The responsibilities of automotive service technicians and mechanics
have evolved from simple mechanical and auto body repairs to
high-level, technology-related work.
Today’s automobiles possess integrated electronic systems and on-board
computers that regulate performance. This, coupled with the
introduction of hybrid fuel technology, has increased the demand for
highly skilled workers who can use computerized shop equipment and
work with electronic components while maintaining their expertise with
traditional hand tools.
Technicians must have an increasingly broad knowledge of how vehicles’
components work and interact, and they also must be able to work with
electronic diagnostic equipment, digital manuals, and reference
materials.