The ideal career for someone who enjoys working with their hands has a passion for automobiles, and has a technical understanding is as an automotive technology. There are numerous ways for someone who wants to learn the intricate mechanical principles involved in fixing cars to become a mechanic. You can advance your career in automotive technology and qualify for positions as an auto mechanic by earning a degree or diploma. In this article, we go over the career options available to aspirant auto mechanics and explain their advantages.
What is Automotive Technology?
Automotive technology refers to the development or design of vehicle technology as well as any necessary corrections, maintenance, or repairs. Additionally, it is the study of how self-propelled vehicles move. The engine and other systems, engineering, mechanics, and computer technology may all be involved. In addition to consumer vehicles, heavy machinery, heavy trucks, and public transportation all require automotive technicians and related careers. As the industry develops, those in the field must continue to learn new technology, software, and tools.
Educational Qualifications in Automotive Technology
There are numerous ways to start and continue your education in automotive technology, even though you pick up a lot of skills on the job. Consider the following courses of study or certifications:
#1. Associate degree in automotive technology:
The typical length of this degree program is two years, and it is accredited. During this time, you will learn the fundamentals of car computer technology, heating and cooling systems, transmissions, engines, repairs, and suspension.
#2. Bachelor’s or Master’s degrees:
With advanced degrees, you can specialize in an aspect of automotive technology, such as alternative fuel systems, dynamics, and control, ergonomics, or transportation systems, and learn about more general concepts in the field, such as management or leadership.
#3. Certifications:
Even if you don’t receive a degree, you can still complete a variety of certification levels. These include diplomas in automotive technology, diesel technology, driving ability, drivetrain ability, quick service diplomas, and transmission service diplomas.
Advantages of working in Automotive Technology
A career in automotive technology has some advantages, including:
- Opportunities are plentiful in the broad field of automotive technology, which includes heavy machinery, tractor-trailers, recreational vehicles, and consumer vehicles for personal use.
- As new and evolving technology is developed, you’ll need to learn how to operate it and how to fix it.
- Additionally, opportunities in the automotive technology industry that focus on providing customer service include many service-oriented careers.
- Demand: A career in automotive technology is in high demand because there will likely always be a need for cars.
Skills for Automotive Technology Jobs
These skills are often key to working in an automotive technology job:
#1. Critical thinking:
Customers might approach you with a problem, in which case you’ll need to exercise critical thinking to identify what the issue is, or you might need to check to see if any new technology could pose problems.
#2. Problem-solving:
Resolving vehicle issues is a common job responsibility, using problem-solving skills to identify and recommend solutions.
#3. Communication skills:
You might need to explain difficult ideas to people who know less about the subject than you do because automotive technology is a highly technical field.
#4. Customer service:
You should use your customer service skills in a way that helps and understands them because customers can become frustrated with things they don’t fully comprehend.
What Are Four Careers in the Automotive Industry?
#1. Auto instructor:
Average salary: $32,000 per year
An auto instructor’s principal responsibilities include instructing high school or college students on how to repair automobiles, engines, mechanical components, and electrical systems. They might focus on one or two specific maintenance tasks or impart fundamental knowledge about every vehicle part. Typically, they operate in a classroom set up like a shop, allowing students to gain practical maintenance and repair experience. Note that a state teaching license is required for auto instructors.
#2. Tire technician:
Average salary: $37,000 per year
To give the driver a comfortable and fuel-efficient ride, tire technicians maintain, repair, and replace automobile tires. They are knowledgeable about different tire types, including snow tires, and the best treads to use for different road and off-road conditions. Note that tire technicians can be employed by a tire repair shop or as a member of the team at a large auto body shop.
#3. Auto-body repair technician
Average salary: $55,000 per year
After a car has been damaged, auto body repair technicians are in charge of safely and effectively repairing the frames, suspensions, dents, windows, and wheel alignment. They mainly concentrate on the exterior, non-mechanical parts of the car and restore them to new condition. To provide the customer with an accurate estimate of the cost and turnaround time for the repair of their vehicle, auto body repair technicians must possess strong customer service skills.
#4. Auto Electrician:
Average salary: $58,000 per year
The maintenance and repairs of the headlights, dashboard warning lights, alarm system, circuit boards, and starter motor of a vehicle are all the work of auto electricians, who are also in charge of inspecting, maintaining, and repairing them. Furthermore, they frequently collaborate with other technicians in auto body and mechanic shops, but their primary focus is on the electric problems with vehicles.
Additionally, to identify the problem and create a strategy for resolving it, the auto electrician plugs the computerized diagnostic system into the vehicle. The plan might involve rewiring specific components, changing light bulbs, or overhauling the entire electrical system.
What Technology Is Used in Automotive?
As predictive capabilities are increasingly present in cars and are used to customize the driving experience, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) will play a significant role in the future of the automotive industry.
#1. AI in Automotive Technology:
AI and automation are used in the automotive value chain, from design to production and post-production.
- AI-powered wearable exoskeletons can help designers build better safety measures and comfort in cars.
- Additionally, transportation benefits from AI by developing driver assistance programs, autonomous driving, driver risk assessments, and driver monitoring.
- Furthermore, ServiceAI can be used for predictive maintenance and notifications for engine and battery performance, as well as insurance programs that monitor driver behavior.
#2. ML in Automotive Technology:
In the automotive sector, machine learning can be used to improve safety and reduce emissions in vehicles. It can be used to develop advanced driver assistance systems that can identify potential hazards and warn drivers of potential danger. Additionally, it can also be used to optimize routes and reduce fuel consumption, leading to significant reductions in emissions and cost savings for consumers.
Is Automotive Technology the Same as a Mechanic?
Despite having similar jobs, they perform some different daily tasks. Typical duties for an automotive mechanic include:
- Making a routine repair or maintenance.
- Completing the necessary inspection or testing for a particular vehicle and mileage.
- Putting together precise maintenance advice and cost estimates.
- Educating clients about recommended maintenance.
- Maintaining thorough records of maintenance and repairs.
- Examining the tools and equipment for quality.
In addition to the tasks listed above, an automotive technician may also be responsible for:
- Reading diagnostic code information for vehicles.
- Arranging maintenance tasks for mechanics.
- Diagnosing issues with a vehicle using specialized tools or computers.
- Evaluating mistakes or the root causes of malfunctions or breakdowns.
Is Automotive Technology the Same as Automotive Engineering?
Automotive technology and automotive engineering are often used interchangeably, but there is a difference between the two. Automotive engineering focuses on the design, manufacture, and operation of ground-based vehicles, while automotive technology is an umbrella term to denote a branch that deals with all motor vehicles.
Examples of Automotive Technology Job
#1. Fleet mechanic:
Average salary: $42,000 per year
For businesses that use a variety of vehicles for their service delivery, fleet mechanics are responsible for the maintenance, inspection, and replacement of equipment. This includes cab or bus services, delivery vehicles, and police patrol cars. For a large number of cars, fleet mechanics are responsible for ensuring the safety of the individual drivers.
#2. Small engine mechanic:
Average salary: $45,000 per year
Motorized power equipment for smaller vehicles like motorcycles, snowmobiles, or personal watercraft is repaired, installed, or inspected by small engine mechanics. They carry out regular upkeep or repairs as necessary. Additionally, they frequently have to coordinate equipment requirements with their shop supervisors and communicate maintenance plans or issues with customers.
#3. Equipment operator:
Average salary: $48,000 per year
Heavy machinery, typically construction machinery, is used by equipment operators to move materials around a job site. Forklifts, bulldozers, cargo trucks, and cranes are a few examples of machinery. Note that these vehicles are used for the construction or destruction of new buildings.
#4. Automotive service technician:
Average salary: $49,000 per year
Automotive service technicians frequently work in auto body shop service departments, assessing problems, recommending solutions, and repairing cars when possible. They are also in charge of routine maintenance, like oil changes. Note that Automotive service Technicians must communicate issues or maintenance to customers in a way they can understand.
#5. Heavy vehicle service technician:
Average salary: $49,000 per year
Larger equipment and vehicles, such as construction vehicles, train services, and farming equipment, are repaired, maintained, and inspected by these professionals. Additionally, they carry out routine maintenance, detect problems, and disassemble and reassemble heavy machinery parts as needed. For example, they may be required to diagnose and repair hydraulic or braking issues in large equipment such as a bulldozer.
What is Modern Automotive Technology?
Modern Automotive Technology provides comprehensive coverage of the construction, operation, diagnosis, service, and repair of late-model automobiles and light trucks.
Are Automotive Engineers in Demand?
On average, 18,000 openings for automotive engineers are expected each year over the next decade. The majority of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or leave the labor force for other reasons, such as retirement.
Does Automotive Engineering Require Math?
Along with other science courses like physics, chemistry, and English, mathematics is a prerequisite for automotive engineering.
Is there a Bachelor’s Degree in Automotive Technology?
The Bachelor of Science Degree in Automotive Technology is designed to prepare individuals for technology-based careers in the transportation industry sector. It builds on the college’s existing Automotive Technology Program, which provides a solid foundation for the development of the new program. Additionally, students will receive training in business, management, and technical courses, as well as soft skills such as communication, business and technical writing, and human relations.
Where can I find an Automotive Technology School?
The University of Northwestern Ohio (UNOH) is a leader in automotive, diesel, and high-performance industry education, offering diplomas, associate degrees, and bachelor’s degrees in automotive technology and automotive technology supervision.
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