A career as a car mechanic is the perfect choice for people who have always loved cars, and for whom working with their hands comes naturally. They may have spent their childhoods helping their family members work on vehicles, or they might have been inspired by a mentor who showed them how to repair and maintain a car. For many, it is a dream that has never gone away and, in fact, with the current increase in auto malfunctions, there are more opportunities than ever to make a living as an automotive mechanic.
A mechanic works on vehicle repair and maintenance, including diagnostics. Mechanics use both power and hand tools to replace parts, do repairs and run extensive vehicle checks. They use technology like engineers do, but they also rely heavily on their hands-on expertise and mechanical reasoning skills to succeed.
The best mechanics have great customer service skills, as they need to be able to explain complex technical issues in a way that customers can understand. They should also be able to provide transparent pricing estimates and accurate timelines for the repair process.
Whether they are employed by car dealerships, independent repair shops or by private individuals, mechanics need to keep up-to-date with new vehicle technologies, repair methods and safety regulations. They often attend training courses and workshops to improve their skill set, and they also need to keep abreast of industry news and trends.
It is also important for mechanics to stay physically fit, as their job involves a lot of standing, bending and stretching. They also need to be able to lift heavy and sometimes hazardous parts or equipment. Mechanics should also use protective clothing and eyewear to protect themselves from the elements.
While a high school diploma is the bare minimum requirement for a mechanic, many employers expect their employees to have ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certifications. These are series of tests that mechanics can take to gain specific knowledge in different areas of the automotive industry, and they must be renewed on a regular basis. In addition, some car manufacturers offer their own special certification programs for their mechanics.
With the demand for automotive technicians in New York State, it is more important than ever to choose a reputable vocational school that offers an education and training program that will help you start your career. Lincoln Tech, for example, provides its students with the facilities and equipment they need to learn this essential trade. Get started with Lincoln today and turn your passion into a lucrative career!