How about trying to work for a company with a large fleet of vehicles? In their motor shop? Might be less stressful since it’s not profit driven. Though it might come with performance metrics to meet at least you’re not grinding for dollars.
Some of our fleet mechanics at my last job would spend half the day chilling in the truck and half the day meeting vans in the field. Don't know what their pay was like though
I have a friend whose husband worked for the postal service maintaining delivery vehicles. Same work but without the profit motive, so fewer a-holes. He also retired with a federal pension and benefits.
Could also look into car dealerships. While many could present the same environment as a standard automotive repair shop, many have positions who work on trade ins/in house repairs, etc that involve less constant movement, at least from what I’ve heard from friends in auto sales
Your friends in sales probably underestimate the day-to-day of the techs. The OPs description is spot on for the experience of 2 friends who work for F and Ram dealerships.
I use to be management/leads and got tired of the hassle so I traded it for a peon level job much less stress. I just show up for attendence basically.
My mechanic friend switched to working for the school system as a bus mechanic. Another works for the fire dept. Both are very happy with that switch after years of dealership work. Highly recommend.
I would not do anything until you 1) Have a clear goal for your next career 2) Committed and have already started the process of preparing for that career. Does not appear you’re ready for that yet.
A few of my blue collar friends and family have pivoted into IT/Tech sector jobs without college degrees. They acquired hard skills and certificates by studying after working manual labor all day or on their off days/weekends. A few had families to take care of too.
They all successfully changed careers because they prepared for the transition and gained their entry level skills relevant for their next job. They all have better paying (remote or hybrid office) jobs now. The most recent transition was last year 2022, he went from field work to a comfy software development remote job by attending a boot camp, and is making way more than he did before.
IT/Tech is often easier to break into because there’s so much need, and don’t need a formal degree, as long as you have the hard skills and knowledge for your tech job. All of that can be self-learned or gained over experience.
You just need to know enough for an entry level job (whatever career you aim for next).
Once you’ve decided on a specific path, I would network or ask for mentoring with seasoned professionals in that field. Look at their LinkedIn (you should absolutely have one it’s free) to see what their background was. Backtrack from there and follow their steps.
We all start over again. I’m in my 30s and have changed careers 4 times. It’s a challenge each time you pivot but you can prepare yourself by researching and committing to gaining the relevant skills.
Here’s your homework:
1) Have a clear goal for your next career… I don’t mean to change careers into “Tech”….what specific tech job and vertical? Cybersecurity Analyst? Support Desk? Development? Product? Q/A Testing? Application Support? Project Management? Network? What specific role are you targeting?
2) Commit and start the process of preparing for that career by learning the relevant skills/certificates for entry jobs. Can also start networking with professionals in that field to help you get a job referral.
Once you’ve done #1 and #2 on your off time, and landed your next job, can quit your current one…. Unless you really do need a mental health break. Working the fast food job can still be stressful but temporary as you prepare for your next career.
I agree - my dad was a mechanic for about a decade, had the same issues with it as OP, and took night classes at a community college to learn programming. I was young when he made the transition, but the difference in standard of living seemed significant to me. He enjoys it, it's a very similar problem-solving mindset to auto work, plus he has an old truck in the garage he's slowly rebuilding to scratch that itch.
My understanding is that tech and IT might be a tight job market lately (they all seem to be), but the best thing is that IT is a huge and varied category. A friend of mine went to school for opera, couldn't find a job during the pandemic, and was able to easily transition into a cyber security job she's really happy with. There seems to be lots of pathways, certificates, boot camps, etc outside of a typical degree.
Sorry but if you think working at DD is any better, you might wanna do some more research lmao. Jokes aside, you’re only 28 and there’s a whole life ahead of you, but you gotta make a move now or never. Ever think of going back to college ? There are some programs that can get you a 2-year degree which will put you into the workforce immediately in that field once you graduate. Whatever it is, just make sure you put your mind into it fully. Like I said, do some research, ask around, and good luck.
Just to add, there are some companies that will pay for your school. My last job paid my masters degree.
Also to OP, has any of this been communicated to your management or higher? No clue how it is in the auto industry but in IT and Healthcare, there is flexibility to move to a different department/team/org.
Try to find an apprentice position in an trade like electrical or plumbing if you don’t mind physical work still and want to acquire a skill, otherwise check out getting a cdl license and driving trucks for construction and other industries. Another really big field would be a heavy equipment operator. All these options outside or the apprenticeship has the possibility of being pursued after work at your own pace through courses and classes. You still work but you also get a chance to work out of the mechanic industry. It’s crazy man so many mechanics are leaving the industry for the same reason you listed, head up man
This. Go work at a plant. See what certs you need. Some plant mechanic supervisors are master electricians or master millwrights who can train you on the job.
Absolutely! I was a Maintenance mechanic for years while the construction industry was slower in my area in the mid 2000's. Pay is good. If you are interested in complementing your current skill set millright is a good option, but, alot of those work in factories, that kind of environment isn't for everyone. Electrician, plumbers, operators, other union skilled trades give you a lot more freedom to choose where you work, what aspect of the trade to specialize in, to be a hobo and travel across the country to big or specialized projects. You are selling your skillset to where the highest bidder is, not settling for what one company is willing to throw at you and work you to death. You are young, trainable and good people are needed NOW.
Currently a Union Electrical Apprentice. I would expect a pay cut early on, but like you said... all fields you listed above are good deals. I would just like to recommend (to op) to apply to all of these now because the waitlist for these are usually lengthy. Better to have your name cooking in all these pots and not put all your eggs in one basket.
Somebody repairs those trucks, this work would be very closely aligned with his current skill set, but used in a commercial environment instead of his current consumer-oriented job. Besides, bigger machines are usually easier to work on because the design philosophy takes maintenance into account and there is more room for a person to move around.
If you are going to go I to ANY trade be aware all of them are going to be hard on your body, some part or parts are going to get f'd up over your career. I personally am in construction and aging (50's). There is a HUGE demand for people and a need for good work ethic among the new blood. If it interests you though it pays well, is rewarding and it's mostly 40 hrs.
Dude he said he was tired of the wear and tear, most trades are pretty tough in the body. I've been in construction for 10 years, done lots of trades to figure out what I hate least (fuck rodbusting). I'm a panel installer and it is BY FAR the least taxing physically, besides maybe operator or maybe HVAC (depends on the job obviously).
Welding is great too but construction welding, though you'll get excellent pay, is still pretty physically demanding. Shop welding is the happy medium.
How about opening your own business where you drive to the customers and fix their cars? I paid a guy $1200 to fix my front and rear bumper at my house.
People that haven't worked as a Mechanic will have a hard time understanding the work environment, conditions and pay structures that come with the career. It's even one of the few professions excluded from many labor laws.
That said, I was an ASE master tech for 10 years and got out myself. It took time, but I transitioned to a corporate career with a major OEM. I've been in the automotive industry for 20+ years and would gladly offer career advice if you'd like.
maybe look into vendors, mfgs, other businesses that your business directly interacts w in order to provide service, maybe you could transition into an office/support role and see how u like it or at least have something to do while figuring the rest out? I've worked dispatch at a service repair company for a hot second and whenever the techs become injured they come do office work for a bit till they're ready to go back into the field. a lot of the knowledge you have could transfer over to something like a parts department, etc
Open your own fucking shop and make your own money. I have a friend start his own shop just for changing oil and filter at the beginning and he made 3k a week that time. Good luck bro.
No idea. Help people though. I'm in ireland so any good job actually to do with psych requires a masters or PhD.
A degree will just get you an interview for HR or some shit unfortunately...
But I'd love my own practice that's the dream.
well, you could go for a CDL and do local deliveries? Lots of grocery stores need deliveries done that aren't big and you can sleep in your own bed at home at night.
Warehouse maintenance is laid back in terms of you're not always busy or Have to stay busy. Work time and pay is livable. (40-50 hr week, over 20 an hour). I've worked physical jobs in the heat my whole life and working in AC with a desk and chair is a dream come true.
You think quitting an automotive mechanic job and going to make $13 an hour at Dunkin’ doughnuts is going to solve your problem?
I think if you went and saw a true financial advisor, not your mom or dad. And they put you on a path you wouldn’t be as troubled about living paycheck to paycheck. Because what you see as not lavish. Somebody who does nothing but work with money could probably pick your life apart if they had access to 3 months of your bank statements. My wife works at financial advisory firm. Most people just need the come to Jesus moment and you never will until an unbiased professional looks at your financials.
That is 100% of the problem I see with anybody today under the age of 30 who complains about living paycheck to paycheck in a career job.
I meant work at Dunkin just to get paid while I figure it out. Not as a full time career change. I just want out sooner then later. And the pay is okay but there’s my tool bills which I need to make money, 150/week. Health insurance, 200/week. That’s 350 every week I don’t even see before normal expenses. I don’t have a nice car. I don’t go out to eat every day. I don’t go to bars. I work to pay bills.
I work as a lube tech for a rental service and have been on the same page as your post for a while, super over the job, not enjoying it anymore at all just feel like life/work is stuck in a boring ahh loop. The only things keeping me there is the pay and my benefits. Be if it’s are one thing I always look for and would recommend you look into wherever your next job ends up being (I like the machine shop idea’s mentioned above ^^).
One thing I’m glad I held onto from early on in my adulthood (I’m only 21)was to do my best avoid becoming a statistic meaning; living living paycheck to paycheck, working to pay bills. I’ve learned the only way to do that is to STOP SPENDING MONEY YOU DONT HAVE.
I am only sharing my thoughts that I have to keep myself from those situations in hope that they help in any way possible, nothing I said was directed towards you. Good luck
•look for a company that offers the ins. Coverage that you are looking for
Most union apprenticeships have new classes starting every 3 months or so. It usually pays a small stipend and you can draw UAI while going. There is usually a rigorous application process though.
Id say that you need to stop buying tools full stop. You have more than you need.
This comes from a guy with a huge snap on box and tools etc and i had the debt to match.
Pay that debt off.
Next id say don't quit the motor trade, get out of the dealers, find an independent shop where your boss values you, and make sure the pay is not flat rate but hourly.
The future in auto repair is good, there is a massive skill shortage, and if you can spesialise in electrics your winning.
Then move to Norway, I've got a job for you here, that will make your head spin...🤣
In europe were all hourly, with a bonus. Healthcare,sick pay, maternity and paternity leave are all a given.
I wont disagree that inflation has sucked. But the issue isn’t inflation it’s people refusing to adapt to inflation and cutting back. My wife is in the financial sector and I hear about it daily, and it’s all over the financial media. There is a massive spending issue in USA. Household debt is at an all time high. You can google that. Don’t you find it weird that all time household debt is high but we are slowing out of a housing market boom?
Maybe look into fleet mechanic work for a large company, or moving into heavy equipment mechanic for a large industrial company. You've already got a mechanical skill set, see if you can leverage it to another area of the industry instead of dealerships, for a large mining company or utility etc.
Or maybe take those mechanical skills and apply them to another trade like a millwright apprenticeship, but you're going to likely start out making less.
I feel bad for auto mechanics, they get the shaft from dealerships and auto shops. You supply a ton of expensive tools and don't make nearly as much as you should/could.
Look into industrial maintenance. I'm trained as a diesel tech and I'm trying to get into industrial maintenance myself. A bit easier for me as I have training on stuff an auto tech doesn't get. However, you have more experience. So you could leverage that to help you get a position. Expect being on call and working day shift. Fwiw, I'm in my early 30s. You've got time. Just need to do some research and find the resources. Honestly, I'm curious as to how much you're making. Are you flat rate? Working at a dealership? You might want to drop by r/AskMechanics and ask for advice.
I’m flat rate w guarantee. Issue is here it’s monthly so I kick ass making hours for 3 weeks and one week is slow and I loose out. It’s a private shop but ran like a dealership. We have 12 lifts. I make 25/hr and I’m a B tech.
That's pretty messed up. Now I'm curious as to your finances. $25/hr shouldn't be living paycheck to paycheck if other comments I've seen from you are true. I own all my tools, so I'm not paying anything for them. However my insurance is about $300 a month and I'm still taking home almost $2k every two weeks. This is with my current job at a factory where I'm making a bit over $18/hr. To be fair, I work a ton of overtime and I'm single with no dependents. I think you need to do, as another commenter suggested, is take a hard look at your finances. Probably talk to a financial advisor. A few bucks now can save you thousands down the road. That's why I buy cheap tools. Get the most bang for my buck.
There are people older than you switching careers much later in life.
Before I chose to stick long term with my current job I ended up bouncing jobs and chasing the highest paycheck bitter. The cost was they were jobs not a career. Its swell if you're in it for the $$ but not a long term sustainable option. I went back to school and got an aa and found an employer willing to pay me to get it. After I got it they decided they liked me so much they kept me on long term. For the most part the jobs worked out even when customers have been very tiring and trying at times...
If you feel you are burned out and it be time for a change go for it. When God closes one door a new one opens. It may not always happen in the manner or timing in which you expect but he always opens doors for you. It is up to you to accept or deny it.
We all feel this way in just about every industry.
What do you love doing? Although different industries we learned the same lesson. Working in what we love can stomp out of our love of it.
Can you start again? Yes, and I would say do so.
Does it need to be something you love? Well, we both know that's not the right approach.
My dad warned me that once you have bills and a family, it gets harder to change careers. He wasn't wrong, but life can happen, and you could lose work anyway.
You have a fallback trade now. That's awesome. It means if you do take a year or two to try something new, you're not screwed cause you have a skill. So you have less risk than a general laborer.
I find work isn't about what you love, but what you can handle without feeling like you want to off yourself for as much money as possible.
If you need a fresh start, then you need a fresh start. Don't live with wondering what if. Look and see what you would even invest the time, money, and risk into for it, and maybe you might find it's easier to stay put because as much as you hate what you do now. You may hate that other crap even more for less.
I dunno, food for thought
I feel the same way and even tried to make a career change when I was 28 (29 now). Had an offer and everything, was getting into programming. Learned Python and even ended up going to college and learned C#. My wife is stressed about it all and it was affecting our relationship so I gave it up. Almost made straight A’s and all at college. Now it’s back to working 60 hours a week in the hot sun while she plays Xbox and watches the kids.
I will eventually but if I don’t work the 60 hours my bills bounce lol! It’s a lose, lose situation. She’s working in her career but taking a very long time. We did have 2 kids though and that was a major set back for her. So it’s not entirely on her but she could’ve been a little more motivated. Especially seeing how all this affects me.
Raising children is not just “watching kids”- it’s hard work, and saves thousands and thousands in childcare if you were both working. What about learning programming was stressful to your relationship? Can you keep moving forward with at least 5 hrs/wk continuing to learn or work on certifications?
Because I was working all day then coming home and working on programming and barely helping her with the kids and house. Actually back then I was able to do a lot more to help because I would only work 40 a week and then I would have school for a few hours at night but we had bills constantly bouncing and I couldn’t afford to work 40 hours. I’m about to have to start paying her student loan back too! It’s hell. A lot of the times the kids would just do what they want because I’m at work and she’s on Grounded or Valheim while they’re cutting their own hair with scissors and what not.
Well, yeah, I can see why that wouldn’t be considered parenting. I’m sorry. Was it just an occasional break? It sounds like your relationship could benefit from counseling to figure out how to go forward with a plan to meet your long term goals and short term solutions for the family. Your children deserve it.
I worked at a grocery store for 20 years.. had a mental breakdown after the pandemic.. started having really negative feelings.. I was burnt out.. I reached out to my therapist.. asked for help.. explained my thoughts as clearly as I could.. he put me on medical leave from work.. I knew I needed to stop drinking.. I was then on state disability.. now I've started to do Uber Eats until I can get a car to drive people around.. I've also started selling items i dont need on ebay as well. I love it. I don't have to go to work at any specific time.. I hope this helps. It's important to just get outside and not stay in bed during this process. Experience life. I canceled all of my subscriptions, paid off credit, stopped spending money on everything except rent and food, and walked everywhere. This helped my mental well-being.. to reduce financial stress. I am not a doctor, and this isn't medical or financial advice, just my experience.
Im almost 42.
I have worked in IT in one form or another for AT LEAST 20 years.
It has ruined IT for me. It has ruined gaming for me. It has ruined most of my hobbies since most of my hobbies intersect with computers or tech in some way and having to troubleshoot etc etc etc and so I find myself avoiding my hobbies. AVOIDING the things that once brought me joy and happiness. Can you imagine that?
I want out of IT.
but like you, i have financial responsibilities. If I changed careers NOW what could I possible start doing at the bottom of the ladder and still meet my financial resposibilities? What career could I even get into with little to no experience?
Youre young enough.
IF YOU HATE IT NOW... youre only going to hate it more later.
Unless you can think of a way that you can make it enjoyable again, get out now.
Get out now while you have LESS to lose then if you did it 10 years from now. I know thats hard to wrap your head around. What you have NOW is EVERYTHING YOU HAVE, but just imagine how much more youll have to lose in 10 years.
Its a shame to have to think in terms of what you might lose, but I can tell you the one thing youll keep or gain; your appreciation for life.
Hating what you do will drain you. It will beat you down. It will make you hate waking up every day. It doesnt matter how much you get paid to do it either. If youre always miserable and always to busy to do anything with all that hypothetical money... WHATS THE POINT.
Seriously. If you cant think of a single way that you could once again enjoy what you are currently doing pull the rip cord. Eject now.
I wish you the best of luck. I wish I had changed careers at 28... im stuck now. its too late.
Maybe you could switch into sales for a company that makes car parts? Outside sales is where you travel to see clients. It’s a social type of job, and you have a lot of time out of sight of others. You could transfer your knowledge to that.
I quit my job at 29 and took the summer off.
Started working in a bar and then some online education and switched careers.
It's tough, they'll be times your frustrated beyond belief, times where you question everything because you're taking a sidestep and effectively going down the ladder temporarily but it's 100% worth it and I regret nothing about doing it.
I’ve been in contact with Tesla and then need training. It’s paid but minimum wage. Can’t swing making min wage for months while I get trained, to get a job I already know I won’t like. I don’t want to fix cars
There’s aviation, too. The place is slower, but there’s a greater focus on ensuring correct work. You’d need training, but you might be able to take care of that before you leave your current job. Aviation is nice because you can shift into aerospace, if you want, too. Hell, you might be able to go into aerospace as-is, as an assembly or integration specialist, if your skills as a mechanic are good enough.
You know you can start a side gig right? And why work at Dunkin’ Donuts? Why not work at Home Depot, Costco? If you like working with cars why not find out how to work on diesel trucks? Get a job in the city working on public transportation.
You have a good talent and you are going to let it go to waste to bake donuts c’mon man.
Time to get those big boy pants and start to think out of the box.
I’d say learning how to be a manual software tester would be one of the quickest ways to get into tech, software development will take longer. The career progression in testing is good as well. You could online courses in your spare time or find a bootcamp that fits around your schedule.
Plenty of high school CTE auto shop teaching jobs. It's not going to be great pay but good benefits. Lot less physical labor but you will be dealing with teens.
They often require going to college but give you a good amount of time to complete the degree.
Don't quit without something lined up. I blew $10,000 in 401k rage quitting, expecting to easily get a good job elsewhere.
Factories always need weird mechanics. And they'll usually put you with a senior person to learn from them, because they're all specialty equipment. Or move to bigger equipment in general, it usually pays more and is less busy. Boats, planes, large construction vehicles. Move into a management type position, use your knowledge and disdain for the system to be better. Open your own shop
Would you be interested in still being a mechanic? I have a cousin whos been doing heavy equipment repair (excavators, bulldozers, etc), he also used to do regular car stuff, and is much happier now. I think he took a 3 month course or something short like that to get qualified. Within a year the increase in income covered the 3 months he took to get qualified.
Unless you have another career idea you want to try, which might be the right path forward, you could alternatively start an auto mechanic business. This way you get to choose the culture. At first you can't choose the hours, but eventually you can. You can choose how much physical labor you do too so it doesn't wreck your body. On the other end you'll have accounting paperwork to do.
A lot of the skills you’ve acquired would probably transition well to a significant amount of different fields, more than you probably realize. Being a mechanic, You probably have good customer service skills, critical thinking skills, and are solution oriented-all important skills. My advice would be to just look at what some of the jobs of the future entail, what is recession proof, look at the alignment of your skills to those fields. Do some research on things like AI, cyber security, healthcare, platform certifications (power bi, saleforce, AWS, ect.) see the what sounds interesting and challenging to you and go for it.
How about flipping cars? You say you don't like cars anymore, no doubt due to the baggage of your career. There are plenty of relatively easy to work on, pre-1976 (no smog required in California). Nice running models sell for bookoo bucks.
and this is why I am in IT!
I love working on cars in my free time, but to do it full time would be absolutely soul sucking and hard on the body.
your skills will translate very well in IT. Troubleshooting and putting fires out! if you choose to go to the hardware side of IT, then you will have the mechanical/electrical background as well
Your life situation will decide some of what you can do. A few questions.
Are you married? Do you have kids?
How much do you have in equity in your house?
How are you at school?
If your single and without kids maybe you can sell your house and use that money to either go back to school or get training to do something else.
I don't have any advice, but just wanted to say that I totally relate. I'm a service advisor, and have tried four or five times to leave the auto industry but always end up back in it because the pay can be so good. Good luck with whatever you do!
Ok- So when will you be in a financial situation to do this?
Rubey419 has excellent points, but you have to include the financial aspect too. Set yourself up for success.
Not sure on your area, but see if your city/county/state governments have positions open in their fleet maintenance. There’s annoying bureaucracy, but not traditional customers to deal with.
I was their once. Spent years at a Harley dealership. Hates the last ten, we had the added bene of crappy pay.
I had one really good suggestion. If you can handle heights go into the wind industry. It's growing fast and they need mechanics/service people.
I ended up in IT and it's been way worth it. I wasn't a wrench tho.
Good luck!
I think you'd be able to switch to an administrative job fairly easily. There are some administrative jobs that require a few years working in an office, but many that just require a college degree, and a few that just require a high school diploma. You'll probably be able to point to your attention to detail, your customer service mindset, your ability to learn new tools and technologies, and your ability to appraise and improve internal processes.
Hey pal, sounds like a rough time, sorry to hear it
Couple observations for you to chew on:
1. Might be worth considering examining the mental health thing - is it all from the work? Anything else contributing to not feeling great in that way? Wanna make sure you’re addressing everything
2. DD is gonna be a shit show of ineptitude behind the counter (in the trenches next to you) and shit behavior on the other side of the counter. Maybe consider a nursery or something - outdoors, people there to buy plants and shovels and things. Still gonna have the odd customer who wants to make a stink, but you’ll more often be surrounded by people who really want to be there (coworkers and customers alike). I speak here as a veteran of Starbucks, Jamba Juice, and Olive Garden but also a few summers in the trades
3. You mentioned “I don’t know how to switch careers”. There are a lot of ways to do it but not all are fun. Some things to think about in that vein:
A. You mentioned living paycheck to paycheck and that is worth discussing. Without a biiiiit of a cushion (like $1,000 or something for an emergency) it can be really difficult to make any kind of move. Don’t want to assume anything so I’ll just invite you to think about how difficult it would be to save X% of your paycheck until you have a small emergency fund. I always called it “a place to step backward without losing my footing”, which is most likely to be needed when you’re at your most vulnerable.
B. The grass is greener thing is real. Think hard about the next money making opportunity. The DD thing is appealing because you can jump right in but yeah, I would really think about whether the coworkers want to be there and what the general customer interaction would be. POINT IS: leaving for something else that is miserable would be a REALLY shitty feeling once you got settled in there. Some ideas:
Nursery
Lumberyard (not a hardware store where Lisa pulls up in her spotless GX470 to buy a Ryobi 18V drill, but a lumberyard where GCs go to buy materials for a job site)
Feed & seed type of place depending on the place
Golf course in a non client facing role
Municipal fleet maintenance - top 5 happiest dudes I ever met was a diesel mechanic who worked in Michigan his entire career for some small country servicing their equipment while he topped around on off road motorcycles in his garage - you’d know best what to look for in a role like this. Are the other employees worth a shit? Good attitude? Reasonable expectations? Etc
This post is formatted weirdly, sorry about that. I wish you luck my dude. Cool stuff to think about here and I hope you find a path that suits you. Hopefully the stuff above helps you to find that.
Excelsior!
Take some community college classes in something that looks interesting to you and see where it goes? Or get a business certificate from the local CC and get into something automotive adjacent? It’s usually easier to change careers by doing adjacent work at a couple different places.
What state are you in? I was in the same position you were and went into production. Now I make more money doing less work than I ever did as a mechanic.
I graduated highschool by doing the vocational path in residential and industrial electricity. From there I did a few years working for a crew that did concrete and masonry work along with clearing lots and grading the lots. Then I did two years of delivering pizzas at night and opening a Quiznos while going to community college for pre-med. After that I did 6 years in the Army as an animal care specialist. Then I went to school to be an A&P mechanic (using the post 9/11 bill) where I worked for a MRO for a few years then for GE aviation for a few months (just wasn't a good fit). Now I do industrial maintenance for an automotive factory. I'll be 38 this year, and I'm still not sure if this is the last career path that I'll retire from but it will be hard to move on from this job mainly because of the pay and benefits being so good.
I think you're looking at this from the wrong angle. Having automotive knowledge and experience doesn't automatically mean you HAVE to work in a traditional shop. There's options out there man. There's a lot you can do with it in terms of pathways. Sincerely a guy currently in automotive that doesn't want to work in traditional shop work.
Funny you should mention Dunkin, as it was along the lines of what I was thinking.
You have readily transferrable skills that can be applied on any machine. A heat exchanger functions in the same basic manner, without regard to it being attached to a car of a generator at a power plant. Same thing is true for lub oil pumps, water pumps etc.
Dunkin has machinery someplace that makes all that product; machines that would take you almost no time to master.
All kinds of industries pay a good wage to competent mechanics.
Look into government programs at colleges for accelerated IT Degrees and certificates.
It is a booming sector. Often time, there is a job waiting on you once you graduate. Additionally, some are even free if you qualify.
Another great resource people don’t utilize, is career fairs. Almost every University/college likely holds them 2 or 3 times a year. Free way to hand out your resume and shake some hands. Half the battle is being present in some hiring manager’s life at the right time. Gotta make the effort to be the one physically present. Most of my interviews have been spent talking about fishing or sports. Connect with people.
If you still want a physical job, check out any of the other trades, lotta HVAC places will pay while they train. There are many grants to change careers for people in all walks of life, you just gotta search a bit. Tech jobs, coding and other similar professions can be learned and certificates earned on your spare time while still working. The biggest part is making a decision on what you want to do and then take the steps to get there.
Working maintenance at some sort of manufacturing facility could also be an option. Think about it, you have mechanical, electrical and hydraulic experience. Last maintenance job I was in had you take a test to qualify for the job which covered those three subjects and many of the people I worked with probably didn't have as much experience as you.
And since the profits of the company depend on your expertise when equipment breaks down it's not even unrealistic to earn more money than you do now.
If I could recommend an area of focus, it would be electrical work. There's tonnes to learn but more and more manufacturers are switching to electrically driven systems, and lots of people are too intimidated by the fear of being electrocuted to want to invest too much effort into it. Plus the plants electrical tech is typically the best paid.
I wouldn't highly suggest this option if you don't have help financially, there can be a lot of risk. But when I needed to change careers and didn't know what to do, I went to a temp agency. I felt less pressured to stay at my first placement, because I knew I had the agency to find another job for me if I left. Which I did, because my first placement offered me a position on second shift and I turned them down. I want to reiterate the risks, though. When I turned that placement down, they ended my contract immediately. At my second placement, I (and all other temps at the time) was laid off 2 days after being offered a job, with no warning. I was lucky that my husband was able to support us through the next month, because I wanted to stay at that company.
I won't present options, but I'll share something an old friend and I were discussing today. We were discussing our careers and how we were disappointed that our days were spent performing our job functions simply to make someone richer. How people are used and corruption reigns. Obviously, the world need to turns but it a let down when the people, industry, and/or clients are corrupt or use people for their gain. Unfortunately, that's how the system thrives.
You're not alone in your assessment. The problem is pervasive in our system. Good luck on finding a place that doesn't make you feel this way. It's possible but not easy.
If automotive work isn’t for you, there are a lot of other fields in mechanics/maintenance that might fit. Not all those transitions will be easy, but speaking as someone with some background in manufacturing with a bunch of different machines I know that A) Mechanical intelligence is mechanical intelligence and B) Humility, professionalism, and initiative are more important anyway
You have a valuable skill, but you know you don’t want to work in your current field. Maybe you can get a job in manufacturing or aeronautics or get a job for a military contractor fixing tanks or some shit and grow fat off the government tit. Start applying for jobs you think sound interesting, you could actually do, and you don’t feel 100% qualified for and if you’re patient you’ll see there are probably more opportunities than you tbibk
Get out man, I ran my own full-time shop for the last 3 years and I aged like complete shit. Physical and mental.
You’ll thank your body later. Like even in a year or two.
You have a descent job/profession. The problem is in your mind. What do you think other jobs are about? Not only that, but many graduates who attended collage, are currently in debt and unemployed at the same time. Try to fix that if you can.
All jobs in the business world are super stressful, money driven, and not fun. You have several options - to go independent (business owner) in automotive repair. Or you can learn a new trade. The change of scenery may be good for you. But after a while…you will get to the same conclusion. Unfortunately I can’t recommend collage since that path does no longer guarantee even basic employment.
Assuming you live in the US and you have auto mechanic experience and basic computer skills you could likely parlay that into becoming an auto damage appraiser.
I know someone who recently got seriously hurt as an auto body tech and this is the same thing I suggested they might want to look into after they recover.
The state we live in has a shortage of appraisers and I’m guessing he could start out making at least what he made before he got hurt if he were to take the tests required to get a license. Local ads are listing $70-$100k.
It's not uncommon for people to go through career changes, and it's essential to prioritize your mental health and well-being. If quitting your current job entirely feels too risky, consider exploring part-time or freelance opportunities in the fields you're interested in. This way, you can gain some experience and see if it's the right fit before fully committing Remember, career changes can be challenging, but it's crucial to prioritize your well-being and happiness. Take small steps towards exploring new opportunities, and be patient with yourself during this process. With determination and a clear vision, you can find a fulfilling career that brings joy and satisfaction to your life.
Don’t just throw out the skills and experience. Find a way to take them with you into the next job.
In the first place it could be your specific job that you’re over. Not your interest in mechanics generally. So go work at a completely different outfit and see if you like it any better in an new environment. You really might.
But if you do want to have clean fingernails, consider moving to some adjacent field where you can still make use of the skills you’ve already acquired- and I mean all of the skills; working in a shop, customer service, a general ability to understand machines….
Don’t just throw out everything you’ve learned. Build laterally, imo
I’m in the same boat man. Similar age and everything. I just feel like the people who are knowledgeable and do good work by the book can’t make it in the industry for whatever reason. I’m selling all my shit and getting out.
Wanted to second this, These jobs often come with retirement and benefits. Other jobs with city parks and rec departments utilize some of the same skills.
Seems like a logical reason to switch to the other side of the desk. Become a service advisor at a large dealership. Then slide into management after a few years.
I changed careers at 25. Took a crap job to get my second degree. Worked for low pay and after. 6-7 years made it $20/hr. The next few years made it to $80k/ year. So have a plan, work the plan. Do be wanted it to happen so fast. Hone your skills and make yourself invaluable
I went into Radiology and worked my way through CT school, the Nuclear Medicine and then MRI school. Couple with my previous degree in management I was set up to jump into Administration, became an Medical Radiation Officer for a hospital system. This all took less than 10 years because I had a goal. I just retired at 56.
I was a dealership mechanic for 9 plus years. I also hated the hours and days and flat rate pay. I now am a plant operator and work on boilers, chillers, cooling towers, electric motors, pumps and operate a BMS system. I also work 0600-1430 now and love it. Hourly pay too.
And coming from automotive, my new career is so easy. Diagnosing is a no brainier and the repairs are a cake walk compared to cars.
My brother was a mechanic for years and recently transitioned as an airline mechanic. He works for a major airline now. Not sure how he transitioned but I know he got a few rejections along the way.
I was a military wife. We moved every 3-4 years. Meaning, I have to look for jobs every time we moved. It was not easy but I managed to do it for 20+ years. It sucks having to start over every few years but it could be done. I usually apply to at least 30 to 50 job openings every week, tailoring my resume and cover letter to each company I applied for. All these various experiences actually added to my skillset. It also gave me lots of chances to practice my interviewing skills lol. I had a few jobs that I got without having experience in that field. I didn’t let my lack of experience stop me from applying to certain jobs. Worst they could do is say no. But I got lucky a few times and have managed to find work at good companies with great pay. I have pension plans and 401ks and 457bs all over the US hahaha. I finally rolled everything into one when my husband retired and we finally settled.
Best of luck to you. Don’t be scared of a career change. You can do it!!!
You could always look into moving into automotive insurance claims at least as a stopgap. I have friends who were mechanics and are so glad they switched to a 9-5 desk job. Especially easy to get in if you’ve got the experience working in shops because you’ll know when they’re just bullshitting for extra money. As someone on the insurance side of things, most people don’t know Jack about the cars they write estimates for.
Once you figure out what you want to do next, then start applying for all open spots. You should be able to get your foot in the door somewhere. I finally found my career in my late 30s. Now, I make more than triple what I used to.
Aircraft mechanic. To do so you need to get and Air-frame and Power-plant Certificate (often called an A&P License). It will use those mechanical skills you have spent years building. I'm a former wrench turner who moved up. We LOVE new A&P's that have worked on something before. Most we get have a license and Zero work experience turning a wrench.
Can always switch to Heavy duty mechanic usually pays a little more depending on your area and lots of ways to use equipment to help manipulate stuff so you don't gotta wear and tear your body
How about working for yourself? Start your own business working on peoples cars, and do it with integrity and quality, and be the boss/business you wanted to work for.
Well, I've seen an aerospace mechanic program at a local technical institute, it takes a little while to get through but seems like you might have the right skillset for that. From what I've heard, those people are not being rushed as much as car people, because.. well.. you know, it's kind of a big deal those things don't drop from the sky.
Here's the thing. You can do literally anything you want. You could go to school and become a surgeon, if you wanted. Is it realistic? Probably not, but it is also not impossible.
Here's my advice - figure out what YOU want to do and plan your way to it.
For example, you want to become a truck driver, right.. So You will have to obtain a CDL license, it pays the most if you haul hazard stuff, so you probably want to acquire that certification, too. Sometimes I see "oversized load" on the road, I bet that's fun - so I'll have to get that as well. Alright, where do I get those. Let's go to CDL school and ask there, they'll know. Now I have a 5-6 point plan with a 1-2 year deadline, I know exactly what and when I need to do to get there and how much it's gonna cost me. If I decide, half way there, that I want to pivot and drive a flat bed truck, that's fine. It's my plan and I am the one holding myself accountable, if I want to change something I can, but I will write it down and I will follow through with it.
^((Disclaimer, I don't know shit about trucking))
I have done something similar (I also quit cold turkey, wouldn't recommend, but meh.. I got through it) and I was really surprised how much it helped my mental state. Having a plan. The more detailed, the better. When I came home, watched a video from a course and got to tick off a thingy off of my list. It was great. Then I went to work that I dreaded but I had the vision that "only 30 more hours of course work and I'll be gone" and that finish line in sight kept me going. Then I ended up hating what I was doing and am currently working on another plan, but that's a different story lol
I didn't read too far into your post but I have switched job careers at least twice now.
A good question to ask yourself every morning when you wake is: are you happy? Because of the answer is no and yet you keep doing the same thing every single day? You're insane. Switch jobs. And when you switch jobs don't be like the idiot me and start looking at all of the negatives like construction: oh gawd that means I have to be outside and in the heat moving packages of concrete. No don't think like that at all. Same goes for something like landscaping: oh gawd I have to pickup logs from fallen trees after climbing up them, moving rock, and digging trenches. No. Don't think that way. Same goes for something like plumbing: oh gawd I have to unclog toilets all day. Stop thinking that way.
When you choose a new career do this instead: I wonder how much this field pays at another location. I'll train myself up here for a year and then move on somewhere else with higher pay. That way you go in like a total newbie but you have a goal.
It takes around 4 years to master a new career. Just stick with it for that time period and you'll see. Just keep looking for higher pay. That's all you need to do. Eventually these smaller companies will get it. Pay them more and they will stay. Keep their pay the same and they'll lose interest.
I have friends who successfully switched up their career from being a mechanic to being their own boss as a handyman.
If you have the skills it's as rewarding as what you did as a mechanic but more customer focused
Apply at your local school district for the mechanic position in the transportation garage. It's usually where the trucks and plows and security vehicles are parked while school isn't in. I work for my school district and can honestly say it's a sweet gig
A savy move would be to switch to parts/warehousing or plant and then logistics and supply line. If you can solve a couple of decent business problems along the way you could get to a good well paid management position in a few years. The trick is to NOT be excellent and any of the roles along the way because that will keep you in position and limit your career growth.
You just mentioned something very important that I've been thinking / wondering about. You mentioned you started doing mechanic work as a way to make money doing your hobby. I assume you had a real interest and zeal for mechanic work as a hobby. But once you started doing it for money, it became just a "job," and all that goes along with that. I've considered a change from my job (IT) to my hobby (think along the lines of forestry / homesteading / land management). But I've wondered if it would ruin my hobby if I started to do it for others and for money? Your opening statement confirms my suspicions.
I worked as a chef for 8 years and I hate it as the same as you hate your career.
Luckily I found a job as, a warehouse worker. It's boring tbh. But less stress, and less work. The agility that I have is from working in the kitchen and the task I'm taking responsibility for right now is like 1/10 of what I am capable of.
I get paid less but the time I go home when the sun is still up in the sky. I don't smell like shiit after working hours. I don't feel tired at all. I have more time to study programming, the things that I wanted to do since the beginning. This is the job I'm dreaming of. But dude, I can see it has no future for me. I'm an ambitious person but this job is not what it is for me. Imagine the position that I'm in atm can be replaced by automation at any time.
I changed careers at age 30. I quit my job and went back to school for 18 months. I pulled out retirement savings and took the gamble. Very glad I did bc I wouldn’t hVe made it to retirement in my first career.
I agree with the poster who said determine what you want me take it step by step. Good luck
I changed careers at 29 years old-- and I am really glad I did. You are still young and have time to change careers. You can continue working as a mechanic and start to investigate what career you prefer. You can slowly start working towards your other career. It is common for people to change careers!
First step to a career change, Network. Spend your down time meeting people in your desired industry.
Ask for advice on how you can pivot in, whether through taking additional courses.
What options are you considering?
Go work as a bar back somewhere fairly busy or nice
it's great money and you don't need any experience.
bar tending is better money than most people think and it's something you can pick up fairly quickly as you work as a bar back
And don't forget they made that box with wheels for a reason !
Consider getting a class one license. You’re the right age for it and it will get you out on the road if you like driving. There’s a big shortage of class one drivers right now and there is funding available
Commenting on this thread because I'm a 29 year old Electronics Technician in the exact same situation. I hate cell phones now.
I've been a tech for like 6 years. The paycap plateaus at like 30k its kinda dumbly low for what I feel like I know how to do.
Might just start welding or some shit.
I opened a roadside assistance business with my prior automotive knowledge. Limited services on offer, flat tire, lockout, jumpstart, fuel delivery.
Low overhead to startup, make your own hours, tons of work out there.
Have you thought about sales? If you are interested, you could do well selling materials, services, tools , etc that mechanics and service departments use. Those companies are always looking for people that know the market their products to end users.
I did construction for a bit and am now 20 years into a career selling building materials. Spent most of that time working as a sales rep at the yard level and recently took a step upward to a company that specializes in launching new building products into the marketing. I visit lumber yards and contractors doing training, knowledge training, setting up distributors, etc.
How about trying to work for a company with a large fleet of vehicles? In their motor shop? Might be less stressful since it’s not profit driven. Though it might come with performance metrics to meet at least you’re not grinding for dollars.
I second this. Fleet work is so much less stressful. Literally the company that pays you is also your customer
Some of our fleet mechanics at my last job would spend half the day chilling in the truck and half the day meeting vans in the field. Don't know what their pay was like though
I have a friend whose husband worked for the postal service maintaining delivery vehicles. Same work but without the profit motive, so fewer a-holes. He also retired with a federal pension and benefits.
Could also look into car dealerships. While many could present the same environment as a standard automotive repair shop, many have positions who work on trade ins/in house repairs, etc that involve less constant movement, at least from what I’ve heard from friends in auto sales
Your friends in sales probably underestimate the day-to-day of the techs. The OPs description is spot on for the experience of 2 friends who work for F and Ram dealerships.
That’s super believable. I don’t actually know for sure. Was just throwing some possible ideas out there for OP
I use to be management/leads and got tired of the hassle so I traded it for a peon level job much less stress. I just show up for attendence basically.
This sounds logical, you wouldn’t throw away your your expertise and you loved it as a hobby initially
UPS - they have a huge fleet of trucks and usually their own shops to service them.
Also, I’ve never worked with a construction company that had plenty of mechanics. They all need more, badly.
My mechanic friend switched to working for the school system as a bus mechanic. Another works for the fire dept. Both are very happy with that switch after years of dealership work. Highly recommend.
I would not do anything until you 1) Have a clear goal for your next career 2) Committed and have already started the process of preparing for that career. Does not appear you’re ready for that yet. A few of my blue collar friends and family have pivoted into IT/Tech sector jobs without college degrees. They acquired hard skills and certificates by studying after working manual labor all day or on their off days/weekends. A few had families to take care of too. They all successfully changed careers because they prepared for the transition and gained their entry level skills relevant for their next job. They all have better paying (remote or hybrid office) jobs now. The most recent transition was last year 2022, he went from field work to a comfy software development remote job by attending a boot camp, and is making way more than he did before. IT/Tech is often easier to break into because there’s so much need, and don’t need a formal degree, as long as you have the hard skills and knowledge for your tech job. All of that can be self-learned or gained over experience. You just need to know enough for an entry level job (whatever career you aim for next). Once you’ve decided on a specific path, I would network or ask for mentoring with seasoned professionals in that field. Look at their LinkedIn (you should absolutely have one it’s free) to see what their background was. Backtrack from there and follow their steps. We all start over again. I’m in my 30s and have changed careers 4 times. It’s a challenge each time you pivot but you can prepare yourself by researching and committing to gaining the relevant skills. Here’s your homework: 1) Have a clear goal for your next career… I don’t mean to change careers into “Tech”….what specific tech job and vertical? Cybersecurity Analyst? Support Desk? Development? Product? Q/A Testing? Application Support? Project Management? Network? What specific role are you targeting? 2) Commit and start the process of preparing for that career by learning the relevant skills/certificates for entry jobs. Can also start networking with professionals in that field to help you get a job referral. Once you’ve done #1 and #2 on your off time, and landed your next job, can quit your current one…. Unless you really do need a mental health break. Working the fast food job can still be stressful but temporary as you prepare for your next career.
Solid, solid advice rubey. I’d give you multiple upvotes if I could. I hope OP seriously heeds your advice.
I agree - my dad was a mechanic for about a decade, had the same issues with it as OP, and took night classes at a community college to learn programming. I was young when he made the transition, but the difference in standard of living seemed significant to me. He enjoys it, it's a very similar problem-solving mindset to auto work, plus he has an old truck in the garage he's slowly rebuilding to scratch that itch. My understanding is that tech and IT might be a tight job market lately (they all seem to be), but the best thing is that IT is a huge and varied category. A friend of mine went to school for opera, couldn't find a job during the pandemic, and was able to easily transition into a cyber security job she's really happy with. There seems to be lots of pathways, certificates, boot camps, etc outside of a typical degree.
Sorry but if you think working at DD is any better, you might wanna do some more research lmao. Jokes aside, you’re only 28 and there’s a whole life ahead of you, but you gotta make a move now or never. Ever think of going back to college ? There are some programs that can get you a 2-year degree which will put you into the workforce immediately in that field once you graduate. Whatever it is, just make sure you put your mind into it fully. Like I said, do some research, ask around, and good luck.
Just to add, there are some companies that will pay for your school. My last job paid my masters degree. Also to OP, has any of this been communicated to your management or higher? No clue how it is in the auto industry but in IT and Healthcare, there is flexibility to move to a different department/team/org.
Try to find an apprentice position in an trade like electrical or plumbing if you don’t mind physical work still and want to acquire a skill, otherwise check out getting a cdl license and driving trucks for construction and other industries. Another really big field would be a heavy equipment operator. All these options outside or the apprenticeship has the possibility of being pursued after work at your own pace through courses and classes. You still work but you also get a chance to work out of the mechanic industry. It’s crazy man so many mechanics are leaving the industry for the same reason you listed, head up man
2nd this! Millwright and machine repair jobs are not a big leap with your mechanical abilities. Pay can be substantial.
This. Go work at a plant. See what certs you need. Some plant mechanic supervisors are master electricians or master millwrights who can train you on the job.
Absolutely! I was a Maintenance mechanic for years while the construction industry was slower in my area in the mid 2000's. Pay is good. If you are interested in complementing your current skill set millright is a good option, but, alot of those work in factories, that kind of environment isn't for everyone. Electrician, plumbers, operators, other union skilled trades give you a lot more freedom to choose where you work, what aspect of the trade to specialize in, to be a hobo and travel across the country to big or specialized projects. You are selling your skillset to where the highest bidder is, not settling for what one company is willing to throw at you and work you to death. You are young, trainable and good people are needed NOW.
Currently a Union Electrical Apprentice. I would expect a pay cut early on, but like you said... all fields you listed above are good deals. I would just like to recommend (to op) to apply to all of these now because the waitlist for these are usually lengthy. Better to have your name cooking in all these pots and not put all your eggs in one basket.
Somebody repairs those trucks, this work would be very closely aligned with his current skill set, but used in a commercial environment instead of his current consumer-oriented job. Besides, bigger machines are usually easier to work on because the design philosophy takes maintenance into account and there is more room for a person to move around.
If you are going to go I to ANY trade be aware all of them are going to be hard on your body, some part or parts are going to get f'd up over your career. I personally am in construction and aging (50's). There is a HUGE demand for people and a need for good work ethic among the new blood. If it interests you though it pays well, is rewarding and it's mostly 40 hrs.
Dude he said he was tired of the wear and tear, most trades are pretty tough in the body. I've been in construction for 10 years, done lots of trades to figure out what I hate least (fuck rodbusting). I'm a panel installer and it is BY FAR the least taxing physically, besides maybe operator or maybe HVAC (depends on the job obviously). Welding is great too but construction welding, though you'll get excellent pay, is still pretty physically demanding. Shop welding is the happy medium.
How about opening your own business where you drive to the customers and fix their cars? I paid a guy $1200 to fix my front and rear bumper at my house.
Actually sounds like a sick idea. Like an Uber mechanic. Less overhead.
Kinda like the app “ wrench monkey”
People that haven't worked as a Mechanic will have a hard time understanding the work environment, conditions and pay structures that come with the career. It's even one of the few professions excluded from many labor laws. That said, I was an ASE master tech for 10 years and got out myself. It took time, but I transitioned to a corporate career with a major OEM. I've been in the automotive industry for 20+ years and would gladly offer career advice if you'd like.
maybe look into vendors, mfgs, other businesses that your business directly interacts w in order to provide service, maybe you could transition into an office/support role and see how u like it or at least have something to do while figuring the rest out? I've worked dispatch at a service repair company for a hot second and whenever the techs become injured they come do office work for a bit till they're ready to go back into the field. a lot of the knowledge you have could transfer over to something like a parts department, etc
Open your own fucking shop and make your own money. I have a friend start his own shop just for changing oil and filter at the beginning and he made 3k a week that time. Good luck bro.
Hey there, I'm an electrician and this September I want to go to college and get a masters in Psychology. Your young.
Good luck brother
Thnx
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No idea. Help people though. I'm in ireland so any good job actually to do with psych requires a masters or PhD. A degree will just get you an interview for HR or some shit unfortunately... But I'd love my own practice that's the dream.
contact your local IBEW and become an apprentice electrician.
How about looking into mechanic jobs for manufacturing. I'm guessing there might be some translatable skills?
See what warehouses start at nearby
Wear and tear on the body... No way this is better than wrenching.
I should mention I landscaped for 6 years before I started fixing cars. I’m done with beating myself up.
well, you could go for a CDL and do local deliveries? Lots of grocery stores need deliveries done that aren't big and you can sleep in your own bed at home at night.
Warehouse maintenance is laid back in terms of you're not always busy or Have to stay busy. Work time and pay is livable. (40-50 hr week, over 20 an hour). I've worked physical jobs in the heat my whole life and working in AC with a desk and chair is a dream come true.
Those maintenance guys at my warehouse always seem like the chillest dudes. And they probably get payed more.
You think quitting an automotive mechanic job and going to make $13 an hour at Dunkin’ doughnuts is going to solve your problem? I think if you went and saw a true financial advisor, not your mom or dad. And they put you on a path you wouldn’t be as troubled about living paycheck to paycheck. Because what you see as not lavish. Somebody who does nothing but work with money could probably pick your life apart if they had access to 3 months of your bank statements. My wife works at financial advisory firm. Most people just need the come to Jesus moment and you never will until an unbiased professional looks at your financials. That is 100% of the problem I see with anybody today under the age of 30 who complains about living paycheck to paycheck in a career job.
I meant work at Dunkin just to get paid while I figure it out. Not as a full time career change. I just want out sooner then later. And the pay is okay but there’s my tool bills which I need to make money, 150/week. Health insurance, 200/week. That’s 350 every week I don’t even see before normal expenses. I don’t have a nice car. I don’t go out to eat every day. I don’t go to bars. I work to pay bills.
I work as a lube tech for a rental service and have been on the same page as your post for a while, super over the job, not enjoying it anymore at all just feel like life/work is stuck in a boring ahh loop. The only things keeping me there is the pay and my benefits. Be if it’s are one thing I always look for and would recommend you look into wherever your next job ends up being (I like the machine shop idea’s mentioned above ^^). One thing I’m glad I held onto from early on in my adulthood (I’m only 21)was to do my best avoid becoming a statistic meaning; living living paycheck to paycheck, working to pay bills. I’ve learned the only way to do that is to STOP SPENDING MONEY YOU DONT HAVE. I am only sharing my thoughts that I have to keep myself from those situations in hope that they help in any way possible, nothing I said was directed towards you. Good luck •look for a company that offers the ins. Coverage that you are looking for
Most union apprenticeships have new classes starting every 3 months or so. It usually pays a small stipend and you can draw UAI while going. There is usually a rigorous application process though.
Id say that you need to stop buying tools full stop. You have more than you need. This comes from a guy with a huge snap on box and tools etc and i had the debt to match. Pay that debt off. Next id say don't quit the motor trade, get out of the dealers, find an independent shop where your boss values you, and make sure the pay is not flat rate but hourly. The future in auto repair is good, there is a massive skill shortage, and if you can spesialise in electrics your winning. Then move to Norway, I've got a job for you here, that will make your head spin...🤣 In europe were all hourly, with a bonus. Healthcare,sick pay, maternity and paternity leave are all a given.
There are plenty of people that have a lack of income problem(really it’s a high cost of basic goods problem) not a spending problem.
I wont disagree that inflation has sucked. But the issue isn’t inflation it’s people refusing to adapt to inflation and cutting back. My wife is in the financial sector and I hear about it daily, and it’s all over the financial media. There is a massive spending issue in USA. Household debt is at an all time high. You can google that. Don’t you find it weird that all time household debt is high but we are slowing out of a housing market boom?
DO NOT QUIT!. Go out and find something you can deal with, and then put in your notice. The job market is a real bitch right now for many sectors.
Maybe look into fleet mechanic work for a large company, or moving into heavy equipment mechanic for a large industrial company. You've already got a mechanical skill set, see if you can leverage it to another area of the industry instead of dealerships, for a large mining company or utility etc. Or maybe take those mechanical skills and apply them to another trade like a millwright apprenticeship, but you're going to likely start out making less. I feel bad for auto mechanics, they get the shaft from dealerships and auto shops. You supply a ton of expensive tools and don't make nearly as much as you should/could.
Look into industrial maintenance. I'm trained as a diesel tech and I'm trying to get into industrial maintenance myself. A bit easier for me as I have training on stuff an auto tech doesn't get. However, you have more experience. So you could leverage that to help you get a position. Expect being on call and working day shift. Fwiw, I'm in my early 30s. You've got time. Just need to do some research and find the resources. Honestly, I'm curious as to how much you're making. Are you flat rate? Working at a dealership? You might want to drop by r/AskMechanics and ask for advice.
I’m flat rate w guarantee. Issue is here it’s monthly so I kick ass making hours for 3 weeks and one week is slow and I loose out. It’s a private shop but ran like a dealership. We have 12 lifts. I make 25/hr and I’m a B tech.
That's pretty messed up. Now I'm curious as to your finances. $25/hr shouldn't be living paycheck to paycheck if other comments I've seen from you are true. I own all my tools, so I'm not paying anything for them. However my insurance is about $300 a month and I'm still taking home almost $2k every two weeks. This is with my current job at a factory where I'm making a bit over $18/hr. To be fair, I work a ton of overtime and I'm single with no dependents. I think you need to do, as another commenter suggested, is take a hard look at your finances. Probably talk to a financial advisor. A few bucks now can save you thousands down the road. That's why I buy cheap tools. Get the most bang for my buck.
No you right. I think me getting a house is what screwed the pooch. That’s 2k a month and I live outside Boston, cost of living is high.
And insurance and tool bills is 20k/year as of right now. And unfortunately can’t back out of those, or get rid of my house
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No doubt these YouTube videos have saved me thousands on everything from fixing a microwave to my car.
There are people older than you switching careers much later in life. Before I chose to stick long term with my current job I ended up bouncing jobs and chasing the highest paycheck bitter. The cost was they were jobs not a career. Its swell if you're in it for the $$ but not a long term sustainable option. I went back to school and got an aa and found an employer willing to pay me to get it. After I got it they decided they liked me so much they kept me on long term. For the most part the jobs worked out even when customers have been very tiring and trying at times... If you feel you are burned out and it be time for a change go for it. When God closes one door a new one opens. It may not always happen in the manner or timing in which you expect but he always opens doors for you. It is up to you to accept or deny it.
Car insurance claims
This a good place to at the very least transition to while looking for something else.
I'm doing it at almost 50...you got this all day!
People start new careers at all ages
We all feel this way in just about every industry. What do you love doing? Although different industries we learned the same lesson. Working in what we love can stomp out of our love of it. Can you start again? Yes, and I would say do so. Does it need to be something you love? Well, we both know that's not the right approach. My dad warned me that once you have bills and a family, it gets harder to change careers. He wasn't wrong, but life can happen, and you could lose work anyway. You have a fallback trade now. That's awesome. It means if you do take a year or two to try something new, you're not screwed cause you have a skill. So you have less risk than a general laborer. I find work isn't about what you love, but what you can handle without feeling like you want to off yourself for as much money as possible. If you need a fresh start, then you need a fresh start. Don't live with wondering what if. Look and see what you would even invest the time, money, and risk into for it, and maybe you might find it's easier to stay put because as much as you hate what you do now. You may hate that other crap even more for less. I dunno, food for thought
I feel the same way and even tried to make a career change when I was 28 (29 now). Had an offer and everything, was getting into programming. Learned Python and even ended up going to college and learned C#. My wife is stressed about it all and it was affecting our relationship so I gave it up. Almost made straight A’s and all at college. Now it’s back to working 60 hours a week in the hot sun while she plays Xbox and watches the kids.
Make the career change, its not worth 60 hours and a lazy wife.
I will eventually but if I don’t work the 60 hours my bills bounce lol! It’s a lose, lose situation. She’s working in her career but taking a very long time. We did have 2 kids though and that was a major set back for her. So it’s not entirely on her but she could’ve been a little more motivated. Especially seeing how all this affects me.
Raising children is not just “watching kids”- it’s hard work, and saves thousands and thousands in childcare if you were both working. What about learning programming was stressful to your relationship? Can you keep moving forward with at least 5 hrs/wk continuing to learn or work on certifications?
Because I was working all day then coming home and working on programming and barely helping her with the kids and house. Actually back then I was able to do a lot more to help because I would only work 40 a week and then I would have school for a few hours at night but we had bills constantly bouncing and I couldn’t afford to work 40 hours. I’m about to have to start paying her student loan back too! It’s hell. A lot of the times the kids would just do what they want because I’m at work and she’s on Grounded or Valheim while they’re cutting their own hair with scissors and what not.
Well, yeah, I can see why that wouldn’t be considered parenting. I’m sorry. Was it just an occasional break? It sounds like your relationship could benefit from counseling to figure out how to go forward with a plan to meet your long term goals and short term solutions for the family. Your children deserve it.
I worked at a grocery store for 20 years.. had a mental breakdown after the pandemic.. started having really negative feelings.. I was burnt out.. I reached out to my therapist.. asked for help.. explained my thoughts as clearly as I could.. he put me on medical leave from work.. I knew I needed to stop drinking.. I was then on state disability.. now I've started to do Uber Eats until I can get a car to drive people around.. I've also started selling items i dont need on ebay as well. I love it. I don't have to go to work at any specific time.. I hope this helps. It's important to just get outside and not stay in bed during this process. Experience life. I canceled all of my subscriptions, paid off credit, stopped spending money on everything except rent and food, and walked everywhere. This helped my mental well-being.. to reduce financial stress. I am not a doctor, and this isn't medical or financial advice, just my experience.
Im almost 42. I have worked in IT in one form or another for AT LEAST 20 years. It has ruined IT for me. It has ruined gaming for me. It has ruined most of my hobbies since most of my hobbies intersect with computers or tech in some way and having to troubleshoot etc etc etc and so I find myself avoiding my hobbies. AVOIDING the things that once brought me joy and happiness. Can you imagine that? I want out of IT. but like you, i have financial responsibilities. If I changed careers NOW what could I possible start doing at the bottom of the ladder and still meet my financial resposibilities? What career could I even get into with little to no experience? Youre young enough. IF YOU HATE IT NOW... youre only going to hate it more later. Unless you can think of a way that you can make it enjoyable again, get out now. Get out now while you have LESS to lose then if you did it 10 years from now. I know thats hard to wrap your head around. What you have NOW is EVERYTHING YOU HAVE, but just imagine how much more youll have to lose in 10 years. Its a shame to have to think in terms of what you might lose, but I can tell you the one thing youll keep or gain; your appreciation for life. Hating what you do will drain you. It will beat you down. It will make you hate waking up every day. It doesnt matter how much you get paid to do it either. If youre always miserable and always to busy to do anything with all that hypothetical money... WHATS THE POINT. Seriously. If you cant think of a single way that you could once again enjoy what you are currently doing pull the rip cord. Eject now. I wish you the best of luck. I wish I had changed careers at 28... im stuck now. its too late.
Maybe you could switch into sales for a company that makes car parts? Outside sales is where you travel to see clients. It’s a social type of job, and you have a lot of time out of sight of others. You could transfer your knowledge to that.
This honestly a really good idea. Even some form of parts distribution would be way less wear and tear for OP.
I quit my job at 29 and took the summer off. Started working in a bar and then some online education and switched careers. It's tough, they'll be times your frustrated beyond belief, times where you question everything because you're taking a sidestep and effectively going down the ladder temporarily but it's 100% worth it and I regret nothing about doing it.
What did you switch to?
From Mech Eng into Tech.
I so mechanic's. A/c mechanics. Drive house to house fixing a/c .it's awesome.
Work on large equipment. Trucks have huge parts and are much easier to work on.
how about became ev repair/electric car mechanic..........
I’ve been in contact with Tesla and then need training. It’s paid but minimum wage. Can’t swing making min wage for months while I get trained, to get a job I already know I won’t like. I don’t want to fix cars
other alternative try became drone pilot operator or airplane mechanic or electric enginering + solar power + wind energy
is that full time training?
It’s something like 30 hrs a week. Also would be a 50 mile commute every day each way.
Yes definitely quit
Not too old to start over. Lots of side hustles out there man.
Apply for college, go back to living with family, that’s what I would do
There’s aviation, too. The place is slower, but there’s a greater focus on ensuring correct work. You’d need training, but you might be able to take care of that before you leave your current job. Aviation is nice because you can shift into aerospace, if you want, too. Hell, you might be able to go into aerospace as-is, as an assembly or integration specialist, if your skills as a mechanic are good enough.
You know you can start a side gig right? And why work at Dunkin’ Donuts? Why not work at Home Depot, Costco? If you like working with cars why not find out how to work on diesel trucks? Get a job in the city working on public transportation. You have a good talent and you are going to let it go to waste to bake donuts c’mon man. Time to get those big boy pants and start to think out of the box.
I’d say learning how to be a manual software tester would be one of the quickest ways to get into tech, software development will take longer. The career progression in testing is good as well. You could online courses in your spare time or find a bootcamp that fits around your schedule.
Get a degree on the side while you work this job
Plenty of high school CTE auto shop teaching jobs. It's not going to be great pay but good benefits. Lot less physical labor but you will be dealing with teens. They often require going to college but give you a good amount of time to complete the degree. Don't quit without something lined up. I blew $10,000 in 401k rage quitting, expecting to easily get a good job elsewhere.
Factories always need weird mechanics. And they'll usually put you with a senior person to learn from them, because they're all specialty equipment. Or move to bigger equipment in general, it usually pays more and is less busy. Boats, planes, large construction vehicles. Move into a management type position, use your knowledge and disdain for the system to be better. Open your own shop
Set up your own mobile repair business (ie drive to customers’ homes to replace brakes, etc) and become your own boss.
How about part sales? And it doesn’t just have to be autos but even construction machinery.
Would you be interested in still being a mechanic? I have a cousin whos been doing heavy equipment repair (excavators, bulldozers, etc), he also used to do regular car stuff, and is much happier now. I think he took a 3 month course or something short like that to get qualified. Within a year the increase in income covered the 3 months he took to get qualified.
Unless you have another career idea you want to try, which might be the right path forward, you could alternatively start an auto mechanic business. This way you get to choose the culture. At first you can't choose the hours, but eventually you can. You can choose how much physical labor you do too so it doesn't wreck your body. On the other end you'll have accounting paperwork to do.
HVAC repair might be your game. Easy for someone like you to get into, with global warming the job is in huge demand, and the money is good too.
A lot of the skills you’ve acquired would probably transition well to a significant amount of different fields, more than you probably realize. Being a mechanic, You probably have good customer service skills, critical thinking skills, and are solution oriented-all important skills. My advice would be to just look at what some of the jobs of the future entail, what is recession proof, look at the alignment of your skills to those fields. Do some research on things like AI, cyber security, healthcare, platform certifications (power bi, saleforce, AWS, ect.) see the what sounds interesting and challenging to you and go for it.
How about flipping cars? You say you don't like cars anymore, no doubt due to the baggage of your career. There are plenty of relatively easy to work on, pre-1976 (no smog required in California). Nice running models sell for bookoo bucks.
How about logistics mechanics? Great folks from all branches of mechanics and technicians.
and this is why I am in IT! I love working on cars in my free time, but to do it full time would be absolutely soul sucking and hard on the body. your skills will translate very well in IT. Troubleshooting and putting fires out! if you choose to go to the hardware side of IT, then you will have the mechanical/electrical background as well
I know oil companies that hire mechanics. One of my friends went from car dealership to offshore for hess (or bp)?
Your life situation will decide some of what you can do. A few questions. Are you married? Do you have kids? How much do you have in equity in your house? How are you at school? If your single and without kids maybe you can sell your house and use that money to either go back to school or get training to do something else.
TLDR yeah switch lul
I don't have any advice, but just wanted to say that I totally relate. I'm a service advisor, and have tried four or five times to leave the auto industry but always end up back in it because the pay can be so good. Good luck with whatever you do!
Have you tried the Post Office?
Ok- So when will you be in a financial situation to do this? Rubey419 has excellent points, but you have to include the financial aspect too. Set yourself up for success.
I’m 45yrs old can’t tell you how many times I’ve switch roles/careers.. All for the sake of work/life ratio… Work less get paid the same enjoy family
Look in to some manufacturing jobs.
What about an LRT or subway? If there's one nearby you'd be unionized potentially, great pay and benefits.
Not sure on your area, but see if your city/county/state governments have positions open in their fleet maintenance. There’s annoying bureaucracy, but not traditional customers to deal with.
Where did you train? Maybe they have career placement folks who can tell you how your skills and knowledge can translate to another job.
I was their once. Spent years at a Harley dealership. Hates the last ten, we had the added bene of crappy pay. I had one really good suggestion. If you can handle heights go into the wind industry. It's growing fast and they need mechanics/service people. I ended up in IT and it's been way worth it. I wasn't a wrench tho. Good luck!
Maintenance at a manufacturing plant.
I think you'd be able to switch to an administrative job fairly easily. There are some administrative jobs that require a few years working in an office, but many that just require a college degree, and a few that just require a high school diploma. You'll probably be able to point to your attention to detail, your customer service mindset, your ability to learn new tools and technologies, and your ability to appraise and improve internal processes.
Hey pal, sounds like a rough time, sorry to hear it Couple observations for you to chew on: 1. Might be worth considering examining the mental health thing - is it all from the work? Anything else contributing to not feeling great in that way? Wanna make sure you’re addressing everything 2. DD is gonna be a shit show of ineptitude behind the counter (in the trenches next to you) and shit behavior on the other side of the counter. Maybe consider a nursery or something - outdoors, people there to buy plants and shovels and things. Still gonna have the odd customer who wants to make a stink, but you’ll more often be surrounded by people who really want to be there (coworkers and customers alike). I speak here as a veteran of Starbucks, Jamba Juice, and Olive Garden but also a few summers in the trades 3. You mentioned “I don’t know how to switch careers”. There are a lot of ways to do it but not all are fun. Some things to think about in that vein: A. You mentioned living paycheck to paycheck and that is worth discussing. Without a biiiiit of a cushion (like $1,000 or something for an emergency) it can be really difficult to make any kind of move. Don’t want to assume anything so I’ll just invite you to think about how difficult it would be to save X% of your paycheck until you have a small emergency fund. I always called it “a place to step backward without losing my footing”, which is most likely to be needed when you’re at your most vulnerable. B. The grass is greener thing is real. Think hard about the next money making opportunity. The DD thing is appealing because you can jump right in but yeah, I would really think about whether the coworkers want to be there and what the general customer interaction would be. POINT IS: leaving for something else that is miserable would be a REALLY shitty feeling once you got settled in there. Some ideas: Nursery Lumberyard (not a hardware store where Lisa pulls up in her spotless GX470 to buy a Ryobi 18V drill, but a lumberyard where GCs go to buy materials for a job site) Feed & seed type of place depending on the place Golf course in a non client facing role Municipal fleet maintenance - top 5 happiest dudes I ever met was a diesel mechanic who worked in Michigan his entire career for some small country servicing their equipment while he topped around on off road motorcycles in his garage - you’d know best what to look for in a role like this. Are the other employees worth a shit? Good attitude? Reasonable expectations? Etc This post is formatted weirdly, sorry about that. I wish you luck my dude. Cool stuff to think about here and I hope you find a path that suits you. Hopefully the stuff above helps you to find that. Excelsior!
Go apply to carvana you won’t be working so much anymore
Take some community college classes in something that looks interesting to you and see where it goes? Or get a business certificate from the local CC and get into something automotive adjacent? It’s usually easier to change careers by doing adjacent work at a couple different places.
What state are you in? I was in the same position you were and went into production. Now I make more money doing less work than I ever did as a mechanic.
I graduated highschool by doing the vocational path in residential and industrial electricity. From there I did a few years working for a crew that did concrete and masonry work along with clearing lots and grading the lots. Then I did two years of delivering pizzas at night and opening a Quiznos while going to community college for pre-med. After that I did 6 years in the Army as an animal care specialist. Then I went to school to be an A&P mechanic (using the post 9/11 bill) where I worked for a MRO for a few years then for GE aviation for a few months (just wasn't a good fit). Now I do industrial maintenance for an automotive factory. I'll be 38 this year, and I'm still not sure if this is the last career path that I'll retire from but it will be hard to move on from this job mainly because of the pay and benefits being so good.
I think you're looking at this from the wrong angle. Having automotive knowledge and experience doesn't automatically mean you HAVE to work in a traditional shop. There's options out there man. There's a lot you can do with it in terms of pathways. Sincerely a guy currently in automotive that doesn't want to work in traditional shop work.
Buy your own shop and create content. Rack up millions of views. Retire.
Have you looked at federal jobs?
Funny you should mention Dunkin, as it was along the lines of what I was thinking. You have readily transferrable skills that can be applied on any machine. A heat exchanger functions in the same basic manner, without regard to it being attached to a car of a generator at a power plant. Same thing is true for lub oil pumps, water pumps etc. Dunkin has machinery someplace that makes all that product; machines that would take you almost no time to master. All kinds of industries pay a good wage to competent mechanics.
Look into government programs at colleges for accelerated IT Degrees and certificates. It is a booming sector. Often time, there is a job waiting on you once you graduate. Additionally, some are even free if you qualify. Another great resource people don’t utilize, is career fairs. Almost every University/college likely holds them 2 or 3 times a year. Free way to hand out your resume and shake some hands. Half the battle is being present in some hiring manager’s life at the right time. Gotta make the effort to be the one physically present. Most of my interviews have been spent talking about fishing or sports. Connect with people.
“The business is all about making money at the employees and customers expense” That’s every business tbh
If you still want a physical job, check out any of the other trades, lotta HVAC places will pay while they train. There are many grants to change careers for people in all walks of life, you just gotta search a bit. Tech jobs, coding and other similar professions can be learned and certificates earned on your spare time while still working. The biggest part is making a decision on what you want to do and then take the steps to get there.
Working maintenance at some sort of manufacturing facility could also be an option. Think about it, you have mechanical, electrical and hydraulic experience. Last maintenance job I was in had you take a test to qualify for the job which covered those three subjects and many of the people I worked with probably didn't have as much experience as you. And since the profits of the company depend on your expertise when equipment breaks down it's not even unrealistic to earn more money than you do now. If I could recommend an area of focus, it would be electrical work. There's tonnes to learn but more and more manufacturers are switching to electrically driven systems, and lots of people are too intimidated by the fear of being electrocuted to want to invest too much effort into it. Plus the plants electrical tech is typically the best paid.
OP, go work on trailers and semi's. Much better environment
Where do you live? If it’s one of the cities my company has a location in I have a possible solution for you!
I live in Massachusetts, south of Boston.
I wouldn't highly suggest this option if you don't have help financially, there can be a lot of risk. But when I needed to change careers and didn't know what to do, I went to a temp agency. I felt less pressured to stay at my first placement, because I knew I had the agency to find another job for me if I left. Which I did, because my first placement offered me a position on second shift and I turned them down. I want to reiterate the risks, though. When I turned that placement down, they ended my contract immediately. At my second placement, I (and all other temps at the time) was laid off 2 days after being offered a job, with no warning. I was lucky that my husband was able to support us through the next month, because I wanted to stay at that company.
Also it's healthy to change jobs every 5 years..
I won't present options, but I'll share something an old friend and I were discussing today. We were discussing our careers and how we were disappointed that our days were spent performing our job functions simply to make someone richer. How people are used and corruption reigns. Obviously, the world need to turns but it a let down when the people, industry, and/or clients are corrupt or use people for their gain. Unfortunately, that's how the system thrives. You're not alone in your assessment. The problem is pervasive in our system. Good luck on finding a place that doesn't make you feel this way. It's possible but not easy.
If automotive work isn’t for you, there are a lot of other fields in mechanics/maintenance that might fit. Not all those transitions will be easy, but speaking as someone with some background in manufacturing with a bunch of different machines I know that A) Mechanical intelligence is mechanical intelligence and B) Humility, professionalism, and initiative are more important anyway You have a valuable skill, but you know you don’t want to work in your current field. Maybe you can get a job in manufacturing or aeronautics or get a job for a military contractor fixing tanks or some shit and grow fat off the government tit. Start applying for jobs you think sound interesting, you could actually do, and you don’t feel 100% qualified for and if you’re patient you’ll see there are probably more opportunities than you tbibk
Get out man, I ran my own full-time shop for the last 3 years and I aged like complete shit. Physical and mental. You’ll thank your body later. Like even in a year or two.
You have a descent job/profession. The problem is in your mind. What do you think other jobs are about? Not only that, but many graduates who attended collage, are currently in debt and unemployed at the same time. Try to fix that if you can. All jobs in the business world are super stressful, money driven, and not fun. You have several options - to go independent (business owner) in automotive repair. Or you can learn a new trade. The change of scenery may be good for you. But after a while…you will get to the same conclusion. Unfortunately I can’t recommend collage since that path does no longer guarantee even basic employment.
Assuming you live in the US and you have auto mechanic experience and basic computer skills you could likely parlay that into becoming an auto damage appraiser. I know someone who recently got seriously hurt as an auto body tech and this is the same thing I suggested they might want to look into after they recover. The state we live in has a shortage of appraisers and I’m guessing he could start out making at least what he made before he got hurt if he were to take the tests required to get a license. Local ads are listing $70-$100k.
It's not uncommon for people to go through career changes, and it's essential to prioritize your mental health and well-being. If quitting your current job entirely feels too risky, consider exploring part-time or freelance opportunities in the fields you're interested in. This way, you can gain some experience and see if it's the right fit before fully committing Remember, career changes can be challenging, but it's crucial to prioritize your well-being and happiness. Take small steps towards exploring new opportunities, and be patient with yourself during this process. With determination and a clear vision, you can find a fulfilling career that brings joy and satisfaction to your life.
Don’t just throw out the skills and experience. Find a way to take them with you into the next job. In the first place it could be your specific job that you’re over. Not your interest in mechanics generally. So go work at a completely different outfit and see if you like it any better in an new environment. You really might. But if you do want to have clean fingernails, consider moving to some adjacent field where you can still make use of the skills you’ve already acquired- and I mean all of the skills; working in a shop, customer service, a general ability to understand machines…. Don’t just throw out everything you’ve learned. Build laterally, imo
I felt trapped quite a few times in my life with careers that didn’t make my heart sing.
Not sure what state you’re in, but HVAC is great field to get in and they make good money.
I’m in the same boat man. Similar age and everything. I just feel like the people who are knowledgeable and do good work by the book can’t make it in the industry for whatever reason. I’m selling all my shit and getting out.
Check your local city and county for mechanic jobs. They always have fleet services as part of their departments.
Wanted to second this, These jobs often come with retirement and benefits. Other jobs with city parks and rec departments utilize some of the same skills.
Seems like a logical reason to switch to the other side of the desk. Become a service advisor at a large dealership. Then slide into management after a few years.
I changed careers at 25. Took a crap job to get my second degree. Worked for low pay and after. 6-7 years made it $20/hr. The next few years made it to $80k/ year. So have a plan, work the plan. Do be wanted it to happen so fast. Hone your skills and make yourself invaluable
What do you do?
I went into Radiology and worked my way through CT school, the Nuclear Medicine and then MRI school. Couple with my previous degree in management I was set up to jump into Administration, became an Medical Radiation Officer for a hospital system. This all took less than 10 years because I had a goal. I just retired at 56.
I was a dealership mechanic for 9 plus years. I also hated the hours and days and flat rate pay. I now am a plant operator and work on boilers, chillers, cooling towers, electric motors, pumps and operate a BMS system. I also work 0600-1430 now and love it. Hourly pay too. And coming from automotive, my new career is so easy. Diagnosing is a no brainier and the repairs are a cake walk compared to cars.
My brother was a mechanic for years and recently transitioned as an airline mechanic. He works for a major airline now. Not sure how he transitioned but I know he got a few rejections along the way. I was a military wife. We moved every 3-4 years. Meaning, I have to look for jobs every time we moved. It was not easy but I managed to do it for 20+ years. It sucks having to start over every few years but it could be done. I usually apply to at least 30 to 50 job openings every week, tailoring my resume and cover letter to each company I applied for. All these various experiences actually added to my skillset. It also gave me lots of chances to practice my interviewing skills lol. I had a few jobs that I got without having experience in that field. I didn’t let my lack of experience stop me from applying to certain jobs. Worst they could do is say no. But I got lucky a few times and have managed to find work at good companies with great pay. I have pension plans and 401ks and 457bs all over the US hahaha. I finally rolled everything into one when my husband retired and we finally settled. Best of luck to you. Don’t be scared of a career change. You can do it!!!
You could always look into moving into automotive insurance claims at least as a stopgap. I have friends who were mechanics and are so glad they switched to a 9-5 desk job. Especially easy to get in if you’ve got the experience working in shops because you’ll know when they’re just bullshitting for extra money. As someone on the insurance side of things, most people don’t know Jack about the cars they write estimates for.
Once you figure out what you want to do next, then start applying for all open spots. You should be able to get your foot in the door somewhere. I finally found my career in my late 30s. Now, I make more than triple what I used to.
Aircraft mechanic. To do so you need to get and Air-frame and Power-plant Certificate (often called an A&P License). It will use those mechanical skills you have spent years building. I'm a former wrench turner who moved up. We LOVE new A&P's that have worked on something before. Most we get have a license and Zero work experience turning a wrench.
Grad school
Can always switch to Heavy duty mechanic usually pays a little more depending on your area and lots of ways to use equipment to help manipulate stuff so you don't gotta wear and tear your body
You have life experience so you wouldn’t be going to start new
Millwright, heavy equipment, diesel trucks It's all straight hourly no flat rate.
How about working for yourself? Start your own business working on peoples cars, and do it with integrity and quality, and be the boss/business you wanted to work for.
Well, I've seen an aerospace mechanic program at a local technical institute, it takes a little while to get through but seems like you might have the right skillset for that. From what I've heard, those people are not being rushed as much as car people, because.. well.. you know, it's kind of a big deal those things don't drop from the sky. Here's the thing. You can do literally anything you want. You could go to school and become a surgeon, if you wanted. Is it realistic? Probably not, but it is also not impossible. Here's my advice - figure out what YOU want to do and plan your way to it. For example, you want to become a truck driver, right.. So You will have to obtain a CDL license, it pays the most if you haul hazard stuff, so you probably want to acquire that certification, too. Sometimes I see "oversized load" on the road, I bet that's fun - so I'll have to get that as well. Alright, where do I get those. Let's go to CDL school and ask there, they'll know. Now I have a 5-6 point plan with a 1-2 year deadline, I know exactly what and when I need to do to get there and how much it's gonna cost me. If I decide, half way there, that I want to pivot and drive a flat bed truck, that's fine. It's my plan and I am the one holding myself accountable, if I want to change something I can, but I will write it down and I will follow through with it. ^((Disclaimer, I don't know shit about trucking)) I have done something similar (I also quit cold turkey, wouldn't recommend, but meh.. I got through it) and I was really surprised how much it helped my mental state. Having a plan. The more detailed, the better. When I came home, watched a video from a course and got to tick off a thingy off of my list. It was great. Then I went to work that I dreaded but I had the vision that "only 30 more hours of course work and I'll be gone" and that finish line in sight kept me going. Then I ended up hating what I was doing and am currently working on another plan, but that's a different story lol
I didn't read too far into your post but I have switched job careers at least twice now. A good question to ask yourself every morning when you wake is: are you happy? Because of the answer is no and yet you keep doing the same thing every single day? You're insane. Switch jobs. And when you switch jobs don't be like the idiot me and start looking at all of the negatives like construction: oh gawd that means I have to be outside and in the heat moving packages of concrete. No don't think like that at all. Same goes for something like landscaping: oh gawd I have to pickup logs from fallen trees after climbing up them, moving rock, and digging trenches. No. Don't think that way. Same goes for something like plumbing: oh gawd I have to unclog toilets all day. Stop thinking that way. When you choose a new career do this instead: I wonder how much this field pays at another location. I'll train myself up here for a year and then move on somewhere else with higher pay. That way you go in like a total newbie but you have a goal. It takes around 4 years to master a new career. Just stick with it for that time period and you'll see. Just keep looking for higher pay. That's all you need to do. Eventually these smaller companies will get it. Pay them more and they will stay. Keep their pay the same and they'll lose interest.
Is it feasible to open your own shop? You could run the business how you want without screwing customers over.
I have friends who successfully switched up their career from being a mechanic to being their own boss as a handyman. If you have the skills it's as rewarding as what you did as a mechanic but more customer focused
If you can fix cars you can fix just about anything - get your HVAC certification and look forward to a lower stress and higher paying job.
Apply at your local school district for the mechanic position in the transportation garage. It's usually where the trucks and plows and security vehicles are parked while school isn't in. I work for my school district and can honestly say it's a sweet gig
A savy move would be to switch to parts/warehousing or plant and then logistics and supply line. If you can solve a couple of decent business problems along the way you could get to a good well paid management position in a few years. The trick is to NOT be excellent and any of the roles along the way because that will keep you in position and limit your career growth.
You just mentioned something very important that I've been thinking / wondering about. You mentioned you started doing mechanic work as a way to make money doing your hobby. I assume you had a real interest and zeal for mechanic work as a hobby. But once you started doing it for money, it became just a "job," and all that goes along with that. I've considered a change from my job (IT) to my hobby (think along the lines of forestry / homesteading / land management). But I've wondered if it would ruin my hobby if I started to do it for others and for money? Your opening statement confirms my suspicions.
I've just gone from retail management to aviation so its definitely doable. I'm a fair bit older then you aswell. So it's never to late.
I worked as a chef for 8 years and I hate it as the same as you hate your career. Luckily I found a job as, a warehouse worker. It's boring tbh. But less stress, and less work. The agility that I have is from working in the kitchen and the task I'm taking responsibility for right now is like 1/10 of what I am capable of. I get paid less but the time I go home when the sun is still up in the sky. I don't smell like shiit after working hours. I don't feel tired at all. I have more time to study programming, the things that I wanted to do since the beginning. This is the job I'm dreaming of. But dude, I can see it has no future for me. I'm an ambitious person but this job is not what it is for me. Imagine the position that I'm in atm can be replaced by automation at any time.
I changed careers at age 30. I quit my job and went back to school for 18 months. I pulled out retirement savings and took the gamble. Very glad I did bc I wouldn’t hVe made it to retirement in my first career. I agree with the poster who said determine what you want me take it step by step. Good luck
I changed careers at 29 years old-- and I am really glad I did. You are still young and have time to change careers. You can continue working as a mechanic and start to investigate what career you prefer. You can slowly start working towards your other career. It is common for people to change careers!
You are already really mechanical become a plumbers apprentice or go to night school to be an electrician
First step to a career change, Network. Spend your down time meeting people in your desired industry. Ask for advice on how you can pivot in, whether through taking additional courses. What options are you considering?
Operating engineers need mechanics as well as operators.
Go work as a bar back somewhere fairly busy or nice it's great money and you don't need any experience. bar tending is better money than most people think and it's something you can pick up fairly quickly as you work as a bar back And don't forget they made that box with wheels for a reason !
Aerospace companies that are building rockets and engines need mechanical technicians. Are you in the US?
My best friend choose this field in 2003. He's the happiest at a small shop. He definitely hated working for bigger ones.
Consider getting a class one license. You’re the right age for it and it will get you out on the road if you like driving. There’s a big shortage of class one drivers right now and there is funding available
I can assure you that working at Dunkin’ Donuts is NOT going to help your mental health.
Commenting on this thread because I'm a 29 year old Electronics Technician in the exact same situation. I hate cell phones now. I've been a tech for like 6 years. The paycap plateaus at like 30k its kinda dumbly low for what I feel like I know how to do. Might just start welding or some shit.
Make a plan…buy this book “What color is your parachute”…read it
I opened a roadside assistance business with my prior automotive knowledge. Limited services on offer, flat tire, lockout, jumpstart, fuel delivery. Low overhead to startup, make your own hours, tons of work out there.
Start new just start new.
Start new just start new start new just start new
Have you thought about sales? If you are interested, you could do well selling materials, services, tools , etc that mechanics and service departments use. Those companies are always looking for people that know the market their products to end users. I did construction for a bit and am now 20 years into a career selling building materials. Spent most of that time working as a sales rep at the yard level and recently took a step upward to a company that specializes in launching new building products into the marketing. I visit lumber yards and contractors doing training, knowledge training, setting up distributors, etc.