Job Growth

Due to the increase dependence of automobiles on computer, knowledge of these systems is vital for automotive technicians. Increasingly cars come equipped with onboard computers, global positioning systems, internet capabilities, and a multitude of other highly developed technology. Computers control virtually every aspect of automobile functioning, making use of this technology a large part of the automotive technician's job. Another changing trend in automobiles is the use of alternative-fuels which may become increasingly important in the future of the automotive technician. Vehicles dependent upon electricity, solar power, and nonpetroleum-based fuels will require even more transformation in automotive service and create new directions in engineering and science for employees trained in automotive service.

Market Growth

The rise in two car households has created an increased demand for qualified technicians. Regardless of the fluctuations in the economy, the need for transportation will remain strong in the future. This means a promising future for those employed in the automotive industry.

According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook, automotive service technicians and mechanics held about 818,000 jobs in 2002. The majority worked for automotive repair and maintenance shops, automobile dealers, and retailers and wholesalers of automotive parts, accessories, and supplies. Others found employment in gasoline stations; home and auto supply stores; automotive equipment rental and leasing companies; Federal, State, and local governments; and other organizations. About 16 percent of service technicians were self-employed, more than twice the proportion for all installation, maintenance, and repair occupations. Opportunities should be very good for automotive service technicians and mechanics with diagnostic and problem-solving skills and knowledge of electronics and mathematics.

IIn addition to job openings due to growth, a substantial number of openings will be created by the need to replace experienced technicians who transfer to other occupations or who retire or stop working for other reasons. Most persons who enter the occupation can expect steady work, because changes in general economic conditions and developments in other industries have little effect on the automotive repair business.

Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2004-05 Edition, Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos181.htm (visited March 12, 2004).