FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Megan Fitzgerald
April 28, 2003 (703) 683-9312; mfitzgerald@acteonline.org
ALEXANDRIA, VA- The complex computer systems in today?s automobiles have required auto technicians to become much more than the stereotype of the past. The 2002-03 Occupational Outlook Handbook published by the U.S. Department of Labor states, ?There are more computers aboard a car today than aboard the first spacecraft. A new car has from 10 to 15 onboard computers operating anything from the engine to the radio.?
Due to the increase in advanced technology used to build and maintain automobiles, auto technicians require more sophisticated high-tech training than they had in the past. Because of the increasing demand for a more highly-skilled labor force, employers are having a difficult time finding technicians with the necessary job skills. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the automotive field will need 35,000 new auto technicians annually through the year 2010, due to growth and to replacing those retiring.
To ensure students get the career skills they need to succeed, the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) has dedicated itself to the advancement of education that prepares both youth and adults for today?s careers. Career and technical education provides students with the opportunity to learn academic and technical skills, explore different career options and discover ways to balance life and work roles.
Richard Lester Manager of Technician Development Programs for Toyota Motor Sales USA stated, ?Our industry continues to evolve as new technologies appear in today?s automobiles. These new technologies and the growing new vehicle sales in the U.S. are driving the explosive growth in service technician positions. Top quality, NATEF (National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation) certified training programs are the best way to enter this exciting field. What is really exciting is that your opportunities for career growth are only restricted by yourself. I cannot count the number of my colleagues who started their career as a Service Technician. This is how I got my start.?
Studies show that those who successfully complete automotive training programs in high school, career and technical schools or community colleges will increase their career opportunities in the automotive field. According to the 2002-03 Occupational Outlook Handbook, ?Most employers regard the successful completion of a vocational training program in automotive service technology as the best preparation for trainee positions.?
Don Gray, President of Automotive Youth Educational Systems (AYES) adds, ?The AYES stakeholders, which include the leading auto manufacturers and more than 3,400 dealers, are eagerly supporting our school-to-career strategy because they recognize that's the best way to satisfy the continuing demand for qualified service technicians.?
The Handbook states that employment of automotive service technicians is expected to increase 10 to 20 percent through the year 2010. It also indicates that changes in general economic conditions and developments in other industries have little effect on the automotive repair industry, and most who enter into the business can expect steady work.
The Association for Career and Technical Education is the national professional association for the field of career and technical education. Now in its 77th year, ACTE?s membership numbers more than 30,000 teachers, counselors and administrators at the middle school, high school and postsecondary levels.
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April 28, 2003 NR#03-011
