mncars

Car Careers Opportunities

Wed, 08 Sep 2021 20:21:19 GMT

Job Opportunities in the Automotive Industry

Pursuing a car career in the automotive industry can be a very rewarding way to work hands-on with vehicles and technology. If you are considering a career involving vehicles, it is extremely helpful to understand the responsibilities of various roles. Jobs in the automotive industry can span many career areas, including maintenance, repair, design, development, along with careers in sales and customer service. At the end of this article, we will list 10 popular car careers across all sectors of the automotive industry.

If you enjoy cars, hands-on work and technology, pursuing an automotive related career can be a great way to apply what you love to your job. There are a wide variety of jobs available, which allow you to apply your passion and skills to your chosen sector of the car industry. You will also have the opportunity to work with a diverse mix of individuals who share your love of cars. Additionally, since most of the world depends on various forms of automotive transport, a career in the industry is a transportable and secure one.

Here are 10 popular car careers in the automotive industry:

Auto body repair technician
Auto technician
Auto painter
Car detailer
Service advisor
Collision estimator
Parts specialist
Shop manager
Auto instructor
Automotive engineer

AASP-MN Awards Scholarships to Automotive Students

Wed, 05 May 2021 20:17:25 GMT

The Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of Minnesota (AASP-MN) is pleased to announce scholarship awards totaling $21,000 to help automotive service and collision repair students pay for tuition or tools during the 2021-22 school year.

The scholarships are in the amount of $1,500 and are made possible by generous donations from the Minnesota State I-CAR Committee and Bill Smith Fund, as well as proceeds from AASP-MN’s Annual Race for Automotive Education fundraiser, which will be held later this fall.

Thirty college and high school students from 14 schools submitted scholarship applications. Applications were reviewed by a committee of industry representatives, with consideration given to scholastic achievement, education and career goals, financial need and written recommendations.

Recipients will be attending the following colleges/programs:

Anoka Technical College, Anoka – Automotive Service Technology
Century College, White Bear Lake – Automotive Service Technology
Dakota County Technical College, Rosemount – Automotive Service Technology
Dakota County Technical College, Rosemount – Auto Body Collision Repair
Dunwoody College of Technology, Minneapolis – Auto Body Collision Repair
Hennepin Technical College, Brooklyn Park – Auto Body Collision Repair
MN State Community & Technical College, Moorhead – Automotive Service Technology
Pine Technical College, Pine City – Automotive Service Technology
Ridgewater College, Willmar – Automotive Service Technology
South Central College, North Mankato – Auto Body Collision Repair

The Career Path of a Service Advisor

Wed, 24 Mar 2021 20:02:31 GMT

Service Advisor Job Overview

A Service Advisor at an automotive repair shops acts as a liaison between customers and auto techs to guide car repairs through the shop. He or she communicates with the customer to help identify vehicle problems and options for repair, assists in ordering parts and delivers repaired vehicles to customers. Good communication skills and a commitment to customer service are a must.

BLVD Autoworks

Molly has been a Service Advisor at BLVD Autoworks in Minneapolis for two and a half years. Coming from a background in car sales, she is one of three service advisors at BLVD. A normal day (if there is such a thing) involves arriving at 7am and working until 5pm, Monday through Friday. Her day consists of creating estimates for vehicles that need work, managing and communicating with the technicians on staff and being the face of the business by dealing with customers directly.

BLVD Autoworks has been at its St. Anthony location for 38 years and Molly describes working there as working with family. Her co-workers are like family and they treat their customers that way, as well. They have over 1,600 Google reviews and are all about repeat customers and word-of-mouth advertising.

As a service advisor, she is the first person that people see when they come in and is their main point of contact during the process of having their vehicle repaired. She says there can be challenges to being a woman in a male-dominated industry, but loves being able to relate better and build trust with the female clients.

To keep up-to-date with the latest changes in the industry, Molly says she attends occasional training sessions and learns something new each week from her co-workers at BLVD. The changes in the last year brought about by COVID have her and the entire team focused on keeping people safe throughout the vehicle repair process. Sanitizing touchpoints, wearing masks and taking the necessary steps to socially distance have become routine, alongside dealing with the clients’ needs and communicating properly.

Although there have been fewer people on the road in the last year due to COVID, Molly noted that she’s also noticed that people are still maintaining their vehicles and keeping everything in order in this always changing environment.

Apply for Automotive Scholarships in Minnesota

Thu, 28 Jan 2021 19:56:55 GMT

The Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of Minnesota (AASP-MN) will be awarding scholarships to select students enrolled in post-secondary automotive (auto service or collision repair) programs.

Scholarship awards will be $1,000 per student and can be applied towards tuition or tool purchases. Applicants must be enrolled in a Minnesota-based ASE-accredited automotive program in the fall of 2021. Applications will be reviewed by a committee of industry representatives, with consideration given to scholastic achievement, education and career goals, financial need and written recommendations. Applications must be submitted electronically or postmarked no later than March 31, 2021.

Download the Application

Applications can be downloaded from the Alliance’s website or submitted online here. Online submissions give students the opportunity to compete for several different awards, including those offered by the University of the Aftermarket Foundation Scholarship Committee and over 40 other automotive aftermarket organizations and companies. Specific requirements for each organization’s awards can be found at www.automotivescholarships.com.

AASP-MN’s Automotive Education Fund was established in 2002 to provide financial resources to support automotive students, enhance automotive programs and raise awareness of career opportunities in the independent automotive service industry. Since that time, nearly $270,000 has been invested in student scholarships, Skills USA and automotive education programs throughout the state. In 2016, AASP-MN’s efforts to attract a future workforce expanded significantly with the creation of Minnesota Careers in Automotive Repair and Service (MNCARS), a statewide marketing and outreach initiative to encourage high school students to pursue an education and career in the automotive service and collision repair industry. Visit https://carcareers.org/ to learn more.

Recent demand analysis report commissioned by the Minnesota Transportation Center of Excellence

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 19:52:48 GMT

According to a recent demand analysis report commissioned by the Minnesota Transportation Center of Excellence:

On average, Automotive Technology careers pay about $60,100 per year—about $4,000 higher than the average wage statewide across all positions.
Over 21,900 people work in Automotive Technology roles in Minnesota as of the second quarter of 2020.
Over the next 5 years, total demand for Automotive Technology talent is anticipated to be around 9,454 professionals needed to fill positions due to job exits and transfers, such as retirements and job changes.
Nearly 7,000 people work in Collision Repair roles in Minnesota as of the second quarter of 2020.
Over the next 5 years, total demand for Collision Repair talent is anticipated to be around 3,732 professionals needed to fill positions due to job exits and transfers, such as retirements and job changes.

MNCARS Provides High School Support

Wed, 25 Nov 2020 19:45:53 GMT

As part of its 2020 workplan, Minnesota Careers in Auto Repair & Service (MNCARS) “adopted” two high school programs to provide enhanced support and mentoring during the year.

With help from industry suppliers, MNCARS recently invested nearly $5,000 into automotive programs at White Bear Lake High School and Independent School District (ISD) 916.

ISD 916, based at Century College in St. Paul, provides shared programming to 14-member school districts. The automotive program, overseen by instructor John Witthauer, received equipment and supplies to support a new detailing program. Shop vacs, pressure washers, buffers and detailing supplies – and training for their use – were among the items donated by MNCARS and its industry partners. Witthauer stated, “Last year the NE Metro 916 auto program committed to expand our curriculum to include an introductory class for detailing to allow our students to explore the auto body industry and to help the collision industry gain some new technicians. We are grateful for the support we received from MNCARS, which will enable us to introduce the detailing classes in the spring semester of 2021.”

The automotive program headed by Derek Doescher at the White Bear Lake High School South Campus received support in the form of multimeters, motor oil, wheel weights and other consumable supplies. The program enjoys a current enrollment of over 140 students in 5 class offerings. Doescher commented, “We could not be growing our program like we are without the assistance from MNCARS and our local industry. We have already taken leaps and bounds to improve the education the students receive.”

High school and college automotive programs prepare students for secure, high paying, lucrative and meaningful careers as automotive technicians, body techs, painters, estimators, service advisors and other positions in auto service and collision repair facilities.

“Everybody complains about the lack of technicians but very few are doing something about it,” said Dan Sjolseth, chairman of MNCARS and owner of Superior Service Center in Eagan & Apple Valley. “For five years now, AASP-MN and its members have funded and developed multiple resources to promote industry careers through MNCARS. I hope the industry takes note and follows our lead so we can have an even bigger impact,” he added.

MNCARS is pleased to recognize the following industry supporters for their help in this effort:

3M, Woodbury
Auto Value Parts Stores/APH, St. Cloud
Bosch Automotive Service Solutions, Owatonna
Finishmaster, Minneapolis
Key Automotive, Hugo
Lube-Tech & Partners, Golden Valley
Superior Service Center, Eagan/Apple Valley

“State of the Industry” Report- Collision Repair

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 19:40:34 GMT

A recent 2019-2020 “State of the Industry” report published by Body Shop Business offered some insight into the collision repair market in Minnesota.

Among the key findings:

5,042,568 light vehicle registrations
139,591 reported crashes
279,182 total crashes
418,773 damaged vehicles
181,468 repaired vehicles
748 collision repair shops
243 repaired vehicles per shop

Perhaps the most telling information was revealed when shop owners (on a national basis) were asked the question about COVID-19’s impact on their business and their general feelings about the future: 84% believed that their business will either go back to normal or be better than ever! Isn’t this the kind of profession you’d like to be a part of?

Whether working in the shop as a detailer, body technician or paint technician or dealing directly with customers as an estimator or customer service representative, the collision repair industry offers high-demand, high-earning, secure and meaningful career paths to fit your personality and interests.

There are one or two-year collision repair programs offered at 11 colleges in Minnesota. Check them out here, and you’ll be on your way to fulfilling career in no time at all!

Automotive Scholarships Up For Grabs

Sat, 01 Feb 2020 19:35:23 GMT

Thanks to another successful fundraising drive within the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of Minnesota (AASP-MN) membership,

the Alliance will be awarding scholarships to select students enrolled in post-secondary automotive (auto service or collision repair) programs. Scholarship awards will be $1,000 per student and can be applied towards tuition or tool purchases.

Recipients must be entering their first or second year of an ASE-accredited automotive program in the fall of 2020. Applications will be reviewed by a committee of industry representatives, with consideration given to scholastic achievement, education and career goals, financial need and written recommendations. Applications must be submitted electronically or postmarked no later than April 30, 2020.

Applications can be downloaded from the Alliance’s website, https://aaspmn.org/careers-scholarship/ or submitted online at www.automotivescholarships.com/AASP-MN. Online submissions give students the opportunity to compete for several different awards, including those offered by the Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium Scholarship Committee and over 40 other automotive aftermarket organizations and companies. Specific requirements for each organization’s awards can be found at www.automotivescholarships.com.

MNCARS Video Launch

Tue, 17 Sep 2019 19:22:03 GMT

As students across the state return to school, more information about the benefits of a career in auto service and collision repair are available on carcareers.org, including new videos of students sharing their own passion for the industry.

These students are the future of the industry and they share their excitement about the opportunities in front of them.

The 2019 campaign emphasizes “Turning Your Passion into a Career” and, in addition to the new student-created videos, includes an updated look and feel, expanded outreach via YouTube, and text notification options to stay up-to-date with all of MNCARS events and programs.

If you would like more information on how to get involved and support students in learning more about careers in Minnesota’s auto service and collision repair industry, visit https://carcareers.org/motor-mouth/ for additional resources.

To check out the latest videos, head to our YouTube channel to see some of the new videos and be sure to follow MNCARS on Instagram and Facebook to see where we’ll be next.

Automotive Service & Collision Repair Jobs | Skilled Worker Shortage

Tue, 18 Jun 2019 18:03:57 GMT

According to a recent article in the Star Tribune, Minnesotans have much to be proud of,

including the third-highest labor-force participation rate in the country and an unemployment rate below the national average for 10 years running.

Even so, a shortage of skilled workers is impeding Minnesota’s economic growth. By 2024, projections show a gap of 400,000 workers needed to fill middle-skill jobs — those requiring education beyond high school but not a four-year degree.

Careers in the auto service and collision repair industry certainly fall within this category. Across the country there are more drivers on the road, and many of them are hanging on to their vehicles longer than ever. That means workers in the auto industry are in demand more than ever.

Auto service and collision repair technicians, as well as parts specialists, service advisors and estimators are all in high demand. These jobs are readily available to those who complete a one or two-year post secondary auto program. And students can easily find a job while attending school, honing their skills and ready to hit the ground running upon graduation – and with much less debt than a four-year college graduate.

Every year, high school students say the same thing: They are enrolling in college — particularly four year institutions — to find a job. Yet only 27% of four-year degree holders are working in a job directly related to their college major, with many underemployed. Students are getting left behind financially while businesses aren’t finding the supply of trained workers they need. Aanand Radia, managing director of University Ventures, summarized this concisely, “Clearly, the way higher education is set up today and how it’s traditionally been set up is not going to answer the needs of what employers want and to shrink the skills gap.”

As economic growth is expected to continue in 2019, so too is a labor shortage in blue-collar and services occupations, a recent study from The Conference Board found. Baby boomers are aging out of the workforce at the same time the pool of available labor has become more educated, and thus less interested in blue-collar jobs. The tight labor market can be a boon for blue-collar workers: They are more likely to find good paying auto careers and experience rapid wage growth.

While the median salary for auto service technicians and mechanics was around $40,000 a year in 2017, those with experience and more advanced certifications can potentially earn six-figure salaries during their career. The Conference Board study points out that continued tightness in the labor market, while frustrating for employers, can actually be a boon for workers. “The sky is the limit for auto program graduates,” said Dan Sjolseth, chair of Minnesota Careers in Auto Repair & Service (MNCARS). “Industry employers are eager to fill positions and are offering lucrative compensation packages.”

For now, though, the auto service and collision repair industry’s immediate need is for more technicians. Some 46,000 automotive service technicians and mechanics will be needed to fill roles through 2026, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. To get them, industry employers and educators are just trying to get the word out to people who like cars and technology.

Collision Estimator Career

Wed, 10 Apr 2019 18:00:11 GMT

There are many possibilities when it comes to a career in collision repair.

Typically, one might think of a body repair position or a paint technician.

However, there are a lot of related careers that collision repair can lead to. For example, you can work in an auto parts store, a dealership, with an insurance company, as a paint representative, a trainer, etc. This article will examine a career as a collision estimator.

A collision estimator is a person that writes repair estimates on vehicles that have been involved in an accident. The estimator must have good communication skills, as they will be dealing with customers on a daily basis. Not only does the estimator have to communicate with customers, but they will also be the contact person for the insurance companies, shop managers and the shop foreman or technicians. Therefore, good communication is a must for a collision estimator.

This career pathway is definitely for a people person. In fact, a collision estimator that writes repair estimates for an auto body repair center needs to be part salesperson. It is their job to sell themselves, the company, the technicians and the service that the shop provides. Not all technicians make good estimators, but it is a good idea for the estimator to have experience as a technician or have collision repair training. (Although there have been people hired without experience and trained by the shop to write estimates.)

There are two different industries that hire collision estimators. One is collision repair centers and the other is insurance companies. This can also split into other categories in each industry. Collision shops can be dealerships, franchise shops or independent shops. Some insurance companies hire their own company collision estimators, while other insurance companies hire independent companies.

What you can earn as a collision estimator will vary depending on your experience and whether you work for a small/large body shop or an insurance company. However, according to O-Net, the national median for a collision estimator is $53,440 and had a growth rate of 7% to 10% in a ten-year period. (2006 – 2016) Some collision repair centers will pay their estimators a salary and a percentage of every job that they sell. If on one of these types of bonus or incentive plans, the more sales that the estimator produces, the more income he or she can earn.

If you’re interested in getting into the collision estimator field, the first thing you will need is to learn is the basics. You can do this by enrolling in a collision repair training program at a local community/technical college. This will allow you to learn about the scope of the industry; from body and structural repair to painting. Most programs incorporate a basic estimating course within the auto program. This will give you a taste of the industry and determine where you best fit in. You may decide to become a body or paint technician instead of a collision estimator.

Whatever you decide, this training is the first step to securing a job in the collision repair industry. Education and experience hold a lot of weight with both auto body repair shops and insurance companies. The training is your foundation, and once you have your basics down, you have many opportunities and directions to explore for a successful career.

AASP-MN’s Automotive Scholarships Up For Grabs

Fri, 08 Feb 2019 17:56:28 GMT

Thanks to another successful fundraising drive within the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of Minnesota (AASP-MN) membership

The Alliance will be awarding scholarships to select students enrolled in post-secondary automotive (auto service or collision repair) programs. Scholarship awards will be $1,000 per student and can be applied towards tuition or tool purchases .

Recipients must be entering their first or second year of a NATEF-certified automotive program in the fall of 2019. Applications will be reviewed by a committee of industry representatives, with consideration given to scholastic achievement, education and career goals, financial need and written recommendations. Applications must be postmarked no later than March 31, 2019.

Applications can be downloaded from the Alliance’s website, https://aaspmn.org/scholarships/ or submitted online at www.automotivescholarships.com/scholarshiptype.cfm?type=27. Online submissions give students the opportunity to compete for several different awards, including those offered by the Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium Scholarship Committee and over 40 other automotive aftermarket organizations and companies. Specific requirements for each organization’s awards can be found at www.automotivescholarships.com.

The Education Fund was established in 2002 to provide financial resources to support automotive students, enhance automotive programs and raise awareness of career opportunities in the independent automotive service industry. Since that time, over $233,000 has been invested in student scholarships, Skills USA and automotive education programs throughout the state. In 2016, AASP-MN’s efforts to attract a future workforce expanded significantly with the creation of Minnesota Careers in Automotive Repair and Service (MNCARS), a statewide marketing and outreach initiative to encourage high school students to pursue an education and career in the automotive service and collision repair industry.

Go Kart Racing Raises over $10,000 for Automotive Careers

Mon, 21 Jan 2019 17:53:21 GMT

The Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of Minnesota (AASP-MN) held its 17th Annual Race for Automotive Education, January 8, 9 and 10, at ProKart Indoor Racing in Burnsville, MN.

The event raised over $10,000 to support the Alliance’s Automotive Education Fund and will fund scholarships for automotive students enrolled in NATEF-certified auto service and collision repair programs in Minnesota’s technical colleges.

During the three-nights, 150 racers took to the track in go-karts reaching speeds of up to 40 miles per hour. Twenty-four teams of auto service and collision repair shops and industry suppliers were joined by six teams of automotive students from Dakota County Technical College, Dunwoody College of Technology, Hennepin Technical College and South Central College. The student teams were sponsored by 1 Collision Network. Many spectator fans were also on hand to cheer on their team. Trophies were awarded to the 1st place and runner-up teams each night.

AASP-MN member shops are hungry for employees to staff their businesses. From auto service technicians, auto body technicians and painters to service advisors and collision estimators, there are hundreds of great job opportunities to be found in Minnesota’s automotive service industry. Student scholarships and other program support is just one way that we can raise awareness and recruit people into lucrative auto industry careers.

The Automotive Education Fund was established in 2002 to provide financial resources to support automotive students, enhance automotive programs and raise awareness of career opportunities in the automotive service industry. Since its inception, over $233,000 has been invested in student scholarships, Skills USA and automotive education programs throughout the state.

AASP-MN is an association of independently-owned automotive service businesses and industry suppliers dedicated to improving Minnesota’s automotive service industry and the success of its nearly 800 members. For more information, visit www.aaspmn.org.

Three Automotive Careers You Should Think About

Fri, 30 Nov 2018 17:49:00 GMT

Getting paid to work with or around cars is every car lovers dream, and the job market is continuing to grow.

According to a report by the the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 4.3 million people are being employed by the automotive industry in 2018. This is a 10% increase from last year when employment was just over 4.2 million. With an increasing amount of cars on the road and a growing demand for quality car service and education, now is a great time to start a career in automotives.

Think you’re ready to be a part of that 4.3 million? If so, check out these popular job positions that have left many job owners happy and fulfilled with their professional aspirations.

Auto Technician

As an auto technician, you’ll be responsible for repairing and maintaining many of the cars that come through your repair shop or dealership. A love for hands-on work is required as most of your time will be spent on the floor working with a variety of tools and machinery. Some tasks include oil changes, brake inspections, tire rotations, wheel alignments and more! We recommend getting your Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification as many auto repair shops look for that during the hiring process

Salary: $49,000 per year*

Auto Engineer

Automotive Engineers are responsible for designing vehicles and making sure that each of them meets the company’s standards. These individuals will be looking to create unique designs for their brand and push the envelope in innovation. Some of their job requirements include prototype testing, fuel efficiency, style design, and improving on past vehicle models. This position will require a Bachelor’s degree in the field or in a related field, like mechanical engineering.

Salary: $64,000 per year*

Automotive Instructor

A passion for education and cars are needed for this position. As an instructor, you will be responsible for teaching students about the automotive industry and the jobs that are offered. You will guide students as they look to learn, grow, and eventually begin their careers. A Bachelor’s degree is typically required and potentially a teaching license depending on the school you work for (this applies to almost all public school teachers.)

Salary: $57,000 per year*

*salaries are based on average earnings in Minnesota

New Evening Class Schedule at Hennepin Technical College

Wed, 07 Nov 2018 17:43:57 GMT

Are you looking to start an automotive career?

Maybe you’re in an entry-level shop position and hoping to move ahead?

Working adults trying to balance transportation college classes and a busy schedule have new options available because Hennepin Technical College, one of the metro’s top educators of auto body and auto tech professionals, has added new sections of evening classes beginning in January. Classes meet 4 evenings a week, Monday through Thursday.

At the college’s Eden Prairie campus the evening courses are in the Auto Body Collision program, and at the Brooklyn Park campus the new courses are in Automotive Technology. “For years, you needed to begin in the fall semester to be part of the transportation program. If a student decided in September to get started, the schedule meant there’d be an 11-month wait,” says Alison Leintz, the college’s Interim Dean of Career & Technical Education. “Because many of our students are working adults, we’ve added classes that start in spring semester to be responsive to our students and our industry partners.”

The spring semester begins January 14, but priority class registration is open now to new students. To learn more, schedule a tour of the classrooms and labs, or arrange to speak with an instructor, contact Susan Markes, Academic Program Coordinator at 763-488-2497 or susan.markes@hennepintech.edu or visit hennepintech.edu.

Auto Body Collision students can earn:

Auto Body Technician Associate in Applied Science Degree

Auto Body Technician Diploma

Auto Body Estimator—Occupational Certificate

Custom Fabrication and Finishing—Occupational Certificate

Non-Structural Repair Technician Assistant—Occupational Certificate

Refinishing Technician Assistant—Occupational Certificate

Structural Repair Technician Assistant—Advanced Technical Certificate

Automotive Tech students can earn:

Automotive Technician Diploma

Automotive Technician Associate in Applied Science Degree (AAS)

What Does Being A Collision Estimator Involve?

Wed, 17 Oct 2018 17:37:50 GMT

What does it take to become a collision estimator and what’s involved with this important job at a body shop?

An automotive collision estimate writer works for an auto body shop, providing repair cost estimates. Job duties include inspecting damaged vehicles, writing estimate reports and submitting reports to insurance companies. An estimate writer needs training in automotive repair and damage estimating, though work experience in an auto repair shop may substitute for some formal training. These estimators may also wish to receive certification.

Within the insurance industry, collision estimators may also be referred to as automotive damage appraisers and are responsible for examining automotive insurance claims after an accident. After the collision occurs, estimators assess the condition of a vehicle and determine the amount covered by insurance. They also work to prevent any fraudulent claims. A large amount of work time might be spent in auto body repair shops.

Payscale currently reports a $49,257 median annual salary for auto damage Collision Estimator working in an auto-body shop.

To become a collision estimator, you’ll need post-secondary training and/or work experience in auto repair along with optional certification through the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence.

Let’s go through the steps to become a collision estimator

Step 1: Earn an Associate’s Degree

Many employers seek applicants with formal postsecondary education. A number of technical or community colleges offer 2-year associate’s degrees in collision repair. Along with classes in general subjects such as mathematics, English or business writing, vocational topics include automobile structure, damage analysis and repairs, automotive electrical systems and estimating.

Obtain field experience.

An internship or on-the-job training provides individuals with initial experience in the field and prepares them for employment. During this time, individuals shadow an experienced collision estimator and prepare for full-time employment.

Step 2: Pursue Employment Opportunities

Collision estimators can find employment opportunities with auto body shops. In order to pursue certification opportunities, estimators may need at least two years of experience in the field.

Step 3: Gain Certification

Collision estimators can increase their appeal to prospective employers by becoming certified. Those interested in collision estimating can take an exam to earn certification for damage analysis and estimating. Certified estimators must re-certify every five years.

Step 4: Continue Training for Career Advancement

Additional and ongoing training allows collision estimators to increase their marketability. There are also opportunities for supervisory positions. Collision estimators with advanced training and education can move into insurance investigation, policy issuance or auto body repair management.

Now that we’ve gone through the steps of becoming a Collision Estimator, let’s go through the job description and the daily tasks involved with being one.

1.) Estimates cost of repairing damaged automobile and truck bodies based on visual inspection of vehicle and familiarity with standard parts, costs and labor rates. Examines damaged vehicle for dents, scratches, broken glass and other components requiring repair, replacement, or repainting. Identifies frame damage by visually examining the vehicle and/or placing the vehicle in frame-aligning equipment that indicates location and extent of misalignment. Computes cost of replacement parts and labor to restore vehicle to condition specified by customer, using standard labor and parts cost software systems.

2.) Estimate and furnish repair and labor costs and calculate overall customer payment. Negotiate insurance payment after reviewing extent of auto damage. Draft work order consisting of required repair services after approvals and enter the order into work management system. Obtains relevant signatures and authorizations.

3.) Deals with and communicates with the customer while handling their questions and concerns throughout the entire repair process. Establish good customer relations by providing estimates and timelines and any updates along with obtaining relevant customer information and handling all customer queries effectively.

Traits of the Best Collision Estimators:

Attention to detail to ensure accuracy
Strong set of interpersonal communication skills
Customer service mindset dedicated to helping customers get back on the road
Ability to manage multiple projects at once

Questions to Ask BEFORE Starting an Automotive Career

Sun, 30 Sep 2018 17:28:45 GMT

Beginning a career in the automotive industry can be an extremely rewarding decision.

Many car enthusiasts dream of being able to spend most of their days working with a variety of different cars and getting paid to do so. For a lot of automotive job owners, this career path fulfills many of the professional aspirations that they seek.

With that said, it’s important to assess yourself and decide if this is REALLY what you want. A lot of things change when you turn your hobby into a career and it’s good to have an honest conversation with yourself in terms of what you need. Does this sound like you? If so, here are a few things to ask yourself before pursuing an automotive career.

What Kind of Job Do I Want?

An amazing thing about the automotive industry is that there is a wide variety of jobs available to you. Maybe you’re a more hands-on person and want to become an Automotive Technician. Or maybe you have a passion for education and want to express your love of cars in the form of an Automotive Instructor.

Take some time to learn about your professional talents. Once you do, start researching on what’s available. We’re certain you’ll be able to find a position that compliments your skills.

What Kind of Education/Experience Do I Need?

As with any job, positions require that you have some sort of educational background or job experience. Once you determine what kind of job you want, look up the requirements. Some positions, like a Car Rental Agent, may not require any educational degree and only some related job experience. Other positions, like an Automotive Engineer, will require prospects to have a four-year degree in that field or something related to it (in this case, mechanical engineering).

Understand what your desired position needs from you and take the appropriate steps to earn them. Maybe that means going back to school or accepting an entry-level job elsewhere. It may not be what you want but those steps are crucial if you want to land that desired position, or maybe something better, in the future.

How Much Do I Love Cars?

This is a BIG one. We’ve all heard of that one person who decided to follow their passion for a hobby, only to return to their old job or do something else a little while later. Considering that your professional life will revolve around this, it’s important to honestly ask yourself if this is what you want.

If you’re curious but don’t want to fully commit, ask if you can shadow someone with the position you want or find an internship. These options provide you with an opportunity to immerse yourself in the lifestyle without committing to a full-time job. If you have any reservations about it all during the process, it may be best to reconsider your options.

A career in the automotive industry can be just the decision that sparks your fire, but it’s important to ask yourself the tough questions before you commit. We hope these questions are just the beginning of an internal dialogue as you determine if this industry is right for you!

What Does Being An Automotive Service Advisor Entail?

Mon, 09 Jul 2018 22:05:14 GMT

If variety is what you’re searching for, becoming an automotive service advisor at an auto repair shop is the perfect career choice.

The role of a service advisor is to serve as a go-between with the customer and service technicians working in the shop.

Service advisors deal with the customers face-to-face and over the phone to determine what is wrong with the vehicle and provide technicians with accurate repair descriptions. They are also responsible for greeting customers, scheduling appointments and providing estimates on work to be completed. In some shops, the service advisor may also be responsible for duties such as verifying and confirming insurance coverage, conducting inspections and test driving vehicles after the work is completed. As a service advisor, you are the face of the business, and it’s your job to create trust and build long-term relationships with customers.

So how do you decide if an auto service advisor career is right for you? While other automotive careers tend to focus mainly on one skill area, such as mechanics, customer service, or finance, a service advisor needs a mixture of all these attributes. It’s a challenging job, but with proper training, you can look forward to a rewarding career in an area you’re passionate about.

One of the steps that can be taken in becoming a service advisor is gaining valuable hands-on experience in the field. Enrolling in a post-secondary automotive education program is one of the best ways to go about this. Completion of this program will qualify the person for an entry-level position at an auto repair shop as a service advisor. Training programs are available at technical schools and colleges and ensure that individuals have the knowledge and skills to work in their desired field. These programs usually include classroom lectures as well as hands-on practice and can lead to a certificate or associates degree.

Another way to get into the industry as a service advisor is to look into an apprenticeship with a shop. An apprenticeship can provide candidates with the opportunity to learn more about the automotive service industry. By being an apprentice, you can gain valuable experience by working alongside seasoned professionals and obtain many hours of supervised, on-the-job training.

Want to know if you’re suited to become an automotive service advisor? Here are some the most important skills all good service advisors have:

1. A Good Automotive Service Advisor has Polished People Skills
One of the most important elements of a service advisor role is customer service. You will need to take customer calls and meet them when they first come into the shop, book appointments, provide estimates and deal with suppliers, so being friendly and courteous is a necessity. Auto service advisors also handle customer complaints, so being able to deal with unhappy customers politely and diplomatically is essential.

2. A Good Automotive Service Advisor Communicates Effectively
An automotive service advisor acts as a liaison between the technician and the customer and needs to be able to communicate with both effectively. They must explain repair recommendations in layman’s terms to their customers, while also briefing mechanics on customer needs and managing repair schedules.

3. An Automotive Service Advisor Needs Good Comprehension Skills
Being a service advisor also requires strong comprehension skills. Mechanics will provide you with complex service recommendations, and it’s important you understand what you are being told. You also need to be able to listen to customers and properly understand their questions and concerns to provide the best possible service.

4. Mechanical & Engineering Basics are Essential to all Automotive Careers
For a service advisor, the key to good comprehension skills is having basic mechanical and engineering knowledge. Whether you’re speaking to your own technicians, ordering parts or looking over complex technical documents, the technical aspects of your automotive service training will definitely come in handy. But, the learning won’t ever stop – as your career goes on, you’ll need to constantly refresh and update your knowledge in an ever-changing industry.

5. Automotive Careers are all about Troubleshooting
No day runs completely smooth in a repair shop. Parts will arrive late, repairs will run behind schedule, or customers might change their mind about a service request. Sometimes it’s hard to predict how busy your day will be with customers calling or walking in. As service advisors are involved in all aspects of shop business, troubleshooting is a huge part of the role, and you’ll need to be able to think on your feet and solve problems quickly.

6. Writing and Math Skills are Important for Auto Service Advisors
Service advisors have to calculate and prepare estimates, so having good literacy and numerical skills is a basic requirement of the job. You’ll also need to order parts, take inventory and send out invoices, so being good with numbers and writing goes a long way.

Does this sound like you? If so, contact us to learn more!

51st annual World of Wheels in Minneapolis | March 23-25

Mon, 02 Apr 2018 21:37:00 GMT

Guest post by Scott Greschner

The 51st annual World of Wheels event took place in Minneapolis on March 23rd through the 25th. Twenty of these events are held annually and US Bank Stadium was the location on this weekend to check out over 200 hot rods and custom cars and trucks that were brought in from around the region. There was also an assortment of custom motorcycles and vendors selling vehicle-related items such as classic toy cars and vintage road signs.

Day 1 kicked off on Friday and it was Student Career Day at World of Wheels. The program, which started back in 2006, helps to support school automotive educational programs by exposing students to the wide range of opportunities in the industry. Over 300 students from Minnesota high school and college auto programs attended.

This interactive experience allows students both at the high school and college level to participate in a positive and valuable hands-on experience. It also features guest speakers who share their experience, knowledge and passion for the industry, as well as offer insights on possible automotive career avenues open to students through their automotive studies.

Following the general session, students were allowed to preview the show before it opened to the public. During this time, they were able to meet with the car owners and builders, participate in interactive exhibits and talk to representatives from MNCARS and other industry organizations about automotive careers, their programs and scholarship opportunities. Student Career Day allows students to venture out of the classroom and get a glimpse of where they can be headed in the future.

Day 2 was on Saturday and the custom hot rods were on full display under the glass roof of the stadium. The crowds were large as different car care demonstrations were taking place and exhibitors booths were busy. The Celebrity Showcase kicked off with John Schneider, Bo from the Dukes of Hazzard, who was signing autographs and selling merchandise.

Sunday was Day 3, and the final day of the event. The line was long and started filling up early for celebrity guest Dale Earnhardt Jr. He wasn’t to appear until noon, but the line snaked through the stadium almost right away that morning. This was the final day to examine the beautiful custom vehicles up close, watch as the owners worked on them and to ask questions about their fascinating history.

Dakota County Technical College Hosted Spring Transportation Showcase

Thu, 15 Mar 2018 21:27:56 GMT

On Wednesday, February 28th, Dakota County Technical College hosted the Spring Transportation Showcase.

This was the biggest Showcase to date with 9 high schools participating and over 300 students visiting the campus for the event from throughout the metro area, eastern Minnesota, and western Wisconsin.

40+ industry partners attended the event from the Automotive Technician, Auto Body Collision, Heavy Equipment, and Heavy Truck Programs. This was a wonderful opportunity for prospective students, current students, and members of the industry to network together about careers in the automotive field. Jobs highlighted include: auto repair, collision and auto body, service advisors and more.

The event was filled with hourly giveaways and food for all of those that attended. Items included scholarships and tool certificates, as well as numerous smaller items donated by the attending vendors. The event was also a great chance to view cool products on hand from the industry partners showing what type of equipment one would expect to work on if they were to gain employment at their company.

The traditional student pipelines are simply not sufficient to meet the demands of the current transportation industries. The Transportation Showcase was designed to create an environment where the local business partners, college and high school educators, and current and potential students can interact face to face to generate greater interest in careers in the transportation industry.

MNCARS Organizes Field Trip For Girls Enrolled In Auto Classes

Fri, 16 Feb 2018 21:08:26 GMT

On Thursday, February 15th, Minnesota Careers in Auto Repair & Service (MNCARS), organized a field trip for girls enrolled in auto classes at St. Paul Central High School.

The group of 14 girls and their instructor visited 3 very different employers representing the auto service and collision repair industry to see women in action in the workplace and learn more about industry career paths.

At Merit Chevrolet in Maplewood, the girls met Jessica, a service advisor, Pat, assistant body shop manager and Jessica, a paint rep and trainer for local supplier, Blue Rock Refinishing Solutions. They toured around the dealership and learned about the women’s career paths and job responsibilities.

At 3M’s Automotive Aftermarket Division lab, the students met Elise, Caroline, Katie and Audrey , lab techs and engineers who demonstrated a variety of procedures and products used in the vehicle repair process. The girls had the opportunity to try panel bonding and spot welding themselves and see demonstrations on painting and removing defects from paint finishes.

The final stop was Medi-Car of Woodbury, where co-owners Susan Moynihan and Debi McConnell explained how they came to be owners of an independent auto repair shop. The girls learned about the shop’s apprentice training program and met technician, Tyler, who showed them how he uses a digital inspection program to identify recommended vehicle repairs and communicate them to the customer.

The goal of the field trip was to open the girls’ eyes about the many, varied and rewarding jobs and career paths that are available to them in the automotive service and collision repair industry. After visiting with the successful women at Merit Chevrolet, Blue Rock Refinishing Solutions, 3M Automotive Aftermarket Division and Medi-Car of Woodbury, there is no doubt that the girls from St. Paul Central High School now have a vision for the bright future that a career in the industry holds.

MNCARS: On a Roll

Mon, 24 Jul 2017 21:00:11 GMT

Minnesota Careers in Auto Repair and Service (MNCARS) is a non-profit organization established in 2016 by the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of Minnesota (AASP-MN).

Its sole purpose is to promote careers in the automotive industry, recruit young people into the state’s college-level automotive service and collision repair programs and, ultimately, into industry workplaces. Now 18 months into the initiative, MNCARS is pleased to report progress on a number of fronts…

• Developed website, social media presence, marketing materials, counselors kit and other collateral to educate target audiences (“tinkerers”, school counselors and parents) about the career opportunities in today’s automotive service and collision repair industry
• Established an industry speaker’s bureau and recruited “student ambassadors” to promote careers in the auto service and collision industry
• Presented to middle school and high school automotive students and participated in career and college fairs throughout the state
• Activated social media campaign to drive traffic to carcareers.org
• Sponsored St. Cloud Times SPARK feature on transportation careers and event at St. Cloud CTC
• Distributed introductory materials and career promotion posters to school counselors
• Organized World of Wheels Student Day
• Attended MN School Counselors Association conference (2015 – 2017)
• Exhibited at Back to the 50s (2016 & 2017)

Since January, 2017, the MNCARS message has reached:

• Over 8,400 middle and high school students
• 750+ average monthly visitors to www.carcareers.org
• 3,000 MNCARS video viewers
• Over 53,000 Facebookers
• Over 52,000 Snapchatters
• 465 Instagrammers
• Over 1,000 school counselors
• Over 150,000 Central MN residents

Dan Sjolseth, owner of Superior Service Centers in Eagan and Apple Valley, and chairman of MNCARS, states, “Those of us who have been involved in this effort from the beginning feel like we’re really starting to gain some momentum. Counselors, educators and parents appear to be much more receptive to the idea that a 4-year college degree is not for everyone and that the skilled trades – especially automotive – have a lot to offer: rewarding and varied career paths with high earnings potential in a high-tech, high-demand industry.”

Looking ahead, plans are underway to:

• Activate the grassroots army of AASP-MN members at the local level to spread the MNCARS message far and wide
• Partner with the MN Transportation Center of Excellence to deploy a career exploration trailer at local events to build interest and provide hands-on experiences related to automotive careers
• Continue presentations to high school automotive students and participation in career and college fairs throughout the state
• Continue social media engagement to drive traffic to carcareers.org
• Begin fundraising necessary to sustain the campaign into the future

Sjolseth added, “It’s going to take the work of the entire industry to keep driving our message home and make a bigger impact. The future of each and every automotive business depends on the availability of skilled technicians and other qualified employees. We encourage all members of the industry to put the resources developed by MNCARS to use in their own backyard to advocate and educate target audiences about the bright outlook for automotive service and collision repair careers and jobs in our state.”

The MNCARS initiative is made possible by the generous contributions of industry organizations and companies. Check out www.carcareers.org and visit the About Us page to see a list of sponsors and supporters. Those who are interested in contributing by volunteering their time or financial support should contact the AASP-MN office at 612-623-1110 or judell@aaspmn.org.

AASP-MN Awards Scholarships to Automotive Students

Thu, 08 Jun 2017 20:53:36 GMT

The Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of Minnesota (AASP-MN) is pleased to announce scholarship awards totaling $18,000 to help automotive service and collision repair students pay for tuition and tools during the 2017-18 school year.

The scholarships are in the amount of $1,000 per student and were made possible by a successful fundraising drive within the AASP-MN membership, as well as a generous donation from the Minnesota State I-CAR Committee.

Twenty college students from 9 schools submitted scholarship applications. This year also marked the first time that AASP-MN opened the scholarships to high school students entering their first year of a 2-year NATEF-certified automotive program, resulting in an additional 9 applicants. Applications were reviewed by a committee of industry representatives, with consideration given to scholastic achievement, education and career goals, financial need and written recommendations.

College recipients were:

• Samantha Adams, MN State Community & Technical College, Moorhead – Automotive Service Technology
• Trevor Bitterman, South Central College, Mankato – Auto Body Collision Repair
• Joshua Bradfield, Century College, White Bear Lake – Automotive Service Technology
• Ben DeMarais, MN State Community & Technical College, Moorhead – Automotive Service Technology
• Paul Gilpin, Dakota County Technical College, Rosemount – Automotive Service Technology
• Jordan Hockens, Rochester Community & Technical College, Rochester – Automotive Service Technology
• Wyatt Krampitz, South Central College, Mankato – Auto Body Collision Repair
• Benjamin Lamb, Century College, White Bear Lake – Automotive Service Technology
• Angel Paucar, Dunwoody College of Technology, Minneapolis – Auto Body Collision Repair
• Gabino Rodriguez-Arguelles, South Central College, Mankato – Auto Body Collision Repair
• Jacob Simmel, Century College, White Bear Lake – Automotive Service Technology
• Trieu Tran, Century College, White Bear Lake – Automotive Service Technology
• Billy Watson, St. Cloud Community & Technical College, St. Cloud – Auto Body Collision Repair

Five scholarships were awarded to high school students – one Auto Body Collision Repair student entering Hennepin Technical College, Eden Prairie and four Automotive Service Technology students entering Dakota County Technical College, St. Cloud Technical College, Century College and Central Lakes College.

Congratulations to all of this year’s recipients!

The scholarship awards are the centerpiece of AASP-MN’s Automotive Education Fund, which was established to provide financial resources to support automotive students, enhance automotive programs and raise awareness of career opportunities in the independent automotive service industry.

The Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of Minnesota (AASP-MN) is an association of nearly 800 independently-owned automotive service businesses and industry suppliers dedicated to improving the state’s automotive service industry and the success of its members.

15th Annual Race for Automotive Education Announced

Thu, 05 Jan 2017 20:23:49 GMT

The 15th Annual Race for Automotive Education is planned for January 10 & 11, 2017 at ProKart Indoor Racing, Burnsville, MN.

The event, sponsored by the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers, Minnesota (AASP-

MN), serves as the primary fundraiser for the AASP-MN Automotive Education Fund, which provides financial resources to support automotive students, enhance automotive programs and raise awareness of career opportunities in the automotive service industry. Since its inception, the fund has disbursed nearly $190,000 directly to students enrolled in automotive programs through the Association’s scholarship program and Skills USA competition.

AASP-MN members and other industry supporters will organize teams to compete in kart racing at speeds of up to 40 miles per hour. When the final checkered flag waves, the Race for Automotive Education is expected to raise over $7,500. The majority of that money is earmarked to fund scholarships for students enrolled in NATEF- certified automotive program (collision or mechanical) in the state of Minnesota. Scholarship awards will distributed in the fall of 2017.

For more information, contact Judell Anderson at the AASP-MN office at (612)623-1110 or (800)852-9071 or

log on to www.aaspmn.org.

AASP-MN is an association of independently-owned automotive service businesses and industry suppliers

dedicated to improving Minnesota’s automotive service industry and the success of its nearly 800 members.

For more information, visit www.aaspmn.org.

Good times for skilled workers in Minnesota — especially in blue-collar trades

Wed, 22 Jun 2016 20:46:48 GMT

By Winona Daily News | Thursday, June 16, 2016

After graduating from the University of St. Thomas, Joe Novitzki landed a gig selling medical devices early in his job hunt.

“For myself and my friends who are also from the area I think it’s been pretty easy find jobs,” he said.

The job market seems to be improving in Minnesota, at least for people like Novitzki. The state’s unemployment rate is about at pre-recession levels and the average wage for private-sector jobs has been growing at a healthy clip. But if times are good for workers, it means many employers are struggling to find people. They’re not only spending more on wages — employers are turning to other strategies to procure the skills they need.

Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development economist Steve Hine says a rise in average private sector wages is an especially telling indication of a tightening labor market. And many unskilled jobs are paying more than the state’s $9-an-hour minimum wage.

Abra Auto Body is worried about securing a steady supply of repair technicians for its 340 or so shops around the country, including one in the company’s home town of Brooklyn Park.

The company is already paying a $2,500 bounty to anyone who refers a qualified technician. And next month the company is offering free on-the-job training.

David Kuhl, Abra’s chief people officer, says the auto body repair industry will need more than 100,000 workers in the next decade to replace retirees. And he says the jobs are more desirable than many might think.

“Although it is a blue-collar job, it is highly technical, highly skilled,” he said. “You’re using computers and using very sophisticated technology to really make cars beautiful again.

And Kuhl says the company’s techs pull down $80,000 a year on average.

A lot of people don’t realize that body technicians can make six figures,” he said. “Twenty percent of our body technicians make over a hundred thousand dollars a year.”

Other blue-collar jobs, such as carpentry and construction, are on the rebound, too.

Scott Gertjejansen, a branch manager for Carpentry Contractors Co., says it’s hard to find new workers interested in the trades.

“Hence the reason we have increased our wage averages and benefit package to try to attract some of those that might change their mind and maybe want try this industry,” he said.

Not every worker is feeling flush, though.

A Federal Reserve survey found that about a third of adults said they were struggling or just getting by last year. But the survey also found more people with a sense of financial well-being — not only in total, but across income and education levels.

In the white-collar world, workers with valued accounting, finance, information technology and other skills are frequently finding many suitors.

Kathy Northamer, a district director with the Robert Half recruitment firm, says her company is seeing candidates with multiple job offers.

“At the same time, they use offers to play off of other offers, so better work-life balance here, more vacation there,” she said.

And Northamer’s firm says companies are increasingly making counter-offers to employees headed out the door, sometimes promising five-figure pay hikes.

Companies have to be more careful not to take valued employees for granted and keep wages and benefits competitive.

“It’s a good time to be a job seeker. It’s a really good market for people who are maybe looking to make a move,” said Carrie Patton, board president for the Twin Cities Human Resources Association

Employers are even taking more interest in English majors and other liberal arts graduates.

Paul Timmins, director of career services at the University of Minnesota’s College of Liberal Arts, said he feels like the labor market is still getting better.

“There are times where employers just aren’t hiring as much. They don’t come to the job fairs,” he said. “But we’ve seen record attendance in the last couple of years in terms of employers attending all of our big job fairs. Both for CLA and for the University of Minnesota system-wide.”

mncars

Car Careers Opportunities

Job Opportunities in the Automotive Industry

Here are 10 popular car careers in the automotive industry:

AASP-MN Awards Scholarships to Automotive Students

The Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of Minnesota (AASP-MN) is pleased to announce scholarship awards totaling $21,000 to help automotive service and collision repair students pay for tuition or tools during the 2021-22 school year.

The Career Path of a Service Advisor

Service Advisor Job Overview

BLVD Autoworks

Apply for Automotive Scholarships in Minnesota

The Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of Minnesota (AASP-MN) will be awarding scholarships to select students enrolled in post-secondary automotive (auto service or collision repair) programs.

Download the Application

Recent demand analysis report commissioned by the Minnesota Transportation Center of Excellence

According to a recent demand analysis report commissioned by the Minnesota Transportation Center of Excellence:

MNCARS Provides High School Support

As part of its 2020 workplan, Minnesota Careers in Auto Repair & Service (MNCARS) “adopted” two high school programs to provide enhanced support and mentoring during the year.

“State of the Industry” Report- Collision Repair

A recent 2019-2020 “State of the Industry” report published by Body Shop Business offered some insight into the collision repair market in Minnesota.

Automotive Scholarships Up For Grabs

Thanks to another successful fundraising drive within the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of Minnesota (AASP-MN) membership,

MNCARS Video Launch

As students across the state return to school, more information about the benefits of a career in auto service and collision repair are available on carcareers.org, including new videos of students sharing their own passion for the industry.

Automotive Service & Collision Repair Jobs | Skilled Worker Shortage

According to a recent article in the Star Tribune, Minnesotans have much to be proud of,

Collision Estimator Career

There are many possibilities when it comes to a career in collision repair.

AASP-MN’s Automotive Scholarships Up For Grabs

Thanks to another successful fundraising drive within the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of Minnesota (AASP-MN) membership

Go Kart Racing Raises over $10,000 for Automotive Careers

The Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of Minnesota (AASP-MN) held its 17th Annual Race for Automotive Education, January 8, 9 and 10, at ProKart Indoor Racing in Burnsville, MN.

Three Automotive Careers You Should Think About

Getting paid to work with or around cars is every car lovers dream, and the job market is continuing to grow.

Think you’re ready to be a part of that 4.3 million? If so, check out these popular job positions that have left many job owners happy and fulfilled with their professional aspirations.

Auto Technician

Auto Engineer

Automotive Instructor

New Evening Class Schedule at Hennepin Technical College

Are you looking to start an automotive career?

What Does Being A Collision Estimator Involve?

What does it take to become a collision estimator and what’s involved with this important job at a body shop? ﻿

Let’s go through the steps to become a collision estimator

Now that we’ve gone through the steps of becoming a Collision Estimator, let’s go through the job description and the daily tasks involved with being one.

Questions to Ask BEFORE Starting an Automotive Career

Beginning a career in the automotive industry can be an extremely rewarding decision.

What Kind of Job Do I Want?

What Kind of Education/Experience Do I Need?

How Much Do I Love Cars?

What Does Being An Automotive Service Advisor Entail?

If variety is what you’re searching for, becoming an automotive service advisor at an auto repair shop is the perfect career choice.

51st annual World of Wheels in Minneapolis | March 23-25

Guest post by Scott Greschner

Dakota County Technical College Hosted Spring Transportation Showcase

On Wednesday, February 28th, Dakota County Technical College hosted the Spring Transportation Showcase.

This was the biggest Showcase to date with 9 high schools participating and over 300 students visiting the campus for the event from throughout the metro area, eastern Minnesota, and western Wisconsin.

MNCARS Organizes Field Trip For Girls Enrolled In Auto Classes

On Thursday, February 15th, Minnesota Careers in Auto Repair & Service (MNCARS), organized a field trip for girls enrolled in auto classes at St. Paul Central High School.

MNCARS: On a Roll

Minnesota Careers in Auto Repair and Service (MNCARS) is a non-profit organization established in 2016 by the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of Minnesota (AASP-MN).

Since January, 2017, the MNCARS message has reached:

Looking ahead, plans are underway to:

AASP-MN Awards Scholarships to Automotive Students

The Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of Minnesota (AASP-MN) is pleased to announce scholarship awards totaling $18,000 to help automotive service and collision repair students pay for tuition and tools during the 2017-18 school year.

College recipients were:

Congratulations to all of this year’s recipients!

15th Annual Race for Automotive Education Announced

The 15th Annual Race for Automotive Education is planned for January 10 & 11, 2017 at ProKart Indoor Racing, Burnsville, MN.

Good times for skilled workers in Minnesota — especially in blue-collar trades

By Winona Daily News | Thursday, June 16, 2016

What does it take to become a collision estimator and what’s involved with this important job at a body shop?