Mechanics need to push against the stereotypes that have been assigned to their professions throughout many years by unsatisfied customers, movies as well as actual bad apples (shade tree mechanics). If you can gain the respect and trustworthiness of your clients as an auto or diesel mechanic than you will have a clear path to success. So, what can auto mechanics do to overcome these misconceptions?

1. Learn to Communicate With Customers

On a daily basis, a diesel or auto mechanic needs to communicate with customers. Mechanic apprentices may not have to face the clients at the beginning of their training, but as they progress, client interaction will be required in the job.

It is crucial to learn communication skills early on in this profession. You need to be able to explain to people what is wrong with their car and what you have to do to fix it all in plain English. Many people don’t care about auto repair so if you throw technical explanation at them, there is a good chance they may get annoyed with you. When your customers become annoyed then they stop trusting you.

2. Under-Promise, Over-Deliver

This is one of the best ways to keep your customers coming back (hopefully not too soon considering you fixed their problems correctly). One of the best feeling of value you can create for customers in over-delivering on your promises. It will make them feel like they got much more than they paid for, it will keep them happy, they will always remember to refer you and our business can keep growing.

This is almost always easier said than done, but with experience, can be accomplished. Most auto mechanics are obviously running a repair shop for profit so it would be illogical to think they should be losing money on their customers. They way you need to think about it – “If I lose a little on this customer, they may bring me two customers which I can make double the profit as opposed to the original first one”.

Additionally, by over-delivering on your promises we don’t mean to go out of your way so much that you run your business into the ground or lose your job. It can be a small personal touch that will appear as true value for the clients. Show them that you really cared for their vehicle while it was in your possession and they will gladly hand you the keys next time it needs maintenance.

3. Be Consistent

If your goal is to retain customers and be respected by them than by all means you need to show consistency. Do not vary your prices dramatically for the same service or surprise your customers with an exorbitant bill that was not discussed before the start of the service. Show your customers that you stand behind your words. Keep them in the loop during the maintenance process so they do not get an unhappy surprise when they come to pick up their automobile.

Related Articles:
Mechanic Apprentice Interview

Post from: Mechanic Apprentice:
How to be a respected auto or diesel mechanic

Do you have the burning desire to work as an auto or diesel mechanic? You most likely know than the typical parts of being an auto mechanic. Maintaining, repairing and troubleshooting light vehicles to heavy diesel engines are the common responsibilities of the job. However, there are several aspects of a diesel mechanic or auto mechanic job that you may not be familiar with.

The Job Varies Daily

A lot of people may think that the average mechanic goes into work each day and performs the same mundane tasks. This really is not the case. Daily, auto and diesel mechanics are faced with new challenges and tasks. They need to utilize new technologies in order to diagnose problems with the automobiles. They need to use critical thinking skills to find the best solution to the problems.

Training is Almost Always Required

Now more than ever with the introduction of new technologies in vehicles, master mechanics need to be professionally trained to handle the complex issues that arise. A computer is not as much utilized on the job as a wrench so most new mechanics need to be technology savvy.

Many Firms are Looking for Diesel and Auto Mechanics

Due to misconceptions of the career as being labeled as “grease monkey” many young individuals choose not to go in that direction. With the average age of many mechanics at larger firms in the early 40’s, firms are really hurting for new talent. Many companies team up with school and provide jobs for graduates right after graduation. The Bureau of Labor Statistics also projects strong growth for the field.

This is Very Much a People Business

If you think you can be socially awkward and survive in this career than think again. Mechanics deal with customers more than they would probably like to. You will exchange handshakes many times during the day and also face criticism from some customers. You need to be able to handle many kinds of situations.

Working as an auto or diesel mechanic is a very exciting and demanding job. People are depending on you to complete your work on time as promised so they can go about their usual business. The more you make yourself stand out, the more potential you will have of making this career pay of handsomely for you.

Remember, there are many types of auto mechanic positions available and some of these facts may not be true for all of them. One thing, however, does hold. If you are looking for a constantly changing in a fast passed environment career, then working as an auto or diesel mechanic may be right for you.

Related Articles:
Diesel Mechanic career Prospects

Post from: Mechanic Apprentice:
Facts You May Not Know About Auto or Diesel Mechanic Jobs

Vatterott College is a technical school with campuses located in the following locations:

• Des Moines, IA
• Memphis, TN
• Oklahoma City, OK
• Springfield, MO

The school offers the following award levels:
• Diploma
• Associate Degree
• Bachelor of Science
• Professional Development

Admission Process:
Vatterott College has an open admission policy. You are not based on standardized test scores or your previous GPA’s.
The things that are required by the school for admission include:
• High school diploma or GED
• On campus interview and tour

Career Prospects:
Graduates of this program can pursue careers in fleet truck maintenance, dealership mechanic or diesel mechanic or one of many other opportunities in the trucking industry.

Offerings:
The schools Career Services is top notch according to the services they provide. With helping students on job search guidance, resume reviews, mock interviewing and career fairs, each student has the necessary resources to succeed after finishing their training.
Paying for School:
Vatterott College offers financial aid to those who qualify. Tuition is based on the degree program and the location but costs vary from $9,000 to $11,000 per year.

Remember, before jumping ship on your diesel mechanic training, always research the school you want to attend first. Go to the campus and see if the institution is a right fit for you. Try to find out as much as you can from current students (an invaluable resource) and see what you can gain from going here.

School website Vatterott College.

Post from: Mechanic Apprentice:
Tennessee Mechanic School

If you are still on the fence about whether you want to pursue a career as an auto or diesel mechanic than here is so more proof from USAtoday.

USAtoday reports that large companies such as General Motors (GM) will run short of experienced auto technicians in the near future. Reason, “It is difficult to get young people interested in this as a career”. There are many misconceptions about the career and stereotypes such as “grease-monkey”. The reality is that the industry is becoming extremely high tech. With this extreme progress in automotive technology, today’s master mechanics are dealing with issues that would have required engineering degrees several years back.

Many new auto technicians are embracing this move to high technology. A recent survey of 5,000 auto mechanics found that the second biggest reason that they chose this career is because they like working with technology. This means that many older mechanics that are not up to speed on the new age of auto repair will need to be replaced more quickly.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that from 2010 to 2020 the auto repair industry will add 124,800 jobs, a 17% increase. The average wages for workers in the field, $35,790 with the top 10% earning more than $60,000.

What does all of this mean for you? Well the Los Angeles Trade Technical College reports a nearly 100% placement rate (the amount of students who get hired right out of school) for its auto technician graduates. So, more demand for your skills at higher pay levels than ever before. You will become an important commodity for large corporations and will enjoy the job security. And remember, you will be working in a highly technological field that cannot be easily outsourced.

Resources: USAtoday.com

Post from: Mechanic Apprentice:
Shortage of Auto Mechanics

Auto mechanics play a vital role in the society, taking into consideration the millions of cars that are on the road today. According to the department of U.S. Department of Labor, the number of jobs available to technicians will increase by 5 percent through to the year 2018. The earnings rate for auto mechanics in Delaware stands at around $37,000 annually or $18 per hour, which is higher than the national average of $17 per hour. However, the pay grade an auto mechanic is able to earn will be dependent on the skills they possess and their educational background. If you are thinking of starting or developing your career as an auto mechanic, then look no further than Stafford Career Institute.

Background

Stafford Career Institute is a private correspondence school, founded in 1991, which offers distance-learning programs to North American students. With over 1 million enrolled students, Stafford has developed an excellent reputation in the provision of study at home career training.  Stafford offers students the chance to improve their career prospects by offering a flexible schedule on the time frame and location of study, improving their chances of success at study and graduation.

Admission Process

Through their admissions counselors, students can be able to access all the information they require on the enrollment process. Admissions counselors can be contacted over the Internet, via email or by a toll-free number.

Training Programs Offered

Through Stafford Career Institute, students can be able to earn a high school diploma. Additionally, Stafford offers over 60 study programs, in a wide variety of sectors. Those programs can be broken down into the following categories: Computer Technology, Vocational Trades, Business, Education, Legal and Medical. Stafford’s auto mechanic training accords working mechanics the opportunity and flexibility to study at their own convenience, with the books delivered directly to your door step and classes conducted over the Internet.

School Statistics

Long distance programs offered by Stafford Career Institute are designed to be cheap, allowing students to save as much as $300. Students can either opt to pay the whole amount in advance or make use of an interest-free monthly payment plan. The program lengths for its diploma courses are generally around 12 months.

In the current competitive job environment, going to school is not an option, but a mandatory aspect of starting and developing a career as an auto mechanic.

School Website: Stratford Career Institute

Post from: Mechanic Apprentice:
Delaware Mechanic School

There are over 773,000 auto mechanics in the U.S. This makes the market very competitive, but still a rewarding industry to be involved in, depending on your level of expertise. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the highest paid mechanic will earn around $59,000 annually. But to earn this amount of money, one has to get specialized training. People already on job may find it hard to get the necessary amount of time to attend class, while high school students may find it difficult to get a job in the industry without the relevant qualifications. Penn Foster Career School was established with those types of people in mind. With a history that extends over a century, Penn Foster Career School was founded by newspaper man, Thomas J. Foster, who saw the need among working adults to find a convenient way to learn advanced skills. This led to the development of the long distance learning technique, which first helped anthracite coal miners to advance their careers in the mining industry.

Distance Learning is the quickest and most popular form of higher learning and career development training method available to adults, who are looking for a practical and inexpensive way to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to develop new careers or advance their current ones, so as to improve their standard of living. With millions enrolled students, since 1890, Penn Foster Career School is the biggest and most respected distance learning institution in U.S.

Admissions Process

The school has an open admissions process; all potential students have to do is fill out an online application. Applicants can also talk to an enrollment officer, through their toll free number or request for a physical application form, which will be delivered right at their door step. Once the application has been processed, the student will be issued with a student id, which they will use in all future communications with the school.

Training Programs

Penn Foster Career School offers over 80 programs in different industries, such as auto mechanic, business, engineering, technology, education, etc. Through these programs, student can achieve high school diplomas, career diplomas and certificates, as well as associate and bachelors degrees.

School Statistics

The average completion or graduate rate for Penn Foster High School Students is rated at around 56%. Tuition costs for high school diplomas, comes to a total of $1,445.00 (including registration, administrative and handling costs). The length of programs is dependent on the comprehensiveness of the course chosen.

School Website: Penn Foster Career School

Post from: Mechanic Apprentice:
Alabama Mechanic School

Pursuing a career in the automotive industry can be a very rewarding and fulfilling pursuit. Some of the basic tasks mechanics will be responsible for include the inspection, repair and maintenance of different types of cars. The average wage auto mechanics tends to earn in Colorado will be about $35,000, depending on the expertise possessed by a mechanic. The better educated you are, the better you’re chances at getting a job and commanding a higher salary. If you have just finished high school or are already working, chances are that you would like to get you’re training in a convenient way that is able to meet your needs. One of the mechanic schools that can enable you to do that is IntelliTec College.

Background

Founded in 1965, IntelliTec College has been training people in various studies, as they pursue fulfilling careers in various industries. Students pursuing a career as an auto mechanic will receive training on automotive inspection and repair, using advanced electronic diagnostics and computers.

Many of the instructors found at the institution are Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certified. This ensures that the instruction provided to students is high quality, hands-on and specialized. The college also boasts of a partnership with Snap-on tools. Students can look forward to training on how to use Snap-On tools and diagnostics platform, and a set of Snap-on tools and chest is awarded upon graduating.

Admissions Process

An admission into IntelliTec College school programs is dependent on the type of degree you are pursuing. For associate degrees, the college uses an “open door admission policy”, which has very few requirements (a GED certificate to be exact).

Students applying for a bachelor degree should complete a certain number of high school classes, an index score requirement computed from your high school GPA or a high score percentage rate, combined with your SAT or ACT score. Potential students can fill out an application for admission over the internet, or chat directly with an admissions representative over the telephone.

Degrees and Training Programs Offered

IntelliTec College offers career-focused training in the technology, business and healthcare sectors. Classes are designed to be small, offering personalized instruction.

Program Statistics

• Graduation rate: 46%
• Cost of tuition per year for associate degrees:  $2000-5,000
• Cost of tuition per year for bachelor degrees: $5,000-25,000
• Duration: 2 years for associate, 4 years for bachelors degree

School Website: Intellitec College

Post from: Mechanic Apprentice:
Colorado Mechanic School

WYOTECH

Wyotech is a technical mechanic school which focuses on the automotive, diesel, motorcycle, marine, collision and refinishing, plumbing and electrician careers with campuses on Blairsville, Daytona, Fremont, Laramie, Long Beach and Sacramento. This technological school produces mechanics and applicators of technology to different fields.

In California, a mechanic’s salary ranges from $ 34,900 (auto-mechanic) to $ 54,900 (Level III Mechanic) with bonuses of $ 200 to $ 700. This is relatively higher than the national median salary for an auto mechanic so if you are thinking about working in California and love cars than this is a great career choice.

Quick stats regarding Wyotech.

• Graduation Rate: 100%
• Placement Rate: about 71.1%
• Program Length: 9 months on average
• Program Cost: $25,000 on average

Admissions Requirements and Processes

In order to be considered for admission into Wyotech, you must first meet some preliminary requirements. Wyotech requires a student to present a High School Diploma or GED to verify successful completion of high school. As a prospective student, you must also go through an on campus interview process with an admissions representative. During the interview be prepared to answer questions about yourself and why you are interested in this school.

Training Programs and Degrees offered, Costs and Length

There is a wide range of mechanical courses offered at different campuses of Wyotech. The programs offered in Wyotech are as follows:

• Automotive Technology
• Collision Refinishing
• Diesel Technology
• Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning
• Marine Technology
• Motorcycle Technology
• Plumbing and Electrical Program

The costs of each program starts at about $20,000 to $30,000, depending on your chosen program and your location. However, Wyotech first checks the net worth of each student through their Net Calculator. Through this, your fees will be assessed and you’ll be given your tuition and fees. There are also scholarships and financial aid that Wyotech offers. A student must file application and the school will determine whether aid is necessary.

Career Prospects

After your formal education at Wyotech, there is a vast range of positions to which a graduate can apply. Here is a list of careers that a student may apply to as reported by Wyotech.

Post from: Mechanic Apprentice:
California Mechanic School

Automotive Training Center

​The Automotive Training Center is a technical mechanic school with campuses located in Warminster and Exton Pennsylvania. It is composed of people who share the same passion with the automotive technology, diesel and engines, etc. and caters to the need of a student to acquire a degree or a certificate.

​Students who pursue and receive their mechanical degrees at technological schools end up with jobs that demand good income. Salaries in Pennsylvania vary according to the type and degree that a person has. A graduate of Automotive Technology receives $20,000 to $24,000 right after graduation. That income increases quickly as the employee gains experience and levels off at about $35,000. Auto mechanics in Pennsylvania receive a lower than national average salary.

Quick stats regarding ATC’s Automotive Technology Program:

• Graduation Rate: 53% (onlineeducation.net)
• Placement Rate: High due to the number of employers who hire graduates of ATC (http://www.autotraining.edu/companies_dealers.html)
• Tuition and Fees: $38,969
• Length: 2-4 years

Admissions Requirements and Processes

​In Automotive Training Center, the admissions office requires prospective students to visit their campus as soon as possible to have a tour around the school. Through this tour, the assisting person would explain to the student on how their professional life grows in the school.

Moreover, a High School Diploma or a GED, Driver’s License and Recommendation Letters are among the things that an applicant must provide to pave the way to ATC. One of the good things in the school is their welcoming spirit to the students; that even before a student applies, the environment is being introduced, and this way, a student may decide. However, helping a student decide this way is of course an indirect blocking of other prospective schools.

Training Programs and Degrees Offered

​The Automotive Training Center caters to interests of the students through the following programs:

• Automotive
• Diesel/ Hi Performance
• Collision
• Marine Service
• Pennsylvania State Inspection Course
• EEIC – Enhanced Emission Certificate Course
  • EEIR – Enhanced Emission Recertification Course

Career Prospects

​Focusing on the automotive field, here are some of the careers that a graduate may choose to pursue:

• Automotive Technician
• Service and / or Parts Manager
• Shop Foreman
• Services and Repair Business Owner
• Telephone (Hotline) Technical Assistance
• Salesperson (Auto, Equipment, Tools, Books)
• Service Consultant
• Parts Counterperson
• Automotive Technical Instructor
• Field Service Representative
• Insurance Navigator
• Manufacturer Representative
• Technical Writer
• Engine Rebuilder

These jobs are just the common jobs that surfaced the counts. However, what you will achieve always depends on how you handle your work, how fruitful do you work and how much you enjoy the work that you are doing. By taking the initiative, you can land very competitive jobs, which provide better compensation and benefits and are geared towards what you want to do in your career.

Post from: Mechanic Apprentice:
Pennsylvania Mechanic School

ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY INSTITUTE

Advanced Technology Institute is a technical mechanic school that offers programs focusing in automotive technology. It is located in Virginia, near the beach.
Students who pursue a mechanical course get into a job after graduation with a very impressive salary. Average incomes for mechanics in Virginia range from $30,000 to $45,000 and growing rapidly. Currently it is well over the national median.

Quick stats for ATI’s Automotive Technology Program
• Graduation Rate: 75%
• Placement Rate: TBD
• Tuition and Fees: $31,500 (Financial Aid is available for qualified students.)
• Median Completion Time: 18 months

Admissions Requirements and Processes
In order to be accepted at Advanced Technology Institute, you need to comply with the requirements that the school requires. One of those requirements is a High School Diploma or GED. Another is an Entrance Exam, which is to ensure prior knowledge of the program that you would like to apply to.

Every year, the school accepts over 700 hundred students which land in the different programs that they offer. However, they assure all prospective students that whoever qualifies will receive acceptance into ATI.

Training Programs and Degrees offered, Costs and Length
There are a number of training programs that ATI offers. These include:
• Automotive Technology / Service Management AOS Degree
• Automotive Technology II / Commercial Driving Diploma
• Heavy Vehicle Technology AOS
• Heavy Vehicle Technology Diploma
• Tractor Trailer Driving – Continuing Education
• Maritime Welding

Career Prospects
Focusing on the automotive technology program, these are some of the jobs that graduates land:
• Electrical and Electronic installers and Repairers of Transportation Equipment
• Electronic Equipment Installers and Repairers of Motor Vehicles
• Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanic
• Automotive Master Mechanics
• Automotive Specialty Technician

These career paths are company-initiated: the private companies themselves offer this line up of jobs for the students to choose from. Graduates then won’t have to worry whether they will be placed after graduation or not.

School website ATI.

Post from: Mechanic Apprentice:
Mechanic School Virginia