subject: What It Takes To Be An Automotive Service Technician [print this page] For many people, cars are a natural way of life, although cars in themselves are quite far from being natural objects. They are conceived, designed and engineered by handfuls of specialists. They combine practical science, technology, and synthesized materials. Nowhere in nature could the automobile evolve spontaneously on its own. Cars are only natural as an extension of human beings natural ingenuity.
We depend on cars, but cars also depend on us. This is why there are so many opportunities in the automobile service industry. Mechanics will continue to be a necessary hand to motorized society for quite some time. There are many places besides an automotive garage where automobile service technicians can find work, like car dealerships, transportation companies and car or parts manufacturing companies.
Before considering a career as an automotive technician, there are a few things you must ask yourself regarding this kind of career:
- are you prepared for the training?
- can you handle the work environment?
- are you in good enough physical condition?
- do you have the right physical and mental abilities?
Training
Getting the proper education and training could be a long and involved process. Most programs are about 30 hours a week and last for three to four semesters. The best education combines theoretical learning with hands-on experience, which is best gained through an auto mechanic apprenticeship program. You need to know if you are ready to put in the hours learning and working with little or no financial remuneration.
Work Environment
Repair shops and garages are not the most congenial work places for many people. They can be dangerous and unpredictable. You must be ready to work long hours amid loud noises, semi-noxious fumes, hazardous materials, dirt and grease, and heavy vibrating machinery.
Physical Condition
Although we are hearing more often today about the hazards of spending eight hours a day sitting at a desk starting at a monitor, this does not compare with the physical endurance required of a mechanic. You must be in good enough physical shape to withstand extended periods of time working on your feet, on your knees or on your back. There is also much heavy lifting and carrying involved.
Abilities
The mechanic is much more than just a combination of car and engine aficionado and physical laborer. Knowing how to do something is not the same as being able to properly execute it, and so excellent eye-hand coordination is needed. The mechanic must also be super organized in terms of their tasks and time management. Mental capacities such as problem-solving, logical thinking and decision-making are very important as well. Finally, the mechanic must be a good learner and self-educator, as they must keep up-to-date with new systems and technologies.
Cars are a fundamental service to society, and so indirectly, automotive service technicians are equally important. If youve decided to pursue training to become a mechanic though an auto apprenticeship, youll find out if you have what it takes to be such a highly valued member of the motorized world.
by: Michael Zunenshine
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