An open letter to anyone considering a career as a service technician:
I have been a tech since I graduated high school 15 years ago, and I am the only one from my high school auto mechanics class that chose this field as a career. I have achieved my goals and objectives through my hard work and determination. However, let me tell you, it is a challenge that I will never fully master.
I remember dreaming that I could be a good tech. I promised myself that if I were going to do this for the rest of my life, I was going to be the best. In spite of all the negatives, I was determined to not let anyone steer me away from my vision and my dream.
I spent many sleepless nights reading service manuals from cover to cover to learn everything I possibly could on my own. I couldn't afford school, and I had to support myself in this world. Needless to say, I have acquired a vast knowledge. But I've also made many, many mistakes along the way. However, I have become something, and I am proud of that.
The one thing that I have realized is that you cannot focus on being the tech that the boss wants; you need to be the tech that the customer wants. Customers want their cars fixed, and they want it done right. They don't want excuses or a line of bull. All they want is their problems fixed. If you can do that, you will always have work. This will make the boss happy too.
I recall one of my classes covering electronic engine controls. To finish the course, I had to pass the test with a 100 percent score. I thought this was a bit harsh, so I asked the instructor about it. He replied, "How many times does the customer want his car fixed? Only 50 percent of the time? Eighty percent?"
I answered, "One hundred percent." Then he simply handed me the test. I passed, but the most valuable lesson I learned in that class had nothing to do with engine controls.
As you can see, my primary focus is to fix the customer's car correctly. However, I am the professional. As a technician, I have obligations to oversee the customer's safety, my safety and the safety of others. I've learned that as professionals, we don't have to stand tall, but we do have to stand up. We are responsible for our actions, so let's continue to provide service with professionalism and honesty.
Being a tech is not easy these days. We must continuously stay current with the advanced technologies being sent out into the market, as well as staying up-to-date with all the special tools and training — especially if you choose to do "everything on anything." It can certainly seem a bit overwhelming.
But I love my career in spite of its tough times. I enjoy gaining a victory over challenging jobs or fixing the vehicle that no one else can. It's satisfying to reach this mark. It has its ups and downs just as any other job does. But we are in control of our own ups and downs by having the confidence, persistence, knowledge and the right attitude.
So don't give up just because something isn't going right or when someone else is putting you down. Stay focused on your objectives and stay persistent in your trials because eventually you will enjoy the harvest of your labor and reap what you sow.
