Develop and deliver instruction on autobody repair curriculum, including providing coursework within I-car guidelines and teaching students in proper techniques for collision repair, smearing Bondo, fixing dents, and repairing body damage within a hands-on setting. Supervise and grade students. Demonstrate proper methods and provide constructive criticism.
  • Facilitated students taking ASE certification test, which had a 50% success rate. Currently working on increasing the certification success rate by 20% throughout the school year.

Auto Body Instructor

Five-County Vocational
01.2014 - 01.2022
  • Develop and deliver instruction on autobody repair curriculum, including providing coursework within I-car guidelines and teaching students in proper techniques for collision repair, smearing Bondo, fixing dents, and repairing body damage within a hands-on setting. Supervise and grade students. Demonstrate proper methods and provide constructive criticism.
  • Provide training and mentoring on frame straightening and painting methods.
  • Ensure all staff adhere to established safety rules and regulations while promoting an engaging learning environment.
  • Provide career advice and help place students in higher paying positions.
  • Re-started the welding program, including getting materials and donations and securing equipment.

Welding Instructor (Part-Time)

John A. Logan College
01.2010 - 01.2021
  • Provided instruction and coursework on all aspects of welding, including SMAW, GMAW, GTAW, and oxy fuel. Prepare course materials for classrooms and laboratories. Coach and mentor students in blueprint reading and metallurgy.
  • Evaluate and assess students to measure weld performance and offer concise, constructive guidance and feedback.
  • Ensure that students are aware of and compliant with all regulatory and safety processes and procedures.

Auto Body Technician

Contractor
01.1992 - 01.2010
  • Executed all aspects of collision repair aligned with quality, cost, and time requirements. Completed mechanical repairs on total frame replacements, brakes, and suspension systems. Operated frame racks, painting equipment, and pneumatic tools. Trained and directed multidisciplinary teams, including new hires. Leveraged comprehensive knowledge in investigation and negotiation techniques.
  • Key Contracts Include: Ron Ward Chevrolet, Herrin, IL | Noble Motors, Marion, IL | Weeks Chevrolet, West Frankfort, IL | Foley Sweitzer/Taylor Motors Ford, Benton, IL
  • Worked with insurance companies and clients to explain process, timeline, cost, and pros/cons of factory versus aftermarket parts.
  • Interfaced with customers to ensure positive experiences and excellent service.
  • Completed vehicle inspections, write estimates, determine total loss evaluations, and set clear expectations and timelines.
  • Evaluated and handled claim payments and resolution of claims without payments.
  • Negotiated repair process with body shops.
  • Documented information related to claims and made decisions consistent with claims standards and local laws.
  • Employed expertise in color paint codes and mixing as well as understanding the complexities of bodywork.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Workforce Education and Development

Southern Illinois University
Carbondale, IL

Associate of Arts - Welding Certificate

John A. Logan College
Carterville, IL

Skills

  • Quality Assurance and Management
  • Decision Making
  • Client Relationship Management
  • Negotiation and Communication
  • Customer Service Excellence
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Budget Management
  • Team Leadership and Development
  • Safety Regulatory Compliance
  • HAZMAT and OSHA Standards
  • Problem and Issue Resolution
  • ASE Certification B2 & B3
  • Mechanical Repairs
  • Work closely with body shops
  • Damage Claims/Total Losses
  • Welding and Painting

Certification

  • HEA02e Cooling System Operation and Parts
  • AJT01 Advanced Joining Technologies
  • AHS01 Advanced High-Strength Steel Overview
  • BRZ01 MIG Brazing

Timeline

Autobody Instructor

Paducah Area Technology Center
01.2022 - Current

Auto Body Instructor

Five-County Vocational
01.2014 - 01.2022

Welding Instructor (Part-Time)

John A. Logan College
01.2010 - 01.2021

Auto Body Technician

Contractor
01.1992 - 01.2010

Bachelor of Science - Workforce Education and Development

Southern Illinois University

Associate of Arts - Welding Certificate

John A. Logan College

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CRAIG VAN ETTEN