Posted by on Aug 20, 2015 in Career Insights | 0 questions

If you love taking things apart and seeing how they work, we’ve got the perfect job for you. A career as a mechanic is a fulfilling path, especially if you’re good with your hands. For some car obsessives, it’s the best way to get into the industry.

You’ll get hands-on experience with the inner workings of your favorite vehicles. Plus, the opportunities here are endless. You could end up working in the pits on the Formula One circuit. You could start your own business and open up shop in your local area. Sound good? Here’s how you get started.

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Maintain cars for fun

There’s only one way to know for sure if this is the right career path for you. Simply get started at home by fiddling with your own car (or your parents’ car while they’re not looking!) Understanding the basic mechanics of a vehicle is your starting point here.

We’re not asking you to take apart the car just yet. Simply get a sense of how the basics work. Where does the oil go, and what purpose does it serve? Why are the air filters important, and where are they located? You can learn the simple functionality before you enrol in training or apprenticeships.

Get a qualification or degree

Most mechanics get into the job through vocational training. It’s often as short as six months to a year. The rest of the training is done on the job. You can take a course in mechanics at your local college and most universities.

They’ll have access to excellent workshop facilities and classroom lessons. You could also choose an engineering route to give yourself a wider view of the industry. The best thing about the mechanics course is that it’s all hands-on learning. Forget endless lectures and seminars!

Start leaning towards electronics

The auto world is edging closer and closer to electronics. The future is in hybrid and electric engines, which is a whole different mechanics system. Modern car functions themselves are entirely electronic, including the dashboards. Even diagnoses are now taken with computers and electronics. If you’re pursuing the mechanic’s life, start learning the basics of electric systems as early as possible.

Get to know the tools of the trade

You’re probably familiar with the humble spanner and hammer at home. But, enter the mechanic’s garage and you’re greeted with a huge variety of new tools. Each with their own purpose. Your training will slowly introduce you to the specialised tools for the job. You’ll use the electric equipment, and learn how to use a hydraulic torque wrench.

On-the-job training

Finally, you’ll get the chance to work within the garage yourself. The first step is typically an apprenticeship. You’ll shadow an expert mechanic as they deal with customers and fix cars. You’ll help out on the MOT tests, replace tyres, and slowly learn the tricks of the trade. Apprenticeships usually last around a year, at which point you’ll be fully qualified.

A career in mechanics is perfect if you love getting your hands dirty. If you’re fascinated about how things work and love taking complex parts to pieces. It’s a short entry route, with plenty of career opportunities ahead.