Whats the best way to become an auto mechanic in Texas?
Asked by shrimpylicious
I live in the Houston area. Is it better to try to get a job at an auto repair shop, with no experience, and learn there? Or is it better to get a degree/certificate and then search for a job? I know HCC (houston community college) offers both a degree and a certificate, which one is better?

Best Answer:
Go and get your credentials before getting a job. Despite ample evidence to the contrary, employers still prefer paper qualifications to acquired skills. You could do a job part-time while you are studying, so that you are accumulating both paper qualification and job experience at the same time.

Getting an accredited certificate in any trade is better. You will also get better pay, and I always look to see if the mechanics are ASE certified before I have them work on my car.
Answered by Sooper Nanny

Your best bet is get the job and go to HCC. The key is that you will start out busting tires anyway. Try someplace like Sears, Firestone or Goodyear. Let them know you are going to school and need the OJT experience. Also let them know you will do the grunt work as long as you get the opportunity to learn the trade. Most places are desperate for help busting tires and they will show you the basics. Good luck and get that education!
Answered by bullbamabull

Best way is to become an apprentice. Many mechanics need to hire help or an (apprentice). Most mechanics are usually paid by pre-determined hours, for example a trans flush will take "x" amount of hours... mech are paid "x" amount of dollars. That means if a mechanic does a 5 hour job in 2 hours he gets paid the same amount. That means if he has more help then he can finish more jobs faster. Biggest set back in being a mechanic is most places expect you to have you're own tools (which can eventually be around 10,000 dollars). You can slowly buy tools durring your apprentice work. Go to any auto repair place and ask for a mentoring/apprentice program(s) they might have. Going the route of College is ok but experince in "real world" situation will probably pan out better, if you can, do both. Really the best way is to apprentise. I'm not trying to be negative, just honest, you might not be taken seriouly, or if you are too pretty it might effect your co-worker relationships. Its sad but true. Either way, go for what you want. If anything I suggest you go to college to suprvise those guys hahaha. Good luck.
Answered by Satanic Panic