Mechanical repairers inspect, repair, test and adjust mechanical units of newly assembled motor vehicles. Metal repairers repair vehicle body damage in assembly plants. Motor vehicle body repairers and refinishers repair and restore damaged motor vehicle parts and the exterior finish of vehicles. Education, Training and Experience People in this occupational group usually have a high school diploma, although most provinces require only Grade 10 for entry. To gain trade certification, automotive service technicians and other motor vehicle mechanics and technicians must complete a four-year apprenticeship program.
Trade certification is compulsory in some provinces, but voluntary in others.
Over the next five years, this outlook is not expected to change, as the number of job openings is expected to be matched by the number of qualified job seekers. The increasing complexity of motor vehicle mechanical systems is leading to increased educational and skill requirements in these occupations. A shift to team-based operations also requires new skills. Most of the increase in employment requirements through 2004 for these occupations is expected to occur in the retail trade industry.