Mechanic Schools And Careers

About Mechanic

The field of mechanics has changed dramatically in the last 20 years. It has moved from the relatively straightforward mechanical engineering of most of the 20th century to the technologically integrated electronic systems and computerized systems management of today. The field will obviously continue to become more intricate and technical as time goes on, which will lead to an increased demand for qualified mechanics.

In general terms, mechanics have the important responsibility of ensuring that machines and equipment run smoothly and that building systems operate efficiently. This requires extensive knowledge and training, along with a committed attention to detail in the ongoing preventive maintenance of said equipment and systems. On a daily basis, mechanics must diagnose problems and figure out the best way to solve them. This can involve replacing or fixing worn or broken parts or making adjustments so that equipment and machines return to functioning properly.

In a single day, mechanics may be required to complete many different tasks, at any number of locations. In a small business, the mechanic may work alone and handle all repairs, except for very large or difficult jobs. In larger establishments, the mechanic may work under the direct supervision of a more experienced worker, with his or her duties limited to the maintenance of everything in one particular workshop or area.

Many mechanics opt to specialize in a particular field, like auto, diesel, aviation, heating, air conditioning, refrigeration, and industrial maintenance. These specializations can be practiced in many different environments, such as factories, offices, cafeterias, laundries, hospitals, and stores.

Most mechanics work a 40-hour week, including some evening, night, or weekend shifts, or are scheduled to be on call for emergency repairs.

A downside to the profession is that mechanics may have to stand for long periods, lift heavy objects, and work in uncomfortably hot or cold environments, in awkward and cramped positions, or on ladders. Some tasks put workers at risk of electrical shock, burns, falls, cuts, and bruises.

Mechanic School and Training

A high school diploma is usually the minimum requirement for a career as a mechanic, although more formal mechanic training is becoming more common. The high school courses that will turn out to be most useful are shop, mechanical drawing, electricity, woodworking, blueprint reading, science, math, and computers. If these are not offered at the high school level, one can complete them at a postsecondary trade or vocational mechanic school or at a community college.

Those hoping for a career in mechanics should seek out apprenticeship and training programs. Good, qualified mechanics are in short supply so many larger employers provide excellent programs for entry-level workers. Please note that some mechanics have started out by working in a shop as a parts-runner or a service writer while taking evening courses in auto repair or some other mechanic specialization. This is a good way to start if you are not ready to make a commitment to full-time trade school.

In auto mechanics in particular, it's becoming common to take a full-time mechanic training course before entering the industry. This gives you the basic knowledge of the systems you will be working with on the job. Trainees are able to understand these new systems, what they do, and how they work. Courses often include computing, basic mathematics, English and communication skills, and are offered over two years leading to an associate degree.

Among other things, mechanics must be able to interpret blueprints, repair manuals, and parts catalogs, and coordinate with distributors or storerooms to make sure the proper parts and supplies are going to be available. These and other skills of the trade can generally be learned informally on the job. In this situation, the individual starts as a 'helper,' which gives him or her the chance to watch and learn from skilled mechanics in various specialties. Helpers begin their training by doing the simple jobs - like fixing leaky faucets and replacing light bulbs. Then, with time and experience, they gradually progress to more difficult tasks, such as overhauling machinery or building walls.

Most employers require several months of on-the-job training, depending on the skill level of the position, before a helper can become fully qualified as a mechanic. Some even make a helper train for a year or more in order to become fully qualified. In some cases, mechanics may need to be licensed in a particular specialty such as electrical or plumbing work. Licensing requirements vary by state and locality.

Since a growing number of newly constructed buildings rely on computers to control their systems, mechanics need to have basic computer skills. The companies that install the computer-controlled equipment usually provide this training on-site for mechanics.

Many general maintenance and repair workers in large organizations advance to maintenance supervisor or become craftworkers such as electricians, heating and air-conditioning mechanics, or plumbers.

Other Mechanic Qualifications

Those hoping to pursue a career in this field need to have mechanical aptitude, the ability to use shop mathematics, and manual dexterity. Depending on the work setting, the job may involve a lot of walking, standing, reaching, and heavy lifting. The more difficult jobs require keen problem-solving ability, and many positions require the ability to work without direct supervision.

Once a mechanic is out on his or her own, they must make sure they have the proper tools, both common hand and power tools such as screwdrivers, saws, drills, wrenches, and hammers, as well as specialized equipment and electronic testing devices.

Mechanic Earnings

Schools for Mechanic are listed in the column to the left.

The Subcategories tab lists career specialties for Mechanic, each of which has a full page profile on the site.

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