Qualified Auto Technicians in Demand

Estimates on the shortage of auto technicians range from 35,000 to 60,000 per year. Today's auto technician shortage is caused by several factors, including rigorous qualifications necessary to work on increasingly complex systems and fuel diversity knowledge requirements. Not to mention the past negative stigma associated with this career choice ("Grease Monkey" anyone?). The situation will only be intensified in the next decade when Baby-Boomer generation technicians begin to retire.

"Consider these facts: 16 percent of the U.S. workforce will be 55 and older in two years and 10,000 Americans will turn 65 every day by 2012. By 2030, one out of every four Americans will be 65 or older. Over the next 10 years one half of the top technicians will retire," said Richard White, senior vice president, marketing and member relations for the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA).

There is currently - and will continue to be into the foreseeable future - major demand for qualified automotive mechanics and technicians. Quite frankly, the auto repair industry has enough tire rotators and oil changers. What are needed are top quality, highly trained, ASE certified master mechanics. The kind of top-notch mechanic talent that comes from top-notch automotive training schools like Universal Technical Institute and many more.

If you are interested in learning more about becoming a mechanic or more about the training programs available, we recommend you research as many sources as you can find.

In today's shaky economy, peace-of-mind that your job security is good to go is invaluable. Securing a job as a qualified auto technician is a great way to make sure you remain employed and make a competitive salary while doing something that takes true talent.