The automobile technician of today’s world is changing quickly. Not only must the tech be able to use their body to perform repairs to the machine, but they must use their experience and education to see into the mind of a computerized machine which is increasingly autonomous. How do they do it? Sometimes I don’t even know. How do we find these guys, and what do we look for? As an owner, I’m looking for technicians who possess a college education in automotive technology. They will be required to be master certified once properly trained. In an experienced technician I look for professionalism demonstrated through a willingness to continue their education, as proven by their completion of certification, training seminars and memberships of trade organizations.
One well known organization is ASE. ASE is an acronym for the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. This non-profit institute works to improve the quality of automotive repair and service. To become certified by ASE, a technician first must verify two years of repair experience in the field, then take and pass the ASE test for a particular system. All ASE certifications are valid for 5 years, and after that the technician must retake and pass the updated test to be re-certified on that particular system. Today’s automobiles are so technologically advanced that many technicians are certified in just one or two areas. Technicians can test and receive certification on any of the nine general automotive areas: Engine Repair, Automatic Trans/Transaxle, Manual Drive Train and Axles, Suspension and Steering, Brakes, Electrical/Electronic Systems, Heating and Air Conditioning, Engine Performance, and Light Vehicle Diesel Engines. If a technician is certified in all of the first eight areas, he is then known as an ASE Master Certified Technician (Diesel is not required but is now offered as a separate test). Additionally, there is an Advanced Engine Performance Specialist Certification (L1) offered only to those techs who pass the Engine Performance test. The advanced test identifies those techs possessing the knowledge and skills for diagnosis of complex drivability and emissions-related problems. ASE recently announced their new test for hybrid vehicles, offering yet another area for today’s technician to demonstrate his or her competence.
Recently our country is experiencing a huge shortage of skilled laborers. I won’t get into the politics behind the reasons, or the reasons behind the politics. I can say that most of us in the automobile industry recognize this shortage. I’m biased, but I think the automotive technician of today’s world must possess a brilliance which could rival that of the most complex professions. Because of this truth there’s never been more opportunity for the professionals which make up our work force. Cars, trucks, and modern machinery are increasingly complex. The technicians that can correctly identify problems and solutions and put their hands to work making the repairs are going to command higher pay and benefits. Couple this with the rising costs of diagnostic tools and equipment and we’ll all find the cost of repair on the rise. This brings me to some good news: preventative maintenance will save you more money than ever before!
If you or someone you know seems like a good fit for the industry, don’t hesitate to send them my way. I love talking about vehicle maintenance and repair. I’m fortunate to know several high school shop teachers, and I know they too are always looking for bright kids with which to work. For more information on the skilled labor shortage in the United States, and what to do about it, visit the website here.
Ashland Automotive
280 E Hersey St.
Ashland, OR
97520
(541) 482-4042
