So, you’re fresh out of school and considering a career in the automotive industry. What can you expect from taking a position in a constantly changing field? If you’ve always loved cars and want to transfer this passion to a career, the automotive industry might be for you. Before you decide on a future career path, it helps to know what to expect.
As with most industries, there are both pros and cons of working in the automotive field. Whether you’ve just graduated from school or you’re looking for a career change, here are the advantages and disadvantages to working in the automotive industry:
The Pros of Working in the Automotive Industry
The automotive industry is an old industry that is only getting better with time. With new technologies impacting the industry and exciting career opportunities for young professionals, it’s not difficult to see why many are interested in becoming an auto technician or mechanic.
- Unlimited Career Possibilities
Auto mechanic and technician positions aren’t your only two choices for working in the industry. If you love technology and cars, there are plenty of exciting occupations in the automotive industry that can lead to fulfilling careers. For example, industrial designers are responsible for developing new automotive concepts, including the function, design, and production costs of the product.
So, you’re fresh out of school and considering a career in the automotive industry. What can you expect from taking a position in a constantly changing field? If you’ve always loved cars and want to transfer this passion to a career, the automotive industry might be for you. Before you decide on a future career path, it helps to know what to expect.
As with most industries, there are both pros and cons of working in the automotive field. Whether you’ve just graduated from school or you’re looking for a career change, here are the advantages and disadvantages to working in the automotive industry:
The Pros of Working in the Automotive Industry
The automotive industry is an old industry that is only getting better with time. With new technologies impacting the industry and exciting career opportunities for young professionals, it’s not difficult to see why many are interested in becoming an auto technician or mechanic.
- Unlimited Career Possibilities
Auto mechanic and technician positions aren’t your only two choices for working in the industry. If you love technology and cars, there are plenty of exciting occupations in the automotive industry that can lead to fulfilling careers. For example, industrial designers are responsible for developing new automotive concepts, including the function, design, and production costs of the product.
- It’s Nothing Like Your Hobby
Many auto mechanics originally got into their trade by working on cars as a hobby. While it might seem like mechanics are getting a paycheck for doing their own personal hobby, the reality is much different. Working on cars for a living can be tough without the same feeling of reward. Working for hours on end while dealing with rude customers is a far cry from blasting tunes while you work in silence and at your own leisure.
- Health and Safety Concerns
There are certain health and safety risks associated with the automotive industry that you should be aware of before becoming an auto mechanic. In addition to regular physical strain from repetitive bending and lifting, mechanics can also be exposed to dangerous chemicals and machinery. One of the major concerns of working in an auto body shop is the possible exposure to asbestos. Auto parts, including clutches and brakes, contain asbestos due to its heat-resistant abilities. When these parts begin to wear down, the asbestos can become airborne and put mechanics at risk of exposure.
Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages
These are just a few of the many pros and cons to working in the automotive industry. However, each of them should be weighed carefully before you make a final career choice. Although you may get excellent health benefits and joy from working in a shop environment, the health risks associated with your position should be carefully considered.
To find out whether or not a career in this industry is right for you, it may help to shadow a worker in the position that you’re considering. This will help you get a first-hand look at a potential future in the automotive industry.
