Earning an automotive service technology certificate or degree can open the door to a wide variety of opportunities – and not just in car repair. Quality control specialists are just as vital to auto service. NYADI The College of Transportation Technology offers automotive academic programs in Jamaica, NY, to prepare aspiring auto workers for various careers. Here, we discuss what automotive quality control is and how you can get involved in the career.

What Is Automotive Quality Control?

The safety and reliability of modern vehicles depend on quality control performed by experienced professionals. Automotive quality control specialists ensure that vehicles meet a high standard of safety and performance before they reach customers. They can be found at dealerships, repair shops, manufacturers, and more, performing a rigorous inspection process to ensure products and services meet a high standard. They balance a variety of responsibilities, including:

• Setting quality control objectives
• Analyzing statistics and product specifications
• Checking completed jobs for thoroughness and quality
• Reviewing documentation for errors
• Investigating and resolving customer complaints
• Inspecting purchased and comeback vehicles
• Supporting and monitoring technician training
• Complying with federal, state, and local regulations
• Maintaining a professional presentation
• Collaborating with other managers

By fulfilling these duties, quality control specialists help to eliminate mistakes and hidden flaws. Not only does this improve the company’s reputation, boosting profits and customer trust, but it also helps keep drivers safe on the road.

Who Makes a Good Quality Control Professional?

While anybody may become a quality control professional, certain traits set the best ones apart. You may find that some of these come naturally. If they don’t, you can cultivate them during your program at NYADI or while on the job. A good quality control specialist will exhibit the following:

Attention to Detail

Attention to detail is among the most important qualities of a quality control professional. You will need a precise eye to spot defects, which may be subtle. You will also need to know regulations and product standards to ensure that products and repairs do not deviate.

Technical Knowledge

To accurately identify issues, you also need to understand how vehicle parts should look when performing normally. This requires a solid technical foundation. In this role, you will utilize your knowledge of vehicle components, systems, technologies, and regulations. You must also be familiar with the equipment and procedures that are used during quality control evaluations.

Problem-Solving

It is not enough to simply see and report a problem; quality control professionals must also identify its root cause to guide effective repairs. The best professionals apply robust problem-solving skills to troubleshoot the issues they discover during the quality control process.

Team Collaboration

Quality control professionals are part of a team. This means that they must work collaboratively with other professionals, including repair technicians, managers, and other members of the workplace. They must be able to share feedback and suggestions with teammates while listening to their perspectives. By practicing teamwork, you ensure smooth operations and maximum customer satisfaction.

Adaptability

The automotive industry is not static. Quality expectations are constantly changing as new innovations and regulations are introduced. You will need to learn new skills and methods to keep up with industry movements, helping you stay updated and relevant in your field.

Once you have worked in auto quality control for a while and gained experience, you can also move to other similar job titles like quality control managers or an instructor of related education programs.

Become an Automotive Quality Control Professional

 The path to joining the field of automotive quality control begins with education. Completing the automotive technology degree associate’s degree program at NYADI will help you develop the skills you will need in your day-to-day work. After graduation, joining the industry in an entry-level role will help you solidify those skills and build confidence.

At NYADI, we offer experienced instructors, state-of-the-art equipment, and financial aid to help you focus on your studies. After graduation, our career services help you secure your first placement to gain much-needed experience. Contact an admissions representative today to learn more about how NYADI can help you kickstart a new career in automotive quality control.