How to Become an Auto Repair Technician

An auto repair technician (or, mechanic) is a person that maintains and repairs cars and trucks for a living. Becoming a mechanic takes time and skill. There are many people out there that stereotype mechanics as people that are unlearned or not smart enough to handle a "real" job. However, this is a false assumption because mechanics need to have a working knowledge of math, science, and technology. Therefore, an auto repair technician needs adequate training and education to be successful in his field. If this is a career field that you are considering, you will need to note the following tips that can help you as you launch into this exciting career.

Tip #1 - Feed your hunger for all things mechanical. Tinker with your own vehicles to see how they work. Read up on how technology is influencing the automobile industry and work to understand how these systems effect how a car runs. Volunteer to assist those who are working on their cars and you will learn by observation.

Tip #2 - If you are in high school, check to see if your school offers any types of "shop" classes. Also, your local community college may allow you to take classes during your senior year of high school. Learning to work on cars and trucks from an academic perspective will help you as you prepare for your professional career.

Tip #3 - Enroll in an auto repair program at a technical college. While not 100% necessary for a job in the field of mechanics, attending a technical college will boost your confidence and accelerate your knowledge of all things mechanical. Landing a job may be far easier after obtaining your formal education.

Tip #4 - Find a garage or shop where you can work while you are in school. Many shops hire those who have an interest in mechanics but are untrained (or working on their training). Look around your local area (or call your own mechanic) and inquire of entry level positions. Much is learned on the job, and just being around other mechanics at work will help you learn and understand the inner workings of vehicles and what it takes to fix them.

Tip #5 - After you have completed your formal training and are working at a shop, work towards obtaining your professional certification. This generally entails of taking tests where you display your abilities to service vehicles. Certification is important because it is the path that leads to being a master technician, which results in pay raises and more clout in the business.

Becoming a mechanic is not for the weak or unlearned, rather, it is for the determined and knowledgeable. If your desire is to service cars and get them back on the road, then this career choice may be for you.