Most automotive mechanics work in a shop. Some mechanics know how to fix everything on a car, while others specialize in fixing only one certain part like the brakes. Mechanics typically put in at least a 40 hour work week and may have to work nights and even on weekends depending on their particular shop and schedule. This is a highly technology job because cars and trucks have increasingly complex electronic systems and computers that they run on. And these computers tell automotive service technicians, and mechanics how to make the vehicle run better. Plus they must also be able to read and understand manuals and machines as well as power hand tools. Because if something isn't done correctly on the belts, hoses, plugs, brakes, or fuel system then the results can be deadly. So mechanics have a very important job that must be taken seriously.
Automotive Skills
- Electrical Systems
- Report Writing
- Auto Engine Repair
- Break Repair
- Customer Service
- Critical Thinking
- Auto-shop Management
- Mechanical Skills
- Welding
Working with cars can be exciting and demanding. And students after graduation can enter the automotive field and work in repairing or even upgrading and rebuilding cars. Plus, they'll have gained skills that can help them get these cars working and back on the road as well as how to run their own shop. Since vehicles are pretty complex, there are a number of courses and skills that students need to learn in order to restore or repair motor vehicles.
Automotive Courses
- Suspension and Alignment
- Automatic & Manual Transmission Fundamentals
- Engine Theory
- Fuel Systems
- Ignition Systems
- Automotive Heating and Air-Conditioning Systems
- Automotive Electrical Systems
Many trade schools, colleges, and universities offer excellent training programs in the automotive field. Training programs include certification or diploma programs. These generally take several weeks or months to complete and are offered both during the day and evenings. There are also degree programs available. The most common degree program is an associates degree in the automotive field. This program generally takes 2 years of full-time coursework to complete. Some colleges and universities also offer bachelors degree and even masters degree programs in the field of automotive. This is a very hands-on career field. Many courses have to be completed on site with a trained and certified instructor. However, some courses in the field of automotive are now also being offered online.
Strong Hourly Wages in Automotive Field
Employees in the automotive field can make great hourly wages without having to get a bachelor’s degree. The average hourly wage for an automotive repair technician in 2008 was between $12.00 and $22.00 per hour. The highest paid in this field made over $27.00 per hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Those employed by dealerships or governmental organizations tended to make the highest hourly salaries.
If individuals love automobiles and want a career repairing them then this is the perfect career for them. The auto industry makes up a large section of the economy in America both in production and repair. While the production may have slowed during the recession, mechanics still have a lot of options because more people are fixing their cars instead of buying new ones. Also, as the automotive field continues to invest in newer and greener technologies more workers will be needed to service and repair these types of hybrid and alternative fuel vehicles. And for those with career training the overall opportunities for automotive service technicians and mechanics are very good, according to the Occupational Outlook Handbook.
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