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The image of an auto mechanic was once associated with menial labor and low pay. Fortunately, those days have long ago subsided. Today's auto mechanics are part of the skilled labor force, and must maintain a current understanding of the technology changes that govern success in their profession. The sheer number of advances in the automotive industry over the last several years mirrors those of the information technology industry. It is estimated that by the year 2020, over a billion cars will be in everyday use across the world. With the trend of automobile ownership only likely to rise, becoming an auto mechanic might be a shrewd career move, especially for those with mechanical aptitude who enjoy working on complex machinery.

But how exactly does one enter the profession? The answer is through auto mechanic training programs offered by several technical schools and universities across the nation. These programs are geared toward providing students with the basic understanding to work on modern automobile systems. Not only have cars and trucks become much more complicated over the last several decades, the diagnostic equipment used to evaluate them has as well. Additionally, there are several schools that offer courses on specific automotive systems, such as electrical, transmissions and fuel systems. Formerly, one or two mechanics would be responsible for knowing everything there is to know about every automobile placed on the lift. Today, many repair shops and dealerships hire mechanics that specialize in a particular area. In fact, recent years have seen the development of businesses dedicated to one specific area of automobile repair.

According to the United States Department of Labor, auto and diesel mechanic wages are on the rise. Increases in the technical knowledge required of mechanics have placed well trained technicians in demand on the employment market. As cars become more complicated, so will the training require of auto mechanics. As with any profession in general, the more technical a position becomes, the more lucrative it becomes as well.