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An internet presentation of the Occupational Outlook Handbook plus related career guidance information

Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2004-05 | All Occupations

The section of the ocouha website contains the text of the 2004-05 Occupational Outlook Handbook. This information is no longer being updated. For more recent information, start at the ocouha homepage www.ocouha.com.

Vehicle and mobile equipment mechanics, installers, and repairers

  • Aircraft and avionics equipment mechanics and service technicians
    • The majority of these workers learn their job in 1 of about 200 trade schools certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
    • Opportunities should be excellent, but competition is likely for the best paying airline jobs.
  • Automotive body and related repairers
    • Both formal and on-the-job training are suggested if a worker wants to become a fully skilled automotive body repairer, because advances in technology have greatly changed the structure, components, and materials used in automobiles.
    • Repairers need good reading ability and basic mathematics and computer skills in order to follow instructions and diagrams in print and computer-based technical manuals.
  • Automotive service technicians and mechanics
    • Formal automotive technician training is the best preparation for these challenging technology-based jobs.
    • Opportunities should be very good for automotive service technicians and mechanics with diagnostic and problem-solving skills and knowledge of electronics and mathematics.
    • Automotive service technicians and mechanics must continually adapt to changing technology and repair techniques as vehicle components and systems become increasingly sophisticated.
  • Diesel service technicians and mechanics
    • A career as a diesel service technician or mechanic offers relatively high wages and the challenge of skilled repair work.
    • Opprtunities are expected to be good for persons who complete formal training programs.
    • National certification is the recognized standard of achievement for diesel service technicians and mechanics.
  • Heavy vehicle and mobile equipment service technicians and mechanics
    • Opportunities should be good for persons with formal postsecondary training in diesel or heavy equipment mechanics, especially if they also have training in basic electronics and hydraulics.
    • This occupation offers relatively high wages and the challenge of skilled repair work.
    • Skill in using computerized diagnostic equipment is becoming more important.
  • Small engine mechanics
    • Employment is expected to grow as fast as the average for all occupations, and persons with formal training as a mechanic should enjoy good job prospects.
    • The use of motorcycles, motorboats, and outdoor power equipment is seasonal in many areas, so mechanics may service other types of equipment or work reduced hours in the winter.
  • Vehicle and mobile equipment mechanics, installers, and repairers, all other

See the Occupational Outlook Handbook in print.