FADA Programs

Why should YOU work in the automotive industry?

These days it’s not easy to find a high-quality, good-paying job that offers someone without a four-year college degree the ability to advance into management and even ownership positions in a company. But today, automotive technicians at new-car and -truck dealerships have all of these opportunities. Local dealerships that service new cars and heavy trucks exist in virtually every community across Florida (and America). The average compensation of an automotive service technician at a new-car dealership is over $61,000 per year (including health and retirement benefits). Top technicians can make over $100,000 per year, and managers can make even more.

There is a projected shortage of 370,000 auto service technicians through the year 2026, These jobs are in high demand at local dealerships in all regions of the country. Technician jobs are also available at America’s car and truck auctions, where millions of used vehicles are serviced before sale every year.

While some service jobs with on-the-job training are available at dealerships, more complex service work must be done by certified technicians. Prospective technicians can find state-of-the-art training in dynamic, two-year programs at community colleges or technical schools. Training and certification can also be achieved at some high schools. After an apprenticeship or training at a community college or technical school, technicians can receive ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) certifications, the standard automotive industry certifications.

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Dealers: From job shadowing, to the mentored internships, to career placement, dealers act as an extension of the manufacturer and make internships possible. But students aren’t the only ones benefiting from the experience. Sponsoring  students often results in higher retention rates in the dealership service department. A recent survey shows that 76% of interns stayed with the same dealership.

• State and Metro Automotive Dealer Associations: State and metro associations and Automotive Trade Association Executives (ATAEs) administer local youth automotive programs and place students at participating dealerships. Many associations also provide scholarships for post-secondary education.
• Automobile Manufacturers: Many automobile manufacturers support youth automotive programs and are helping enhance the public perception of automotive service careers through marketing campaigns, such as BMW’s ‘Teens and Wheels’ initiative.
• Fixed Operations Directors and Service Managers: Service staff members interact with youth automotive students on a daily basis, and, therefore, act as powerful role models. They are responsible for overseeing these student during internships and providing help and instruction.