Courses: Classroom courses

This five-day course teaches students what they need to know to write estimates on Tractor Trailers and Heavy Equipment.

Students will spend the first three days learning about tractor trailers, with an emphasis on tractors, nomenclature, estimating guides, cab and body construction and wear items. The fourth and fifth days focus solely on heavy equipment including bull dozers, backhoes, cranes and graders. The final day wraps everything up.

**We highly recommend that you have some experience in writing auto estimates. If not, taking our Auto Estimatics course first, Auto Estimatics® – Vale.**

Vale is proud to partner with the following testing organizations.

Please reach out to them about testing dates.

In the USA:
Phone: 417-840-8525
hmverified.com
email: [email protected]

In Canada:
Tino Cipolla
Phone: 519-777-5887
www.dented.ca/valetesting

 

Frequently Asked Questions:

Where can I find additional PDR training?

Please contact National Alliance for Paintless Dent Repair Technicians (NAPDRT) at www.napdrt.org or PDR Nation at www.pdrnation.com .

Do I need to bring lights?

Tools and lighting will not be supplied. Technician should bring the necessary tools, lighting (with power converter if needed), buffer, sanding blocks, etc. In short, the technician should prepare as if going to a storm site. AC power sources are supplied.

How many levels can I test for per test date?

You may only test for one level per test date.

What types of panels will we be tested on?

Participants will be tested on late-model domestic hoods, deck lids and doors mounted to fixed stands. Aluminum panels may be of imported manufacture.

What if I fail to pass a level?

Should any part of the testing in the Craftsman or Master Craftsman category not be completed to a satisfactory level, the candidate may apply the passed segments of that testing to one lower proficiency level rating, provided all the criteria of that second (lower) level are satisfied. Example: Candidate passes first two criteria of the Craftsman level but fails the third criteria will qualify for Journeyman status with no more testing. Failing one test segment, a candidate testing for Master Craftsman level may apply successful test segments to Craftsman level, and complete the test to satisfy Craftsman level criteria. You may drop down one time only. Should any part of the second (lower) tier of testing result in a no-pass, a certificate will not be awarded.

When are PDR Test dates scheduled?

Dates are scheduled on an as needed basis – please call 1-817-633-4800 to arrange for a test date.

What levels of testing are there?

Journeyman, Craftsman, Master Craftsman

What type of certification will be presented if successfully completed?

Successful participants will be awarded a certificate and wallet sized I. D. card reflecting the level of demonstrated proficiency. Your name and certification number will be listed on the Vale website with your permission.

When can I test for the next level?

Candidates wishing to return for testing to upgrade their status to a higher level may do so on the next available test program date at Vale Training Solutions in Arlington, Texas.

Is there a class limit?

5 per session

What tools do I need to bring?

You should prepare as if going to a storm site. AC power sources are supplied.

Will there be buffing?

Yes

Is there continuing education credits?

Continuing Education Units:  N/A

Vale is now offering select courses with a hybrid option*.

The Auto Estimatics course is delivered virtually most months but once per quarter we offer a hybrid option. The hybrid format allows for the initial portion of the course to be delivered virtually with the final week providing an option for students to continue virtually or join us at our Arlington, TX facility to experience our claims house, framing displays, mock-ups and classroom materials. Students choosing the classroom-based delivery will travel to our Arlington, TX facility to get hands-on training along with extra time with the instructor.

*Hybrid option – Students choose during registration before class starts with the virtual format for the full 2 weeks. The Hybrid version will be held at the facility, Vale National Training Center, to experience live, hands-on training in the 2nd week. Lunch will be provided daily for each student.

Course description

The course content follows the Estimatics® Course Syllabus using electronic estimating systems to practice assigned estimates following topics covered in class.

We use images of vehicles, other visual aids and provide detailed information about the damage to the vehicle. This enables the student to generate damage estimates beginning on the first day of class. Progressing in difficulty, each estimate is reviewed and discussed. More complex front, side and rear impact estimates are graded so the student learns a variety of realistic estimating skills.

Emphasis is given to new generation vehicles and the new products, materials, and accessories being manufactured today.

After successfully completing this course, the student will have the skills and knowledge to prepare a complete and accurate electronic estimate using automated system data as well as practical repair formulas and structural analysis methods.

Audience:

This two-week course is designed for those in the insurance and collision repair industries that will use an automated estimating program to produce damage estimates. This course is offered for the student with limited experience who will be generating thorough and accurate automated estimates from minor to complex collision and comprehensive damages. 
Vale is an authorized trainer for Audatex, CCC ONE, and Mitchell Cloud programs. 
Students attending this course will be trained in the STAR 2000 Program used for structural damage documentation and calculations.

 PreReqs:

Attendees must be capable of operating Windows-based programs. Sponsors will need to indicate estimating software selection at the time of Registration.

Syllabus:

Vehicle Identification What To Look For and Where 
Damage Estimating Resources Automated Estimating Programs Procedures, Parts, Allowances Estimating Procedures, Sequence Early Models 
Component Repair Industry Repair Standards Metal and Plastic Repairs Repair/Replace Formula 
Refinishing Types and Procedures 
Structural Realignment Unibody and Conventional Frames STAR 2000 Program Structural Aluminum 
Inner Structure Components, Repair Procedures 
Passenger Restraint Systems Air Bags, Seat Belts 
Interior Parts Seats, Dash 
Alternative Parts Sources and Uses
Storm Damages Water, Flood, and Hail 
Estimating Exercises Demonstrate Skills on Front, Side and Rear Impacts 
Total Losses What to Look For
New Generation Vehicles Hybrid Cars Fiber Optics Electronics 
This course uses the latest versions of: Audatex™, CCC ONE™, and Mitchell UltraMate™.