Is Auto Repair a dying industry?
I’ve always managed to do small maintenance work on my own cars a a hobby but over the years I’ve taken a deep interest in getting into the auto service industry as a career. I’m currently enrolled in community college studying Business Management but I don’t really see myself going anywhere with that degree. I’ve been looking around at other schools for more interesting programs to pursue. So far, I’m inclined to these options… Lab Technician, Auto Repair Technician, and another intensive auto repair program being sponsored by General Motors that includes both classroom and hands on training in a working dealership. The GM program is more competitive to get into but I like the idea of being able to work on cars while in school. I’m only considering the Lab Technician program because of the rumors I’ve been reading online about the declining automotive repair industry but my true passion is being able to make a living working on cars. I wanted to get some feedback from people working in the industry. Is a training program like the one being sponsored by GM a better option or are managers more attracted to applicants with traditional college degree? Also, what are you thought on the future of the auto repair industry?
I think that as a young person you should follow always follow you heart and passion for whatever you have a sincere interest in. As long as people keep buying cars companies will keep manufacturing them so there's always going to need for auto mechanics. The major concern I hear from people working in the industry is over the flat pay rate system shops use to calculate wages. Going with GM sounds like a good idea if you can get exposure to all their latest and greatest technology.
The auto industry is very lucrative. My ex always made good money as a mechanic. As long as the economy is not doing well,People will not be able to afford new cars so they will need to fix the car they have. As long as there are cars for transportation, we will need mechanics. And if you enjoy it, you will do well. It is not an easy job as cars are always changing, you must be intelligent, those tests are not easy to pass. This skill can be used for buses and boats , rv's, etc.