Youth Breaking In

In the automotive industry everybody has to start somewhere, whether it's sweeping floors or at a quick service station. To the young minds keen on entering the automotive industry, I would recomend getting your "foot in the door" as soon as possible. Shop owners want fresh workers who are enthusiastic and eager to learn. Starting at the bottom, an entry level position, gives you the opportunity to not only learn from the pros but to understand the industry as a whole. Entry level employees tend to do simple but necessary tasks and a lot of these things are basic, common sense things such as: cleaning, organizing tools, vaccuuming cars, and of course sweeping floors. Learning to do these things first and on a consistant basis will make you a better more efficient technician in the future. And better techs make more money! Speaking of making money, an automotive technician is no longer a blue collared employee. Starting technicians make $35,000 to $40,000 a year and once you've got a few years under your belt senior technicians bring in more than $80,000 annually. But these salaries don't come easy! There is a lot of hard work involved. There are however a few specific things you can do to boost your career.

The automotive industry offers opportunities for people who choose not to go on to a four-year college. I strongly believe that school alone is not the best way to become a technician. It is only a small part of what you need. To become a good automotive technician you need to understand the problems and dilemas that only come from working in a shop environment. However by attending a trade school or an industry specific program you will learn the newest technology and general information and theory on how cars work and the best repair practices. So if getting an automotive degree or certificate is something that you are interested in, you have multiple options. You have probably seen the commercials on TV for automotive trade schools, where in eight months you'll be ready to start your career in the automotive industry. In reality, this type of fast track school can only give you the basic tools you need to begin your career. 8 months is not enough time for students to absorb the information and then to put it into practice. Move over! These schools cost about $20,000, without living expenses to attend.

The other educational option for inspiring technicians is to drive down to your local community college and take a look at the programs they offer. Community colleges are structured and cater to the working-student, so the programs they offer will be half-day classes either mornings or evenings. This schedule allows students to maintain a job, and gain practical experience. The certificated programs take about 2 years to complete, which is 3 times longer than a trade school. This allows students ample time to learn and practice skills in a controlled environment. Community colleges cost $26 per unit bringing the total investment to roughly $2,500. Ideally, you will have been working part-time at an automotive business and you will have paid your expenses by semester end or as you go.

In just 2 years you can gain the confidence and skills you need to succeed in a dynamic industry. And most importantly, 2 years will confirm your desire to enter the industry, and expand your business network which will open doors into the workforce.

If you love cars, are motivated and think you would like to work in the industry there are opportunities everywhere, so get looking!