Have you ever wondered what auto techs make? Are you considering a career in the automotive industry but unsure about the earning potential? In this post, we will delve into the topic of what do auto techs make and provide you with a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision.
The automotive industry has long been plagued by the misconception that auto techs do not make a decent living. While it is true that auto techs do not earn as much as some other skilled trades, such as electricians or plumbers, the earning potential is still quite good.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for automotive service technicians and mechanics was $44,050 as of May 2020. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $25,620, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $71,940.
In summary, auto techs make a median annual wage of $44,050, which is a decent living wage. However, the earning potential varies based on several factors, such as experience, certification, and location.
Factors Affecting What Auto Techs Make
Several factors affect what auto techs make. Some of these factors include:
Experience
Just like any other profession, experience plays a vital role in determining an auto tech's earning potential. The more experience an auto tech has, the higher the salary they can command.
Certification
Auto techs who have obtained certification from reputable organizations such as ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) can command higher salaries than those who are not certified.
Location
The earning potential for auto techs varies based on location. Auto techs working in metropolitan areas, where the cost of living is higher, tend to earn more than those working in rural areas.
When I started my career as an auto tech, I had no idea what to expect in terms of salary. However, as I gained more experience and obtained certification, I was able to negotiate a higher salary. Today, I am earning a comfortable living wage.
Benefits of a Career as an Auto Tech
Besides the earning potential, there are several benefits to pursuing a career as an auto tech. Some of these benefits include:
Job Security
The automotive industry is always in demand, and there will always be a need for skilled auto techs. This means that job security is relatively high compared to other industries.
Flexibility
Auto techs have the flexibility to work in different settings, such as dealerships, independent repair shops, or even start their own business.
Continual Learning
The automotive industry is constantly evolving, and auto techs must stay up-to-date with the latest technology and techniques. This means that auto techs have the opportunity to continually learn and improve their skills.
Question and Answer
Q: Is it possible to make a good living as an auto tech?
A: Yes, it is possible to make a good living as an auto tech. While the earning potential varies based on several factors, such as experience, certification, and location, the median annual wage for auto techs is $44,050.
Q: What are some of the benefits of pursuing a career as an auto tech?
A: Some of the benefits of pursuing a career as an auto tech include job security, flexibility, and the opportunity to continually learn and improve skills.
Q: What factors affect an auto tech's earning potential?
A: Factors that affect an auto tech's earning potential include experience, certification, and location.
Q: Is certification necessary to become an auto tech?
A: While certification is not necessary to become an auto tech, it can improve an auto tech's earning potential and job prospects.
Conclusion of What Do Auto Techs Make
In conclusion, auto techs make a decent living wage, and the earning potential varies based on several factors such as experience, certification, and location. Pursuing a career as an auto tech offers many benefits, such as job security, flexibility, and the opportunity to continually learn and improve skills. If you are considering a career in the automotive industry, be sure to weigh the pros and cons and make an informed decision.
