Auto Repair: Who Is Working on Your Car?

Experience is key and being able to fix the car right the first time is important, but there are also training programs that can prepare a person and provide them with information on the latest technology. Most of the time, if technicians are certified, shops will have their certificates displayed in the lounge for customers to see.
High School Training Programs

Many individuals get started with auto repair education in high school. While this is typically not enough to get a job at a local dealership or shop, it does provide a foundation on while to build. They usually learn some of the basics, including oil changes, tire rotations and overall maintenance of a car. They learn about the different parts and what they do. They come away with some of the basics.

Today, because of the demand for automotive technicians, high schools are partnering with local dealerships and even manufacturers to work together and set a standard for class performance and curriculum. The goal is to get students interested in the industry and give them a clear path to follow in order to be a technician in the future.

Trade School/Associates Degree

There are programs offered after high school that focus specifically on auto repair. Classes focus on reading and learning, but the emphasis is placed on real life experience. Many of the activities are hands on and students get an opportunity to perform car inspections and repairs with assistance and without. During this time a student may be able to work on a limited basis at an auto repair shop in differing capacities in order to learn more and gain real life experience.

An entry level position would be starting out with oil changes and tire rotations. At this time, or shortly after graduation they may be taken on as an apprentice to a master technician. They will work alongside someone who is knowledgeable and helpful with instructions. It is here that a technician begins to work on their ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certification.

This is considered by many to be the standard for technicians today. Aside from passing an exam, they also need to have experience in the specific work for at least two years. When this certification of Master Automobile Technician is achieved, it usually means that auto repair facilities look to this person as their expert for difficult problems.

The next time you take your vehicle in for any maintenance or even a concern, it is important to note that the person working on your vehicle has both the experience and the training to take on any task.