Perhaps you’re a car lover who has always wanted to work with engines, or maybe you just know you want a career working with your hands and fixing things. A career in the automotive industry may be ideal for you, and there are many different automotive jobs to choose from. NYADI The College of Transportation Technology in Jamaica, New York, provides automotive academic programs that help prepare students for jobs in the industry. Here, we share insight on the potential career paths you can take once you’ve completed your trade school program.

Auto Industry Careers

One of the great things about pursuing a career in the automotive trade is the fact that there are a lot of automotive jobs to choose from! You can start in one area and advance to another as you gain experience and skills in the field. Some potential jobs you can pursue once you have a degree or certification include:

Auto Mechanic

Auto mechanics are the people who maintain and repair vehicles in auto body shops, dealerships, and repair shops. They perform tasks such as oil changes, tire rotations, and part replacements. Or they can specialize in certain repairs like brakes or engines. 

Most mechanics will need to be ASE-certified, which demonstrates appropriate knowledge and skill for the position. There are different areas for certification and it’s best to get certified in the areas you want to specialize in. The Automotive Technology program at NYADI helps students prepare for and earn these industry certifications and gain professional skills so they’ll be ready for the workforce.

Automotive Technician

Automotive technicians are similar to mechanics, but they focus more on the technical aspects of vehicle maintenance and repair. Technicians often perform diagnostic services with specialized computer equipment to identify what is causing the problem so the mechanics can repair it appropriately. Completing a program like the Automotive Service Technology certificate program at NYADI will provide you with the necessary skills to succeed in this position.

Diesel Technician

Being a diesel technician is an increasingly popular job in the auto industry because diesel trucks are essential to moving and delivering products and supplies across the country. For these trucks to stay on the road, they need to be maintained and repaired efficiently and correctly, and diesel technicians and mechanics are the ones who do this. 

Completing a program specific to diesel technology will provide you with the proper knowledge needed to work as a diesel technician. NYADI offers a certificate in Truck and Diesel Service Technology, where students will learn about repairing diesel engines, heavy-duty chassis, steering and suspension systems, and more. If you want to pursue a degree, the Automotive and Diesel Technology AOS program goes into more depth. 

Automotive Collision Technicians

Auto accidents are unfortunately a common occurrence in the auto industry, but that means there are careers in repairing vehicles after a crash. Collision repair technicians, also known as auto body mechanics, work on cars that have been in a collision to repair the damage and get the car back to as good a condition as possible using replacement parts, paint, and repair techniques.

The Collision Repair Technology program at NYADI is a great start for people interested in this career. Students learn how to diagnose, analyze, and assess collision damage and how to repair it.

Other possible career paths in the automobile industry include a car salesperson, vehicle inspector, specialized repair technician, car detailer, auto body painter, and more.

Auto Industry Outlook

Whatever automotive job you choose, you’ll have peace of mind that careers in the auto industry will be consistently in demand. Cars and vehicles are essential to our everyday lives and skilled technicians will always be needed to repair them and get them back on the road. It’s important to note that technology has been impacting the industry for years and will continue to do so. Staying up to date on the latest technological advances and innovations will improve your marketability and chances of being hired. The experienced faculty at NYADI keep our programs updated with the latest technologies and advances so students learn the most current information.

Pursue Automotive Jobs Training at NYADI

If you enjoy your job, it will feel less like work and more like a hobby. Get started on pursuing your dream career in the automotive industry by enrolling in an automotive training program. NYADI The College of Transportation Technology offers academic programs in Jamaica, NY, that help prepare students for in-demand careers in the industry. We also provide career services for current students and alumni. Contact us today to chat with an admissions representative and learn more.