Career Choice: Automotive Systems Technology
Work with today's most advanced automotive systems, including airbag modules, active and passive safety systems, motor control units, powertrain controllers, fuel injection parts and more.
The automotive industry is one of the fastest growing industry in the world. Automotive engineering jobs are increasing due to an increase in demand for auto parts and technology innovations. The field has many different job opportunities to choose from. There are careers that will allow you to design cars while others let you work on such things as next-generation navigation systems or hybrid powertrains. In this career guide we will tell you about the various careers in automotive systems technology.
The automotive industry has seen many changes. From the invention of the combustion engine, to influencing the design and production of cars, to launching revolutionary technology, it has always been involved in significant ways. In recent years, there have been several changes that have caused a shift in career opportunities within the field. The first was the invention of electronic systems that provide sensing and control for vehicles and include such functions as collision detection, anti-lock braking systems (ABS), adaptive headlights, adaptive cruise control (ACC), and lane departure warning systems (LDWS).
The second was the rise of information technology (IT) and electronics. Systems integration has enabled OEMs to deliver new vehicles with such things as continuously improving infotainment systems and increased vehicle safety systems. The software development aspect provides job opportunities for those who can take a mechanical or electrical systems design and build it into a working system and program it to control various functions of an integrated automobile.
These are just some of the career opportunities in the automotive field. There are many more such as plant engineering, product evaluation, vehicle design and development, quality engineering, production engineering and human resources. If you want to find out how the automotive field works, read on!
The automotive industry has been changing dramatically over the past few years. The average age of a car owner is rising and manufacturers are beginning to look at alternative power trains and vehicle designs in order to reduce emissions. It is predicted that personal transportation will continue to become more efficient as well as more environmentally friendly.
Automotive systems technology deals with all of the components within an automobile including its mechanical systems (e.g. suspension), electrical systems (e.g. instrument cluster), electronics (e.g. navigation, anti-theft alarms), and computer systems (e.g. engine control). It is a broad field that provides a variety of opportunities for you to work in many different jobs and areas within the industry. There are various degrees that deal with automotive technology such as Automotive Systems Technology, Automotive Systems Engineering, and Automotive Engineering Technology to name a few. There are also numerous industrial design degrees that are focused on automotive systems design.
To work in an automotive systems technology career you must have a strong aptitude for mathematics, physics, and science; the ability to solve complex problems; and excellent communication skills—especially written communication skills. Most employers look for candidates with a degree in automotive technology, but a degree in engineering or electronics can also be helpful. Additional training, such as at a technical institute or community college can provide the educational foundation you need to work in an automotive systems job.
With access to thousands of vehicles from most manufacturers, you will have the opportunity to work on every aspect of vehicle design and development. Here is a list of potential jobs:
Auto technicians service and repair vehicles and their components. This career requires skills in mechanical technology, math, reading and writing as well as physical strength and stamina for that occasional recall or warranty work that requires lifting transmissions.
Independent auto service technicians repair and service vehicles for individual customers. This career requires vehicle knowledge and mechanical aptitude along with good communication skills to talk with the customer about what needs to be done.
In addition to the jobs listed above, you can continue your education through a master's degree program, or you can attend a four-year college or university where you can earn an undergraduate degree in automotive systems technology.
Many dealerships nowadays offer automotive technician training and certification programs that run anywhere from two weeks to four months depending on the program. Some programs are offered during weekends or evenings which allows you to work full-time while attending school part-time. In these types of programs you will learn automotive repair and service skills. Some programs also offer a continuing education program which teaches students the management skills needed to move up in a dealership management career.
An automotive systems technology degree can be earned from a community college or technical institute in about two years. You can specialize in such areas as electrical systems, electronics, automotive design, automobile heating or cooling, or general automotive technology. You can also participate in internship opportunities with vehicle design firms or car dealerships to gain practical experience and work related skills.
These degrees focus on motor vehicle technology, emphasizing the mechanical and electrical systems of automobiles as well as computer-aided drafting (CAD). The curriculum is designed to provide a strong working foundation in the field of mechanical and electrical systems, as well as fundamental principles of computer engineering.
The automotive industry is incredibly diverse, with many types and styles of vehicles. The industry has changed dramatically over the years and we're continuing on that trend today. A career in automotive systems technology will allow you to work at many different jobs within the industry from maintenance technician to master technician with a wide variety of vehicles from small cars to large trucks and SUVs. You can even find employment designing high-tech electronic parts for a major manufacturer like General Motors or Ford Motor Company.
Conclusion
In order to get a strong foundation in automotive systems technology, you need to have at least a two-year degree in mechanical engineering or electrical engineering. You will also need to be able to solve complex problems and communicate with others effectively. It is also helpful to take industry related classes such as marketing, sales, and human resources. If you want to expand your career potential in the automotive field, read on!
Automotive careers are an exciting place to work where many of the best-known brands have their origins. The industry is growing rapidly at this time and there are many different aspects of automotive systems technology that you can specialize in working on different types of vehicles.