Some possible jobs within this career area are:
If you select a career training program, you’ll receive education as well as certification, or preparation for a certification exam. Depending on the career path you select, you might need a state, county or city license to practice. Cosmetologists, for example, must keep their license active, just like massage therapists or other fields. You also could benefit by occasionally returning to training to stay abreast of new technologies, techniques and skills. This is particularly true for air conditioning technicians, electricians and construction workers.
Skilled trades are always going to be in demand. Some fields are in consistent growth or flux, particularly those areas that are tied toward technology. For example, the increased interest in solar energy means that solar workers are going to be in demand, and existing workers will need training on incorporating solar technology into their daily lives. Many workers in these fields are self-employed or work on contract. Because of this, it’s recommended that you join unions or other professional associations so you can stay up to date on trends, laws and development in the industry.
Skilled tradesmen can get their certification or license in as little as six months, or as long as a year. Many programs last between six months and a year – be sure to ask your chosen school how long the program can take, and whether they offer a job placement or referral service.
How to Become an Auto Mechanic
Auto mechanics, also known as automotive technicians, used to be able to learn the trade by helping a friend, family member, or local garage work on car repairs. With today’s rapidly changing auto industry technology formal training is required if you want a career as an auto mechanic.
An auto mechanic repairs, inspects, and maintains vehicles that run on gasoline, ethanol, and electricity. Besides basic repairs, a mechanic must be able to understand and maintain the complex computers and high tech electronics that comprise today’s vehicles and diagnostic equipment.
To become a mechanic you will typically enroll in a certificate program at a trade school or community college. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) this will be a combination of classes and hands-on training. Although the classes change often to include new technology, they will usually last for six months to one year and include instruction and training in electrical systems, brakes, chassis, suspensions, transmissions, steering, drive trains, electronics, air conditioning and heating as well as engine repair and performance.
Many mechanics earn certificates in the main categories of automobile repairs, and often continue their education and earn an associate’s degree to make themselves more desirable to top employers. Additional classes for a degree may include mathematics, English and automotive computer technology as well as customer service, billing, and other skills a mechanic might need. Programs providing concentrated training usually last between six months to one year; it usually takes a certificate holder another two to five years of working as a mechanic to become a fully certified automotive technician.
In your career as an auto mechanic you can expect a median salary of $35,420 once you have two to five years of experience. The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that mechanics in specific industries can earn considerably more, as in the following examples:
- Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing $66,290
- Couriers and Express Delivery Services $61,840
- Natural Gas Distribution $58,940
- Wired Telecommunications Carriers $55,720
(Salary data retrieved 6/27/11)
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