Kids of Today, Technicians of Tomorrow?

As a High School shop teacher, I periodically hear, “how do I become a mechanic?” from my students. In the lunch room, teachers constantly tell me how expensive their cars and SUV’ s are to maintain. News studies show that there is a shortage of skilled technicians.

So why is there no smooth pathway from student to technician? The first thought that comes to mind is that this is a three-sided issue. Firstly, many shy away from hiring minimally skilled youth for fear, (after their training) they’ll leave. They don’t mind the next guy doing it and say they would if the right kid came along, but when pressed, many won’t. Check their track record.

Secondly, schools are designed with academics in mind and do Tech as an add-on. Shops in a school are considered electives, that is, they are optional, after all academic courses are taken. They are exclusive of each other with shop being the option. Teachers in a school system are university educated; their thoughts and experiences are of that, not college and workplace. There are some great teachers for students to speak with, but not taking that path growing up, they lack the connections and experiences that a technician would have, as well as trade information coming in dribs and drabs which reduces their comfort level in guiding a young mind to becoming a technician, or any trades person for that matter. Let’s face it; those kids who want to work in the field are going to. The other potential candidates need to be exposed to Automotive, like they are to other fields, as a viable possibility.

Thirdly, it takes hard work, dedication, help, and financial support to become a technician and governments have, in the past, made hollow promises, too much paperwork and have made training not as easily accessible as, for example, university assistance.

Exposure is the key. Easy access to information and opportunities from garages will ensure the health of our trade.

All three areas need to communicate with each other, not by finger pointing, but as partners.

Richard Bellafante teaches automotive technology at Etobicoke, Ontario’s Don Bosco Catholic Secondary School