Time for a Tune-Up: Three Outdated Perceptions of Auto Technicians

Digital monitor displaying DYNO testing software.

When you ask people to describe a “mechanic,” you often get outdated ideas of what an automotive technician actually is and does.

In today’s marketplace, as cars and commercial vehicles are more integrated with technologically-advanced driving and safety systems, there are a new variety of interesting skillsets and rewarding career paths for mechanics.  Here we “tune-up” a few outdated stigmas about auto technicians and their work:

• It’s a dirty job.
  There is and will always be demand and opportunities for those who thrive on getting a bit dirty under the hood.  That said, many of today’s automotive technicians find themselves working in more laboratory-like settings, or even traditional office environments, where you won’t find a swipe of grease in sight.  The complicated diagnostic systems of today’s vehicles mean that auto techs are just as likely to have a laptop or tablet in hand, as they are a wrench.
  
  
• It’s a job, not a career.
  Tell that to the swelling number of companies looking to hire qualified technicians.  According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, auto technicians and diesel truck technicians will be so in demand that candidates may see talent recruitment advantages, like signing bonuses, tool allowances and upward mobility in such areas as diagnostics and management.
  
  
• It’s stagnant.
  Many people tend think of the medical field, or IT, to be these dynamic and changing industries.  And often people think that fixing a car is fixing a car.  Few tend to think about the current crossroads of the auto repair industry.  With electric, hybrid and alternative fuel vehicles flooding roadways, and autonomous vehicles just ahead on the horizon, fixing a car is no longer just fixing a car.  The work and skillset of an automotive technician is changing faster than ever, and will continue to in the days and years ahead. 

If you’re interested in learning more about the Auto/Diesel Institute of Michigan, a division of Baker College, or about a career as an automotive technician, visit our ADI Webpage.