Do you love to work with your hands and solve intricate problems?
There are a lot of pros to becoming an auto technician or an auto mechanic – for those of you that really love to work with your hands and solve intricate problems, it’s a fantastic choice.
So, what goes into becoming an auto technician? Here are the steps you will need to take and the opportunities you will want to seek out.
What Goes Into Being an Auto Technician?
There are a lot of different tasks that can go into an auto technician, and the job may vary quite a bit depending on your specific work environment.
These technicians will work on many different types of vehicles, which includes trucks, cars, motorcycles, and even boats sometimes.
The job is slightly different from that of an auto mechanic. Typically an auto technician will focus more on the technical and computer aspects of the vehicle and handle a lot of what goes on in the diagnostic center, while an auto mechanic will work more on the actual working parts of the car. The terms are often used interchangeably, but there can be slight differences.
Schooling
So, what about schooling? How much education do you really need to become an auto technician?
The minimum education you will need is a high school diploma or GED in many areas. While no, you don’t need higher education for the job necessarily, it is not a bad idea.
For those that do want to further their education for a career as an auto technician, a degree in something like automotive systems technology is ideal.
Mechanic Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships are a great way to get your foot in the door as an auto technician or auto mechanic. Not only does it give you the experience and opportunity that you need, but it also allows you to make money while you learn.
As an auto technician apprentice, you will work directly under a master mechanic. Master status typically requires at least two years of work experience, as well as completing exams that are offered through the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (also known as ASE).
You can be an apprentice hired directly into a training program, or you can work your way up from other positions in an auto repair shop like lube technicians. It really depends on where you become an apprentice and the path you take to get there.
Internships can be an option as well, it’s just important to note that these are typically unpaid positions. However, for younger people and/or those still in school, it might be a fantastic and viable option.
Auto Technician Opportunities
No matter where you are located, when you get started, or whether or not you work in an auto repair shop already, it’s important to seek out local opportunities and see where they can take you.
Consider doing some work on your own car for practice, enrolling in certification courses, find local auto repair shops that want apprentices, and update your resume. Preparing as much as possible will help better opportunities comes your way. The Car Doctor Auto Repair is always looking for additional great mechanics to join our team!
Looking for more information on taking care of cars and the work of an auto technician? Check out our blog!