Although many high schools, community colleges and vocational and technical schools offer automotive service technician training programs, employers often seek technicians with associate's degrees or certification.
Certification is a great way to gain the skills and knowledge needed to be successful as an automotive service technician and generally takes less than two years. Career colleges offer various classes in computerized electrical and brake systems, steering and suspension diagnostic systems and fuel and ignition systems. Many colleges even offer ASE certification preparation classes. While ASE certification is optional, it is an essential part of becoming an automotive service technician.
Since there are many kinds of vehicles, and many automotive shops and dealers work on specific makes and models, most automotive service technicians are trained to specialize in only a few different types of vehicles.
Experience is also a very important part of what an employer looks for in a prospective employee. Most technicians begin in entry level positions as trainees working next to more experienced service technicians. Good reading, math and computer skills are a high priority requirement. Employers also look for people with strong communication and analytical skills and the ability to learn quickly to keep up with changing technology.
