Job-recruitment platform WrenchWay, which gives auto technicians an insider’s view of dealerships’ operations, equipment, pay levels, company culture and other pertinent information, recently asked techs their thoughts on solving the national shortage of wrench turners.
They asked: What is the one thing that needs to change to improve the technician shortage? The responses roughly fell into five categories: public perception; focus on younger generations; compensation; career paths and work environment; and diversity, leadership and more.
Here is a sampling of technicians’ responses.
“The one thing that needs to change: public perception. As long as college degrees keep being glorified and no attention is given to the importance of technicians, we’re fighting a losing battle.” — Marco J Zwanenburg, automotive technician, Naples Luxury Imports, Naples, Fla.
“We need to motivate young people by showing them the positives of our trade. The automotive industry provides challenges on many levels — overcoming these challenges can be very rewarding. Our trade is important, versatile, fulfilling, and most of all, just awesome! If we manage to inspire others, the shortage will soon be something of the past.” — Danny Versluis (aka DiagnoseDan), vehicle systems expert, The Randstad, Netherlands
“Overall pay plans need to improve to reflect skill level and working conditions, regardless of whether a tech is seasoned or entry level. Seasoned techs need to be properly compensated and entry level techs need to be incentivized to join and stay in an industry that requires a substantial investment in tooling.” — Craig Tomczyk, auto/diesel technician, First Vehicle Services, Smyrna, Del.
“If it was as easy as one thing … I feel the only possible single answer is this: Give people the ability to make long-term plans. Of course, that can be quite a generic statement, but it is also accurate at the same time. It encompasses what we need to do as a field, involving career pathing, compensation, benefits, training, etc.” — Matt Fanslow, diagnostic technician/shop manager, Riverside Automotive, Red Wing, Minn.
“Making a better and more comfortable work environment for women to come into the industry. We need them to help fill the shortage.” — Shawn Rutherford, master mechanic, Adams 12 Five Star Schools, Denver, Colo.