Skilled trade workers are in big demand and short supply and it just might be a career pathway you should consider. WorkingNation and Scripps News have partnered on a new series, Fire Up Your Career, to explore the types of jobs available, what employers are doing to attract talent, and how you can get the skills needed for these good-paying jobs popping up all across the country.
If you’re looking for a job that pays well and doesn’t require a college degree, becoming an automotive service technician could be the perfect choice. The automotive industry is full of opportunities for people who like working with their hands and have an interest in cars. As the need for skilled workers continues to grow, this job offers stability and good pay, making it an excellent option for anyone who wants to start a rewarding career right out of high school.
To get a real feel for what this career involves, check out our Day in the Life of an Auto Technician video, in which we follow Jordan Draughn through a typical day at Firestone Complete Auto Care.
Why Automotive Technicians are Needed
In the United States, the demand for automotive service technicians and mechanics is increasing, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Many older workers are retiring, which opens up a lot of new positions every year. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), this high demand places automotive technicians among the most in-demand jobs without a degree.
The rise of more complex vehicles, including electric cars, means that skilled technicians are more important than ever. As cars become more advanced, with digital dashboards, computers, and electric engines, the industry needs workers who understand both the old and new technologies. This means that automotive technicians have a bright future, with many opportunities for growth and advancement.
Trade schools and vocational schools play a crucial role in preparing people for these jobs without a college degree. These schools provide specialized training that equips students with the skills they need to succeed in the automotive industry. Unlike many other careers that require a four-year degree, becoming an automotive technician typically requires just a high school diploma and some focused training from a trade school.
As Shawn Bona, area manager for the Minneapolis region at Bridgestone Retail Operations, explains, “In the automotive industry, we have a desperate need for skilled entry-level technicians who would be responsible for completing an oil change, some basic brake services, maintenance services, filters, fluids, things of that nature, all with a mindset of safety and quality because they’re handling a significant investment of each one of our customers.”
What It Takes to Become an Automotive Technician
The path to becoming an automotive service technician is straightforward. Most technicians start with a high school diploma and then attend a trade school for mechanics. These programs usually last between six months and two years, depending on the specialization and depth of training. During this time, students learn in classrooms and get hands-on practice in working on engines, brakes, car electronics, and more.
But education is just the beginning. Real-world work experience is just as important. Many entry-level automotive jobs offer on-the-job training, where new technicians can learn directly from experienced professionals. This combination of classroom learning and practical experience helps new technicians build the confidence and skills they need to succeed.
As Draughn, shares, “When you’re first coming in, you start with the basics like cleaning and working on tires. You want to get your hands dirty right away, but you have to take your time. But within my first week, I was working on cars.
“My coworkers are a huge help. Anytime there’s something I don’t know, I just ask someone nearby who has been doing this for years,” he adds. This hands-on approach is a key part of the learning process in the automotive industry.
The Role of Trade Schools and Vocational Training
Trade schools, such as those offered by Goodwill-Easter Seals, provide essential training for those entering the automotive field. These programs are designed to give students the skills they need quickly, so they can start working as soon as possible. Unlike traditional colleges, which can take four years or more, trade schools focus on practical skills that can be used immediately in the workplace.
These programs often include courses on the latest automotive technologies, such as hybrid and electric vehicles. They also teach students how to use diagnostic tools and software, which are becoming increasingly important in modern car repair. This type of specialized training is essential for anyone who wants to stay ahead in the rapidly changing automotive industry.
Employers like Firestone also play a crucial role in training new technicians. Firestone not only offers job opportunities but also provides on-the-job training, allowing technicians to continue learning while they work. This support is crucial for those looking to advance their careers and take on more complex tasks.
How Much Do Automotive Technicians Earn?
One of the most attractive aspects of becoming an automotive technician is the salary. In the United States, the median annual automotive technician salary is about $47,770, according to the BLS. However, salaries can vary widely based on experience, location, and specialization. Some technicians who focus on high-demand areas, like diesel engines or automotive electronics, can earn significantly more.
When starting, entry-level automotive jobs may not pay a lot, but there’s plenty of room to grow. As technicians gain work experience and earn additional certifications, their earning potential increases. Some experienced technicians earn between $60,000 and $70,000 a year, making this one of the better-paying skilled trade jobs available.
As Bona notes, “A skilled technician can make a significant income if they take the education process seriously. I have technicians who make well into six figures. It’s up to the technician to keep developing their skills every day.” This means that with dedication and hard work, an automotive technician can build a successful career.
Comparing Automotive Technicians with Other Trade Jobs
When comparing different trade jobs, becoming an automotive technician is a solid choice. Other high-paying jobs without a college degree include wind turbine technicians and electricians. These jobs also require specialized training and offer good salaries, but becoming an automotive technician usually requires less time in school and offers more job openings.
In addition, the job outlook for automotive technicians is very positive. As cars become more advanced, the need for skilled technicians will remain strong. This includes a growing demand for technicians who can work on electric vehicles and use the latest diagnostic tools and software. The constant evolution of car technology means that automotive technicians will always be needed, making it a career with long-term stability.
Moving Up in Your Automotive Career
As automotive technicians gain experience, there are many opportunities for career advancement. Some technicians choose to specialize in specific areas, such as automotive electronics or hybrid vehicles, while others may move into service management roles. Service managers oversee the operations of repair shops, manage other technicians, and ensure that customer service standards are met. This role often comes with a higher salary, with service managers earning around $65,000 a year on average.
For those who want to advance their careers, companies like Firestone offer not only job opportunities but also ongoing training. This allows technicians to improve their skills and take on more complex tasks, leading to further career growth.
A Strong Career Path in the Automotive Industry
If you’re looking for a stable, well-paying job that doesn’t require a college degree, becoming an automotive service technician is a great option. With the right education and work experience, you can build a career that offers financial stability and the satisfaction of working with your hands.
Trade schools, such as those offered by Goodwill-Easter Seals, provide the training you need to get started in this field. Jordan Draughn, who is now an automotive technician at Firestone Complete Auto Care, benefited from their programs, which are designed to quickly equip students with the skills they need for the job.
Employers like Firestone not only offer job opportunities but also provide on-the-job training to help you advance your skills while you work. The ongoing demand for skilled technicians ensures that there will always be job openings in the field.
Whether you’re just starting or looking to change careers, the automotive industry offers a path to long-term success. By choosing this career, you can secure a well-paying job and play a crucial role in an industry that keeps the world moving. Whether you’re working on the latest electric vehicles or restoring classic cars, being an automotive technician is both a fulfilling and rewarding career path.
If Goodwill-Easter Seals isn’t available in your area, other local Goodwill organizations often offer similar programs to help you get the training you need.
Want to see what a typical day looks like for an automotive technician? Don’t miss our Day in the Life of an Auto Technician video, where we follow a technician through their daily tasks, challenges, and rewards.
Fire Up Your Career: The Skilled Trades
All this week, WorkingNation and our partner Scripps News will continue to explore the opportunities in the skilled trades, what’s driving the demand for workers, and programs that are helping to fill the worker shortfall.
Tune into Scripps News each morning this week at 9:45 am ET to hear from our WorkingNation team as part of our Fire Up Your Career special coverage.
You can also find more of our extensive WorkingNation coverage on the skilled trades here on our website.
