Why Earn a Diploma in Auto Body Repair?
Career Possibilities:
Employment for auto detailers is expected to grow, but the Bureau of Labor Statistics cautions that it is subject to economic conditions. Downturns may affect opportunities negatively. Although many auto detailers have no formal education beyond high school, opportunities should be best for those who complete service training. (www.bls.gov)
Trained detailers should find good opportunities in new and used dealerships, company fleets, car rental agencies, service departments in dealerships, private garages, and paint and body repair shops. Some graduates own their own businesses as stationary or mobile detailers.
Specifics About the Degree:
Diploma programs in auto body repair include a combination of formal training and hands-on instruction in:
- Plastics, vinyl and leather surfaces
- Wood and metal
- Automobile interiors and exteriors
- Engine and trim detailing
- Chemicals, cleaners and polishers
Non-management personnel in auto dealerships made average weekly earnings of about $625 in 2004, with cleaners and detailers making about $9.00 per hour. Earnings often vary by location of the dealership and few of those workers are protected by union membership. Between 2004 and 2014, the BLS expects wages in these positions to increase about 12 percent (14 percent for all industry).
Employees who wish to advance into management positions will need additional education in business and/or auto mechanics, and those with bachelor's degrees will fare the best, as will people with good problem-solving skills and an ability to work well with people.
