Student Success Story
Julio Cano
Certificate: Automotive Damage Appraisal and Management
When did you decide to come to a Cerritos Community College? Why?
I was in the shipping logistics for 17 years and wanted a change in my career. I started
working at a body shop to get my foot in the door and hands on work experience. It
was mostly self-teaching at the shop with their software that they were using but
I soon realized that I would be able to go further if I had the proper education.
I googled local appraisal programs near me and saw the curriculum for Cerritos was
pretty extensive. I visited the campus and was impressive by the programs Cerritos
College had to offer. I enrolled in Fall 2019 and started taking courses.
Were there challenges you had to overcome (personally or academically) to attend?
One of the main challenges that I had was being able to enroll into one course per
semester. I was a full-time worker and part time student. I was working 9am to 6pm
so my only options were night classes if they were available at the time.
What about your program has helped you succeed?
I can honestly say that I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for going back
to school and getting my education. Most employers like to see that you have some
experience in the field but you have a better opportunity if you had the education
to back it up. The program was able to provide me with the knowledge, skills and the
confident that I apply everyday in my career.
Have any faculty/staff members helped you in particular?
I had three faculty members that helped me along the program. Cameron Ferre, Rolando
Corzo and Tony Chisum. Majority of my traditional classes were with Cameron Ferre
and I learned so much from him. He was great with demonstrating and explaining in
details what he was doing. It was all step by step visual aid and or hands on procedures
as in replacing a suspension part.
What are/were your plans after college?
After I graduated in the Fall I made it my goal to start applying to jobs in the beginning
of the year 2023. Within one month, I was able to get a job offer for the role of
Quality insurance specialist for Auto Claims Direct.
Is there any advice you would like to give to a new student considering and/or entering
the same field as you?
I would say to have an open mind if you are entering this industry. I only thought
there was a certain amount of jobs in this field but after reading a few job descriptions,
I then realized that this program has opened so many doors for me to choose from.
Certificate Requirement Courses
AB 51: Non-Structural Repair
AB 83P: Computerized Damage Estimating- Pathways
AB 83U: Computerized Damage Estimating- Ultramate
AB 181: Non-Structural Damage Estimate
AB 182: Structural Damage Estimating
AB 188: Introduction to Automotive Claims Handing
AB 281: Structural damage Analysis for Estimators
AB 282: Steering, Suspension and Powertrain analysis for Estimators
AB 283: Advance-Frame analysis for Estimators
For more information on enrollment, please refer to the current class schedule or consult a counselor.