Become an Automotive Service Technician (Mechanic)

Automotive service technicians inspect, repair and maintain automobiles and light trucks that run on gasoline, diesel, electricity, or even alternative fuels including ethanol. The responsibilities of automotive service technicians and mechanics have evolved from consisting primarily of simple mechanical repairs to high level, technology related work. As automobiles become increasingly more sophisticated, workers are required who can proficiently use computerized shop equipment. Mechanics still need to maintain their skills with the more traditional hand tools, but a rapidly increasing amount of automotive maintenance services includes working with complex electronic components. As a result, automotive service workers are now frequently referred to as technicians rather than mechanics.

Education & Training to become a Mechanic

Most employers regard the successful completion of a college level vocational training program in automotive service technology as solid preparation for trainee positions. High school programs, while an asset, can vary greatly in scope.

Automotive technician training programs usually provide intensive career preparation through classroom instruction combined with hands-on practice. Automotive schools update their curriculum frequently to reflect both changing technology as well as advances in equipment. Some trade and technical school programs provide concentrated training for 6 to 12 months, depending on how many hours the student attends each week, and, at the conclusion of the program, they may award a certificate. Community college programs usually award a certificate or, for those involved in a more formal program, an associate degree.