Age—18 years and older
Citizenship—Any citizen
Physical and personal qualifications—In good physical condition
Written Examinations—ASE certified instruction (see below)
Education Requirements—Many employers regard the successful completion of a vocational training program in automotive technician at a post-secondary institution as the best preparation for entry-level positions.
There are several places women can obtain automotive technician training:
- High schools
- Community colleges
- Public and private vocational and technical schools
- Automobile manufacturers
When selecting a training provider, look for one that is certified by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) an affiliate of the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). NATEF certifies automobile technician, collision specialist, and diesel and medium/heavy truck technical training programs offered by high schools, post-secondary trade schools, technical institutes, and community colleges.
Automobile manufacturers and their participating dealers sponsor two-year associate degree programs at 213 post-secondary schools across the nation.
Training Program Components—For trainee technical jobs, employers look for people with strong communication and analytical skills. Quality mathematics and computer skills are needed to study technical manuals to keep abreast of new technology. Trainees also must possess mechanical aptitude and knowledge of how automobiles work
It usually takes two to five years of experience to acquire adequate proficiency to become a journey-level service technician and quickly perform the more difficult types of routine service and repairs. However, graduates of the better post-secondary technical training programs are often able to earn promotion to the journey level after only a few months on the job. An additional one to two years experience familiarizes the technician with all types of repairs. Difficult specialties, such as transmission repair, require another year or two of training and experience. In contrast, automotive radiator technicians and brake specialists, who do not need an all-round knowledge of automotive repair, may learn their jobs in considerably less time.
Training for Experienced Automotive Technician—Employers increasingly send experienced automotive technicians to manufacturer training centers.
These training centers provide advanced training for repairing new models or receive special training in the repair of components such as electronic fuel injection systems or air-conditioners.
Training programs near you
Equipment and Uniforms—The most important possessions of technicians are their handtools. Technicians usually purchase and use their own tools. Many experienced technicians have invested thousands of dollars in their tools. Employers typically furnish expensive power tools, engine analyzers, and other diagnostic equipment, but handtools are accumulated with experience. Uniforms are usually provided and cleaned by the employer.
