Top Recession Proof Career – Auto Mechanic


In these hard economic times, many professions are suffering. There are only a handful of industries that aren’t being affected. Many high school seniors and anyone looking for a career are starting to consider longevity when it comes to finding a career. When the economy is unstable, a career that won’t suffer in a recession is becoming a major factor when choosing a future job.

Certainly the service industry is suffering in the area of retail and entertainment. However, there are several service industries that will remain necessary, and could in fact thrive in trying times. One of these, is the automotive repair industry. Highly trained and skilled, auto mechanics will be able to ride out the recession better than most.

It is becoming harder and harder to secure financing for new cars, and so many people are keeping their older cars for longer and longer periods of time. This will lead to an increase in automotive repairs, maintenance, and towing. Employment for Auto Mechanics is set to increase 14 percent between 2006 and 2016. Most of this growth will be concentrated in automobile dealerships and independent repair shops. The Bureau of Labor Statistics, www.bls.gov, reported recently that jobs for automotive service technicians and mechanics is expected to grow faster than average despite the economic downturn. Many new jobs in the industry will be created, and job opportunities will be significantly higher because many skilled technicians are expected to retire within the next few years.

Small retail operations that offer after warranty repairs will continue to grow. Jobs will decline however in gasoline service stations because it is becoming less common for them to offer repair services.

These new job prospects are centered on qualified people. People who have competed high school or postsecondary automotive training programs will have an edge. Armed with a certificate through the Institute of Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) they will be able to apply for higher paying jobs.

Auto mechanics are expected to have good diagnostic and problem solving skills. Formal training is needed in basic electronics and computer courses for people to develop these skills.

Recently, automotive mechanics were named in the ‘Top 21 Recession Proof Jobs’ by Forbes magazine. There will always be a demand for those skilled in automotive repair, and even through tough economic times, they will find their skills a valuable asset.

Looking for a Recession Proof Career? Start a rewarding career as anAutomotive Technician