What if I told you there were free detailing classes that would give you hands on experience with top notch detailing supplies and instructors? About two hours north of Los Angeles stands Bakersfield College which makes this dream a reality. Among its diverse offerings, the Automotive Technology program contains automotive detailing classes that have gained significant attention for their hands-on approach and commitment to producing skilled professionals in the art of automotive care and restoration. This program started only three years ago with automotive professors Andrew Haney and Rick Range. Their combined expertise and extensive experience in the automotive repair industry pushed them to offer courses at the college, with a goal of educating consumers and helping detailers better their careers.
The Automotive Detailing Classes at Bakersfield College are designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of vehicle aesthetics, cleanliness, and preservation. The curriculum blends theoretical knowledge (online courses) with practical, real-world applications (detailing lab) to ensure that students are well-equipped to meet the demands of the ever-evolving automotive industry. Your not just going to be holding a buffer for a few minutes either, you’re going to get some serious experience with it!
Courses:
- Auto B60 AN – 100% online at your own pace. Covering products, techniques, etc.
- Auto B60 BN – Similar to AN, however, it contains a lab section that allows you to use the products and techniques you learned directly on their campus location.
These courses are free and are non-credit courses. They are designed to help out the community and provide students with the skills needed to achieve employment. This can be their own detailing business or at a detailing shop and the goal is for them to support a family and become an active member of their community. On the flip side, it is also a great course for hobbyists looking to take their vehicle care to the next level. To sign up, students need to register with Bakersfield College, then sign up for one of the classes listed above. Both options only take time to sign up, there is no registration cost with the college or for the courses.
Detailed Image has also been fortunate enough to be a very tiny part of their success by donating some products, offering a credit to DI for those that complete the courses and our Co-Owner Greg is a guest speaker there. So many companies have stepped up in the detailing industry to donate an incredible amount of equipment to them. Special recognition should go to Rupes who donated $40K worth of equipment to utilize within the courses and to help develop proper training. Rupes recognizes the importance of this course, the education provided and supported them with no cost tools and products.
In 2023 Andrew applied for and received the IDA Founder’s Endowment Fund Grant, which was used to further expand this program’s offerings. This grant totals $2500 and it was strategically invested in upgrading the program’s wash bay and pushed the college to upgrade other areas as well (water treatment and deionizing system, high-powered pressure washer, and a mobile training trailer for rural area student outreach).
The Automotive Detailing Classes at Bakersfield College are more than just educational programs, they are gateways to a rewarding career in the automotive detailing industry. With a curriculum that combines theory and hands-on experience, state-of-the-art facilities, and a commitment to student success, Bakersfield College stands as a driving force in shaping the next generation of skilled automotive detailing professionals in Bakersfield, California.
We want to congratulate Andrew, Ricka and their entire team for executing their vision and making a difference in the world! Take a look at the informative video below, along with some photos of their setup, along with some students in training to learn more!
Source: YouTube
