Life may be different right now, but it certainly hasn't stopped. Stores are busy, new restaurants are opening, and life keeps chugging along. However, some have unfortunately found themselves unexpectedly unemployed as industries quickly adjust to what 2020 throws at us next. Now, deciding where to turn for a career change causes us to think about the future differently. Essential workers are needed across a broad section of industries - not just the front-line workers who have saved us throughout this pandemic.
Construction, electrical, HVAC and aviation companies all need trained workers. But there are few jobs that are as in demand for the future as automotive technician positions.
If you were to search for auto tech positions within 25 miles of Springfield right now, almost 50 jobs would pop up. Starting salaries range to up to $20 per hour and with experience and certifications, pay can be upwards of $40 per hour. As more experienced technicians retire, this demand will only increase.
Even if you don't consider yourself a car aficionado, this is a career choice that can be appealing for many reasons aside from being high demand and good wage. As cars continue to become more complex and “smarter,” plus the increase in self-driving vehicles, auto technician work will become even more intriguing and require more training.
You may be wondering, could I really see myself working as an auto technician? I've never even changed my oil or a tire. It may be surprising to learn you can succeed in and enjoy a career in automotive technology if you are a problem solver who enjoys hands-on work with new challenges every day. Using logic to understand how things work as well as creativity to build unique solutions to problems are integral to this career.
The work itself can be remarkably interesting. Sure, you may rotate tires, but you can also work on unique challenges on race cars, classic cars or heavy equipment. Plus, each day you get to meet and help others. Customers trust you are keeping them safe and the gratitude people show you for fixing their vehicles can be very rewarding.
The need for automotive technicians shows no signs of slowing down. Not just the typical family car that needs repair, there are also fleet vehicles, recreational vehicles, motorcycles, off-road vehicles and farm equipment that need work. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, “With some employers reporting difficulty finding workers with the right skills and education, job opportunities for qualified applicants should be very good … Of these workers, those who have completed formal postsecondary training programs or achieved ASE certification should enjoy the best job prospects.”
And there are opportunities beyond working “under the hood.” Two graduates of LLCC’s Automotive Technology program now working in the corporate world at Cummins, Inc. and Ford Motor Company headquarters will be featured in LLCC’s upcoming FORWARD magazine. They both credit LLCC with starting them on the path to success in this industry.
According to LLCC Automotive Technology Professor Damen Tanke, “Everything is computer-controlled now, even some of the small engines like lawn mowers. We need trained technicians who know how to fix and maintain this equipment. And this isn’t just a field for men. Companies tell us their female technicians excel in electronic diagnosis and detailed orientation.”
It’s not too late to start this fall! To get trained, hired and start work in a career in less than a year — explore LLCC’s high-quality, affordable workforce programs, including Automotive Technology. You can begin a certificate program in mid-October and complete by mid-May. For more information and assistance, visit www.llcc.edu/workforce, call 217-786-2407 or email darla.cochran@llcc.edu.