hey guys i need some help with a school project i need to do a career shadow on someone who is doing the career i plan on doing, i will be attending UTI in AUG with intentions of getting into STEP and i need to have someone answer a few quick questions for my project

1.Why did you choose this profession?

2.What education did you need to get to this level?

3. What obstacles did you overcome to reach this level?

4.What are the downsides of your profession?

5. How do you see your profession changing in the next five years?

6. What is the best advice you have to offer someone who is working to enter your profession?

7.What is you work environment like?


and thats all of them, and also if you could provide a picture of yourself my teacher wants to see the people we are interviewing. THANKS SO MUCH!!!

you can reply or send me a PM whichever you like.

1.Why did you choose this profession?
I'm not sure I really chose it, I just sort of fell into it. I hated high school (like most kids) and was looking for another option. I discovered a vocational program through a local community college that offered a number of programs to high schools for elective credit. I decided to take the automotive program. One thing led to another, and I ended up at Wyotech, and subsequently, STEP.

2.What education did you need to get to this level?
STEP requires a two-year automotive program and prior work experience in the field. I took TWO two-year automotive programs, but it really isn't necessary.

3. What obstacles did you overcome to reach this level?
I had to maintain a high GPA and make it through automotive school in order to even be considered for STEP. I consider their testing and interview process an obstacle! Only the top students get accepted.

4.What are the downsides of your profession?
The downsides are that we're at the mercy of our workflow. If there's no work, there's no money. Paychecks are constantly varying, so it makes budgeting a bit of a challenge. Plus there's that mechanic stigma. Everyone hates the dealership and thinks we're out to get them.

5. How do you see your profession changing in the next five years?
Cars are becoming more complex and requiring more specialized equipment which creates a challenge for independent shops. I'm hoping that means more customer pay work will be coming into the dealerships with E65s, E60s and E90s coming out of warranty. That means more money for the technician. I'm also looking forward to coming out of this economic slump so people will spend more money on their cars.

6. What is the best advice you have to offer someone who is working to enter your profession?
Be honest, be humble, learn from those around you, take your time, be organized, and don't work for AutoNation.

7.What is you work environment like?
It's actually very laid back. As far as dealerships go, it's pretty organized and well managed (which I think few techs will say about their dealership). Everyone is pretty happy and we all get along great. It's cold in the winter, boiling hot in the summer and it SUCKS when it rains, but we deal with it.

And the picture:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v309/kelliewrx/KellieBoxHead.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v309/kelliewrx/Loon.jpg
And I guess I'll give you a normal one...
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v309/kelliewrx/kellie5.jpg

thank you so much for your help it really means alot!:D

You're welcome!