Automotive technology is constantly changing. As a result, there are many job opportunities for trained mechanics. Some of these positions can be found in major car manufacturing companies like General Motors (makers of the Buick and Chevrolet brands), Toyota, Honda, and Nissan.
Other positions can be found in independent, small specialty automotive shops or consumer-grade automotive dealerships. Regardless of where your skills in automotive technology may take you, there are plenty of great options for you.
Mechanical Engineering
Career paths within the field of automotive technology can start with a bachelor’s degree. Many bachelor’s degrees focus on mechanical engineering, one of the more important branches of automotive technology.
Collision Repair
You may also find careers in collision repair, which is another branch that requires a bachelor’s degree, although some states don’t need this. A bachelor’s degree will typically get you a job as an apprentice for an experienced automotive technician.
Certificate Programs
Another option for interested automotive technicians is to earn a certificate in certificate programs. With a certificate program, you’ll learn many of the same skills found with a bachelor’s degree program, but you’ll be learning them more conveniently.
Rather than spending four years studying for a four-year degree, you can complete certificate programs in a shorter period. Because certificate programs can be completed in as little as two years, they are an attractive alternative to bachelor’s degrees and other educational paths that take longer.
If you’re interested in pursuing further knowledge of the automotive field, you may be interested in automotive technology degrees or certifications. These certifications are often earned by people who are already skilled at some of the fundamental repairs.
For example, some certified repair technicians may know about engine repair, transmission problems, airbags, brakes, and much more. They may then go on to obtain additional certifications specific to their carmaker or brand of vehicle.
Automotive Technology Association
There are several different certifications currently offered by the Automotive Technology Association. One is the Certified Diesel Technician Certification. This certification is only provided to individuals who have taken and passed the diagnostic-therapy portion of the Automotive Technology Association’s exam.
Individuals who have completed the exam and are certified will work as repair technicians with diesel engines. The Automotive Technology Association offers classes in diagnostic troubleshooting for owners and purchasers of diesel trucks and cars and repair manuals for both diesel and gasoline engines.
Automotive Industry Accreditation Council
Another option available is the Automotive Industry Accreditation Council where you can get the associate degree in automotive technology. This is offered as either a two-year associate program or a four-year associate degree. Individuals who wish to be certified in their respective fields of expertise within the Automotive Technology field should apply for admission to this program.
Once accepted into the program, students can enroll in either a classroom or online courses that focus on automotive technology. These courses are held at various colleges and universities around the nation.
Vocational Programs
Some other vocational programs are available as well. A mechanical contractor is one such program. To be eligible, the individual must possess a valid license in accordance with the regulations set forth by the Mechanical License Council. To apply for admission to these programs, individuals must submit proof of prior experience in a related field to prove their mechanic abilities.
To Sum Up
Automotive technicians are always needed in both the automotive repair and maintenance industries. Many individuals enter the workforce after high school by completing classes through high school, earning their associate’s degree, or online programs. Those already in the workforce may opt to further their education and earn an automotive technology degree.
