Needed: More Automotive Technicians

Needed: More Automotive Technicians
(NewsUSA) - Despite unemployment rates that have reached highs not seen since the '80s, some industries are still hiring. With new-car sales dropping, qualified automotive maintenance and repair industry workers are in high demand.

Why? Americans are choosing not to buy new vehicles but, instead, are driving their old ones longer. "Consumers are maintaining their vehicles longer than in the past," says a study conducted by R.L. Polk & Co. "The average length of time that owners held onto a new car or truck in 2008 was more than four and a half years (56.3 months)."

As vehicles age, they need preventative maintenance and repairs, creating more business for automotive repair shops. To meet this demand, Bridgestone Retail Operations, LLC, which owns and operates automotive service providers like Firestone Complete Auto Care, opened 42 new stores in 2008 and plans to continue to open new stores throughout 2009. Each new store creates about 12 jobs.

As the need for automotive maintenance and repair grows, the need for qualified employees increases. Managers, sales team members, tire specialists and technicians are all necessary to run a successful automotive service center. Many large-scale employers offer competitive benefits and on-the-job training.

Today's automotive service centers are nothing like the repair shops of the past. Within the last decade, vehicles have become so technologically advanced that the average car owner can no longer do his or her own maintenance. As a result, repair shops have also made drastic changes.

Automotive technicians need to be able to identify and diagnose automotive problems quickly and accurately and be technologically savvy. Job seekers with an interest in technology and problem-solving might find lucrative careers in automotive service. Automotive repair shops need sales professionals, managers and technicians.

More Resources


04/26/2024
Mirror supplier Gentex's Q1 net income rises 11% to $108 million, revenue reaches record $590 million

CEO Steve Downing credited the strong first quarter with increased take rates of mirrors with advanced features and technology.



more info


04/26/2024
BMW to invest a further $2.76 billion in key market China

BMW said Friday it planned to invest an additional 20 billion yuan ($2.76 billion) in its Shenyang production base in China, in a sign of the premium carmaker's "unwavering commitment to the Chinese market".



more info


04/26/2024
Know a rising star? Let us know

Automotive News' 11th annual search is underway for Rising Stars at automakers, suppliers, mobility companies and service providers.



more info


04/26/2024
Chevy prices entry-level gasoline Equinox below $30,000

Chevy redesigned its bestselling crossover and No. 2 U.S. nameplate for a fourth generation. Production is expected to begin midyear.



more info


04/26/2024
Genesis' Claudia Marquez: We're 'becoming completely independent' from Hyundai in U.S.
The premium spinoff is becoming more independent from its mainstream counterpart with stronger brand awareness, new products and strong sales.

more info


04/26/2024
Top 5 stories of the week: GM, Ford and Tesla earnings; lowest-cost EVs

A quick look at the week's top automotive stories



more info


04/26/2024
Washington state rolls out generous EV incentive program, especially on leases

Under the incentive program, eligible residents would receive up to $9,000 for a new EV lease of three years or more.



more info


04/26/2024
AutoNation Q1 net income falls 34%; company to buy back $1 billion in stock

The dealership group saw continued revenue gains in financial services and service and parts revenue.



more info


04/26/2024
In Beijing, automakers are all-in on EVs

The Beijing show comes as green vehicles reached a milestone in China, accounting for over half of passenger vehicles sold.



more info


04/26/2024
5 defining moments from Tesla's Q1 earnings

Industry analysts expected bad news from Tesla's first-quarter earnings report after weak sales. But CEO Elon Musk provided an upbeat narrative by announcing new affordable models for next year.



more info




More Automobile Information:

Related Articles

The Talk Just Got a Little Easier


When you hand car keys to your teenager for the first time, your heart races as you think of what could happen. The fact is that car accidents are the number-one cause of death among teens in the U.S., so it's important to communicate the gravity of this newfound responsibility.


How to Find Mechanics Who Will Come to You


When it comes to managing vehicle repairs, the associated hassles and inconveniences that come about -- whether from having no vehicle or the process of finding a reputable repair shop -- can become a major annoyance.


The Best Way to See Clearly in Any Driving Condition


Is there really a difference between wiper blades? When is it necessary to change my wipers? As the wet seasons approach, it's important to ask yourself these questions as heavy rains and increasingly severe weather can obscure driving visibility.


Get Better Gas Mileage


Gas prices are getting as dangerously high as unemployment rates, and both mean a whole new level of penny pinching for the nation's 99 percent.


Avoid a Roadside Mayday This Summer


The temperatures are rising, and so are the numbers of vehicles on the road. Summer is right around the corner, bringing with it a number of road trips to the beach for many families.


Discover a Better Ride on Wet Roads


Bald or poorly maintained tires won't get you very far when it comes to driving on slippery roadways. With improper equipment and maintenance, slick surfaces from rain storms are a major threat to safety on the road.


Wireless Technology Improves Road Safety


Imagine a futuristic transportation system with "talking" roads and cars that instantly provide real-time updates on local weather, traffic and road conditions. Equipped with up-to-the-minute information, motorists could choose safer, more direct routes helping to reduce traffic congestion, shorten trips and reduce vehicle emissions.


Tips for a Stress-Free Commute


Spring is in the air. The days are getting longer and the temperatures are rising. Before you know it, summer will be here along with all the joys that come with it, like summer vacations.


Don't Tread Lightly On Winter Tire Safety


With winter upon us, tire safety in cold weather is something every car owner should be familiar with. Most drivers concentrate on tire safety in hot weather to avoid blowouts, but the same precautions should be exercised in the winter.


Smooth Sailing With Proper Tire Safety


Don't wait until there's nothing left between you and the rain-slick pavement to check your tires. The likelihood of accidents skyrockets when combining wet, seasonal weather and poor tire maintenance.


Prepare Yourself and Your Vehicle for Driving at Night


Along with the beauty that cooler days give us also comes fewer daylight hours. While you should practice caution when driving no matter the season, it's important to take extra precautions this time of year to prepare yourself and your vehicle for nighttime driving.


Planning for Comfort During Long Road Trips


Road trips can provide a great source of tunes, good conversation and relaxation throughout any travel season.


Prepare Your Vehicle for Fall


In many parts of the country, the leaves have started to fall, and parents have sent their children back to school. Before the weather takes a turn, Firestone Complete Auto Care would like to offer the following car maintenance tips to get vehicles ready for the damp, cold road ahead.


Before Summer Fun, Make Sure Your Vehicle Can Handle the Heat


If you ask anyone, whether it be your friends, your neighbors or your colleagues, all will tell you the best things about summer are the surf and the sun! For many of us, a day at the beach is like a mini-vacation, but if you're not prepared, your lovely day trip can turn into your worst nightmare!


Stay on Track to Your Destination With Regular Tire Maintenance


When the rubber meets the road this summer, will you be prepared? Summer heat can be tough on tires, which makes regular tire checks a critical part of your general vehicle maintenance schedule.