Instructor: Paul J. Price

pprice@ntccschool.org

The Auto Mechanics program provides the student with an entry-level background in the skills and knowledge needed for a career in the automotive field. Specialized classroom and shop exercises are designed to provide instruction in the following areas:

• Engine Repair
• Suspension and Steering
• Brakes
• Electrical/Electronics Systems
• Heating and Air Conditioning
• Engine Performance
• Manual Drive, Train, and Axles
• Automatic Trains/Trans-axle

Students are trained to use technical and service manuals and to participate in the Pennsylvania State Inspection Code Program.

Related Occupations

• Diesel Truck & Bus Mechanics
• Motorcycle Mechanics
• Automotive Body Repairers
• Painters
• Repair Service Estimators
• Shop Owners
• Service Managers
• Repair Shop Supervisors
• Inspection Mechanics

Nature of Work

Automotive Technology professionals often work by themselves. They work both indoors and outdoors, and may go out on service calls to make emergency repairs.

They usually work in automotive agencies, independent garages, fleet maintenance shops, or government installations. Larger garages usually have modern facilities with heating and ventilating systems.
Automobile mechanics often work in cramped and awkward positions, employing sight, sound, or touch, to gauge, adjust, and align parts, and to tune engines.

Carbon monoxide poisoning, infection from cuts and burns, allergies to cleaning fluids, and muscular strains from lifting heavy parts are potential dangers. Most mechanics work between forty and forty-eight hours per week, but they may work longer hours during busy periods.  Employers are actively seeking qualified women. Legal changes in employment for women provide job opportunities and equal pay.

State Inspections

We also offer state inspections to students who are eighteen years of age and have a valid driver’s license.

Training & Advancement

Service Manager, Shop Foreman, Automotive Engineer, ASE Certified Master Technician, Garage Manager, Aircraft Technician, PA State Inspector, Vocational Instructor

Job Outlook/Earnings

In May 2010, median annual wages in industries employing the largest numbers of automotive service technicians and mechanics were as follows:

Many experienced technicians working for automobile dealers and independent repair shops receive a commission related to the labor cost charged to the customer. Under this system, weekly earnings depend on the amount of work completed in addition to a guaranteed minimum salary.

Most service technicians work full time, and many work evenings or weekends. Overtime is common.

Industry Certifications Available Through Program

• State Inspection License

Information can be obtained from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, www.bls.gov