Auto mechanic/technician - a good career?

Question

I'm thinking about making a career change and am looking for some honest feedback about this career. For those of you who have been in this line of work, is it a good career? Do you like the industry/going to work each day? (And I realize every job comes with good days and bad days). I have a lot of experience in more "white" collar jobs, but have always enjoyed working on my own cars, and with mechanical things in general, and think this might be a good choice. Is the earning potential good? Is the "flat rate" system fair - in your opinion. I've heard some say it results in performing "free" work, and others say they can beat the time tables and earn a decent wage. I'm ideally looking for opinions and observations from those who have worked in this industry. Thank you for any help you can provide.

Answer 1

All I can say is check with your local department of labor and ask about apprenticeship programs. See if there is information on the web site about it. In CT there is, but I don't know about every State. You become an apprentice, take courses and then at the end of the apprenticeship you are a fully certified mechanic by your State.

Answer 2

actually Blue collar IS the way to go

I know a former attorney who left that jon to buy a JUNKYARD

and is doing well

I left corporate america to do Disaster Restoration and carpet cleaning..

I will give you an example on the demand for auto repair in atlanta

this is the search results via yahoo.com for the month of JULY 2006 in atlanta (that is where I am )



Qty Exact Search term

3508 atlanta auto repair service

2491 auto glass repair atlanta

1095 auto body repair atlanta

182 auto repair atlanta

73 atlanta auto body dent repair

37 auto repair atlanta georgia



So the demand is there

You said something about flat rates

TRUST ME you will get killed doing flat rates

and do not be trying to get work by being the cheapest out of everyone else..trust me people wont admit this but they will pay for quality because if that was the case

sears goodyear and firestone would be out of bizness

Answer 3

possibly somewhat professional interior the digital or electric powered platforms, yet whilst they do no longer seem to be routinely vulnerable, it does not be an elementary activity to start disassembling engines and transmissions.

Answer 4

Very good career if you own the shop.