Inspired from the popular 'Fast & Furious' series, Adrian Flores knew he wanted to work on cars for a living. A student at Texas State Technical College in Sweetwater, Flores says he imagines himself working in a demanding field of automobile technicians after earning his degree.

“Ever since I was little, I always saw fast cars,” he said. “Other people driving by with really nice cars. And ever since then it’s always been like a dream to work on them.”

Automotive Instructor Gerod Strother says with cars relying more on computers and older mechanics leaving the business, younger auto techs are needed.

“COVID played a big part in the shortage of mechanics with people not being able to work. We also are losing about 70,000 technicians a year due to they’re just going to do something else or retiring.”

Working on cars now requires more than just knowing how to do a basic oil change. Flores says the learning the computer science side of cars is hard.

“Definitely had to be with the electrical side of cars,” he said. “That was a real blur for me. Even at home, I had my dad try to help me but stuff like that I couldn’t always grasp.”

Auto techs can be trained for two years or less at a technical school or junior college to be hired at shops and dealerships. Strother says the learning curve is the toughest part of the curriculum for students.

“It’s not easy. It’s a lot of new technology,” he said. “And they’re going to have to dig in hard to stay on top of that curve of technology. And be willing to have a good work ethic.”

Track crime, special events and more in your neighborhood with AlertNest & KTXS.