Thinking About A Career In The Automotive Industry? Here Are Some Tips

planta audi

If you like cars, then you’re probably interested in building a career in the automotive industry. Working within this industry can actually be very rewarding. Getting into the field almost guarantees job security, great salaries, and awesome benefit packages. The automotive industry is highly competitive, interesting, and appealing. This means that you will not have to endure any boring workdays! Here are some tips that can help you out if you’re considering a career in this field.

Do Your Homework On What the Industry is All About

Now that you’ve established that you want to practice in the automotive industry, you need to decide what role you want to take on, and the only way to really do that is by digging deep and understanding all the working parts of what this industry is all about. Are you interested in the design process or are you more into assembling the compartments? Perhaps you want to come up with an awesome marketing strategy or figure out a way to boost sales. Your passion for cars is not enough to help you build a career in the field. However, combining this interest with your skillset and proper research can help you understand the path you want to follow and find success. 

Focus on Specialization

The automotive industry is very broad and diverse. If you’ve already acquired a bachelor’s degree that isn’t related to the field, you will have to complete a master’s degree program to practice in the industry. You may also want to explore an associate degree in 6 months online as an alternative. Some states may require you to complete an internship so you can qualify for a job. If you want to go the extra mile, doctoral degrees may also provide you with extensive knowledge regarding the field. Now that you know your educational path, you must determine the area in which you wish to specialize. Some of the most  popular areas of study in the automotive industry are:

  • Transportation Design
  • Automobile Restoration
  • Motorsports Engineering
  • Automotive Marketing And Management
  • Automotive Engineering

Research Your Options

Researching the viable positions in the field can help you find the path you want to follow. There are numerous equally attractive titles in the automotive industry. These include:

  • Sorter
  • Machine Operator
  • Injection Molder
  • Quality Controller
  • Forklift Driver
  • Shipper/Receiver
  • Assembler
  • Welder

Make sure to find out the requirements for each role, as well as the required level of education and amount of knowledge that you need to acquire. 

Networking Is Key

Setting foot into any new venture, especially the automotive industry, requires you to network. Networking is a science and art of its own. When done right, it can open up numerous doors to endless opportunities. If you’re lucky enough, you may be able to land a job offer instantaneously. You can stay on top of major events in the field, connect with people in the industry through social media, go to job fairs, and even write letters to people who may be able to help you out. You may find it beneficial to interview them and gain insight into their experience, education, and background.

There are countless people who are interested in the automotive field. Being as globally competitive as it is, you must be able to set yourself apart from other talents working to prove themselves in the industry. Understanding the roles you want to assume, identifying the areas in which you wish to specialize, and reaching out to people who can help you out can help you succeed.

Robert Cooke
Rob is a certified mechanic and long-time automotive enthusiast who has worked on everyday passenger vehicles, race and rally cars, and derby cars.