How to Become an Auto Mechanic
These days, a career in auto mechanics isn’t a guys only profession. According to the U.S. Department of Labor – Women’s Bureau, in 2007, 7 percent of all service station attendants were women, while 2.5 percent of women occupied small engine repair jobs and 2.2 percent were employed in automotive careers comprised of miscellaneous vehicle and mobile equipment mechanics, installers, and repairers. While the numbers may not be high, it does prove that there are certainly women who are serious about a career in the automotive industry, specifically that of auto mechanics and repair.
Those of us who have ever had a vehicle breakdown can certainly appreciate the knowledge, education, experience and value of a good automotive mechanic and if you’re a woman who has ever considered automotive mechanics as a profession, you’re not alone. In fact, according to the U.S. Deptartment of Labor, in 1999, there were 837,000 automobile service and repair technicians, of which 12,000 of those were women.
Most women who are interested in a career in automotive mechanics and repair usually begin while still in high school by taking vocational classes which offer automotive programs, however there are other steps you can take to get the education and experience you need to land a job in the automotive repair field.
• Community College
Most community colleges offer automotive mechanics and small engine repair certificates and programs.
• Technical and Trade Schools
Seek programs which are designed to prepare students for Automotive Service Excellence certification. Most trade and technical schools work with local area employers who are willing to sponsor students in a hands-on environment.
• Training and Apprentice Programs
Some employers offer programs for entry-level workers and students. Employers generally require a specific number of Automotive Service Excellence certifications for positions; more for technicians. There are also service garages and repair shops that offer in-house Automotive Service Excellence courses and may even offer discounts on tools. Although many employers will provide tools and specialized equipment, some require a mechanic have their own, so it’s a good idea to invest in getting your own tool inventory together early on in your career.
Chances are you will need to keep your skills and certifications up to date by periodic testing and training. Because of the increasing advances in technology, those who are involved in the auto mechanics field continue their training and education beyond their initial certification. You also have the opportunity to make more money by keeping your certifications up to date and by attending as many classes and training opportunities as you can.
Seek out employers who offer opportunities for advancement and professional development.
Loading ...
I wish it was as simple as going to the local community college. I went to a special fair tent they had set up at an auto show, and the guy manning the booth recruiting people for the ASE Mechanics progrma REFUSED to give me any information or speak to me.
Its what fueled my fire to learn… under a master tech in the performance industry instead of a college. I may not be accredited, but I guarantee I can walk circles around their graduates.
I love you, Erica – you’re such a great example of what women can do when they’re serious about success and focus on what they want to do with their lives as opposed to what others think they should do.
You are truly an inspiration.
Ditto Tina, I think you’re a shining example Erica. I never went to school for the trade but when I wanted to do some upgrades on a car I had (intake, and a few other things) I was out there with my wrench and the instruction manual. It felt good to know I did it.
Hi I’m 19 years old and is attending a commmunity college. I was in a career tech program for Visual arts aka computers and I’m now taking it in college. The thing is I’m not really interested in making graphics or anything computer for that matter. I was thinking about going becoming a mechanic but I wasn’t sure if I could. What are the requirments, and how hard is it to become a mechanic. I’m still not sure if it’s the job for me and I would like to figure out how i could know or not. I love to work with my hands and would it hard to do?
Thanks,
Megan.