3 answers
Anthony
Student
Dodoni
1
Question
Asked
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where should I start as a aspiring mechanic?
I am coming out of high school to become a mechanic, what would be the easiest way to get around to the profession?
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3 answers
Fahad Elahi Khan
Mechanical Engineering Undergraduate
53
Answers
Chittagong, Chittagong Division, Bangladesh
Updated
Fahad Elahi’s Answer
You're finishing high school and thinking about becoming a mechanic? Great choice! It's a stable and hands-on career. You can start right after graduation without spending many extra years in school.
First, make sure you have your high school diploma or GED, as most places require it. Then, consider enrolling in a trade school or vocational program for automotive technology. These programs usually last from six months to two years and teach practical skills like diagnostics and repairs. Schools like Universal Technical Institute or local community colleges offer these programs, and you can often complete them quickly to start working.
After training, look for entry-level jobs like a lube tech or assistant in a shop to gain experience. Pair this with certifications, especially ASE ones, to enhance your resume after some time on the job. Apprenticeships are another great option if you find a garage willing to train you while you earn.
If your school offers auto classes, join them to get a head start. If not, plan to enroll in a program after graduation. You'll be working with cars before you know it!
First, make sure you have your high school diploma or GED, as most places require it. Then, consider enrolling in a trade school or vocational program for automotive technology. These programs usually last from six months to two years and teach practical skills like diagnostics and repairs. Schools like Universal Technical Institute or local community colleges offer these programs, and you can often complete them quickly to start working.
After training, look for entry-level jobs like a lube tech or assistant in a shop to gain experience. Pair this with certifications, especially ASE ones, to enhance your resume after some time on the job. Apprenticeships are another great option if you find a garage willing to train you while you earn.
If your school offers auto classes, join them to get a head start. If not, plan to enroll in a program after graduation. You'll be working with cars before you know it!
Rene Raya
Mechanic
5
Answers
Portland, Oregon
Updated
Rene’s Answer
I think the fastest way to becoming a Journeyman level auto mechanic is to enroll in a junior college or vocational school that has an auto mechanic program. There are other ways that are less academic but take more time and don't build your technical knowledge as fast or as completely. For example: Go to work at an oil changing shop for a couple of years and them apply to work as an apprentice at a car dealership. Or if you want to be a heavy equipment mechanic, get a job as a wash rack person at an equipment rental company. Then gravitate toward mechanic work as the opportunity and/ company need arises. You can always go the military route, but make sure you are granted a guaranteed school in writing before you enlist. I remember when I arrived at boot camp, about half the people in my company of 50 people thought they were guaranteed vocational training but only three of us were.
William Vvuko
Retired engineer
162
Answers
Moyo, Northern Region
Updated
William’s Answer
Hi Anthony,
I appreciate your desire to become a mechanic. To truly value the role of a mechanic, we need to understand why it exists. Mechanics are required because we have automobiles. Automobiles fulfill the human need for mobility. So the role of a mechanic is a critical one.
Usually, to become a mechanic one needs to attend an institution where the trade is taught. The course combines both practical and theoretical learning solutions.
Depending on the level of training, one can obtain a certificate or diploma in the trade. In order to obtain professional certification, it's often necessary to go through an apprenticeship/internship.
Experience on the job is necessary for one to obtain sufficient practical knowledge and expertise. Opportunities for practical work, therefore, should be exploited to fullest. The trade also can easily open doors to such specialized areas as design and robotics.
I appreciate your desire to become a mechanic. To truly value the role of a mechanic, we need to understand why it exists. Mechanics are required because we have automobiles. Automobiles fulfill the human need for mobility. So the role of a mechanic is a critical one.
Usually, to become a mechanic one needs to attend an institution where the trade is taught. The course combines both practical and theoretical learning solutions.
Depending on the level of training, one can obtain a certificate or diploma in the trade. In order to obtain professional certification, it's often necessary to go through an apprenticeship/internship.
Experience on the job is necessary for one to obtain sufficient practical knowledge and expertise. Opportunities for practical work, therefore, should be exploited to fullest. The trade also can easily open doors to such specialized areas as design and robotics.