In today’s fast moving society, millions of people rely on trained Auto Repair Technicians to keep them on the go. Virtually every car breaks down sooner or later, so trained technicians are always in demand. If you have an interest in auto repair, all you need are the knowledge and the skills to start a new career to take advantage of the great opportunities in the field.

The job market demands specialized job skills, and most employers prefer to hire technicians who graduate from formal training programs. Penn Foster Career School’s Auto Repair Technician Program can provide you with the tools, the training and the skills you need to succeed.

What do Auto Repair Technicians do? Automotive service technicians use their high-tech skills to inspect, maintain, and repair automobiles and light trucks that run on gasoline, ethanol and other alternative fuels, such as electricity. The advancements in automotive technology now require workers to use computerized shop equipment and work with electronic components, while maintaining their skills with traditional hand tools.

What training is required? Technicians must have an ever-increasing broad base of knowledge about how vehicles’ complex components work and interact, as well as the ability to work with electronic diagnostic equipment and computer-based technical reference materials.

What tools and equipment do they use? Service technicians use a variety of tools in their work—power tools, such as pneumatic wrenches to remove bolts quickly; machine tools like lathes and grinding machines to rebuild brakes; welding and flame-cutting equipment to remove and repair exhaust systems; and jacks and hoists to lift cars and engines. They also use common hand tools, such as screwdrivers, pliers, and wrenches, to work on small parts and in hard-to-reach places, which they accumulate over time. Employers typically furnish expensive power tools, engine analyzers, and other diagnostic equipment. Computers have become commonplace in many modern repair shops.

Where can they find employment? The majority of Automotive Service Technicians work for automotive repair and maintenance shops, automobile dealers, and retailers and wholesalers of automotive parts, accessories, and supplies. Others find employment in gasoline stations; home and auto supply stores; automotive equipment rental and leasing companies; and other organizations, or are self-employed.

What is the job outlook for Auto Repair Technicians? Persons with good diagnostic and problem-solving abilities, and whose training includes basic electronics and computer courses, should have the best opportunities. For well-prepared people with a technical background, automotive service technician careers offer an excellent opportunity for good pay and the satisfaction of highly skilled work with vehicles by incorporating the latest in advanced technology. Employment growth will continue to be concentrated in automobile dealerships and independent automotive repair shops.