Thinking about pursuing a career in the automotive or manufacturing industries? There are lots of options when deciding to develop a natural mechanical skill into a long-term career path. From general automotive to specializations in diesel, motorcycle, or marine mechanics, there are many different opportunities to think about when planning for the future. Here are just some of the possibilities you can consider for an automotive or manufacturing career in the Philadelphia area.

What do auto technicians do?

Auto technicians identify problems, plan repairs, and perform maintenance tasks, ensuring proper testing and process completion along the way. They also explain issues to customers, examine parts, and monitor electronic and computer systems. Mechanics may choose to specialize in areas such as diesel, motorcycle, or marine technology, performing similar tasks and executing maintenance and repair work on those types of vehicles and equipment.

How much can an automotive technician make in Philadelphia?

With a national median wage of nearly $40,000 per year and projected growth of 6% between 2016 and 2026, automotive technician and mechanic jobs can be a great option for those who are mechanically inclined and interested in pursuing automotive training. According to May 2017 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Pennsylvania has the fifth highest number of automotive service technicians and mechanics in the country.

And it’s not just a job for the boys. In Philadelphia, there is growing visibility for female mechanics in the auto industry. Girls Auto Clinic, which opened in late 2017, is already eyeing national expansion after seeing great success with their female mechanics and messages of empowerment. The clinic provides resources, products, and services designed specifically for women in a largely male-dominated industry. The founder, Patrice Banks, saw a need for women who own cars but dread the processes of buying, maintaining, and repairing them due to lack of knowledge or understanding—or the perception that they don’t understand—when talking about car care in a typical auto shop.

Career training programs for automotive, motorcycle, diesel, and marine technicians (or other similar tracks) can be completed in as little as a year and typically include hands-on training specifically designed to prepare you for the certifications and skills you need to work in the industry.

Plus, IAF has programs to help lower the cost of tuition for qualified students when you enroll at our member institutions. Thousands of students receive these scholarships and awards each year, helping them attend one of more than 400 partner campuses. We’ve given more than 8,200 such awards to automotive students in the Philadelphia area alone! These award-winning programs are designed to support recent high school graduates, adult learners, and current or honorably discharged military personnel, and they provide a $1,000 discount on your tuition.