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How did you get into the auto body/auto mechanic field? What was your expectation going in and how did that contrast to reality?

I'm currently in Job Corps wondering if this trade is for me or not. I have always had a passion for cars and I like to think that they are pretty much adult legos with extra parts and steps, but obviously, if I keep that sentiment I will be in for a rude awakening. What was your experience first getting into this field and how much of it was similar or different from your expectations?

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Priyanka’s Answer

Entering the auto body or auto mechanic field can be both exciting and challenging, especially if you have a passion for cars. I can provide a detailed overview based on common experiences of those who have pursued this career path.

Expectations vs. Reality in the Auto Body/Auto Mechanic Field
Expectations:

Hands-On Work: Many people expect to spend most of their time working directly on vehicles, diagnosing problems, and performing repairs.
Constant Learning: The belief that you will continually learn new techniques and stay updated with the latest automotive technologies.
Job Satisfaction: Anticipating a high level of job satisfaction from solving mechanical problems and restoring vehicles.
Work Environment: Expecting a dynamic and sometimes fast-paced work environment, often in a garage or workshop setting.
Passion for Cars: Believing that a passion for cars will make the job enjoyable and fulfilling.
Reality:

Variety of Tasks: While hands-on work is a significant part of the job, there is also a lot of diagnostic work using advanced tools and software. Routine maintenance tasks can sometimes be repetitive.
Technical Skills: The job requires strong technical skills and a deep understanding of both mechanical and electronic systems in modern vehicles. Ongoing education and certifications are essential.
Physical Demands: The work can be physically demanding, involving lifting heavy parts, working in awkward positions, and standing for long periods.
Problem-Solving: Real-world problems can be more complex than anticipated, requiring patience and critical thinking to diagnose and fix issues accurately.
Customer Interaction: You will need good communication skills to explain repairs and maintenance to customers and provide excellent customer service.
Work Environment: Workshops can be noisy, dirty, and sometimes hazardous. Safety protocols must be strictly followed to prevent injuries.
Career Growth: There are opportunities for career advancement, such as becoming a master technician, shop manager, or opening your own repair business. However, these require dedication and continuous professional development.
Steps to Get Started in the Auto Body/Auto Mechanic Field
Education and Training:

Vocational Programs: Enroll in a vocational program or technical school that offers training in automotive repair and technology.
Certifications: Obtain certifications from recognized organizations such as the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).
Hands-On Experience:

Internships and Apprenticeships: Gain practical experience through internships or apprenticeships at auto repair shops or dealerships.
Job Corps: Take full advantage of the training and resources available through Job Corps to build your skills and knowledge.
Continued Learning:

Stay Updated: The automotive industry is constantly evolving with new technologies. Stay updated by attending workshops, taking additional courses, and reading industry publications.
Networking:

Professional Associations: Join professional associations and attend industry events to network with other professionals and stay informed about job opportunities.
Conclusion
Entering the auto body or auto mechanic field can be a rewarding career choice, especially if you have a passion for cars and enjoy hands-on work. While the reality of the job may present challenges and require continuous learning and adaptation, the satisfaction of solving complex problems and working with vehicles can be highly fulfilling.

To determine if this trade is right for you, consider seeking internships or part-time work in the field to gain firsthand experience. This will give you a clearer understanding of the day-to-day tasks and help you make an informed decision about your career path. Good luck!
Thank you comment icon Priyanka’s answer is a very good one. I'd like to emphasize that today's cars are controlled with proprietary software and successful mechanics today, must have a very good understanding of electronics and computer programs compared to the mechanics of 40 years ago. It's a good idea to know up front that the business models of most auto repair shops are all about billing your time. Sometimes this means not doing as good a job as you like and you won't always be allowed to trouble shoot a problem to its conclusion. Rene Raya
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COREY’s Answer

I was 28 when i decided to go to automotive trade school. The reason was necessity. I literally had no real skill so I decided I was going to become a mechanic as opposed to working at McDonald's. I feel that being in this field has generally been what I expected. When I was young and growing up I always thought that mechanics were pretty cool. They were sort of mysterious to me, I never saw many of them, and why would I lol, and they always spoke with such conviction about whatever topic it may be with regards to a vehicle. I will say that even though the trade school I attended was 50/50, half text book study and classroom testing, half hands on using tools to work on actual vehicles. Once I graduated and entered the field, I found that while school gave me an excellent foundation and I possessed more knowledge than somebody who did not go to school. Real life work was really nothing like any of the work I did at school. I learned fast, and I've become quite good in my humble opinion. If you do enter the field one thing I can tell you is you just need to accept the fact that you will not be very good until you have around 5 years under your belt. You will not begin to know what you don't know until you have around a decade of experience. Hopefully, if you are mechanically inclined, and fairly intelligent once you reach 13 years of experience and up you will be well versed with a wealth of experience. There will likely be no job that you cannot do, and do well.
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COREY’s Answer

I was 28 when i decided to go to automotive trade school. The reason was necessity. I literally has no real skill so I decided I was going to become a mechanic as opposed to working at McDonald's. I feel that being in this field has generally been what I expected. When I was young and growing up I always thought that mechanics were pretty cool. They were sort of mysterious to me, I never saw many of them, and why would I lol, and they always spoke with such conviction about whatever topic it may be with regards to a vehicle. I will say that even though the trade school I attended was 50/50, half text book study and classroom testing, half hands on using tools to work on actual vehicles. Once I graduated and entered the field, I found that while school gave me an excellent foundation and I possessed more knowledge than somebody who did not go to school. Real life work was really nothing like any if the work I did at school. I learned fast, and I've become quite good in my humble opinion. If you do enter the field one thing I can tell you is you just need to accept the fact that you will not be very good until you have around 5 years under your belt. You will not begin to know what you don't know until you have around a decade of experience. Hopefully, if you are mechanically inclined, and fairly intelligent once you reach 13 years of experience and up you will be well versed with a wealth of experience. There will likely be no job that you cannot do, and do well.
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