Pub. 1 2019 Issue 2

Achieving the highest level of technical expertise is a process; there are no shortcuts. But while formal training programs can be important, on-the-job experience and a general mechanical interest and ability are critical. Computer skills are increasingly valuable as well. A good place to start is an entry-level position in the service department or body shop of an auto or truck dealership or an auction, even without any training. The dealership will often oversee and pay for your training and certification on the vehicle brands they sell and service. (Many manufacturers have their own training programs and criteria, available only to dealership-sponsored students.) Once you’re in the door, a continuous interest in advancing to the next level and acquiring the skills to do that will help you achieve success; well-run dealerships will constantly make you aware of your progress and help you move up. While some organizations—most notably ASE, or the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence— have established testing and certification procedures, there is no industry-wide standard. The same is true for recognized levels of skill and knowledge. In many shops, techs must supply their own tools although, increasingly, some dealerships provide some tools as incentives to recruit and retain talented technicians. Experienced, well-trained technicians will always be in demand and able to earn top-dollar. If you enjoy the work, putting in the time and e ort to complete training and certification will virtually always pay o . HOW TO GET STARTED AS AN AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE TECHNICIAN MEDIAN NATIONWIDE SALARY $ 61,067 + Benefits Bronze Partner iHeartMEDIA A leading global media & entertainment company specializing in radio, digital, outdoor, mobile and more. iHeartMedia NH – Home of Greg and the Morning Buzz, Rock 101, WHEB, NH Today with Jack Heath, News Radio 610 & 96-7, 93-5 The Bull, Fox Sports 930 and iHeartRadio. For more information, please contact Lucy Lange at 603-518-1969 or LucyLange@iheartmedia.com . PlatinumPartner NHADA Workers’ Compensation Trust In-house, self-funded coverage All members of the NHADA Workers’ Compensation Trust are eligible for rebates based on loss experience, competitive rates and monthly payments. For information, contact Marianne Gourgiotis at 800-852-3372 or email her at mgourgiotis@nhada.com . Workers’ Compensation Trust, left to right: Bernie Hecht, Deborah Handrahan, Marta Silakka, Deb Dudley, Peter Sheffer, and Marianne Gourgiotis. Loss Prevention, left to right: Matt Foster, Anne Marie Fallon, Brian Duplessis, Pat Austin, Dustin Howe. D R I V E 20