Your Automotive Service Association recently contributed material to a career book that will be distributed to junior high schools across the nation. Because we're not 13 years old, it's unlikely many of us will ever see this book. But, young individuals who are just beginning to really seek an answer to the question, “What do you want to be when you grow up?,” will have access to this book. They will see our profession presented in a positive way and on a level they understand.

A New York publishing company, Chronicle Guidance Publications Inc., is publishing this career book. The information ASA contributed will be included in the “Automobile Technicians” chapter. This gives us the opportunity to ensure information regarding the newest automobile technologies is included in the chapter. It allows us to provide information that presents an accurate picture of what's required to work in a shop today, and what's involved in repairing vehicles. Without being too technical, automotive service is rightfully portrayed as a high-tech career.

In addition to the “textbook” copy about our industry, the publisher requested anecdotal, firsthand accounts expressing what it's like to be an automotive technician. Responding to this request forced me to reconsider why it is we do this for a living. Many of us are probably in this business for the same reason: the satisfaction that comes with solving difficult challenges. Sure, we have some simple repairs and maintenance. But most cars that roll into our shops provide serious brain benders. The mental process of diagnosing problems constantly requires us to call on our internal encyclopedia of past experiences. Medical experts tell us the best way to keep our minds sharp is to continually stretch and exercise our brains. I'd wager the brains in our industry are among the most exercised you'll find anywhere.

The challenges that roll into our shops are difficult. Even greater challenges exist when we are given opportunities to encourage junior high students, and their parents, to seriously consider automotive service as a rewarding career; a career where there will always be a demand for dedicated professionals.

Although you and I may never see this career book, thousands and thousands of young students will. Undoubtedly some will have an interest in cars and the “Automobile Technicians” chapter will grab their attention. ASA is making sure it's the kind of attention our profession deserves.

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