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an extensive research and reference tool leading to licensure and certification services. Get involved here.
Auto mechanics gain credibility through certification, which is provided by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Prior
to its founding in 1972, consumers had to learn the hard way the difference between qualified
and unqualified mechanics. The non-profit organization offers over 40 exams, all of which are
extensive and challenging. There are different
exams for different types of vehicles.
In order to gain ASE certification you must pass at least
one exam and provide proof of at least two years of relevant work experience. Certifications are
good for five years and then you must be retested to renew certification. It is common for ASE-certified
professionals to be seen wearing the ASE logo. There are many professional schools that offer the required courses
in the auto motive field you are interested in. With the current economic crisis, people are keeping thier old cars
as opposed to buying new ones. That means more work for mechanics and car repair shops. Great news if you get started now!
One industry that has held on and seems to be gaining strength during the "economic crisis" in the United States is
in the automotive filed and is felt most by auto mechanics. There are several reasons why this could be. Let's take a look at a few.
Financing for new car loans (or used car loans) has been increasingly hard to obtain for most American Consumers.
Tightened requirements by lenders has really "put the squeeze" to the new car sales market leaving many with few
options other than to continue to drive owned cars longer and, as a result, make repairs.
What is the key component in making repairs to an aging transportation fleet? You guessed it: Auto Repair Mechanics!
Some folks grow up with natural aptitude and curiosity with car and engine repair. If you are like me, you know just
about enough to get into trouble even when trying to change a tire! But even then, with the proper education and
training in the field of Automotive Repair, one can go from a weekend warrior messing around with a project car,
to an ASE Certified Auto Mechanic or even ASE Certified Master Mechanic while working for a repair shop or car dealership.
Here at Gyl.com we are always advocates of doing the type of work for income that one enjoys as a hobby. Car repair
fits into that category very well.
In the field of "turning wrenches" there are many specialties and areas of professional focus or expertise. You could
work at an 'in and out lube, oil and filter joint' or decide you would be better suited to work on large diesel engines
and keep the American consumer market in motion by keeping our trucks safe and in good repair. Certain trade schools
in this field offer wide ranges of classes to fit your personal goals. And, it's always good to keep in mind that
changing your goals as you learn and grow through the education process in any field is okay and a positive attitude to develop.
Let's say for example that your dream is to work on a NASCAR racing team. Chances are that you are not going enter the field
as a Crew Chief for some famous Daytona Race Champion. That's not to say you can't work, learn and develop all of the other
skills to make that happen, but a realistic approach may be to hang around your local raceway on weekends while you are going
to school and working in an engine repair facility or shop. Keep your ears open and ask questions when you find the right
mentor and you may be very surprised at how willing to help many local race car owners and drivers actually are.
Remember that the field is very diverse, as are the trade schools that you will need, and has opportunities to fit
all kinds and levels of interest. For example: You could learn how to change your own air filter by asking a friend
or you can go to school or an automotive vocational college and learn that you are into air-fuel diagnostics and troubleshooting.
That could mean the difference between working for Tuddy's Lube Service or an established and well recognized dealership automotive
service center. You could learn body and collision repair, Auto Glass Repair, Brake Repair, Drive Train Specialties,
learn to work on turbo and NOS systems.
It's simple really: Make the decision after careful though that you want to be the best dang mechanic on this Earth,
find the right automotive career school that offers the classes you will need to achieve your dreams and get to work!
See you in the "Winners Circle!"
