What other careers can you persue automotive experience other than a technician?

[jjgstretch]

Ive been an automotive technician for 6 years now (3 with Mercedes Benz and 3 with CJD). I was wondering if any body had some advice on what other careers i could persue with the experience i have. Or is it back to school?

[Gohan Ryu]

Here's what I found on Wiki, sounds like your not putting down that wrench unless you become a teacher or salesman:

Originally Posted by Wiki

A mechanic may opt to engage in other careers related to his or her field. Teaching of automotive trade courses, for example, is almost entirely carried out by qualified mechanics in many countries.

There are several other trade qualifications for working on motor vehicles, including panel beater, spray painter, body builder and motorcycle mechanic. In most developed countries, these are separate trade courses, but a qualified trades-person from one can change to working as another. This usually requires that they work under another trades-person in much the same way as an apprentice.

Auto body repair involves less work with oily and greasy parts of vehicles, but involves exposure to particulate dust from sanding bodywork and potentially toxic chemical fumes from paint and related products. Salespeople and dealers often also need to acquire an in-depth knowledge of cars, and some mechanics are successful in these roles because of their knowledge.

[speediva]

You may be able to get into machining parts - but any more, most places want you to COME with experience. And in today's job market, there are enough candidates WITH experience that will likely knock you out of the running.

Good luck! I know I've been rather seriously considering a change in trade as well...

[-Josh-]

I'm working at a forge right now making really good money and the reason they hired me was because i had a mechanical background.