Developing a career as an auto technician can bring you far along as the years go by. While you may start out as a basic technician at an auto shop, there’s nothing that says you need to stay in that position. The skills you can learn and develop as a technician can help you someday become a shop foreman or even a franchise manager.

These skills include:

1. Diagnostic Capabilities

A frustration that everyone wants to avoid is going to an auto repair shop to identify a problem, only for the technician to tell them, “I don’t know.” A good technician will be able to successfully identify and address a problem, which can help result in repeat visits and service. In gaining a reputation as a knowledgeable technician, you can become a favorite among customers and employers.

2. Other Integrated Skills

A dependable car technician should also be able to master several integrated skills. These skills can include the ability to successfully work with electrical systems, A/C systems, and fuel systems, along with computer skills required for billing and other operations. Developing these skills will open the door for future high-paying positions.

3. Preparedness

To be the best auto technician you can be, you need to stay prepared. If you appear uneducated and unsure about what to do for certain jobs, you’ll likely stumble and leave customers dissatisfied and your employers disappointed. One ability that the modern-day technician needs is to be able to adapt to computer technology. Preparation is the key when it comes to performing successful vehicle checks and repair services, and a technical school program can greatly assist with this.

4. Sharing Knowledge with Others

Another aspect of the best technicians is their willingness to spread their knowledge. Younger auto technicians have certain knowledge, such as details regarding computer systems, that can significantly help future generations of technicians. You can be a great teacher to aspiring technicians, while also proving yourself to be a reputable and knowledgeable technician.

5. Longevity

The only way you’ll be able to elevate yourself above your peers and develop yourself is to stick with your career as an auto technician. If you can hone your skills and prove your worth over time, you’ll find yourself excelling beyond “grease monkey” status and potentially rising up the ranks.

Typically, in about five years, auto technicians have been exposed to many different types of problems and situations, and have gained sufficient experience to qualify as specialists. Keep in mind that training is an ongoing process, and you’ll need to stay tuned with all of the latest developments in the industry, which will help you excel over other technicians.

Often within 10 years, auto technicians with the most experience and ambition can open their own shops. Technicians who work at dealerships can become supervisors for those companies.

Stay Committed and Passionate as an Auto Technician

Ultimately, if you want to excel as an auto technician and rise up the ranks, you’ll benefit largely from your passion and commitment when performing your tasks and developing your skills.

If you would like to get started on a career as a professional auto technician and get the training you want today, call NYADI The College of Automotive and Diesel Technology at 800-906-8086.