Picture it: you’ve finished your auto mechanic training program and are now ready to start your apprenticeship. Your first day is fast approaching, and your excitement may (understandably) be palpable, but there are definitely certain things worth remembering before heading to the shop for the first time.
While your journey on this new career path has many years ahead of it, it’s important to be as ready as possible before day one. Here are four things to keep in mind prior to starting your apprenticeship.
Show Up Prepared, On Time, and Ready to Learn
This is one of the most basic tips for new employees in any industry. Arriving at the shop on time, being prepared in advance, and showing plenty of enthusiasm, passion, and curiosity is likely to leave a great impression on your new superiors.
What’s more, you should be sure to actively listen to any piece of advice your Journeyman or any other colleagues give you, and to ask lots of questions, as well. This will show your employers that you’re eager to learn.
Don’t Forget to Bring Tools With You, Either
Another element of showing up to work prepared during your auto mechanic apprenticeship is to bring tools along with you. Whether it’s wrenches, screwdrivers, ratchets, or pliers, make sure you bring everything you have on your first day.
Even if you don’t intend to use all of them or even need them yet, it will show those you work with that you’re serious about pursuing a career as a mechanic, and that you’re determined to do the best possible job.
Be Sure to Work Responsibly
One thing that instructors at automotive college try very hard to instill in students is the need to work smartly and responsibly. This means trying not to overexert yourself physically while on the job— after all, your knees and your back won’t always be in peak physical condition.
It’s also important to have a firm grasp of possible hazards and safety risks in the shop, and the precautions you should take to avoid them. Your employers will be impressed if they know they can trust you to maintain a safe work environment.
Remember: There’s Always a Learning Curve After Automotive College
Like any job, you can anticipate having to start small and work your way up during your mechanic apprenticeship. Make sure you stay humble and avoid over-inflating your expectations before you start, and expect the first several years on the job to have its share of challenges.
It’s also worth remembering that you can never stop learning new things during your apprenticeship, as the trade evolves over time. Once you accept that you are going to make mistakes and learn lessons along the way, you can set yourself up for later success and prove to your peers that you deserve to work alongside them.
Want to take an automotive mechanic course?
Contact CATI for more information!
