Career Paths

Hey guys I am doing a little self evaluating these day. I am interested in some input on various career paths.

A little back ground information. I am a general automotive tech by trade. I have been in the trade now for 11 years. My first 8 years were specialized working in transmission shops. During this time I was unable to obtain an apprenticeship/license. I decided 3 years ago I needed to step things up and get licensed so I made the switch the general automotive. I have completed 3 years of my apprenticeship and I am currently signed up to finish my 4th year in September.. I have all ready put a $200 non refundable deposit down on the class.

I am extremely well rounded in this trade. If anything I have found I stretched my self far to thin trying to learn everything.

Locally the market sucks, for techs. I have been looking for a new job now for 3 months. There aren't many shops looking for techs. I have interviewed at a few shops, but haven't found anything worth my time. To be honest I am also getting tired of this trade.

I was trying to ride things out until I got my license in september, but that didn't work out. I was forced into a position last week where I had to quit my job. I made sure to quit on as good as possible of terms with my old boss. He is willing to still sign off on my license no matter what field/where I have moved to ect...

Since I am now on a job hunt, I am looking for input on idea for a new career. No matter what though I will be finishing my schooling in september.

My first consideration is to switch into HD/CT mechanics. This is what my experience best transfers into. Its more money, and opens up some interesting/different doors. All though I am really not sure if I want to be wrenching for the rest of my life. I know I want to work with my hands, but I need a good mental challenge. I get bored easy when it comes to doing the same tasks over and over again.

Money is a factor. My current sallary isn't all that high (only about 40K) but I need to try and keep around the same.

Not to sure what else to say. I am open to suggestions or questions.

Take this with a grain of salt, I'm no expert in securing a long term career.

There's definitely good money to be made in commercial diesel, if you find the right shop. I worked for Estes (I don't know if they have a terminal up there.) several years ago and made good money but they are also very demanding.

Have you ever thought about machining?

Even though I'll be layed off at the end of this week I'd say Ive done quite well for someone with no degree. In 2011 I made 55,000 and in 2012 I made 60,000. Of course I worked a ton of overtime in 2011 and quite a bit during the first half of 2012. Much like wrench turning it's all about finding the right shop. Two words: JOB SHOP.

I see you're not far from the Puget sound, have you looked into marine diesel?

Welding is another good field to get into.

If my current career prospect doesn't work out I'll be looking into a few welding classes or more machining certifications.

How about tool and die maker/machinist? It'll take some schooling, but how about airframes/powerplants mechanic for airplanes and helicopters? IIRC, there's a growing need for them.

Airplane and Helicopter techs don't get paid as well as you think for the level of training, schooling and licencing. Although there is always a need, most of the better paying is traveling and or overseas. There is a reason why I took a Equipment Specialist/Logistics position for the military, I do have an A&P, schooling & years of military/civilian experience and instructor certified. With no aviation background, school is a couple years to meet the requirements.

If you like tech work, there are some tech fields always in demand and pays well. Check out medical equipment tech. Does repairs and calibrations, work is usually in a hospital, Medical office so warm and clean. Will require more school than A&P but pays twice a much.

thanks guys for some of the info.. All good suggestions.. IF anyone has had experience in some of the fields mentioned above feel free to post your thoughts on it... Maybe some tips for getting in to it...