"The shortage of qualified automotive service technicians is a very real concern?," said Alfred L. Gaspar, president and CEO of the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA). "For every 10 technicians who retire or change careers each year, only two to three new technicians enter the work force."
That can mean a great career for you. If you have a knack with machines and like to make them happy, car mechanic and motorcycle mechanic opportunities are waiting.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, employers like best to hire graduates with formal training from an automotive technician school or a small engine mechanics program. That's because both car and motorcycle engines keep getting more complex as technology improves. It's harder to learn solely on the job as an apprentice anymore. Luckily, there is plenty of interesting school programs from which to choose.
Getting Under the Hood
In a good automotive technician program, you'll learn how to diagnose, service, and repair all kinds of automobiles. Try to choose a school where the latest engine analyzers, hand held scanners and other computerized diagnostic equipment will be at your fingertips, as you learn how to troubleshoot problems.You'll learn the ins and outs of computerized fuel injection, anti-lock brakes, passenger restraint systems, computerized engine control and more. You'll also be studying electronics and computers extensively, whether you're in a car or motorcycle mechanic program, because those technologies are more and more important in controlling all components.
The Work is Waiting and the Pay is Good
According to the National Automobile Dealers Association, more than one car repair gets performed annually for every licensed driver in the United States (don't we all know it). And pay is good.As an automotive technician or motorcycle mechanic you can earn a median of about $27-$30,000 a year. As a master mechanic you can pull in $70,000 to $100,000 and more. If you're willing to keep learning and keep up with technology, the US Labor Department says, the jobs will be there.
Sources
- Occupational Outlook Handbook: automotive technician.
http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos181.htm - Occupational Outlook Handbook: small engine technician (motorcycle mechanic).
http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos198.htm
