ST. PAUL, Minn. From metal and plastic repair to sanding and paint finishing to car detailing and safety improvements, 3M now offers a free Virtual Classroom to help teach basic and advanced skills, demonstrate proper techniques and showcase innovative product solutions.
Designed for car enthusiasts, technical students and automotive professionals, the new 3M Standard Operating Procedures modules provide step-by-step guidance through a range of projects to help ensure repairs are done professionally and efficiently. There are four levels of training available through the program, beginning with free Level I introductory clips on YouTube and the free Level II Virtual Classroom from 3M’s website. Level III and Level IV training programs will be launched later in 2010 for advanced audiences.
"There have been many changes in body repair, from new repair solutions to advanced car materials and technology, that we want to share the learning gained from developing these products and procedures with everyone who tackles car repairs," said Brett Caslow, global marketing manager for 3M. "This virtual classroom was created to help people produce consistent, high-quality results on every project."
The Virtual Classroom for the 3M Standard Operating Procedures address three key areas of collision repair body, paint and detailing. Within each department are numerous project modules that include an instructional video, a downloadable project and product list, and brief quiz.
The first 15 modules launched include:
Body Department
Body Repair
Express Damage Body Repair
Large Damage Body Repair
Small Damage Body Repair
Bumper Repair
Bumper Structural-Tab Repair
Cosmetic One-Sided Bumper Repair
Flexible Patch Non-Structural Bumper Repair
Traditional Non-Structural Bumper Repair
Sealing and Coating
Corrosion and Coatings
Paint Department
Masking
Masking Best Practices
Sanding
Blend Panel Sanding
Dry Primer Sanding
Detailing Department
Headlight Lens Restoration
Paint Finish Spot Panel
Paint Finish Full Panel
Vehicle Clean Up – Detailing
An additional seven modules will be offered in the fourth quarter along with the Spanish language version of the first 15 modules introduced.
Participation requires only registration online.
Each module is a complete unit, with video session, downloadable project tips and knowledge retention quiz. Modules can be completed one-by-one or as a complete day of training. The Certificate of Completion for each module can be printed by the participants based on successful completion of the quiz.
Contact 1-877-MMM-CARS or your local 3M Distributor or 3M Sale Representative for more information or visit the 3M training website.