By Martin Banks
The automotive industry is at the forefront of innovation and advancing technologies. If you want to be part of the action, this sector has numerous opportunities for entry. Which roles are the best, and what mistakes should you avoid?
Here is your map for a rewarding career with cars.
What Rewarding Careers Are in the Auto Industry?
You can find fulfilling jobs across the auto industry, whether in an auto shop or an office. Here are five roles to explore careers in.
1. Automotive Engineering
Automobiles constantly evolve, and automotive engineers drive the innovation. These professionals design your car’s intricate technologies and components to increase efficiency. You may get to work on vehicle prototypes for manufacturers and develop the next generation of popular models. Imagine designing the future Ford Bronco or Dodge Charger.
2. Autonomous Vehicle Engineering
The automotive industry is trending toward self-driving cars, with experts saying their market will grow by 21.9% until 2030. This change opens the door to career opportunities in autonomous vehicle engineering, where professionals work on advanced technologies. Your career may combine robotics, electrical engineering, C++ and other skills.
3. Automotive Sales
Do you enjoy cars and customer-facing roles? Automotive sales may be the career for you. These professionals combine knowledge with sales to make people happy in their new rides.
Salespeople earn commission-based pay, so successful pitches can earn solid salaries. You also have room to grow, as dealerships need managers and directors.
4. Car Detailing
Detailing is another way to help people with their cars and put a smile on their faces. This career path is suitable if you enjoy designing and restoring cosmetics instead of working on the mechanical side.
Your services could include removing rust from trucks or trimming leather seats. Car detailers often own their businesses, giving you more control over daily operations.
5. Truck Driver
While designing and building vehicles is outstanding, you may have an itch to drive. If you enjoy transportation, truck driving could be the career for you. These logistics professionals are in high demand, so your career path should find many opportunities. For instance, Acme Truck Line has over 2,000 trucks at more than 30 service locations across the US and Canada.
What Mistakes Should You Avoid Along the Way?
Your automotive industry path can take you on an incredible journey. However, some obstacles could hinder your professional growth. Here are five mistakes to avoid in your career.
1. Forgetting Your Soft Skills
Working with cars requires stellar mechanical knowledge, regardless of the vehicle. However, do not forget your soft skills because they matter in various automotive professions.
For example, a mechanic must be able to communicate with customers to understand their vehicles’ problems. Automotive sales managers require leadership capabilities to help their sales team.
2. Discounting the Financial Side
Another underrated skill in your automotive career is the financial side. Money matters in numerous aspects, so you must know how to manage it properly.
Engineers and mechanics should understand budgets, while dealers must forecast sales and adjust accordingly. You may have to demonstrate financial knowledge to investors if you work your way to an executive role.
3. Not Being Adaptable
The automotive industry changes annually, with research and development providing new directions. While your skills work now, you must adapt to new realities. For example, electric vehicle (EV) sales surpassed 1 million units in 2023. Forward-thinking auto professionals could use this opportunity to learn more about EVs and stay with the industry’s most current trends.
4. Deferring Educational Opportunities
How can you get ahead in the automotive industry? Take advantage of educational opportunities. Do not let the chance slip by to achieve technical certifications and heighten growth.
Some industry professionals strive for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification in collision repair or alternate fuels. These credentials demonstrate you are serious about improving your industry knowledge.
5. Ignoring Networking Events
Networking is critical to career growth and finding new opportunities in any industry. You should search for conferences and trade shows if you work in the automotive sector.
These events — such as the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show — are terrific for dealers and engineers to learn what is new. Ignoring these events leaves you behind your peers.
Reaping the Rewards of an Automotive Career
There is a spot for you in the automotive industry if you like working with cars. This sector provides numerous opportunities to get your hands dirty and work on vehicles. While many careers involve mechanics, you can also focus on finance and design.
The professional choices are broad, so keep your options open and find what drives you.
Martin Banks is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Modded. He covers the world of cars, driving, tech, and more.
Editor’s Note: The thoughts and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of the National Motorists Association.
