Keep cars on the road by learning automotive technology.
With millions of cars on the road in the United States, it's no wonder that the country is home to approximately 165,000 automotive repair shops dedicated to keeping those vehicles going. Automotive technology brings in about $85 billion in annual revenues, according to the First Research industry profiling organization. If you enjoy working on cars, the automotive technology field may be just the thing to get your motor running.
Instructions
1. Enroll in an automotive technology diploma program, which takes between one to two years to complete. Schools such as Savannah Technical College offer instruction in suspension and steering systems, automatic transmission repair, engine principles of operation and repair, automotive brake systems, drive lines, emissions systems and climate control systems. Diploma programs may require a high school diploma or GED.
2. Purchase an introductory book, such as "Automotive Technology: A Systems Approach" by Jack Erjavec, "Automotive Technology: Principles, Diagnosis, and Service" by James D. Halderman, "Auto Mechanics for the Complete Dummy" by Philip R. Martin or "Auto Fundamentals" by Martin T. Stockel and Chris Johanson. Select a book with lots of illustrations and step-by-step instructions.
3. Visit an automotive store website, which often has an online instructional component. Advance Auto Parts, for example, may have actual bricks-and-mortar stores across the country, but the company's website has a section on its website with step-by-step tutorials, videos, podcasts, downloadable brochures and downloadable blueprints. Access to the materials requires only a free registration.
4. Join or explore the possibility of joining an industry organization, such as the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE). Groups offer training; the SAE for example, offers a list of seminars such as "Introduction to Gears," "Vehicle Accident Reconstruction Methods" and "Introduction to Commercial and Off-Road Vehicle Cooling Airflow Systems." Members receive a discount on training. Industry groups also offer lists of online and self-paced instructional seminars.
Tags: Automotive Technology, automotive technology, cars road
