alexis
where are the dealerships that need mechanical engineering work? im interested in this career.
Im going to school in the summer for automotive and i want to get in a dealership and work on cars. #automotive #cars #mechanical-engineering #mechanics #engineering
3 answers
Troy Potensky
Troy’s Answer
Much like Spruce said above, I don't believe you would need a full 4-year engineering degree to work at an automotive shop. I know that this field thrives in experience and schooling would probably come second. If you have any sort of projects regarding something automotive I would headline this on your resume. This is something that an employer would love to see as most people who can show their projects can show exactly what they are capable of doing.
I would definitely advise continuing your degree as this definitely only increases your chances of finding a job but is not necessary.
Spruce Cox
Spruce’s Answer
Hey Alexis,
I’m glad you asked about this because I sense the need to more clearly define terms. When talking about college and careers, the term mechanical engineer refers to a graduate of a four-year university with a Bachelor’s degree. A mechanical engineer would be hired to design individual parts or groups of parts for new or upgraded vehicles. This job would not be at vehicle dealerships but at major factories or perhaps at separate design centers. Also, all the major parts manufacturers have the same basic set up.
If you’re thinking about an automotive mechanic, I don’t know if a two-year college degree is required or if there are trade schools you could attend and earn a one or two-year auto mechanics certificate. I don’t know much about this career, so please ask others in the field at private shops or dealerships.
Good luck.
Douglas Lemmo, P.E.
Douglas’s Answer
As a broad statement, delerships do not hire mechanical engineers. Mechanical Engineers have a 4 year college degree and make a lot more money than auto mechanics (2 or 3 times as much with the starting salary) and and do very different work. My advices is take the summer course in auto mechanics so you can see what they do AND also spend some time on the Interned researching what a mechanical engineer does (there are also other types of engineering that may appeal to you) and what kind of companies hire them. If you choose auto mechaics, get into a volk HS if you can. If it is too late for you to get into a Vocational High school, there may be secondary schools (Junior college?) that offers auto mechanic classes in your area. Also, go to a local delearship and ask to speak to the Service Manager, tell him that you would like to become an auto mechanic and ask for his recommendation on how to get into the trade. Also, you could search the Help Wanted Ads for auto mechanics to see what qualifications they require. With all of the computer technology in autos today, you will need specialized training no matter what field you go into.
Good Luck,
Doug
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