A Young Technician's View on Apprenticeships
Melvin Sanchez is a 20-year-old collision repair technician with On the Road Garage in Irving, Texas. He received a nomination for the 2024 Techs Rock Awards this spring. TechForce staff reconnected with Sanchez in September, and the following are his insights on his career as a professional technician so far.
FenderBender is partnering with TechForce Foundation to share perspectives from the new generation of collision repair technicians. Read on for insights you can use to grow your talent pool on why working in a shop appeals to GenZ.
Shop Owners: Things I’ve Learned that You Should Know
I want the industry to know that technicians want to learn and keep up with new technology. Having a shop that is modern with up-to-date equipment is key to our success. I’ve been lucky enough to learn and work at a shop that is more savvy with tech than most. The senior techs I work with have told me some horror stories about other places. I couldn't have the level of success that I have achieved so far without the owner and entire team here at On the Road Garage.
We [technicians] need your support in the form of access to quality training. I was fortunate to find an apprenticeship program, and senior techs tell me that this is the best place I could have studied. Still, there are a lot more people like me who would become technicians if they had access to training opportunities.
My Apprenticeship is Making my Technician Career Possible
I came from humble beginnings. Leaving work to go to school full-time was not a possibility for me. Two and a half years ago I was still working in my first job (McDonald’s!) when I found On the Road Garage. They gave me a chance to learn a trade while earning a paycheck as part of their Tech Apprentice Program.
I had no clue how to fix vehicles when I started. I got teamed up with a great mentor who has taught me so much. Learning how to make repairs was hard at first and is still tricky at times. I equate it to something like performing surgery. It is a serious job.
The apprentice program has made it possible for me to have a career. I am welding in panels and everything. I know there is a tech shortage out there, and with the training I have received from On the Road Garage I know I will make a difference.
From One Young Tech to Another
My advice to other young techs who are also just getting started is to always be willing to learn. Investing in yourself will pay off in the long run. Understanding the vehicles, and the evolving technology of the vehicles is key. Vehicle systems can be difficult to navigate if you haven't received enough training.
Profile provided by TechForce Foundation.
