Arizona is becoming a hot spot for motorcycle enthusiasts--and where there are motorcycles, there are motorcycle technician jobs.
Automotive Programs
Automotive programs may offer a combination of hands-on experience and classroom teaching. In technical school, you may learn about cooling systems, steering and suspension, as well as braking, exhaust and fuel systems. You may get some math and technical communication training, too. The beauty of this type of vocational training is that you may get credits toward your certificate or degree while you study auto mechanics on the job, which means you can earn an income while advancing your education. If you want to go the extra mile and learn additional skills, most vocational schools offer additional advanced training.
Beyond Basic Automotive Training
Automotive programs offer additional training for the maintenance and repair of a variety of vehicles--from motorcycles and leisure vehicles to trucks and domestic cars. Automotive programs can lead to certification or to an associate's degree, depending on the type of technical school you attend and the course you choose. Trade schools are usually quite flexible, so you can build up a selection of certificates in subjects that interest you. You can even take courses online.
Automotive Career Opportunities
Because technical schools vary enormously, the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) offers certification to trade schools and to individuals, in order to promote high standards in the industry. Getting your ASE certification is voluntary, but the Bureau of Labor Statistics suggests that ASE qualifications are preferred by many employers (and customers!). Automotive vocational school graduates can work for local government, automobile dealers, repair workshops, gasoline stations and automotive parts stores. Though your training won't guarantee a particular salary, median earnings range from $35,790 to $40,120, according to the BLS of 2010 May.
