I have recently been looking into doing a mechanic trade such as light vehicle mechanic but still testing the waters, I am curious as to how many people are qualified mechanics or self taught or something else altogether. Also any advice on the best path i.e. through Tafe or MTA and any other experience that might shed some light on thise choice for me.
I'm a first year apprentice at a dealership, turn second year in April. For the most I enjoy it, like all big organisations it isn't really organised (but coming from the Army it's pretty much perfect). They give us bonus for stupid things (ie; not taking a sickie for the money, $100 in pocket....thanks). A dealership isn't really the best place to learn IMHO, but I'm gonna hang around until my trade school is up, because the one I'm going to is pretty good.
Be warned the pay will be shit to start with and most likely will be shit for your entire career, unless you know what you're doing. Like everything you can make money, however it will be hard to make much at a dealership or working for someone else.
There is better money to be made in heavy stream, as it's not as general as light stream. However, bare in mind there is a shortage of qualified mechanics and it's only going to get worse, the pay could pick up.
i did my motor mechanic trade a long time ago.started my apprenticeship in1979.took home $47 a week! fantastic trade to learn thesedays as you will just about become auto electrician as well.a dealership can be good it justdepends on the particular dealership.try not to become just a parts fitter.they are common.but really get into it and make sure you get a good understnding of the high tech shit because things are going to change paywise for the better in the motor industry because good guys are really hard to get.become a good techo and you will almost command your own price.dont hesitate and dont let any age issues concern you.good luck.
I'm a first year apprentice at a dealership, turn second year in April. For the most I enjoy it, like all big organisations it isn't really organised (but coming from the Army it's pretty much perfect). They give us bonus for stupid things (ie; not taking a sickie for the money, $100 in pocket....thanks). A dealership isn't really the best place to learn IMHO, but I'm gonna hang around until my trade school is up, because the one I'm going to is pretty good.
Be warned the pay will be shit to start with and most likely will be shit for your entire career, unless you know what you're doing. Like everything you can make money, however it will be hard to make much at a dealership or working for someone else.
There is better money to be made in heavy stream, as it's not as general as light stream. However, bare in mind there is a shortage of qualified mechanics and it's only going to get worse, the pay could pick up.
Thanks for your reply mate,
I am also in the Army at the moment and looking to get out (had my fun and pretty much over it all now), unfortunately I didnty have the hindsight to go into a trade through the Army so am starting from scratch at 22...I guess the pay would be my biggest concern, did you have to work a 2nd job? I am looking at getting my security license for some extra bucks but I dont know how full on the hours are during the apprenticeship...
over 21 and your pay rate will be increased, so the pay isnt as bad. Im a 2nd year Diesel Mechanic. I find the average truck to be more interesting than the average car. that said, if i could play with high performance petrol engines i wouldnt turn it down.
From what i hear the real money is in the diesel mechanics earthmoving stream. not everyones cup of tea though, pretty dirty job. I might do it once im qualified.
__________________
1992 DC LTD 5.0
Duel exhaust, Genie extractors, Ported E7 heads, ported lower HO inlet, 70mm maf, Underdrive Pullies
I don't have a second job, I do the odd back yarder which covers my alcohol consumption, but that's it. I try and make a bit flogging off car parts but it's not that much. Compared to army pay apprentice wages are a kick in the guts.
Be warned, at 22 it may be harder to get an apprenticeship. They have to pay you more, however you have maturity on your side.
the real money is in aircraft maintanence engineering.ther is a shortage of a.m.e and l.a.m.e qualified people.I left motor trade and did another apprenticeship in aircraft and was taking home in my second year what i was taking home as a dealership foreman.now im qualified and taking home 3 times as much.only problem is you sometimes have to travel with the work to fix them-sometimes places like hamilton island and ayers rock.its a tough job.LOL.
The AutoGuide.com network consists of the largest network of enthusiast-owned enthusiast-operated automotive communities.
AutoGuide.com provides the latest car reviews, auto show coverage, new car prices, and automotive news. The AutoGuide network operates more than 100 automotive forums where our users consult peers for shopping information and advice, and share opinions as a community.
Linear Mode
