Why should high school graduates consider a truck repair career?

There are several good reasons to consider a career in truck repair:

·         The work is interesting and varied.

Think about all the businesses and services that depend on trucks and you will see the variety of positions available. When you think about trucks, you may think of semis moving products from coast to coast, but what about construction companies using dump trucks and hauling equipment to jobsites?  How about local delivery companies bringing packages to your door?  Service companies providing linen, supplies, and uniforms to restaurants, hospitals, and schools?  Oilfield services delivering and setting up equipment and hauling sand and water?  Mechanics are needed to install dump boxes, cranes and hoists, utility bodies, pump rigs, and other equipment onto truck chassis. Someone has to repair ambulances, fire trucks, police vehicles, and armored carriers. These are just a few of the repair situations, and you could add many more just by watching the trucks on the road. In most jobs, you rarely do the same thing two days in a row and technology is constantly changing, requiring regularly updated learning.

·         Pay is good and job security excellent.

OK, you may not get rich working as a truck mechanic, but after a period of time to learn the trade and make a name for yourself, you will make more money than you would at a factory job, and you should always have work. After all, machines of any kind will always need repair and maintenance, and the work can’t be outsourced to another country or to a centralized location. Top pay for the industry is for engine specialists, who typically have been in the trade for more than ten years.  

·         Jobs in repair exist anywhere trucks are used.

 Wherever you live or want to relocate to, truck repair jobs will be available. You take your experience, knowledge, and tools with you when you change jobs.

·         The industry rewards initiative and knowledge, and the ability to think on your feet.

The mechanics who make the most money and enjoy the best jobs display these qualities, and advancement is granted based on ability over time served. This is not always the case in other occupations.