Automotive Techs & Mechanics

Apr 21

🚘 The Road Ahead: Job Outlook for Automotive Techs & Mechanics

If you've ever popped a hood and felt more at home than in your living room, this one's for you. Whether you're turning wrenches in a dealership garage or figuring out what that weird rattle is in your neighbor’s Silverado, the work you do matters. And the good news? It’s not going anywhere.

We took a look at the numbers from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and here’s what the road ahead looks like for automotive service techs and mechanics.

🛠️ Jobs Steady & Strong

From 2023 to 2033, jobs for auto techs are expected to grow by 3%, right in line with average growth across the board. But here’s the kicker: about 67,800 job openings are expected every single year. Most of those are from folks retiring or shifting careers — which means there's space for new talent and room to grow.

If you’ve got the drive, there’s work waiting for you.

💵 The Paycheck

The median annual wage sits at $49,670, but if you’ve got the skills, the right certifications, and you’re known as the person who can fix the unfixable — that number can climb.

Don’t undersell yourself. Tools are expensive. So is your time.

🧰 What the Day Looks Like

Most techs work in clean, well-lit shops — but let’s be honest, you’ll still get your hands dirty. You’ll be handling everything from mechanical and hydraulic systems to computerized diagnostics. Modern vehicles run on more tech than ever, and you’ll need to keep up.

That means using:

Diagnostic scanners
Torque wrenches
Specialized software
And yes, sometimes a hammer with “attitude”

🎓 Getting in the Game

Most folks start with a certificate or vocational program. It doesn’t take a four-year degree — but it does take some training, especially to keep up with evolving systems. Once you’re working, certifications (like ASE) help you stay sharp and stand out.

🚀 Bottom Line

This is a solid, steady trade with real opportunities. If you’re already in the game, keep honing your skills. If you’re thinking about jumping in, now’s a good time to learn the ropes and get your hands dirty.

The world needs skilled mechanics. And they’re not building themselves.

📚 Sources:

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Automotive Tech Job Outlook

The Blue Collar Boyfriend

At The Blue Collar Boyfriend, we’re all about equipping tradesmen and women with the best gear to get the job done right—because quality tools aren’t a luxury, they’re a necessity.

Let us introduce ourselves. We’re Jerry and Louise, a husband-and-wife team married for over 30 years. In that time, we’ve seen the blue-collar world evolve in big ways. Jerry is a Master Electrician with experience in residential, commercial, and industrial work. He’s also served as a Plant Operations Director in both healthcare and senior living communities.

Louise has been along for the ride—always looking for ways to support her hardworking man. From searching for the best work gear and tools to making sure he had what he needed to stay safe and comfortable on the job, she knows the struggle of finding quality products that truly deliver.

Over the years, we’ve come to realize we have more to offer than just our own experience. We’ve found companies and products we trust, and we have friends in the trades with a wealth of knowledge to share. We created The Blue Collar Boyfriend to build a community—one that provides encouragement, insight, and real recommendations for the hardworking men and women who keep our communities running.

Here on our page, you’ll find tips, advice, solutions, product recommendations, humor, and relatable content. Follow along and join the conversation!

https://thebluecollarboyfriend.com