Selecting the correct career path is a crucial decision with far-reaching implications. It is a choice that will shape your future, underscoring the importance of making an informed decision.
Over the next few weeks, The African Reporter will engage with business people, professionals, and other role players, focusing on a specific career field every week.
Through this, we aim to provide valuable guidance to our younger readers navigating their career choices.
This week we give a platform to the career of an automotive mechanic. Springs resident Nick van der Westhuizen has been an automotive mechanic for the past 10 years.
He said he started repairing cars at a very young age. Many saw potential in him and would let him work at big automotive brand shops during school holidays.
“I love repairing cars and making customers feel happy. There is no better feeling than to know that you’ve made customers happy with the service that you provided. I always go the extra mile for more smiles,” said Van der Westhuizen.
What is an automotive mechanic?
An automotive mechanic, also known as an auto mechanic, is a person who repairs and maintains vehicles, such as cars, vans, and small trucks.
What do auto mechanics do?
They service and repair automobiles, sometimes specialising in one or more automobile brands or sometimes working with any brand. In fixing cars, their main role is to diagnose and repair the problem accurately and quickly.
What are the roles and responsibilities of an auto mechanic?
Diagnosing problems: Running diagnostics to understand the issue with a vehicle.
Performing repairs: Fixing mechanical components, replacing parts, and updating the vehicle’s computer system.
Performing maintenance: Lubricating parts, changing fluids, rotating or changing tyres.
Communicating with customers: Providing price quotes, explaining what repairs are needed, and giving an estimated time frame for repairs.
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Keeping records: Maintaining records of work completed for each customer.
Ordering parts and tools.
Making sure all tools and equipment are functional and in good condition. Checking each vehicle’s computer and electronic system and repairing or updating it if necessary.
Where can I study to become an auto mechanic?
You can do the following:
Complete an apprenticeship, which combines theoretical training at a TVET college with practical training under a qualified artisan.
Complete a learnership, which provides theoretical and practical training on the premises of an organisation.
Complete a skills programme, which is a short practical course at a TVET college. Pass a trade test to qualify for registration.
What high school subjects do I need?
Contact each institution for their specific requirements, but these subjects are recommended:
• Mechanical technology
• Engineering and graphic design
• Technical drawing
• Mathematics
• Physical sciences
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What skills do I need to become a mechanic?
To succeed as an auto mechanic, you need both practical and relational skills such as:
Physical strength and co-ordination: To work as a mechanic, you must be physically strong, mobile and in good overall health, as you may regularly spend time lifting heavy parts, working with complex tools and assembling objects. The physical nature of the profession also requires excellent co-ordination, as you may work with small parts like screws and bolts.
Diagnostic and problem-solving skills: It’s necessary for mechanics to know how to use diagnostic tools to determine the issues a vehicle is having. These skills allow you to determine the underlying cause of an issue and develop the most effective solution to fix it quickly.
Proficiency with tools and equipment: Auto mechanics work with a wide range of tools, including computerised diagnostic equipment. You must know what each tool does and that you understand how to use it correctly to complete your work with confidence.
Customer service skills: While most of their work involves vehicles, mechanics may still interact with customers on occasion to explain their vehicle’s issues accurately. With good customer service skills, you can help ease customers’ concerns by communicating vital information such as what type of car maintenance is required, what the estimated cost is and how long the repair is likely to take.
Good communication skills: These skills enable mechanics to write reports, answer the telephone, respond to email and text messages and perform other necessary office tasks. They may also work on a team with other mechanics, requiring them to communicate effectively to work together to complete the necessary repairs.
What advice would you give to someone who aspires to become an automotive mechanic?
As an auto mechanic you can expect to spend most of your day working with power tools and other equipment that has specific safety rules, to repair vehicle air-conditioning units, brake systems, steering functions and a variety of other systems.
Auto mechanics generally work full-time hours and frequently work overtime and weekends as needed.
Where do they work?
After completing formal training, you can work at:
• Auto repair shops
• Dealerships
• Tyre stores
• Construction firms
Some can work privately/ self-employed
Industries that mechanics work in can help you decide what area to specialise in.
At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
