Working as an automotive technician can lead to an exciting and rewarding profession. As an automotive technician, you’ll work independently or as part of a team to test, diagnose, and repair vehicles of all makes and models. You may offer general repair services or specialize in an area like brakes, electronic systems, or heating and air conditioning.  Automotive jobs can offer variety, job stability, and the opportunity to learn new skills. Find out more about these benefits from NYADI The College of Transportation Technology in Jamaica, New York.

Earning Potential and Job Stability

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job market for automotive and diesel service technicians should remain steady – and may even grow – over the next ten or so years. As the number of hybrid and electric vehicles on the road in the U.S. increases, there will be an increased demand for skilled technicians who know how to service these types of vehicles.

In 2020, the median annual wage for automotive technicians was $44,050 – with the highest 10 percent of technicians earning over $71,940. Automotive technician jobs also have the potential to come with a commission and/or overtime pay. Diesel technicians may benefit from even higher wages, with the median annual wage reported at $50,200 in 2020.

Skills You Can Take Anywhere

Not every job training program offers transferable skills. When you train as an automotive tech, however, you’re preparing for a career with opportunities nationwide. Whether you want to live in a rural area or a big city, there is always a need for skilled technicians that can inspect, repair, and refinish cars and trucks. In many entry-level technician jobs, you’ll be able to learn from master technicians, helping to build on the skills you learned in your postsecondary training. And if and when you decide to move, you’ll have the peace of mind that you can draw on past work experience to help you in your job search.

Each Day Can Bring New Challenges

If you want each workday to be predictable, working as an automotive technician may not be the best option. But if you like variety in your work, you’ve chosen the right field. In many work environments, automotive technicians will enjoy varied projects and tasks each day. You may learn to work on different vehicle makes, or you may alternate between routine inspections and specialized repairs. If you work as a fleet technician, you may even get to travel as part of your job.

Enter the Workforce Fast

Want to jump into the workforce as quickly as possible? Automotive technicians can typically get the educational training they need in just two years or less. Unlike occupations that require a four-year bachelor’s degree, many automotive technicians can simply complete a two-year Automotive Technology Associate’s degree program or Automotive and Diesel Technology Associate’s Degree program or a certificate program. These programs tend to focus on practical skills, so you’ll spend more time getting hands-on training and less time in a classroom.

Train for Automotive Jobs at NYADI

If you want to pursue a career as an automotive technician but aren’t sure where to start, consider the degree and certificate programs at NYADI The College of Transportation Technology, in Jamaica, NY. With skills-based coursework, robust career services, and experienced instructors, NYADI helps students graduate prepared to enter the workforce. To learn more about our education programs, contact NYADI today.